The Complete Australian Size Guide
Choosing the right size lawn bowls is one of the most important decisions you'll make. A bowl that feels comfortable in your hand gives you better control, a smoother delivery, and greater confidence on the green.
Whether you're buying your very first set or upgrading from an older pair, this guide will help you understand lawn bowl sizing and find the best fit for your game.
Why Does Bowl Size Matter?
Many bowlers assume larger bowls perform better or that smaller bowls are only for juniors. In reality, the best size is simply the one that fits your hand comfortably.
The right size allows you to:
- Deliver the bowl more consistently
- Maintain a relaxed grip
- Improve accuracy and control
- Reduce hand fatigue during long games
- Feel more confident every time you step onto the green
If you have to squeeze the bowl to hold it, it's probably too large. If it feels unstable or difficult to control, it may be too small.
How Lawn Bowl Sizes Work
Lawn bowls are available in a range of sizes, generally from Size 0000 through to Size 5.
As the number increases, so does the diameter of the bowl.
- Size 0000 – Very small hands or junior bowlers
- Size 000 – Very small adult hands or larger junior bowlers
- Size 00 – Small hands
- Size 0 – Smaller adult hands
- Size 1 – Small to medium hands
- Size 2 – Average-sized hands
- Size 3 – Medium to larger hands
- Size 4 – Large hands
- Size 5 – Very large hands
As a general guide, ladies commonly play with sizes 0 through to 3, while men typically use sizes 3 through to 5. These are only guidelines, however, and the best size is always the one that feels most comfortable and allows you to deliver the bowl naturally. Every player's hand shape and grip preference is different, so comfort should always come before the number on the bowl.
How to Find Your Perfect Size
The easiest way to check your size is by holding a bowl naturally.
Ask yourself:
- Can I comfortably wrap my fingers around the bowl?
- Can I hold it without squeezing tightly?
- Does it feel secure without slipping?
- Can I release it smoothly?
If you answer yes to all of these questions, you've probably found the right size.
Buying Your First Set?
If you're new to lawn bowls, choosing the correct size is often more important than choosing the model.
A bowl that fits properly will make learning easier and help you develop a smoother, more repeatable delivery from the beginning.
If you're unsure, we generally recommend starting with a size that feels comfortable rather than selecting a larger bowl simply because someone else uses one.
Already Playing?
If you already own a set of bowls, check the size stamped on your current bowls before purchasing a new set.
Many bowlers stay with the same size throughout their playing career unless comfort or grip requirements change.
If your current bowls have always felt comfortable, there's usually no need to change sizes.
Still Unsure?
Our team helps bowlers across Australia choose the right lawn bowls every day.
If you're unsure which size is right for you, we're happy to help.
Simply tell us:
- Your age
- Your current bowl size (if you know it)
- Whether you're new to the game
- Any hand or grip concerns
We'll recommend the most suitable size and model based on your needs.
Shop Taylor Lawn Bowls
Taylor Bowls have been handcrafted in Scotland since 1796 and are trusted by bowlers around the world for their quality, consistency and performance.
Available in a wide range of sizes, grips and colours, there's a Taylor Bowl to suit every player—from beginners through to elite competitors.
Browse our complete range of Taylor Lawn Bowls today and find the perfect fit for your game.
