59 Hook 14.5 Length 16 Breakpoint Shape

Core Design: The Shape Lock HD asymmetric core revs quickly with the 2.48 RG. The .052 Diff and .020 mass bias create nearly 6” of track flare. This design can produce arc or flip, depending on layout choice.

Coverstock: The new minty Nano Reactive Genesis solid reactive is now Storm’s most aggressive coverstock formula. The new chemically enhanced Nano additive creates more peaks and valleys, which increases overall traction. Colors are orange, navy and cobalt blue. Surface finish is at 4000 Abralon. This cover has above-average oil traction with a quick response off friction.

Manufacturer’s Intent: The new VG Nano offers an updated cover for the slicker oils of 2011. The NRG cover will give bowlers increased oil traction due to the micro-dynamic enhancements of the surface. You can see the increased surface texture between the peaks and valleys, as well as the more aggressive edges on the top of the peaks, says Storm’s Steve Kloempken.

Test Results: The VG Nano gets lots of total hook, great continuation through the pin deck and good pin carry. One caveat: Use the VGN only on the appropriate oil pattern. When compared to the Invasion, the VGN was stronger on some oilier Sport patterns, but not all. On medium Sport patterns, the VGN was more angular when leaving the oil for our medium- and high-rev testers. With similar layouts, Storm’s Marvel (reviewed on page 61) was earlier, but the VGN was more angular. Both balls gave us good looks on oilier patterns, but the Nano was stronger off the spot.

When to Use: Bowlers should love the look, the motion shape and the pin carry the Virtual Gravity Nano offers. In testing, it will match up great for many release styles on many oilier patterns, providing there is oil present in the fronts and the midlane. Oil carrydown was not a distraction; Nano’s cover formula creates ample traction and continuation downlane. Our best looks were on medium to heavier volumes as long as we played inside the oil line. The longer 5” pin had more forward roll; the 3” pin distance created more sideways motion.