Why do some table tennis bats have pimples on the outside and some on the inside surface of the rubber?

Question

Why do some table tennis bats have pimples on the outside and some on the inside surface of the rubber?

Question #131717. Asked by AlanHill2306.
Last updated Jul 03 2013.
Originally posted Jul 03 2013 9:15 AM.

Upstart3

Answer has 2 votes

Upstart3

12 year member
173 replies avatar

Answer has 2 votes.

The pimpled surface is best for defensive play, while the inverted surface, with pimples facing in, is best for imparting spin and attacking.

http://www.megaspin.net/info/equip.asp

The bat is more properly called a racket.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_tennis_racket

Jul 03 2013, 11:34 AM

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Answer 1

It can be called a racket or a paddle. And each surface has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is generally a matter of choice. Some paddles have additional padding, which can provide a cushion to the ball, and allow for more spin, at the cost of some speed. I personally prefer a paddle without padding and pibs facing out.

Answer 2

davejacobs
Answer has 0 votes

davejacobs
22 year member
956 replies

Answer has 0 votes.

As the wiki ref says, in Europe it is called a bat. As it was for all the 50 years I played competitive TT in England. If it's called a paddle, you are probably playing back garden ping-pong.

Jul 03 2013, 3:12 PM