Storm Next Factor Bowling Ball

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The Next Factor brings one of Storm’s most iconic ball lines into the modern era. First introduced in 2002, the X-Factor quickly became synonymous with explosive backend motion and the unmistakable skid-flip reaction that defined an entire generation of Storm performance. Now, more than twenty years later, our Innovation Team—led by CTO Hank Boomershine—has reimagined that legacy for today’s game.

This new iteration blends Storm’s high-tech heritage with the advancements bowlers expect from our strongest modern releases. Clean through the front, dynamic at the breakpoint, and relentless through the pins, the Next Factor is built for when you’re ready to open up your angles and let your ball do the talking. It’s a revival with purpose—honoring the past while pushing performance into the future.

Color Midnight
Coverstock R3S Reactive Pearl
Core RAD - TQ
RG 2.56
Differential 0.051
Intermediate Diff 0.017
Factory finish Power Edge
Weights 12 thru 16lbs
Fragrance Dark Berry

27 Reviews

  • Storm Next Factor

    Posted by Ryan Burks on Jan 2nd 2026

    Storm Next Factor – Ball Review The Storm Next Factor is one of the most impressive down-lane motion pieces I’ve thrown in a long time. This ball features a high-RG asymmetric weight block paired with Storm’s R3S Pearl Reactive coverstock, and the result is exactly what you’d expect—exceptional length with a fast, defined move off the spot. What really stands out is how clean this ball is through the front part of the lane. It clears the heads with ease and pushes farther down the lane than just about anything else I’ve seen recently. Despite that length, the asymmetric core still provides surprising midlane control, giving you confidence that the ball won’t over-skid or miss the breakpoint entirely—it just happens later than most. In terms of ball motion and lane window, the Next Factor fits right alongside pieces like the Gremlin or RST Hyperdrive Pearl. It’s a true angular option that excels when you need recovery and shape without sacrificing predictability. For me, it also complements the Ion Pro Solid extremely well, offering a clear step down in the bag when fronts start to go and you need more pop down lane. The overall shape reminds me of a Hy-Road with a weight hole (for those who remember that era)—clean, quick, and responsive, but with a modern asymmetric twist that gives it more continuation and hit. This is a ball I’m especially excited to throw on shorter patterns later in tournament blocks, particularly after urethane has started to push oil down lane. When the fronts are beat up but you still need angle and entry, the Next Factor looks like it’s going to shine. Layout used: 5 × 3.5 × 4.5 ? Video of my ball and reaction: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3867203426906186

  • The Next Factor!

    Posted by Rick Klimowicz on Dec 30th 2025

    Next Factor • Storm• Premier Series Coverstock • R3S Pearl Reactive Finish • Power Edge Core • RAD-TQ Asymmetrical Core Weight • 15 lb. RG • 2.56 Differential • .051 PSA •.017 Layout • 4 3/8 x 4 1/8 x 1 7/8 Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 11° Tester Rev Rate • 300 Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street Storm reignites one of its iconic ball lines with the release of the Next Factor. Built on the success of the explosive backend motion of the X-Factor, the new-generation Next Factor is a clean, strong, asymmetrical powerhouse! I was excited from my first roll with the Next Factor, and the more I rolled it, the more I found the hidden power Next Factor brought to my game. So, let's take a closer look at what is behind the superb performance of the Next Factor. The RAD-TQ weight block in the Next Factor certainly adds strength and power to any straighter player's game. But one of the best features I found with the RAD-TQ weight block is its ability to roll and keep rolling! As a straighter player, I love when I have a ball like the Next Factor that doesn't quit on me or roll out because of my lower rev rate. Furthermore, when you have a core like the RAD-TQ rolling that hard, you can count on the ball to not only be explosive through the pins but also provide the decimating continuation you depend on as a straighter player, and the RAD-TQ inside the Next Factor certainly delivered those results for me, shot after shot. The R3S Pearl Reactive Coverstock was designed to bring out the motion of the RAD-TQ Core, and as a straighter player, it was clearly evident to me that the R3S Pearl did precisely that. The R3S was clean through the mid-lane, and I also liked how the R3S gave the Next Factor a very controlled motion as it made its way down the lane. For a pearl, the R3S provided a good balance between the traction I need and the crisp turn I count on when the Next Factor comes off the pattern. As a straighter player, the factory Power-Edge finish on the Next Factor performed excellently in later-night conditions, as that is where the Next Factor was designed for. Furthermore, because I loved how well the Next Factor rolls and has relentless continuation, I decided not to alter the surface of my Next Factor under fresh THS conditions; instead, I moved a bit more right and let the dynamics of the R3S Pearl do its magic, and the results of my Next Factor were excellent. In closing, Storm has done a great job in designing the Next Factor. The Next Factor is the next generation of Storm's cutting-edge technology; built on the dependability you have come to know and trust from the Bowlers Company! The combination of RAD-TQ Core and R3S Pearl Coverstock delivers an excellent ball to fit any straighter player's arsenal. Furthermore, as a straighter player, I would find the Next Factor a great go-to when the Equinox Solid starts working too hard, and you need to start kicking out corner pins. So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today and see where the Next Factor fits into your arsenal. You will be glad you did! Rick Klimowicz Storm Products Pro Shop Staff Roll the Ball Pro Shop Penndel, PA

