Felt Options
When it comes to pool table felt, two of the most popular options on the market are Championship Invitational and Simonis 860. Both are known for their quality and durability, but they differ in terms of construction, gameplay characteristics, and cost. Choosing the right felt can significantly impact your playing experience, whether you're setting up a pool table at home or in a professional setting.
1. Overview of Championship Invitational Felt
Championship Invitational felt is a popular choice for home pool tables and casual settings. Here's what you need to know about this type of felt:
Construction: Championship Invitational is a woolen cloth, typically made with a blend of 75% wool and 25% nylon. This composition gives it a soft texture with a noticeable nap (raised fibers).
Characteristics: The woolen construction results in moderate friction, leading to slower ball movement compared to worsted cloth. This can be an advantage for beginners or recreational players who need more control and precision.
Durability: While generally durable, Championship Invitational felt may require more maintenance due to its nap. Regular brushing and occasional ironing can help maintain its appearance and performance.
Cost: Championship Invitational felt is more budget-friendly compared to worsted cloths like Simonis 860, making it an attractive option for those looking for quality without a high price tag.
2. Overview of Simonis 860 Felt
Simonis 860 is a worsted cloth known for its high quality and use in professional pool settings. Here's an overview of its key features:
Construction: Simonis 860 is made from a blend of 90% wool and 10% nylon, with a tightly woven structure. It has a smooth texture with no visible nap, resulting in a uniform surface.
Characteristics: The worsted construction allows for faster ball movement, making Simonis 860 a preferred choice for competitive players and professionals. The lack of nap reduces friction, allowing for a more consistent and dynamic game.
Durability: Simonis 860 is highly durable, resistant to pilling, and less prone to wear and tear. It requires less maintenance, with a simple brush or vacuum usually sufficient to keep it clean.
Cost: Simonis 860 is generally more expensive than Championship Invitational felt, reflecting its higher quality and professional-grade construction.
3. Choosing Between Championship Invitational and Simonis 860
When deciding between these two felts, consider the following factors:
Usage: If you play recreationally or in a home setting, Championship Invitational may be a more suitable and cost-effective choice. If you're a competitive player or aiming for a professional feel, Simonis 860 may be better.
Gameplay Speed: Championship Invitational offers moderate speed, which can be ideal for beginners. Simonis 860 provides faster ball movement, preferred by experienced players.
Durability and Maintenance: Simonis 860 requires less maintenance and is more durable, making it ideal for frequent use. Championship Invitational, while durable, may need more care due to its nap.
Budget: Championship Invitational is more budget-friendly, while Simonis 860 is an investment in quality and performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right felt for your pool table depends on your playing style, usage, and budget. Championship Invitational felt is an excellent choice for home tables and recreational players, offering good quality at an affordable price. Simonis 860, on the other hand, is designed for professional play, providing faster speed and greater durability.
Consider your specific needs, playing environment, and how often you plan to use the table. By weighing these factors, you can select the felt that best suits your pool table and enhances your playing experience. With the right felt, you're sure to enjoy countless games with friends and family or even in competitive settings. Happy playing!
