Buying Guide for the Best Pool Table Felt
Choosing the right pool table felt can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your game and how long your table lasts. The felt is more than just a surface—it's the playing field that determines ball roll, speed, and even the sound of the game. When you're picking felt, you'll need to think about your playing style, how often the table will be used, and the environment it will be in. Here are the key factors you should focus on to find the best match for your needs.MaterialPool table felt is typically made from either woolen or worsted wool. Woolen felt is thicker and fuzzier, which makes the game slightly slower and is often preferred for casual or home play. Worsted felt, on the other hand, is smoother and finer, giving a faster, more consistent ball roll, and is commonly used in professional or tournament-level tables. If you want a table that's easy to maintain and great for casual games, woolen may be best. If you're looking for speed and a professional feel, worsted felt is a better choice.
DurabilityDurability is about how long the felt will last and how well it stands up to regular use. Denser, higher-quality felts are more durable and resist pilling, tears, and bald spots for longer. Tables used often by kids or in social settings should prioritize higher durability. For occasional use or display tables, regular durability might be sufficient.
SpeedThis refers to how quickly the balls move across the felt. Some felts are made to be fast, allowing smoother and longer shots, while others are slower, which can be more forgiving for beginners. Fast felts are generally smoother with less fluff, while slower felts are thicker and softer. If you're a beginner or prefer a more relaxed game, go for a slower felt. Advanced players or those who want a challenge should consider faster felt.
ColorPool table felt comes in many colors, with green and blue being most traditional because they are easier on the eyes and provide good contrast with the balls. Other colors are available for personalization or matching room decor, but may affect visibility or show stains more easily. Think about the lighting and color scheme of the room to help make your decision, but also choose a color that helps you focus on the game.
Stain ResistanceSome felts have special treatments that resist spills, stains, and moisture, making them easier to clean and maintain. If your table is in a high-traffic area or used for parties where food and drinks may be present, stain resistance is important. For tables in low-risk environments, this may be less critical.
ThicknessFelt thickness affects both durability and speed. Thicker felts provide more cushioning, can last longer, and are more forgiving, but may slow down ball movement. Thinner felts are faster but might wear out quicker. Decide what's more important: long-lasting felt for family use, or a faster-playing surface for serious practice.