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New USBC rules for urethanes a step to fixing problems, but won’t leave everyone playing the same sport

JEFF RICHGELS | Posted: Thursday, September 4, 2025 9:00 pm
New USBC rules for urethanes a step to fixing problems, but won’t leave everyone playing the same sport
The PURPLE HAMMER, left, and Storm PITCH BLACK, right. Photo by Jeff Richgels.
USBC on Thursday finally announced its new rules for urethane (aka slow oil-absorbing high-performance) bowling balls that will take effect Jan. 1, and they are a significant step after years of the sport's national governing body failing to govern urethanes. They include a sometimes puzzling mix of complete bans on urethanes, allowing urethanes made at 78D or higher, and no changes — depending on the competition.   By not enacting a urethane ban for all national competitions and...