What is a Table Tennis Blade?

So, what is a table tennis blade? The answer is simple: the blade is just one of the two parts that make up a table tennis racket.

The Table Tennis Blade

A table tennis blade, often mistakenly called a racket, is an essential piece of equipment used in table tennis. Players use it to hit the ball.

The main component of a table tennis blade is, of course, wood. The types of wood used to make table tennis blades can vary in species, quality, and layers (plies).

Different types of wood can provide varying levels of speed, control, and spin.

Table tennis blades can be classified as either all-wood or composite. In short, this depends on the plies or layers that make up the blade. A blade is called “composite” if it contains additional layers of materials such as carbon, fiberglass, or arylate.

At Mamba Blades, we avoid using these materials due to their high CO₂ emissions. Instead, we have replaced them with natural reinforcing fibers such as flax, hemp, cotton, and basalt.

The table tennis blade has a handle that allows the player to grip and control the racket. The handle can come in various shapes and sizes to suit different playing styles and preferences. Common handle types include flared, straight, and ergonomic handles.

The Table Tennis Racket

The racket consists of two parts: the table tennis blade and the rubbers.

In other words, it is called a table tennis racket when the table tennis blade has rubbers glued onto it.

These rubbers are responsible for generating spin, speed, and control. Each rubber has two distinct sides: side A (red) and side B (black). Additionally, they may have different characteristics, such as inward or outward pips. But that’s not all—you’ll also find different sponge thicknesses and various types of rubber surfaces (smooth or tacky). All of these features impact playing style.

Players choose their table tennis blades based on their playing style, skill level, and personal preferences.

Some players prefer a blade that offers more control and placement, while others prioritize speed and power.

The choice of blade in combination with the rubbers significantly affects the overall performance and playing characteristics of the racket.

Did you enjoy “What is a Table Tennis Blade?” If so, you can read our article dedicated to the parts of a table tennis racket.

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