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Michael Slatky on Dec 30th 2025

    Storm Next Factor Coverstock: R3S Pearl Finish: Power Edge Core: RAD-TQ (14 pd) RG: 2.59 Differential: 0.050 Int Diff: 0.014 Layout: 4 1/4 x 5 x 3/4 x 3 1/4 - 2LS Layout Extras: 2 1/8 Finger Depth, "X" - 4 1/2 D and 1 Inch Left Tester: PAP 6 1/2 R, 1 1/4 D Review: The Next Factor features a refined RAD-TQ core technology. This core as you would anticipate will help the Next Factor provide a predictable and strong shape closer to the end of the pattern. For my review I compared the Next Factor to the Revenant (although a sym). For me, the Next Factor cover/core combination is much better than the Revenant. Although the Revenant worked well at times, the R3S on the Revenant went a touch long and could misshape at times. The Next Factor using R3S pearl and an asym as well is a nice offering for bowlers needing help in getting through the front part of the lane. Building the Next Factor off of the X-Factor (circa 2002) makes this ball an intriguing piece in the arsenal. The Next Factor during its initial testing is a world of difference in terms of great balance in length and continuation compared to the Revenant. For bowlers with slower ball speeds and want more shape the Next Factor is a ball to consider. I am pleasantly surprised how the OOB finish looks on the Next Factor and will test even further before changing the surface. The Next Factor will fit well for your medium type older lane bed THS patterns. I recommend if you have/had an X-Factor or a Revenant you'll be fine refreshing your arsenal with a Next Factor. SPI has really upgraded the middle to lower end of the arsenal with the Next Factor. I'm definitely excited about this ball from Storm. Please be sure to visit your favorite pro shop today or https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for my occasional ball videos. Grab your Next Factor today! Michael Slatky 900 Global Staff Member York, PA

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Tim Ruth on Dec 29th 2025

    **Storm Next Factor Review** **Specs:** 340 RPM • 16.5 MPH • 14 lb The Storm Next Factor has been a very strong and reliable piece in my bag. With my 340 RPM and 16.5 mph ball speed, this ball gives me a great balance of mid-lane read and strong continuation through the pins. What stands out the most is how easily the Next Factor picks up in the mid-lane without feeling lazy or over-reading early. It clears the front of the lane well, then makes a smooth but powerful move off the breakpoint. The reaction is strong and predictable, which gives me confidence when the lanes have more oil or when I need something that won’t miss the spot. The carry has been excellent for me. Light hits mix well, and flush shots drive hard through the pins without deflecting. Compared to weaker symmetrical balls, the Next Factor gives me more overall hook and better control when the pattern is tighter or longer. Overall, the Storm Next Factor is a great option for medium-heavy to heavy oil conditions. It’s especially good for bowlers with similar speed and rev rates who want a controllable yet strong benchmark-plus ball. This ball has definitely earned a permanent spot in my arsenal.

