thumb sleeves and finger inserts

Question
My wife has been bowling for less than 5 years and is 65 years young. She uses a conventionalh8i grip 12 lb ball. Should she have thumb sleeve and soft finger inserts installed, she has trouble gripping the ball at times.

Answer
James,
A conventional grip does NOT utilize finger grips (while available some years ago, they are a crutch for ill fitting equipment, I feel) and a thumb grip or slug is an optimum addition when you are seeking a consistent feel for multiple bowling balls.

The 12 pound ball should not be too much unless your wife weighs less than 120 pounds. I'd suggest you have her grip redone, as loss of flexibility, and changes in the texture of your hands can make a good fit slip off as you age. Proper pitch (most likely forward in both, or angled thumb toward the finger holes and fingers toward the thumb hole) will help her. The ball should let go of her. Obviously, that's happening to soon and the need to use excessive grip pressure isn't a good option (ever).

Demanding you grip the ball as you age is asking more than is necessary. A good fit should allow her to enjoy the game as long as she wants, and as long as she can find a bowling center owner that values her interest in the sport to actually put some oil on the lanes (as most "experienced" bowlers lose some ball speed, and modern conditions favor the player that can roll the ball with more speed).

Thanks for your question. Good luck to you and your wife and good bowling.