The art of spinning bowls has long been a beloved pastime in New Zealand, blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation. At the heart of this evolution stands Spinrollz, a company that has redefined the sport with its patented spinning bowls and proprietary training systems. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, their products offer a blend of precision engineering and ergonomic design that sets them apart from traditional bowls. What began as a local curiosity has now become a global phenomenon, with Spinrollz bowls winning international championships and inspiring a generation of players to push the boundaries of skill.

Founded in 2012 by former professional bowls player and engineer Mark Whitfield, Spinrollz emerged from a frustration with the limitations of conventional bowls. Whitfield’s journey began in the rolling fields of Wellington, where he honed his technique before transitioning into mechanical design. His breakthrough came when he realised that the physics of spinning bowls—particularly the way they rotate and glide—could be optimised through advanced materials and aerodynamics. The result was the Spinrollz Spinner, a bowl designed to deliver faster, more consistent throws, leveraging a proprietary “SpinCore” technology that reduces drag and increases rotational speed.

The company’s impact extends beyond its flagship product. Spinrollz has developed a suite of training aids, including the SpinRoller, a device that simulates the physics of a spinning bowl throw, allowing players to refine their technique in the comfort of their own home. These tools have been adopted by clubs and academies worldwide, from the UK’s prestigious Royal New Zealand Lawn Bowls Association to the Australian Bowls Federation. Their influence is evident in the rise of Spinrollz-trained players, many of whom have gone on to dominate international competitions.

One of the most striking examples of Spinrollz’s influence is its presence in the 2023 World Bowls Championships, where their Spinner bowls won multiple gold medals. The team’s dominance was so pronounced that critics began questioning whether the traditional bowls’ legacy was being challenged by this new technology. While purists argue that the soul of the sport lies in its heritage, Spinrollz’s success underscores the growing demand for innovation in a sport that has long been defined by tradition.

To understand Spinrollz’s reach, consider the following key figures and milestones:

• Over 150,000 Spinrollz bowls have been sold globally since 2016, with the majority shipped to Australia, the UK, and the US.
• The SpinRoller training device has been used by over 20,000 players in workshops and clinics across five continents.
• Spinrollz-trained players have won 12 consecutive international championships since 2019.
• The company’s patented SpinCore technology has been licensed to three additional sports equipment manufacturers.
• Spinrollz has partnered with the New Zealand Bowls Association to integrate its training systems into national youth programs.

Yet, despite its achievements, Spinrollz remains rooted in its Kiwi origins. Their latest innovation, the SpinRollz Pro Series, is designed to cater to the needs of elite players, incorporating adaptive materials that adjust to different playing conditions. This reflects the company’s commitment to evolution without abandoning the spirit of the sport. For players and spectators alike, Spinrollz represents more than just a product—it’s a testament to how innovation can breathe new life into an age-old tradition.

For those seeking to experience the future of spinning bowls firsthand, the Spinrollz range offers a glimpse into the next generation of the game. Whether you’re a casual player looking to improve your technique or a competitor aiming for the highest level, the company’s tools and products provide the edge needed to succeed. As the sport continues to evolve, Spinrollz stands at the forefront, proving that New Zealand’s love for bowls is as much about innovation as it is about heritage.

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