Table tennis equipment in general is so inexpensive as compared with that required in other sports that you should not hesitate to purchase the best. An excellent racket costs about five dollars; a ball, twenty-five cents; and a table, fifty to sixty dollars. A reputable store will sell you good equipment, if you insist upon it. If you wish to be really certain, look for the official seal of the United States Table Tennis Association, which is stamped upon their equipment by those manufacturers whose products meet the minimum specifications laid down by this body.

THE TABLE

The standard tennis table is nine feet by five feet, with the playing surface thirty inches from the floor. A white line one-eighth to one-fourth of an inch runs lengthwise down the center of the playing surface and divides the table into two parts. Since the line is only used in doubles, it is not mandatory in singles play, but is certainly preferable.

The best tennis table to purchase is one with a three-quarter-inch, five-ply top. A three-ply table is cheaper but deadens the bounce of the ball so that a fast game is impossible. The table should be sturdy, of standard size, and should have eight legs. The surface should be stained (not painted) a dark green, or some other dull, nonreflecting color. A painted surface will slow up the bounce of the ball and will also rub off on the ball and discolor it. The table can be either of the folding or stationary type, depending upon whether or not you have a permanent place in which to keep it.

To read more, go to the Learn Table Tennis website by clicking on this link.