Track Criterion

Track Criterion - Deep Dive

Written by: Bowling World Admin

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Published on

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Time to read 6 min

Track Criterion Bowling Ball—Power, Precision, and Versatility


Track has long been known for crafting high-performance bowling balls that cater to serious bowlers looking for the perfect blend of power, control, and consistency. With the release of the Track Criterion , they've once again proven their ability to deliver. This ball combines advanced technology, a well-balanced core, and a cutting-edge coverstock that’s designed to dominate on medium to heavy oil conditions. If you’re looking for a versatile ball that will help you navigate tricky lane patterns with ease, the Track Criterion is built for the task.


In this detailed breakdown, we’ll dive into the key features of the Track Criterion, including its core, coverstock, and performance on the lanes. Let’s explore how this bowling ball can elevate your game.

Track Criterion Deep Dive

Core: Criterion M.D. Asymmetric Core

At the heart of the Track Criterion is the Criterion M.D. (Medium Differential) Asymmetric Core , which plays a pivotal role in the ball’s overall performance. With an RG (Radius of Gyration) of 2.50 and a Differential of 0.052 , the core delivers a medium-high flare potential. This means the ball creates a stronger hook potential while still maintaining control in the mid-lane. The addition of the Mass Bias Differential of 0.018 adds another layer of predictability, allowing for a powerful but smooth motion, especially on oilier conditions.


Asymmetric cores are known for their ability to create a more dynamic ball motion, and the Criterion M.D. is no exception. The core helps generate an aggressive backend finish while providing the versatility needed to adjust to different lane patterns. Bowlers who prefer a strong mid-lane read followed by a controllable yet powerful hook to the pocket will appreciate the consistent roll of this core.


Criterion Core

  • Core : Criterion M.D.
  • Coverstock : QR-12 Solid (HK22C)
  • Finish : 2000 Siaair
  • RG : 2.50

  • Differential : 0.052
  • Mass Bias Differential : 0.018
  • Lane Condition : Medium to Heavy Oil
  • Flare Potential : High

New Releases from Track Bowling

Coverstock: QR-12 Solid (HK22C) Reactive Solid

Track equipped the Criterion with its highly advanced QR-12 Solid coverstock, enhanced with the HK22C (HyperKinetic) formulation, which gives the ball outstanding reactivity in various oil conditions. The QR-12 Solid coverstock is a reactive solid, designed to dig into the oil, creating an aggressive traction pattern throughout the lane. This is especially useful for medium to heavy oil patterns, where bowlers need more bite and consistent hook through the oil.


The HK22C technology in the coverstock boosts the ball’s ability to handle friction, offering excellent performance when you need the ball to grip the lane surface early. This coverstock provides plenty of hook potential while maintaining a smooth motion, ensuring that bowlers can stay in control even as the lanes transition.

Track Criterion on the lanes
Image from Track's Facebook page

Finish: 2000 Grit Siaair


The 2000 grit Siaair finish on the Track Criterion strikes a perfect balance between early lane traction and backend continuation. The Siaair sanding process creates a slightly rougher surface, which allows the ball to read the lane earlier, but it’s fine-tuned enough to still deliver a clean and powerful backend reaction. This makes the ball highly versatile, performing well on fresh oil while also giving bowlers the ability to maintain consistent control as the lanes break down over time.


Track Criterion & Track Viz-a-Ball
Image from Track's Facebook page

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Performance Breakdown: Track Criterion on the Lanes


Mid-Lane Readability and Control


Thanks to the Criterion M.D. asymmetric core, the ball offers superior mid-lane readability. This is particularly useful when facing medium to heavy oil conditions where early traction is necessary. The combination of the core’s medium RG and differential provides bowlers with a smooth but strong roll through the mid-lane, giving you the control needed to adjust to the changing oil patterns during league play or tournament competition.


The asymmetric core enhances the ball’s ability to retain energy as it moves through the mid-lane, ensuring a powerful backend finish without losing control. You can expect a smooth transition from the mid-lane into the backend, allowing for more predictable shots.


