As September arrives, many bowlers across the UK start turning their attention back to the indoor rink.
After a busy summer of outdoor bowls, competitions and social games, the return to the indoor season is the perfect opportunity to take stock of your equipment, refresh your kit and make sure you have everything you need for the months ahead.
Whether you're returning for another competitive season or simply looking forward to catching up with friends at your local indoor bowls club, here's a handy checklist to help you get ready.
Is Your Bowls Clothing Ready for the New Season?
Your clothing may have seen plenty of use over the summer, so now is a good time to check whether anything needs replacing.
Look at your:
- Bowls shirts
- Trousers and shorts
- Fleeces and jumpers
- Jackets and bodywarmers
- Waterproofs
- Hats and other accessories
Indoor bowls venues can vary in temperature, particularly during the autumn and winter months, so having layers available is always useful. A lightweight jacket, fleece or jumper can make a big difference when you're arriving at the club or waiting between games.
It's also worth checking your club's dress code before the season begins. If you need new clubwear or simply want to refresh your existing bowls clothing, getting organised before the season is in full swing can save a last-minute rush.
Don't Forget Your Bowls Shoes
Your bowls shoes are one of the most important parts of your kit, but they're also something that can easily be overlooked.
Before heading back to the indoor rink, check for signs of wear, including:
- Worn soles
- Reduced grip
- Loose stitching
- Damaged uppers
- Loss of comfort or support
A comfortable, properly fitting pair of bowls shoes can make a real difference when you're spending several hours on the rink. If your current pair are starting to feel uncomfortable or look past their best, September is an ideal time to invest in a replacement.
Give Your Bowls Some Attention
Your bowls may have had a busy outdoor season, so take a few minutes to inspect and clean them before returning indoors.
Check for:
- Dirt and marks
- Surface damage
- Chips or scratches
- Worn engravings or markings
Keeping your bowls clean and well maintained not only helps them look their best but also ensures you're ready to play when the new season begins.
A good grip and polish product, along with a suitable bowls cloth or towel, can help you keep your equipment in good condition throughout the season.
Check Your Bowls Bag
Your bowls bag works hard, particularly if you play regularly or travel to matches.
Check the:
- Handles
- Wheels
- Zips
- Straps
- Internal compartments
Make sure your bag is still providing enough protection and has enough space for everything you regularly take to the club.
If you've accumulated more equipment over the years, you may find that your current bag is no longer practical. A larger bag or trolley bag could make travelling to and from matches much easier.
Stock Up on the Essentials
It's often the smaller items that are easiest to forget.
Before the season begins, check your supply of:
- Chalk
- Grip products
- Polish
- Bowls cloths and towels
- Measures
- Scorecards
- Other match-day accessories
Having these items ready in your bag means you're not searching for them on the morning of an important league fixture or competition.
A Great Time to Upgrade Your Kit
The start of the indoor season is also a great opportunity to treat yourself to something new.
Perhaps you've been thinking about replacing your shoes, upgrading your bag or refreshing your bowls clothing. Maybe you're a new player who has taken up bowls over the summer and now wants to get properly equipped for the indoor season.
Whatever your reason, getting organised early means you can concentrate on what really matters once the season starts – enjoying your bowls.
Get Ready for the Indoor Season with Bowlr Store
At Bowlr Store, you'll find bowls, clothing, shoes, bags, accessories and other essentials for players of all levels.
Whether you need to replace one item or completely refresh your kit for the new season, you can shop online for nationwide delivery across the UK.
Get ready for September and make sure you're fully equipped for another great indoor bowls season.