Buying Guide for the Best Pool Table Felt For Rails
Choosing the right pool table felt for rails is crucial for maintaining the quality and performance of your pool table. The felt, also known as billiard cloth, affects the speed, accuracy, and overall playability of the game. When selecting felt for your pool table rails, consider factors such as material, durability, speed, and color. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision that suits your playing style and needs.MaterialThe material of the pool table felt is important because it affects the durability and performance of the table. The most common materials are wool and nylon blends. Woolen cloth is thicker and slower, making it ideal for casual play and home use. Worsted cloth, which is a blend of wool and nylon, is thinner and faster, preferred by professional players and for tournament play. Choose woolen cloth if you prioritize durability and ease of maintenance, and worsted cloth if you want a faster, more professional playing experience.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the felt will last before it needs to be replaced. This is important because a more durable felt will save you money and effort in the long run. Durability is often influenced by the material and the quality of the weave. Higher quality worsted cloth tends to be more durable than woolen cloth. If you play frequently or have a commercial setup, opt for a more durable felt to withstand heavy use. For occasional home use, a standard woolen cloth may suffice.
SpeedThe speed of the felt affects how quickly the balls roll across the table. This is important for the style and pace of your game. Faster felt, typically worsted cloth, allows for quicker ball movement and is preferred in professional settings. Slower felt, usually woolen cloth, provides more control and is better for casual play. Consider your playing style: if you enjoy a fast-paced game, choose a faster felt. If you prefer more control and precision, a slower felt may be more suitable.
ColorThe color of the pool table felt is important for aesthetics and visibility. Traditional green is popular because it reduces eye strain and provides good contrast with the balls. However, felt comes in various colors like blue, red, and black, allowing you to match your table to your decor. When choosing a color, consider the lighting in your room and how the color will affect visibility and eye comfort. If you play in a well-lit area, you have more flexibility with color choice. For dimmer settings, stick to traditional green or blue for better visibility.