Strong Backend Finish


While the Track Criterion excels in its mid-lane control, its backend finish is where the ball truly shines. The QR-12 Solid reactive coverstock, paired with the 2000 grit finish, allows the ball to generate a sharp and controlled backend motion. Bowlers who need a ball that can hook aggressively yet predictably into the pocket will find the Criterion an excellent choice.


The coverstock’s ability to handle friction also ensures that even as oil patterns transition, the ball maintains a reliable finish, making it ideal for high-scoring opportunities.


Pin Impact and Drive


One of the key strengths of the Track Criterion is its ability to deliver a devastating pin impact. The combination of the Criterion M.D. core and the reactive coverstock allows the ball to store energy efficiently throughout its motion, unleashing it upon impact with the pins. The result is a high pin carry, with the ball driving through the deck and minimizing deflections.


Bowlers who rely on high pin action to maximize their scores will appreciate the Criterion’s ability to crush the pins with force. The ball’s high flare potential adds to its striking power, increasing the chances of consistent strikes.

Who Should Use the Track Criterion?


The Track Criterion is designed for bowlers looking for a high-performance ball that combines power, precision, and versatility. Whether you're an intermediate bowler stepping up your game or an advanced player looking for a reliable ball to handle different oil patterns, the Criterion offers the perfect balance of hook potential and control.

  • Intermediate Bowlers : For those who are ready to move beyond entry-level equipment, the Criterion’s advanced core and coverstock technology will help you increase your scores and handle more challenging lane conditions.
  • Advanced Bowlers : Competitive bowlers who face a wide range of oil patterns will benefit from the Criterion’s ability to perform well in various conditions, from fresh oil to broken-down patterns.
  • League and Tournament Players : Whether you’re playing in weekly leagues or high-stakes tournaments, the Criterion’s versatility and strong backend reaction make it an ideal option for serious competitors.

Conclusion: A Ball for Bowlers Who Demand More


The Track Criterion is not just another bowling ball—it’s a carefully engineered piece of equipment designed to meet the demands of bowlers who crave control, power, and versatility. With its advanced Criterion M.D. Asymmetric Core , high-traction QR-12 Solid coverstock, and 2000 grit Siaair finish , this ball offers bowlers the ability to tackle medium to heavy oil conditions with confidence.


Whether you’re looking for a reliable ball to enhance your game or a new addition to your tournament arsenal, the Track Criterion is built to deliver consistent, high-performance results. Prepare to elevate your game and make a lasting impact on the lanes with the Track Criterion.


Frequently Asked Questions

What lane conditions are best suited for the Track Criterion?

The Track Criterion excels on medium to heavy oil conditions . Its 2000 grit Siaair finish helps the ball read the lane early while still offering a strong backend reaction. The ball’s core and coverstock combination makes it highly versatile, allowing bowlers to maintain control and power even as oil patterns transition throughout a game.

Who is the Track Criterion best suited for?

The Track Criterion is ideal for intermediate to advanced bowlers . Intermediate bowlers will appreciate its ability to step up their game with more control and power, while advanced bowlers will benefit from its versatility on a variety of oil patterns. It’s a great option for league players and competitive tournament bowlers who need a ball that adapts to changing lane conditions without sacrificing performance.

How does the Track Criterion compare to other Track bowling balls?

The Track Criterion stands out due to its unique asymmetric core and the advanced QR-12 Solid coverstock, which provide a combination of precision and power. Compared to other Track bowling balls, the Criterion is tailored for bowlers who need a versatile option that excels on medium to heavy oil conditions while maintaining control and high pin carry.



Can the Track Criterion be used for both recreational and competitive bowling?

Yes, the Track Criterion is suitable for both recreational and competitive bowling. Its versatile design allows bowlers of varying skill levels to benefit from its performance features, making it an excellent choice for league players and those participating in tournaments.

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