But for those who do want their felt to match the color scheme and overall aesthetic of the surrounding space, it’s a good idea to compare color samples (physical swatches from a showroom, if possible) with the intended room. If you’re shopping for tables in a showroom, make sure you observe the lighting to see how it compares with your lighting scheme at home. Unless you’re going to spend a good chunk of money on converting the garage to an insulated and climate-controlled room, the elements are going to sneak in. The lighting in your rec room is going to have a significant impact on the look of your felt, no matter what color you choose. Green and blue may be considered the best overall, but if you can’t stand the sight of them, you’re better off going with what you like. If you’re new to pool, you may be confused by the term "English" that’s commonly used among pool enthusiasts. In the end, the best color is the one you’re happy with long-term.

In more recent times, with a push towards inclusive design, one might also consider how color choices impact players with visual impairments. For instance, red, often linked with passion, excitement, and energy, might invigorate players, leading to a faster-paced game. Felt color can also affect your game to some extent - namely, in terms of visibility. Naturally, most people also want a pool table felt color that goes well with the table and the room it will be in. Delving deeper into the relationship between colors and the human psyche, one can recognize that felt color not only influences gameplay but also the mood and atmosphere of the room. Many studies have also shown that certain colors tend to elicit certain moods or states of mind. Keep in mind that there are many different types of "cue sports" and each one has its own set of balls, rules, and regulations. This is because it tends to look better on video, provides a clear contrast with the balls, and is very easy on the eyes - even under the bright lights used to film a television broadcast. But even outside the world of professional tournaments, many players prefer classic green or Tournament Blue because they don’t strain the eyes and provide great visibility in both bright or dim lighting.

However, it’s still best to stay away from very bright or very dark colors, as these can still strain the eyes or reduce visibility. Another thing to consider when selecting a felt color is how well it will stay clean. Choosing the right color for your pool table felt is primarily a matter of preference. This color scheme is also great for a more playful arcade-style feel, especially with silver highlights, bright lighting, and a coin-op style table. Hardwood clawfoot or vintage coin-op style tables both work great for this look. Central Ohio’s largest selection of pool tables are on display here for you to see and feel. Tournament / Arcade: To emulate the feel of a pro tournament, you can use Electric Blue felt combined with shades of black, grey, and dark brown. Green and blue tend to be relaxing and soothing, brighter colors like red and orange tend to be more energetic, while darker colors and earth tones like maroon, grey, and tan make for a warm and tranquil atmosphere. In general, however, brighter colors do better with less light, darker colors need a little more to help visibility, and colors like green, blue, and tan tend to look good in just about any lighting.

When shopping online, it’s a little more of a guessing game, so it’s a good idea to look through pictures of other people’s setups on Pinterest or Google Images to get a sense of how certain colors look in different spaces and lighting configurations. In essence, colors influence our emotions and behaviors, even if we’re not consciously aware of these effects. Perhaps it reminds them of their first game, an ancestral home, or even their favorite sports team. Any time you hit a cue ball even slightly off-center, you create English or sidespin. During play, when a player cannot hit the ball that the rules require him to hit (because of obstruction by another ball or balls), what is billiards he is said to be snookered and loses his turn; this situation gives the game its name. When it comes to the game of billiards, understanding the rules is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience. For a deeper exploration of the rules and potential penalties in pool, you may also want to read 8-Ball Pool Rules: The Simple Version, or learn what happens if you hit your opponent’s ball in.