How To Choose Table Tennis Balls
Table Tennis Balls! Such a small piece of equipment in table tennis but makes an enormous difference in your practice and match. Hence choosing the correct ones are super important. Usually, all the Table Tennis balls are classified into 1 star, 2 star and 3 star balls. However, there are three factors i.e. hardness, roundness and usage that further distinguishes one from another and we shall discuss about them thoroughly. This will further help a TT passion well while choosing a table tennis ball. In addition, this will help a TT passion well while choosing a table tennis ball.
Let’s see the factors one by one:
HARDNESS:
In table tennis, the harder the ball the better it is. Why? Because it will result in better and even bounces on the table. Harder ball also results in improved durability. How exactly to make out whether the ball is tough enough? Generally, once you press a table tennis ball with your thumb gently (not forcefully), it shouldn’t get pressed at all. Generally, the balls that get pressed easily with your thumb are soft. 1 star balls are the softest and 3 stars being the toughest.
ROUNDNESS:
Have you ever wondered why there’s an uneven bounce sometimes while playing? While a beginner won’t be able to make out, once you become regular at the sport, you may see the difference. Ideally, the shape of a table tennis ball needs to be completely spherical. The deviation from that perfect round shape is what separates a really good ball and a not so good one. 1 star balls generally have the utmost deviation from the perfect shape & 3 star balls are very close to the perfect shape. The price of a ball goes higher the more it approaches the perfect round shape.
USAGE:
Moreover, if you’re a recreational player and not really concerned about that ideal type of table tennis ball, then 1 star balls are just fine for you as they’re quite inexpensive. Even if you’re a really serious player, 1 star balls work well for multi-ball training. If you’re a serious player looking to play at a competitive level, looking to further improve your game consistently, then a high-quality ball matters a lot! 3 star balls are exactly people who you must be used with a higher amount to invest though. Always choose a ball approved by ITTF. Even if you’re a beginner and are looking for quality, 3 star balls are always a bonus.