  • Storm Next Factor

    Posted by Scott K. on Dec 29th 2025

    I’m a right-handed, “experienced” bowler (the kind with more joint tape than wrist snap), medium revs, medium speed, rolling on a 42' medium-light oil pattern at a high-friction house. In other words, if the lanes hook when you look at them funny, that’s where I bowl. The Storm Next Factor has been a pleasant surprise. On this pattern, it clears the heads cleanly without that “oh no, it’s checking at the arrows” feeling. Even on our high-friction surface, it doesn’t jump sideways—just a smooth, readable motion that lets me stay out of trouble. The ball picks up in the midlane nicely and makes a controlled, confident move downlane rather than an overcaffeinated one. What I really appreciate is the predictability. As an older bowler, I don’t need fireworks; I need something that listens. The Next Factor gives me a smooth arc instead of a snap, which helps keep the pocket in play when my timing is a little… vintage. Miss a touch right? It recovers. Tug it in? It doesn’t punish me like I stole its lunch money. Carry has been solid, especially when I keep my speed matched to my rev rate. Light mixers stay low and kick out corners, and I’m seeing fewer of those “great shot, wrong decade” flat tens. Bottom line: On a 42' medium-light pattern in a high-friction house, the Storm Next Factor is a dependable, smooth-rolling option for medium-rev, medium-speed bowlers who prefer control over chaos. It’s strong enough to score, calm enough to trust, and forgiving enough to make me feel younger—at least until I bend down to pick it up. ?

  • Next Factor Review by Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson

    Posted by Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson on Dec 29th 2025

    Ball Specs: Storm Next Factor Coverstock: R3S™ Power Edge Pearl Reactive Core: RAD-TQ™ (Asymmetrical) Color: Midnight Review: To be honest, we were a little skeptical for this bowling ball release. Bringing back old roots and mixing with new technology sometimes doesn’t knock it out of the park like you think it will. This bowling ball however brings a new shape to the SPI lineup that has been missing. Not to mention, darker colored bowling balls do seem to have that smoother, more versatile appeal in our opinion which is why you see them so much if you watch a lot of professional bowling on BowlTV. We drilled this ball with our normal layout: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). Comparing this bowling ball to another new pearl bowling ball in the SPI lineup, the Phaze II pearl, you can see many differences. First, the Next Factor is night and day cleaner through the fronts and mids. The Phaze II Pearl picks up considerably sooner and has less shape at the end of the lane. To be honest, the next factor isn’t something we would open with. It just doesn’t blend the fresh well. This ball really shines in the later games, once the fronts start to go and you need something to clear that front, beat up part of the lane. This is a great ball after something like an Equinox solid where you can still transition to opening up your angles and get it to that hook spot, and yes, this ball will come back. If you want something clean, angular, and that hits like a truck. This is your ball. Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson SPI Pro Shop Staff Members kyle@parklanes.net joel@parklanes.net dean@parklanes.net www.stormbowling.com #StormNation #GoGlobal #SquadRG

  • Next Factor Review

    Posted by Thomas Coco on Dec 28th 2025

    The Next Factor is Storm’s latest ball release that continues its legacy of innovation by perfecting a shape that’s built for the challenges of today’s bowling. As a fan favorite of throwing a few of the legendary X-Factor series back in the early 2000s (X-Factor, Deuce, Triple XXX, Triple Xtreme, and the Ace), I was very looking forward to this release. The Next Factor features the new and upgraded RAD-TQ weight block found in the original X Factor, blended with the R3S Pearl Reactive cover stock. This new asymmetrical piece rolls unlike any other ball found in the Storm, Roto Grip, and 900 Global Line. Very clean through the fronts, creating a backend angular shape one would desire for striking results. Ball layout: 70 x 5 3/8 x 40. Testing it at my home center of Hudson Lanes and Games league pattern (42ft), the Next Factor was quite unique with its ball motion whether I started throwing it on the fresh or working the transition later in the game. To start, I tested the straighter lines up 10 and saw a lot more length and little recovery in the back part of the lane. The Next Factor blends so well on the fresh but can be over/under at times depending on how much oil is laid down for you. Once the transition started to open up, this is where the ball is considered to be favored. Moving right with my feet, I was able to get more length and control and didn’t see no overreaction as the Next Factor blended so well into the friction. When it comes to throwing a higher RG ball on dry lane conditions, the Next Factor would fit perfectly into that category. Overall, I am pleased with the ball motion the Next Factor can create and would make a great transitional ball for those dry/medium lane conditions. Be sure to drill one up at your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today! Thomas Coco (Storm Staffer) #stormnation

