The Match Up pearl is an updated version of the Match pearl in the Hot line of bowling balls from Storm, with a change of core from the Stinger to the Stinger 2.0. The core numbers of the Stinger 2.0 are 2.57 rg and 0.035 diff. The Match Up pearl has a cool color combination of black, orange, and silver, and is scented with papaya splash. The Reactor cover of the Match Up is cleaner through the front of the lane then most of today’s current highly porous, strong cover stocks.
I drilled the Match Up the same as my Match, 5.25 x 5.25 x 2. The Match Up seems to have a more rounded continuous motion through the backend, compared to a more defined “hockey stick†shape of the Match. The Match Up covers about the same amount of boards as the Match. It is a medium-light to light oil ball, that saves energy for burnt up lanes that you need to get in, and still get recovery from the ball.
The Match Up is a good tournament ball for bowlers that see long blocks of competition, or bowl in events that don’t re-oil for semi’s and finals. The Match Up will also work well for second shift, used, league conditions that have had a lot of games already rolled on them. If you feel the need to replace your aging Match pearl or never drilled one in the first place, the Match Up pearl will fit right in. Thank you for taking the time to read my review of the Match Up from Storm, the Bowler’s company.