Your bowls equipment is more than just kit, it’s part of your game. With the right care, bowls and accessories can last for years, but eventually wear and tear creep in. The problem? You often don’t notice the gradual decline until your performance suffers.

That’s why we’ve created this guide: to help you spot the early signs that it’s time to replace your equipment, and highlight quality replacements you can find right now at Potters Bowls.

1. Surface Wear on Bowls

The problem: Over time, bowls pick up chips, cracks, and surface scratches. Even small imperfections can disrupt the bias and cause your shots to stray off line.

The fix: Regularly inspect your bowls in good light. If you see damage that changes the way they roll, it’s time to refresh your set.

A great replacement option is the Drakes Pride Pro 50 Bowls.
- Reliable mid-bias, precision-engineered, and stylish with a Harlequin finish.

2. Grip Fading or Slipping

The problem: As bowls age, the grip can smooth out, making it harder to hold with confidence. This often leads to slips and inconsistent delivery, especially in damp conditions.

The fix: Clean your bowls regularly and use fresh grip products to restore hold. But if the grip has worn permanently, it’s best to upgrade.

Consider switching to a new set of Drakes Pride bowls, like the Drakes Pride Pro 50 or Taylor Vector Vs's, which combine control and comfort for dependable play.

3. Bags and Cases Breaking Down

The problem: Your bowls bag takes a beating. Zips fail, seams fray, wheels wear out — and suddenly the bag meant to protect your investment is putting it at risk.

The fix: Inspect your bag often. If it’s looking tired, upgrade to something durable.

Try the Drakes Pride Horizon Locker Trolley Bag, a robust choice with lift-out bowls, bags and extra storage.
Or for compact convenience, the Potters Exclusive 4-Bowl Bag is padded, stylish, and perfectly sized.

4. Accessories Past Their Best

The problem: Accessories like cloths, polish, and grip aids are easy to overlook, but when they wear out, they lose effectiveness. A faded cloth won’t clean properly, old polish won’t protect, and outdated grip aids stop working as they should.

The fix: Replace these items regularly. They’re inexpensive upgrades that deliver noticeable improvements in consistency and performance.

Stock up on fresh accessories at Potters Bowls to make sure you’re not held back by the little things.

5. Outdated Kit Holding You Back

The problem: Even if your bowls and bags aren’t broken, older kit can still limit your performance. Modern bowls and bags are built with updated designs, lighter materials, and improved durability. If your gear feels behind the times, it probably is.

The fix: Treat yourself to new equipment that matches your ambition.

The Drakes Pride Maximus Trolley Bag is a standout upgrade for serious players, offering maximum storage, smooth wheels, and durability for years to come.

How to Extend the Life of Your Equipment

Replacement is sometimes necessary, but you can make your gear last longer with simple habits:

• Clean bowls after every match to prevent dirt buildup.
• Store your kit in a cool, dry place.
• Use protective bags and cloths to reduce wear.
• Check accessories often and replace when worn.

By maintaining your equipment well, you’ll get more life from it — and know exactly when it’s time to refresh.

Final Thoughts

Your bowls equipment is the foundation of your performance. Ignoring signs of wear only makes the game harder. By spotting these issues early — and replacing what’s holding you back — you’ll keep your game sharp and enjoyable.

At Potters, we stock a wide range of bowls, bags, and accessories ready to ship today. Whether you need a fresh set of Drakes Pride Pro 50s, a new trolley bag, or just updated accessories, we’ve got everything you need to stay at the top of your game.