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Keith C on Dec 27th 2025

    Storm Next Factor Bowling Ball Right-handed 300 RPM 15.5 mph ball speed**: SPI discription: The Storm Next Factor revives one of Storm’s most iconic reaction shapes from the classic X-Factor line, but updated with modern materials and design intentions. It features a **RAD-TQ asymmetrical core** meant to store energy and unleash a strong backend, paired with a **R3S pearl reactive coverstock** that sits between the familiar R2S and TX-16 in terms of traction and response. Here is what I see so far after 8 games: 1. Clean through fronts — great for my speed so the ball doesn’t over-read early friction. 2. Strong, angular backend — helps create good corner pin hits and carry. 3. Excellent transitional ball — shines when other balls start hooking too early. 4. Opens angles nicely — lets me move inside without losing reactions. Too clean on heavy/medium oil for me, especially on very fresh THS. I did not start hooking early enough. * **Needs some friction** If the lanes are *very* dry, you may need a surface tweak (e.g., light sand or slower finish) to help it read earlier. Not a “plug-and-play” every-condition ball, it's more specialized for higher friction conditions or broken down league and longer tournament formats that require optimum continuation than early read. **In my hands, the Storm Next Factor is a reliable transition ball bettween my Ember and IQ Tour Ruby. Clean through the fronts, smooth midlane read, and angular backend finish like a updated UC2 motion, especially if you’re looking for dependable motion and carry late in blocks. Hurry and visit your Local VIP Proshop today #Stormnation

  • Next Factor is 1 of 1

    Posted by Darren Wong on Dec 24th 2025

    The Next Factor features numbers that do not exist in any ball on the market today which in and of itself makes it intriguing. Then, I think back to 2002 when the original X Factor came out and how it was the leading edge of technology and down lane motion and I could not wait to drill the Next Factor. It has the asymmetrical RAD-TQ core, an upgraded version of the Radial Accelerating Disk core. The RG is very high (2.56 in the 15#) and the dif is high as well (0.051 in 15#). The PSA is 0.017 in the 15#. The RAD-TQ core in the Next Factor is wrapped in the R3S pearl which is a pearl reactive cover that fits between the weaker R2S (on Summit Ascent and IQ balls) and the stronger TX-16 (on Phaze 2 and Ion Pro Solid). What this means is the ball clears the front easily because of the pearl and the high RG. But because of the asymmetry and strength of the core, it won’t miss the midlane. Then, the dif kicks in down lane creating a controlled, angular motion into the pocket. I’ve heard the Next Factor described as an asym HyRoad. I amazingly never threw a HyRoad, but the cover on the Next Factor is stronger than the HyRoad and HyRoad 40 covers and Next Factor is asym, so I would think it’s noticeably stronger. I’ve also heard the Next Factor compared to a Virtual Energy Black Out (VEBO) which I have thrown and is one of my favorite balls. I would say that is a closer comparison, but the Next Factor goes longer because of the higher RG and also has a stronger back end motion. I drilled my Next Factor 4.75 x 4 x 2. As I stated at the start of this review, there really is no comparison for the Next Factor. It is truly 1 of 1. If you are looking for something different in your lower to middle bags, you should consider getting the Next Factor.

