What is the Best Pool Table Felt Color (and Why)?

Pool tables are an essential part of any game room, providing endless hours of entertainment and excitement for friends and family. When it comes to choosing a pool table, there are many factors to consider, including the color of the felt. Pool table felt color may seem like a small detail, but it can have a significant impact on your gameplay experience. In this article, we will explore why pool table felt color matters, how it affects eye fatigue and contrast, the importance of pool table lighting, how it fits into the style of the room, and why pool tables have different colors.

Why is Pool Table Felt Color Important?

The color of the pool table felt can significantly impact the gameplay experience. Brighter colors like red, blue, and green are popular choices as they make it easier to see the balls on the table. However, darker colors like black, brown, and navy can be more challenging to see the balls against, making it harder to play.

Pool Table Felt Contrast

The contrast between the felt color and the balls is another essential factor to consider. A high contrast between the balls and the felt can make it easier to see and make shots. For example, a bright red felt with white balls creates a high contrast, making it easier to see the balls on the table. A low contrast, such as black balls on a black felt, can make it challenging to differentiate the balls and can negatively impact your game.

Eye Fatigue Matters

Playing pool requires a significant amount of focus and concentration, which can lead to eye fatigue. Eye fatigue can occur when playing on a pool table with a bright felt color for an extended period. A pool table with a darker felt color can reduce eye fatigue, allowing for more extended gameplay sessions.

If you plan on playing for many hours at a time, buying a felt color that’s “easy on the eyes” will help dramatically.

Pool Table Lighting Affects Color

The lighting around the pool table can also impact how the felt color appears. Natural light and ambient light can change the color of the felt, making it appear differently. Artificial lighting, such as overhead lights or lamps, can also impact how the felt color appears, making it either brighter or duller. It is important to consider the lighting when choosing a felt color for your pool table to ensure optimal gameplay.

Style of the Table and Room

The color of the felt can also impact the style of the room. A pool table with a bright felt color can be a statement piece in the room, adding a pop of color and creating a focal point. A darker felt color can blend in more seamlessly with the rest of the room’s decor, creating a more understated look.

Why Do Pool Tables Have Different Colors?

Pool tables come in a variety of felt colors to suit different preferences and playing styles. The most common colors for pool table felt are green, red, and blue. The green felt is the traditional color for pool tables, mimicking the look of the grass from the game’s origins. Blue felt is a popular choice as it can reduce eye fatigue and create a unique look. Red felt is another popular choice, as it can add a bold and exciting element to the room.

In recent years, pool tables with more unique felt colors have become increasingly popular. Black and grey felt can create a sleek and modern look, while purple and pink felt can add a fun and playful touch to the room.

Pool Table Color Combinations to Consider

When it comes to pool table color combinations, there are many popular options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular pool table color combinations:

  1. Green felt with brown or black finish: This classic combination is the most traditional and popular choice for pool tables. The green felt mimics the look of grass, while the brown or black finish creates a timeless and elegant look.
  2. Blue felt with a light wood finish: Blue felt is a popular choice for its unique look and reduced eye fatigue. Pairing it with a light wood finish creates a beachy and relaxed feel, perfect for a casual game room.
  3. Red felt with a black finish: Red felt adds a bold and exciting element to the room, while black finish creates a sleek and modern look.
  4. Grey felt with a dark wood finish: Grey felt is a trendy and modern choice that pairs well with a dark wood finish for a contemporary look.
  5. Purple felt with a white finish: For those who want to add a fun and playful touch to their game room, purple felt is a great choice. Pairing it with a white finish creates a bright and whimsical look.
  6. Black felt with a silver finish: Black felt creates a sleek and sophisticated look, while a silver finish adds a touch of glamour and luxury to the room.

There are many color combinations to choose from, so it’s important to select one that fits your personal style and the overall look and feel of your game room.

Changing Pool Table Felt Colors

There are a few options when deciding on changing the felt of the pool table, some more expensive than others. Keep in mind the pool table lights you are currently using, these may need to be changed as well.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pool table felt color can significantly impact your gameplay, experience and overall look of your man cave or game room. Consider factors like eye fatigue, contrast, lighting, and the style of the room when choosing a felt color. Don’t be afraid to choose a bold and unique color that reflects your personality and adds a fun element to the room. Whether you choose a traditional green or a modern black, the right pool table felt color can make all the difference in creating an enjoyable and stylish game room.