Bowling Bumpers: 3 Types, Costs, Setup & Buyer’s Guide

Bowling bumpers are one of the most important innovations in recreational bowling for beginners, children and casual players. These raised rails or barriers are installed in the gutters of a bowling lane to prevent the ball from falling off the lane. 

When these are activated the ball will stay in play and reach the pins. It transforms the game from a frustrating experience into a fun and confidence building activity for all ages. There are two main types:

1. Manual bumpers are like foam rails or simple guards.
2. Automatic bumpers rise and retract based on each player’s profile (usually set through the scoring system).

History

Bumpers were introduced in 1982 by Phil Kinzer at Jupiter Lanes in Dallas, Texas. This idea came when he saw how disheartening it was for children to roll gutter balls repeatedly.

The concept caught on quickly and spread throughout family bowling centers. Today many centers offer automated bumper systems that go up and down based on each individual bowler’s skill level and age.

Automatic Bumpers

Automatic bumpers are mechanical systems installed inside the lane gutters. These bumpers can raise or lower themselves with a pneumatic (air driven) or motorized mechanism. And they are controlled through the lane’s scoring console or touchscreen interface. 

Smart Bumpers (Programmed Per Player)

Smart bumpers are an extension of automatic bumpers but based on player profiles. These systems can set bumpers automatically raise for kids and lower for adults within the same game with data from the scoring system.

So no manual input needed during the game. And reduces complaints or confusion in mixed age groups.

Bowling Bumpers Vs Gutter Guards: What’s The Difference?

Feature	Bowling Bumpers	Gutter Guards
Operation	Manual or Automatic.	Usually Manual.
Technology	May integrate with scoring systems.	No software integration.
Durability	Built for commercial lanes.	Suitable for light and home use.
Installation	Installed in gutters.	Simple to install and remove manually.
Appearance	Hidden when not in use.	Often visible.

How To Choose The Right Bowling Bumper System?

You should look for the bumper system which has following features:

• Must withstand heavy use.
• Rails made of heavy duty plastic or coated steel.
• Warranty.

As investing in a high-quality bumper system can give strong returns by attracting more families, repeat visits and party bookings.

Price

Different bumpers have different prices such as:

1. Manual bumpers: 

$300 to $800+ per lane.

2. Automatic bumpers:

$2,500 to $4,500+ per lane.

3. Smart systems with software integration: 

$4,000 to $6,000+ per lane.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Bumper Type	Approximate Installation Time
Manual bumpers	1 to 2 hours per lane.
Automatic bumpers	4 to 6 hours per lane.
Smart bumper systems	6 to 8 hours per lane (including scoring integration).

Maintenance

To keep your bumpers functioning smoothly and safely. You have to check for debris or buildup in gutters, test raising/lowering mechanisms on all lanes, alignment and secure fittings, player by player automation accuracy and lubricate mechanical or pneumatic parts as specified by the manufacturer on a monthly basis.