  • Storm Next Factor Ball Review by PJ Haggerty

    Posted by PJ Haggerty on Dec 23rd 2025

    Our team in Utah decided to give us a throwback with one of the newest additions to the Premier Line.. the Next Factor. If you remember watching PBA shows or if you drilled Storm balls in the early 2000’s, you might remember the X-Factor. That ball was known for it’s extremely clean cover with a ‘flip’ motion down-lane. The Next Factor has been designed to replicate that motion, and after drilling one, it feels like the wizards in Utah nailed it. I drilled it a little stronger with the pin above my ring finger and the mass bias next to my thumb. This equates to 4.5 x 4 x 2. I lightly scratched the surface with a 3000 pad and this ball rolls awesome. Also, I’ve always been a fan of the darker-colored bowling balls due to their smoother and more predictable motion. The Next Factor is dark blue and has excellent shelf appeal. I can see players with lower rev rates who like to keep their angles tighter love the Next Factor because of how clean it is. On the flip side, the guys with higher rev rates will love it because they can shape the lane so well and have a ball to go to once their Phaze II Pearl and Equinox Solid have done their jobs. If you need a cleaner, asymmetric ball in your bag that flies through the front and has an extremely quick response time, the Next Factor should be the ‘next’ ball you drill! #StormNation

  • Next Factor Review

    Posted by Adam Chase on Dec 23rd 2025

    Layout: 2 3/4 x 6 x 2 Surface: Power Edge Rev Rate: 470 Tilt: 17* The brand-new Next Factor brings back some nostalgia as basically a remake of the original X-Factor bowling ball. The new RAD-TQ core was used here which is an upgraded version of the original RAD Core from the X-Factor. This brings a slightly lower RG and differential value in 15lbs than the X-Factor. The core is combined with the R3S pearl coverstock that has a medium strength that sits between the R2S and TX-16 pearl coverstocks. I went with a stronger drilling on this ball because I generally don't get along with high RG bowling balls as they tend to go way too long for me because of my style. The 2 3/4" pin to pap will strengthen the differential which will help the ball slow down faster for me. I was able to try this ball on my typical 44ft house shot. What I saw was on the Next Factor was that I was able to play up the lane on the fresh due to the cleaner core and cover combination. I saw a lot of length and pretty good angular continuation for what the ball is. The reaction wasn't too angular so I was able to play well on the fresh. I was able to play around 12 to 7 on the fresh condition. The ball mostly blended the dry pretty well and the strength of the core allowed it to read the oil well if I missed in. I firmly believe that my typical 4 1/2 x 4 x 2 drilling would not be great on the fresh. As the lanes started to break down in the front and I had to move left, I saw some additional length which was trouble for the corner pins from time to time. If I got the ball to the friction faster, I saw the backend I had on the fresh. The Next Factor did do a really good job of blending the lanes out overall. It is definitely a unique reaction in the SPI Lineup that can be very useful. As lane surfaces get worse and lane oil dries up faster, it is imperative to use a higher rg bowling ball. This Next Factor will fill this gap. I recommend this ball for bowlers who may have slower ball speeds and need help getting the ball down the lane on lower oil volumes and higher friction lane surfaces, bowlers who want an asymmetrical version of the Hyroad Pearl and bowlers who tend to use higher rg bowling balls in general who are looking for something similar that is stronger. Designed for a transition ball, it can be used, however, on the fresh if the layout is strong enough to get the ball to slow down.

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Todd Benner on Dec 23rd 2025

    The Storm Next Factor features the RAD-TQ weight block, wrapped in R3S Pearl Reactive coverstock finished with Power Edge. At 15 pounds the RG is a high 2.56 with a differential of .051 and an intermediate differential of .017. This ball is unlike anything in the current Storm, Roto Grip, or 900 Global line. The combination of cover and core pushes this ball far down the lane before it even starts to try and pick up and then unleashes the trademark skid/flip backend reaction that Storm bowling balls are known for. The Next Factor will probably not be the first ball out of the bag, but it has a place in the bag. It is a niche ball, but it fills a need that no other ball can. I can play straight on medium patterns with this ball, and it provides a great backend motion from the track area and outside. This ball also comes in handy when I need something to clear the fronts with larger launch angles and still has plenty of backend motion to cover a lot of boards.

