rubber---not made since the late 1980's. the hardest surfaced bowling ball. could be used on lanes that are bone dry. there's too much oil today to use this ball.

polyester( or plastic )---used by recreational players and for spares by experienced players. these balls are also good for dry lanes.

urethane---when used dull they are good on oily lanes. polished urethane balls can be effectively used on medium to drier lanes. probably the best all around ball. an even reacting ball.

reactive resin---most experienced players use these balls. can be used dull on oily lanes or polished on medium to drier lanes. designed to skid in the oil and really react to the drier part of the lane.

particle balls---reactive balls with particles in the coverstock. designed for oily lanes. their reaction is more even like a urethane ball. superior traction on oily lanes.

particle balls---