Thumb Fit

[curtie94]

I have been having issues with my thumb changing sizes a lot from day to day. One day my thumb is loose and I need to add 3 maybe 4 pieces of tape, then the next I may need all the tape removed and my thumb is still too tight.

It seems that in the morning my thumb is much larger then the evening which was a problem at the last bowling tournament I went to, I just could not seem to get a clean release even with powder.

What are some ways to combat this thumb issue, I do work with my hands at work so I realize that is some of the problem.

I am using an oval thumb, thumb pitch is 0 forward/reverse.

Should I try opening the sides of the thumb more? When I hang in the thumb hole it does feel like the sides of my thumb drag.

Thanks for your input

[walterp]

I have been having issues with my thumb changing sizes a lot from day to day. One day my thumb is loose and I need to add 3 maybe 4 pieces of tape, then the next I may need all the tape removed and my thumb is still too tight.

It seems that in the morning my thumb is much larger then the evening which was a problem at the last bowling tournament I went to, I just could not seem to get a clean release even with powder.

What are some ways to combat this thumb issue, I do work with my hands at work so I realize that is some of the problem.

I am using an oval thumb, thumb pitch is 0 forward/reverse.

Should I try opening the sides of the thumb more? When I hang in the thumb hole it does feel like the sides of my thumb drag.

Thanks for your input

You have several options. Option number 1, open your thumbhole so that it fits you when your thumb is swollen, and add tape when it is not. Option 2, use an interchangeable thumb, and have at least two thumbs cut. One that fits you when your thumb is at its biggest, and a smaller thumb for all other times.

[curtie94]

Alright I appreciate the feedback. I will try modifying my thumb hole for when my thumb is swollen.

Thank you

[walterp]

Alright I appreciate the feedback. I will try modifying my thumb hole for when my thumb is swollen.

Thank you

Let us know how it works out. Remember, tape is your friend!And when the white tape starts to turn grayish, it's time to change the tape! Please don't let it stay so long in the ball that it leaves a gummy residue.... rubbing alcohol will clean it out, but it is a pain... Personally, I change tape every 6 or so games

[AML1242]

I have the same problem with a swelling thumb. In the winter it can be -30c outside on the drive to the lanes and then +20c inside or about -20 to +72 fahrenheit. I've switched to the interchangeable thumbs in two sizes. Now each slug has one piece of white grip tape on the pad side which stays in. Then I will use one piece of medium pink tape on the knuckle side, and one piece of blue medium on my thumb. The knuckle side tape will come out first (it's solely for space adjustment). If the thumb starts to stick, I swap out to the next size up, with the same set up. If it keeps going, I'll lose the thumb tape, so I end up with about 5 easy sizings (small slug with knuckle side tape, without knuckle side tape, large with, large without, large without thumb tape). I find it alot easier than trying to peel off one layer from a stack of 4 pieces of tape.

[curtie94]

I have the same problem with a swelling thumb. In the winter it can be -30c outside on the drive to the lanes and then +20c inside or about -20 to +72 fahrenheit. I've switched to the interchangeable thumbs in two sizes. Now each slug has one piece of white grip tape on the pad side which stays in. Then I will use one piece of medium pink tape on the knuckle side, and one piece of blue medium on my thumb. The knuckle side tape will come out first (it's solely for space adjustment). If the thumb starts to stick, I swap out to the next size up, with the same set up. If it keeps going, I'll lose the thumb tape, so I end up with about 5 easy sizings (small slug with knuckle side tape, without knuckle side tape, large with, large without, large without thumb tape). I find it alot easier than trying to peel off one layer from a stack of 4 pieces of tape.

Thanks for the input, that seems to be my problem as well. In the winter is can be -20F outside. And the summer close to 100F. So we have a big temp change. I ordered some interchangeable thumb inserts, I am going to try what you mentioned and have a couple of thumbs so I can change inserts if I need. Maybe even have a winter and summer thumb.

[TonyPR]

I would vote for the interchangeables. Actually 4 pieces of tape is not a lot, 7 and 8 are very common.

[walterp]

I would vote for the interchangeables. Actually 4 pieces of tape is not a lot, 7 and 8 are very common.

My personal preference is a thumb mold glued to the ball, the mold being made from a thumb that fits me when my thumb is at its largest, and then add tape as necessary, usually around 4 to 5. At some point if I am bowling a large amount of games, I would go for the interchangeable thumbs with several thumbs... same pilot hole, but different cuts across the oval angle. Right now, I use from no tape to 4 or 5 pieces. 3 in the front of white tape and then use slick tape in the back until it feels snug so I don't have to squeeze.