Are Sandpaper Paddles Legal in Table Tennis?

Sandpaper paddles have sparked controversy in the world of table tennis. They provide players with an unfair advantage due to the increased friction and spin they generate. As a result, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and most national table tennis associations have banned the use of sandpaper paddles in official competitions.

The ITTF regulations specifically state that "the surface of the blade must be covered solely by rubber with pimples outwards or without, or with pimples inwards, or with a thin layer of a spongy elastic material, the total thickness of which may not exceed 4mm." Sandpaper does not meet this criteria and is therefore illegal in table tennis.

Sandpaper paddles provide unfair advantages in the following ways:

  • Increased spin: The rough surface of sandpaper allows players to generate more spin on the ball, making it difficult for opponents to return.
  • Higher trajectory: The increased friction also causes the ball to have a higher trajectory, making it more difficult to attack.
  • Unpredictable bounce: The uneven surface of sandpaper creates an unpredictable bounce, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate the ball's path.

Due to these advantages, the use of sandpaper paddles has been banned to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game.

  • Why are sandpaper paddles banned in table tennis? Because they provide an unfair advantage due to increased spin, trajectory, and unpredictable bounce.
  • What are the ITTF regulations regarding paddle surfaces? The surface must be covered solely by rubber or a thin layer of spongy elastic material, with a maximum thickness of 4mm.
  • What are the advantages of using a sandpaper paddle? Increased spin, higher trajectory, and unpredictable bounce.
  • What are the disadvantages of using a sandpaper paddle? It is illegal in official competitions and provides an unfair advantage.
  • What materials are legal for table tennis paddles? Rubber with pimples outwards or inwards, and a thin layer of spongy elastic material.
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