  • Storm Next Factor

    Posted by Matt Fazzone on Dec 22nd 2025

    The Storm Next Factor features the R3S Pearl coverstock paired with the RAD-TQ core, creating a ball that is extremely clean through the front part of the lane and very angular on the backend. With my 4 × 4 × 2 layout, this ball clears the heads with ease and saves a lot of energy for a sharp, strong move downlane. This ball really shines when lane volume is lower and the lanes begin to transition. As the oil breaks down, the Next Factor provides excellent length and a quick response to friction, making it a great option when stronger balls start to hook too early. It also works very well as a burn ball, allowing you to stay aggressive without losing control. Overall, the Storm Next Factor is a great choice for bowlers looking for a super clean, super angular reaction when the lanes dry out. It fits perfectly in the bag for late-league games or tournament transition.

  • Storm Next Factor

    Posted by Dannial Cohen on Dec 22nd 2025

    Storm Next Factor Ball Review Storm Next Factor is inspired by one of storm’s most iconic balls in their modern history the X-factor. The orginal X factor was asymmetrical pearl with the Rad Tecnology core design in 2002 it was very clean with explosive backend. Storm has re engineered the orginal X factor core in the new next factor with Rad-TQ. The Next Factor is a asymmetrical core with a RG of 2.56 and differential.051 and intermediate differential of .017 It’s finished with power edge The coverstock is r3s I drilled mine 4.75x4.25x2.25 using the VLS layout system. The Next Factor is very unique with it’s high RG and high differential asymmetrical core so it’s going very clean through the fronts and create a very strong motion on the backend so it’s angular with control. Another highlight of the next factor is a weight black and shell design without an inner core so it creates a devastating punch going through the pins and will hear the difference when it hits the pins. I compared the next factor to the phaze 2 Pearl and the orginal Hyroad The Phaze 2 Pearl was earlier and stronger while next factor was cleaner and more backend. Compared to the Hyroad it was similar in length but was more angular on the backend. The next factor will be a great option when you need help getting your ball through the fronts but still want that angular controlled motion that’s doesn’t not transition to quick. Great option when the lane is going transition Next factor is available December 19th

  • Storm NEXT Factor – WWRD 12/19/2025

    Posted by Patrick Dombrowski on Dec 22nd 2025

    Cover: R3S Pearl Reactive Core: RAD-TQ RG: 2.56 RG. Diff.: 0.051 Finish: Power Edge Fragrance: Dark Berry Storm’s new NEXT Factor is a Pearl Asymmetrical piece that is good for Medium Volume patterns. PAP is 5 5/16 R 1 3/16 Up. Rev Rate: 400. Speed: 16.5. I drilled this piece with the Pin up between the fingers, CG kicked out 1/2” from the palm, and 1” Left of the Mass Bias. 5 x 4 x 2 ½. I threw this piece on a Fresh house pattern. Out of Box ball motion clean through the fronts with a sharp backend reaction through the pins. I compared this to the Phaze II Pearl. Phaze II Pearl was earlier in the mids and not as sharp on the backend as the NEXT Factor. This piece will be good when transition starts to take place. This is the piece to go to when you need something clean to get through the fronts and still creates the shape on the backend to carry the corners. Check Out the Ball motion Video on my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DdH38RL3q/

  • Truly The Next Factor

    Posted by Thomas Szczepaniak on Dec 20th 2025

    I was able to try The Next Factor out while I was subbing on a Monday night. Now to my surprise I was able to use it game 1 and yielded some pretty good results. The real test was how much miss room did I have and would the ball recover. This question was answered at a tournament where I had about a 3 board area to hit all day until I pulled this ball out. It actually gave me another 3 boards of area to play, I was able to still play a tight line but it also allowed me to leak it to the right a bit with no issues of recovery.

