A lot of bowling alleys have their own workshops where they sell new and used bowling balls, drill holes, etc. I was able to try a few different used ones right there at the alley before I found a ball I liked. I found this was much better than picking one off the rack at a generic sports store and not knowing how the ball would behave on the lane.

Penny:
There are a few ways of going about getting bowling equipment. Yes, many bowling centers have pro shops within them. There are also many 'free standing' pro shops. Either way, strongly suggest you select a proshop that is IPBSIA [http://www.ibpsia.com] Certified.

You can buy a ball off the internet and take it to a pro shop to be drilled, however, if you are not experienced in bowling ball specifications I DO NOT recommend this path. Too much can go wrong if you don't specify the ball correctly. The pro shop can only compensate for so much during drilling.

Please avoid sporting goods stores for a bowling ball as well. You do get what you pay for... It's important for the ball to be fit properly for your hand, grip, and bowling style. This is why you go to a professional at an IPBSIA Certified pro shop.

Bowling shoes, however, can be purchased either on line, in a pro shop, or at one of the sporting goods stores. Depending on your skill level, bowling shoes can become quite expensive, just as in most sports. Similar here, you get what you pay for, so be careful when deciding which bowling shoes are for you.

Good luck!

you go to bowling allies that have a shop in side for an example manteca stikezone