Editor’s Note: This article highlights bowling shoes used by high-ranking players. Models and availability may change over time, but the insights on fit and performance still apply.
Want to know what bowling shoes top players actually wear? Looking at professional bowlers can be a helpful starting point when choosing your next pair.
While pros choose shoes based on personal preference, fit, slide control, and bowling style, the models worn by high-ranking bowlers often reveal which shoes consistently perform at a high level.
This guide breaks down bowling shoes worn by elite players and what makes each model stand out.
SOA observation: One interesting trend is that interchangeable sole systems appear on nearly every shoe worn by the professionals listed here. Recreational bowlers often focus on brand names, but elite players tend to prioritize adjustability so they can fine-tune slide and traction for different lane conditions.
Quick takeaway: Dexter bowling shoes dominate among many professional bowlers thanks to interchangeable soles, adjustable slide systems, and consistent fit.
Which Bowling Shoe Is Right for You?
The shoes used by professional bowlers are built for different styles of play. Here’s a quick way to narrow down which model may suit you best.
- Best overall: Dexter SST 8 – Excellent balance of slide control, comfort, and interchangeable soles.
- Best for power players: Dexter Belmo Tour S – Designed for bowlers who generate more speed and power at release.
- Best for traditional bowlers: Dexter SST 6 Hybrid – Proven performance with a slightly more classic feel.
- Best premium leather option: 3G Tour – Ideal for bowlers who prefer leather construction and a smooth, consistent slide.
Professional Bowlers and Their Shoe Choices
The table below summarizes which bowling shoes some of today’s top professional bowlers wear and what makes each model stand out.
| Professional Bowler | Shoe Model | Best For | Key Feature | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jason Belmonte | Dexter Belmo Tour S | Power + Stability | Large EVA wedge, interchangeable sole system | $$$ |
| EJ Tackett | Dexter SST 8 | Versatility + Slide Control | BOA Fit System with interchangeable slide and heel | $$$ |
| Dominic Barrett | Dexter SST 6 Hybrid | Precision Footwork | BOA closure with Hybrid toe protector | $$ |
| Shannon O’Keefe | Dexter SST8 Pro | Consistency | Full-grain leather with interchangeable soles | $$$ |
| Danielle McEwan | 3G Tour | Traditional Slide Feel | Premium leather upper with buckskin slide sole | $$$ |
The following professionals consistently compete at the highest level of the sport. Their shoe choices offer useful insight into the features serious bowlers value most.
Men
Dominic Barrett hails from England and holds the #2 world ranking. He has 10 titles, including 3 major titles. The key to his delivery is his push away, which is very important to have precise footwork to ensure smooth ball release. From recent on-alley pictures, he chooses the Dexter SST 6 Hybrid Shoes. The shoes feature the BOA micro-adjustable dial, which allows you to bowl on without needing to re-tie laces. It also features our Hybrid toe protector for longer wear. Additional features are adjustable slides and heel. The SST6 Hybrid is available in Black/Red or White/Blue.
EJ Tackett, The #3 ranked bowler hails from Indiana. He has won 14 titles along with 2 majors. He bowls right-handed and uses a Cranker bowling style which allows for maximum ball rotation. Recent photos show him using the Dexter SST 8 bowling shoes. The SST8 features Dexter’s new Power Frame honeycomb overmold to reinforce the fabric of the shoe for longer life and the BOA Fit System with disc lacing for adjustability and convenience
Jason Belmonte from Australia currently holds the #1 world ranking. His 2 handed bowling approach style is starting to gain popularity. He is right handed, has 15 300 games and has 16 titles including 14 majors. He employs a Tweener style which produces moderate revolutions. Recent on-count photos show him in the Belmo Tour S. The Tour Outsole features a 50% larger EVA wedge that gradually increases towards the heel for improved positioning during the slide and improved comfort. While in his first season wearing these shoes, he won 4 PBA titles, including a major.
Women
Shannon O’Keefe currently holds the 1 ranking on the PWBA, from Shiloh Illinois. Her title haul stands currently at 15, with 3 majors. In addition to her professional bowling career, she has also been the bowling coach for McKendree University since 2014. Her teams have won 2 NCAA National Championships. According to recent on-alley pictures, she is using the Dexter SST8 Pro. These shoes feature full grain leather upper, leather Toe Drag Protector and offer the ability to interchange both the sliding and traction soles.
Danielle McEwan currently holds the 2 ranking and is originally from New York. She has 7 career titles and is also a She is also a two-time winner of the World Bowling Tour (WBT) Women’s Finals. Recent photos shoe her using the 3G Tour Black bowling shoes, with red laces. The 3G Tour feature an authentic Buckskin slide for consistency and sustainable 100 % leather upper for a quality look and feel . Even though the 3G tour are listed as Men’s shoes, 3G offers a conversion formula. Mens size 4.5=Women’s size 6.5
What Bowling Shoes Do Most Professional Bowlers Wear?
One trend becomes obvious when looking at high-ranking bowlers: Dexter shoes dominate professional bowling.
Models like the SST 6, SST 8, and Belmo Tour series appear frequently because they allow bowlers to customize slide pads and heel traction based on lane conditions.
That said, there is no single “best” bowling shoe. The right option depends on your bowling style, slide preference, foot shape, and comfort needs.
If you’re a recreational bowler, don’t feel pressured to buy what the pros wear immediately. Fit and comfort matter just as much as elite-level features.
Frequently Asked Questions About Professional Bowling Shoes
Why do professional bowlers wear Dexter shoes so often?
Dexter is popular among professional bowlers because many of its premium models include interchangeable slide soles and heel systems. These features let bowlers adjust traction and slide for different lane conditions without changing shoes.
Are expensive bowling shoes worth it?
Premium bowling shoes can be worth the cost if you bowl frequently or compete in leagues. Higher-end models usually offer better materials, replaceable soles, more precise slide control, and greater durability. Casual bowlers may not need those extra features.
Can beginners wear the same bowling shoes as professionals?
Yes, but beginners do not need to choose a shoe simply because a professional wears it. Most recreational bowlers will benefit more from a comfortable fit, dependable traction, and a consistent slide than from advanced interchangeable sole systems.
What are interchangeable bowling soles?
Interchangeable soles are removable slide pads and heel pieces that allow bowlers to adjust how much they slide or stop. They are especially useful for competitive bowlers who play at different bowling centers with varying approach conditions.
How long do bowling shoes last?
A quality pair of bowling shoes can last several years with proper care. Lifespan depends on how often they are worn, the materials used, and whether worn soles and heels can be replaced.
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