Last updated: 4 October 2026
Reviewed by Jordan Morley, FA Level 2 Football Coach
Bowling handicap
Your handicap
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Top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Bowling Shoes (Own Pair) | Your own shoes for consistency in league play. | Check price → |
| Option | Microfibre Ball Towel | Keep your ball clean for consistent reaction and scoring. | Check price → |
| Option | League Bowling Handbook | Handicaps, league play and competition format explained. | Check price → |
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Frequently asked questions
How is a bowling handicap calculated?
The standard formula is (basis − your average) × handicap percentage, rounded down. For example, with a 145 average, a basis of 220 and 90% handicap: (220 − 145) × 0.90 = 67.5, rounded down to 67 pins added to each game. The basis and percentage are set by your league.
Why do bowling leagues use a handicap based on 220 instead of a player's own average?
Using a fixed scratch number like 220 (rather than the highest average in the league) keeps handicaps consistent across different leagues and seasons, so a bowler's handicap means roughly the same thing whether they're in a strong league or a more casual one.