Millions of people in the UK are unaware that they’ve been able to bowl in their own shoes for more than a decade, according to new research. The study revealed that 35% of Brits still think they need to wear the traditional red and blue bowling shoes to enjoy a game of ten-pin bowling.
Hollywood Bowl, the UK’s leading ten-pin bowling and family leisure brand, is keen to set the record straight ahead of its busiest time of year. To encourage families to embrace the festive spirit, Hollywood Bowl has launched a range of novelty Christmas socks to raise funds for its national charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support.
The research showed that 63% of adults prefer bowling in their own shoes, with 58% saying it makes them feel more confident and 53% feeling more stylish. Among parents with children under 18, 92% said they’d be more likely to go bowling if they knew they could wear their own shoes, with 71% citing it as a simpler, hassle-free option.
Dave Williams, Operations Director at Hollywood Bowl, said: “Whether you like them or loathe them, traditional bowling shoes are a nostalgic throwback to ten-pin bowling’s Christmas past. As this research shows, many people still believe they must wear shared footwear to enjoy some bowling fun with family and friends.
“With novelty socks continuing to be one of the most popular gifts at Christmas, our Santa Strikes Again holiday hosiery will hopefully raise a smile on the lanes this festive season, whilst also raising donations for Macmillan Cancer Support, an important cause close to our team’s hearts.”
The limited-edition socks are festive green, featuring ten-pins in Santa hats and the slogan “Santa Strikes Again”. They are available for £5 at Hollywood Bowl centres nationwide throughout December, with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support.
To book your Christmas bowling session or learn more about offers at your local centre, visit the Hollywood Bowl website at www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk. While festive socks are optional, flat, closed-toe shoes are always welcome on the lanes.
