Bowling Alleys

Question
I recently went bowling with some friends and just before we left I stupidly went to retrieve a friend's ring from the lane and slid like crazy. Later that evening there was still residue from the lane that left my shoes slick. What sort of polish, paste or wax do bowling alleys use on their lanes? Also, why are some bowling alley managers insistent on having you use THEIR bowling shoes even after you've clearly brought your own? My friend received much heat from one bowling alley manager for bringing his own bowling shoes and we never understood why. Thanks.

Answer
Jerry,
The lane conditioner is usually a mineral oil base, with additives.

The extra shoes, if not bowling shoes, may contain residue from the bottoms that could scratch, or contaminate the approach surface (where others might fall). The reason for using their shoes is that they are specifically designed to help you play and minimize problems.

Some people wear bowling shoes for other than bowling. If the manager was concerned about your friends shoes, he most likely was concerned about your safety. Thanks for your question. Good bowling.