Simonis Vs. Championship Cloth: Which Billiard Cloth Is Right?

Is your quest for the perfect playing surface leading you down the rabbit hole of billiard cloth options? Choosing between Simonis and Championship cloth is a pivotal decision that can drastically alter your pool-playing experience.

The world of billiard cloth is a surprisingly complex one, filled with subtle differences that can profoundly impact the way a game unfolds. Climate, humidity, and even air pressure can affect how the ball interacts with the surface. This is especially true of Championship cloth, which is known to be more susceptible to these environmental factors. Simonis, on the other hand, is often praised for its consistent performance, regardless of external conditions. The speed, the roll, the overall "feel" of the gameall are influenced by the cloth, making the choice a crucial one for any serious player.

When it comes to the nuances of the game, understanding the different cloths is important. To provide a clearer picture, consider the following information:

Reference: Example of a Billiard Cloth Resource

Enthusiasts often express a strong preference, with Simonis frequently being lauded as the premier choice. Many players cite Simonis's consistent speed and superior quality, believing it provides the ultimate playing experience. "Simonis is fast, fast, fast," one admirer raves. Another player stated, "It is obvious I prefer Simonis 860 green or blue."

However, the allure of Simonis isn't universal. Some players find it too fast for bar box tables, preferring a slightly slower cloth. "I do tend to find Simonis is too fast for bar box tables," they might say. Others are drawn to the more budget-friendly option of Championship cloth. One individual shared their experience: "I've had a lot of people tell me to save my money and buy the Championship Mercury Ultra cloth. It plays as good and lasts longer."

The choice is further complicated by the various Simonis options available. Simonis 860, for instance, is a popular choice, while Simonis 760 and 860HR offer alternative playing characteristics. Simonis 860HR is often described as the "slowest," designed for maximum precision. Simonis 760 is a little faster but more hard-wearing, well-suited for tables that see a lot of use. The 860 is generally considered the "better" cloth.

The installation of cloth also influences perceptions. Some individuals report having been shocked at how slow Simonis 860 played on a table, contrary to its reputation for speed. This might be due to factors such as table condition, cushion setup, or the specific cloth used. Others emphasize the importance of selecting the right cloth for their specific needs. "I recover my tables every year, and in my opinion, Simonis is the only way to go for commercial use, and I would not recommend anything for home use either," one professional stated. The choice is ultimately a personal one, weighing the quality and consistency of Simonis against the affordability of Championship.

For those seeking an alternative, the Championship Mercury Ultra cloth often emerges as a contender. "It plays as good and lasts longer," some players claim. The Championship Tour cloth is also seen as a strong contender: "It played just as good and is considerably less."

Furthermore, the construction of the cloth itself matters. "Andy cloth is also dyed before being weaved together whereas Simonis is dyed after the cloth is weaved," a source explained. This could potentially contribute to longer lifespan of Andy cloths compared to Simonis, though this is a matter of some debate.

The market offers various options. "Then there is 588 pro tour. Excellent cloth for your pool room or club. I think it's better than Simonis, and tour edition." There is also the "top shelf cloth used around the world in the top championship arenas and world tour competitions, 988 pro tour." These options show the importance of the cloth to various playing styles and environments. Some players and owners of playing environments will seek to emulate the conditions of a tournament setting.

The debate also encompasses the impact of playing equipment. While Aramith phenolic balls are considered relatively gentle on the cloth, certain balls can affect playability. In the words of one commentator, "While aramith phenolic balls can burn the cloth surface, polyester balls leave some polyester behind."

Ultimately, the selection process is as much a matter of personal preference as it is of technical specifications. Some players are willing to pay extra for the perceived superior quality and reputation of Simonis. "I would prefer Simonis mostly because of the name and reputation, but the Championship is available now and cheaper." Others are motivated by budget considerations, recognizing that Championship cloth can still offer a satisfying playing experience. "I mean even if they play close I'll save my 100," a player might reason.

The longevity of the cloth should also be a prime consideration. If a cloth is prone to wear and tear, it will need replacement more frequently, increasing overall costs. Many factors influence cloth lifespan. "I have tried both types side by side, and the Championship cloth wore out much faster and as far as speed I did not see that the Championship was faster at all."

The experiences of players are varied. Those who have used Simonis 860HR for years have had a consistent and positive experience, while others are less impressed. The type of environment and the frequency of play can make a big difference. "I have been using Simonis 860hr on my table for almost 20 years."

However, not all players may be the target demographic for premium cloths such as Simonis. "They probably install cloth for a lot of people that have pool tables in their house, but don't actually play pool. I would imagine Simonis is too fast for those people." The nuances of the individual play style and the overall environment of the table need to be considered.

The choice, therefore, rests on a combination of factors, including budget, desired playing speed, and the anticipated level of use. The key is to weigh all these elements to find the cloth that best aligns with your individual needs and preferences. There is no universal "best" cloth, only the one that best suits your unique playing situation. The "Simonis vs. Championship" debate continues, reflecting the varied priorities of players and the ever-evolving landscape of the game.