Balls for table tennis

Table tennis balls are an important element of the game as they determine the speed, spin and feel of the game. Choosing the right ball can affect the quality of the game, especially for high-level competition or training.

The main characteristics of table tennis balls:

1. Size and weight:
 - Diameter: The standard diameter of a table tennis ball is 40 mm.
 - Weight: The weight of the ball should be about 2.7 grams. These are the standards set by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).

2. Material:
 - Plastic (ABS): Modern balls are made of plastic, which replaced the older celluloid balls. Plastic balls are more ecological, stronger and more stable in the game.

3. Class (number of stars):
 - Three stars (3-Star): These are the highest quality balls used in official competitions. They have perfect roundness, weight balance and stability in flight.
 - Two stars (2-Star) and one star (1-Star): Medium quality balls suitable for training and amateur play.
 - Training balls: They can be without stars or with one star. Used for beginners or training sessions where high accuracy is not required.

4. Color:
 - White: The most common color for competition, prominent on most gaming tables.
 - Orange: Used for better visibility, especially in low-light conditions or on dark tables.

5. Surface:
 - The surface of the ball should be matte to ensure better grip with the pads of the racket and the appropriate level of control during the game.

How to choose table tennis balls:

1. For competitions:
 - Choose balls with three stars as they are of the highest quality and meet ITTF standards. These balls have a stable flight and perfect roundness, which is important for a professional game.

2. For training:
 - You can use balls with one or two stars. They are cheaper and suitable for practicing technique and basic strokes.

3. For children and beginners:
 - For training and entertainment, any training balls are suitable, even without stars, since the accuracy and stability of the flight are not crucial at the initial stage.

Caring for table tennis balls:

1. Storage:
 - Store the balls in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, to avoid deformation and loss of elasticity.

2. Use:
 - Avoid using the balls on uneven or rough surfaces, as this may cause them to wear or crack quickly.

3. Replace worn balls:
 - If the ball loses its shape or cracks appear, it should be replaced to avoid a negative impact on the quality of the game.

Choosing the right table tennis balls will help ensure optimal playing conditions, regardless of your level of training.