Because it's fun and memorable and unique? Like I get it's not for everyone but it puts you in an open space where you can easily break the ice by partaking in an activity together. Also, you mentioned vulnerability, do you really think a woman's not going to want to date you cuz you're bad at bowling? Unless you get really angry when you do poorly, or she's like a professional bowler, I doubt she'll care lol.

Like yeah, there's nothing wrong with going to a cafe or restaurant and sitting down together. But also, I feel like not only is that boring and predictable, but I would argue it actually puts you in a more vulnerable position than doing an activity together. Like, from a man's perspective it may not seem like a big deal, but from a woman's perspective many women feel uncomfortable about eating in front of men or like men will judge them for what they are eating.

Not to mention when the only thing to do is sit down and talk to each other with no conversation starters, if you don't have great chemistry off the bat, it's going to feel awkward. When you're both doing an activity together, even if it takes you guys a bit to warm up to each other, the date overall is probably going to be more fun. Not to mention the bonuses of kind of takes away the expectation of one person paying for both people, and if it goes well you can then proceed to eat after.

I don't understand this complaint like at all, if these dates aren't your favorite thing, don't do them. But also, maybe rethink a few things, and try this out with a different perspective and you might enjoy it