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Dave Jecko on Dec 20th 2025

    Storm Next Factor - Premier Line Coverstock: R3S Pearl - Power Edge Core: RAD-TQ RG: 2.56 Differential: .051 PSA: .017 (15 lbs) Fragrance: Dark Berry Layout: 4.75 x 4.5 x 2.75 PAP: 6" Right, 1 3/8" Up Axis Tilt: 16° Rotation: 51° Rev Rate: 450-500 Speed: 17-18 mph Location: Vista Lanes - Yorkville, NY Pattern: Kegel Carbon (Terrain Conditioner) Lane Surface: Anvilane The Next Factor has arrived and brings the well known X-Factor line into the modern era. The Next Factor has been specifically designed to allow bowlers to open up their angles and watch it skip/flip to the pocket. It features the R3S pearl cover with a Power Edge finish and the RAD-TQ core that was derived from the original RAD core featured in the X-Factor. The R3S cover fits between R2S and TX-16 and was chosen to create a clean midlane reaction with a strong, but controllable backend motion. Most of the centers that I bowl in have older surfaces with increased friction in the heads, so the Next Factor has me excited. The Next Factor gave me a great look sliding on 28, looking 16 at the arrows with my breakpoint around 6-7. I was also able to move further left and the Next Factor had no problem making it back to the pocket with steeper angles. When compared to the Phaze II Pearl, the Next Factor was cleaner and made a stronger change in direction off the end of the pattern. I can see the Next Factor being a great ball in league for bowlers who struggle with early hook and in tournament play for me later in the block. Stop by your local Storm VIP pro shop to check it out! Dave Jecko Storm Amateur Staff Member YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@maximumpotentialbowlerssho7625

  • Awesome medium oil ball

    Posted by Todd Pawlak on Dec 20th 2025

    Storm's new Next Factor, This ball is amazing! I can actually play straighter up the lanes and this ball has the back end and carry to play both wood lanes and synthetic. I kept it box surface and it rolls very well. Storms new legacy of innovation, they are making things better all around. When the lanes change, or the conditions are right, this is a go to ball for sure. Te Dark Berry smells amazing, the Midnight color is outstanding! I'm like a Tweener and on medium oil conditions this ball will be in my bag for sure!

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Steven Collins on Dec 19th 2025

    Dual Angle: 65 x 5 x 25 Storm Vector: 5 x 5 x 1 3/4 The Storm Next Factor features the R3S Pearl Reactive cover stock wrapped around the Rad-TQ weight block. This combination gives you a clean skid through the front of the lane with a strong backend reaction. For me the Next Factor is strong on the backend but not as snappy as I thought it would be. For a pearl I get an even and continuous backend reaction which pairs up perfectly on a typical house shot. This ball slots perfectly between the Viking and Phaze II Pearl. https://youtu.be/LA1Z9f818wY

  • What's NEXT with the Next Factor?

    Posted by Devon Radford on Dec 19th 2025

    The layout is 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 1 5/8 (or 55 x 4 1/2 x 25 using the dual angle layout system). I was definitely a fan of the X-Factor series back in the day. My very first Storm ball was the XXX-Factor back in 2003, and did not disappoint with its very responsive backend and skid flip reaction, and With the new upgrade, using the RAD-TQ core and the R3S pearl coverstock, the Next Factor is definitely the ball that will be great for the transition. It provides a balance of traction and flip, giving players a predictable read early and a powerful continuation through the pins. This ball will be great for me, especially if I need to get left, and I can trust the Next Factor to come back and do what it’s design to do; skid, hook, and flip! And on top of that, this ball can definitely send pins flying across the deck! Make sure you grab you one… or two!

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Zachary Woelfel on Dec 19th 2025

    The Storm Next Factor feels like a true revival of one of the classic Storm shapes — it takes everything about the original X-Factor’s skid-flip motion and brings it into the modern game with updated tech and materials that actually make it more usable on today’s lane conditions. The RAD-TQ asymmetric core stores a ton of energy and lets the ball clear the fronts cleanly before snapping off the spot with a powerful, angular backend that gets your angles opened up when you need it most. The R3S Pearl coverstock sits perfectly between familiar Storm covers like R2S and TX-16, giving it a smooth roll through the heads and a balanced midlane read that prevents it from digging too early, which makes the motion feel modern and predictable instead of retro-only. With that Power Edge polish and the high flare potential, this ball is a great option for medium conditions when I want serious continuation without sacrificing read off the spot. Go out and get yours today!

