Table Tennis Equipment Basics
If you’re looking to get started in table tennis, you’ll need some basic equipment. This includes paddles, balls, and a table.
You also need to be aware of the different types of table tennis equipment. There are many things to consider, from paddles to balls to rackets and even robots.
Ping-Pong Balls
Table tennis balls are a crucial part of any ping pong set. They are used in competitions, training, beer pong, and many other uses.
They are made of a variety of materials, from cork to celluloid. They are a bit harder than the softer fun balls.
Ping pong balls are also rated for their quality with a star system, usually from one to three. Three star balls are considered the highest quality.
Historically, ping pong balls were made of cork, then celluloid, and finally, plastic. The ITTF overstated the flammability of celluloid and switched to poly-plastic to make table tennis more spectator friendly.
The size of the ping pong ball was also changed from 38mm to 40mm in 2000. This change was meant to make the game more exciting for viewers and increase rallies. It also caused a huge reduction in ball spin, making it difficult for players to match the level of spin they were used to.
Rackets
A racket is a type of table tennis equipment used for playing the game. They are generally made from wood and include a blade and a handle. They are often called paddles or bats and can be customized for a variety of play styles.
The blade of a racket is made from multiple layers of wood that are stacked together. These layers of wood allow for the optimum performance of the blade, according to ITTF standards.
There are many different types of ping pong rackets. Some are designed for a specific style of play, while others are intended to help players improve their overall technique.
The outer surface of a racket is called the “blade.” This can be made from one to seven layers of wood, carbon fiber, glass fiber, or aluminum fiber. The blade also includes a handle that helps players to grip the racket.
Towels
Towels are an essential part of a table tennis player’s arsenal, whether they’re playing competitively or just for fun. A plethora of options are available, ranging from the budget friendly to the luxe. Some manufacturers even offer up branded ones that are worthy of a spot in your prized possession collection. We’ve also got you covered if you’re looking for something more high-tech. The best way to go about it is to scour the web for the top rated table tennis stores in your area, and then shop around until you find the best price point, and the right fit. The result will be an unbeatable deal for both you and your pocketbook! Lastly, don’t forget to get your table tennis on. You’ll never regret it!
Rubbers
Table tennis rubbers are used to generate speed, spin and control when hitting a ball. The hardness of the rubber determines how fast the ball will go and what sort of spin it will produce.
There are a wide variety of rubbers available, with each geared towards different playing styles and levels. Many come with multiple sponge thicknesses, which affect how much speed and spin the rubber can produce.
Thinner sponges (1.9mm or less) are commonly used by ‘control’ players, while thicker sponges (2mm or more) are popular with offensive-oriented players.
Aside from this, the sponge also helps slow down the ball. This makes it easier for a player to hit the ball back into the wood and add more spin.
Choosing the right rubber for you is an important part of improving your game. The right rubbers will allow you to improve your strokes and make you more confident in your play.