  • Next Factor!

    Posted by Joshua L. Shoemaker on Dec 17th 2025

    The Next Factor is Storms newest Premier line release. The Next Factor features the RAD-TQ weight block wrapped in R3S pearl and finished with Power Edge. The Next Factor is a very unique piece in that we have nothing in the current line with asymmetry and this high RG. The Next Factor is going to be a great addition to the bottom of the bag when you need something very clean but could still benefit from the increase in torque offered by an asymmetric ball. The Next Factor will be available from any Storm VIP Pro Shop soon! Review Video: https://youtu.be/vp-uWib0pYE?si=fgTdzNuX5jExQXTC

  • Storm Next Factor

    Posted by Michael Grimm on Dec 15th 2025

    Specs: • Coverstock: R2S Solid Reactive • Core: RAD-TQ • Finish: Power Edge Factor Finish • Layout: 5×5×2 I’ve been throwing the Next Factor on a medium-oil house shot, and it’s quickly become a ball I can rely on. It gets through the front part of the lane really clean without feeling like it wants to read too early. In the midlane, it starts to pick up in a smooth, controlled way and gives me a strong move downlane that’s easy to read and trust. What I like most is how it blends out the wet/dry. It doesn’t jump when it hits friction, but it still has plenty of continuation through the pins. Even on misses, the reaction stays predictable, which helps me stay confident and make small adjustments instead of big moves. As the lanes start to break down, I can move left and keep the same ball reaction without feeling like I have to force it. The carry has been very consistent, and it drives through the pins well. Overall, it’s just an easy, dependable ball to throw, and one I’m comfortable starting with and staying with throughout the night.

  • Storm Next Factor Review

    Posted by Tobias M on Dec 14th 2025

    The Storm Next Factor pairs the R3S Pearl reactive coverstock with the RAD-TQ asymmetric core, finished with Storm’s Power Edge factory surface, creating a ball that gets down the lane easily and unleashes a sharp, defined backend. Compared to the Storm Typhoon, the Next Factor is noticeably stronger overall, with more midlane presence and a faster, more angular response to friction thanks to its asymmetric core and higher-performance cover. The Typhoon, by contrast, is cleaner and smoother front to back, offering a more controlled and forgiving motion best suited for lighter oil or higher-friction environments. In terms of shape, the Next Factor allows you to open up the lane and create steeper angles, while the Typhoon excels when you need predictability and control with less total hook. Tobias Myers #Stormnation

  • Next Factor

    Posted by Glenn on Dec 14th 2025

    Ball Specs: Storm Next Factor R3S Pearl Reactive RAD-TQ Core (Asymmetrical) Finish Power Edge Layout 3-1/2 x 4 x 2 Pin Buffer Bowler Specs: Right Hand. PAP 5” Over 1/2 up Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50. Speed at release 17 Review: The Storm Next Factor has a very clean cover put over a relatively strong weight block. I have a lower rev rate and drilled this ball strong so it would not go too long for my game. I first tried this ball on some burnt up Sunday afternoon conditions and the ball got down the lane pretty good and had a strong angular move. I was able to be aggressive, and the ball did not read early. On our fresh house shot the Next Factor went a bit too long for me so this will be a ball I could use when I need to stop a ball from reading too early. A surface change will help the ball pick up earlier if it goes too long. The Next Factor hits very good. As far as reaction is concerned, the amount of hook varies greatly depending on the lane conditions. On fresh it seems to have a low hook potential but on the dry it will hook more than a ball that can outperform it in oil. We had a Storm Match Maker Ball Demo recently and the reactions of this ball were good for most players. I will need to roll the Next Factor more to see where my best use for it lies. Summary: The Next Factor allows you to aggressive on dry lanes. This ball moves well when friction is encountered. The Next Factor is a very unique piece from Storm. Glenn Wendel Sidewinders Pro Shop Storm Pro Shop Staff gwendel@comcast.net www.stormbowling.com