By the PoolTableExpert.co.uk – The UK's Home Pool Table Authority Team · Updated May 2026 · Independent, reader-supported

Pool Table Cloth Guide UK – Napped vs Worsted, Speed, and How to Choose

Your pool table's playing surface is everything. The cloth doesn't just look good—it directly affects how the ball behaves, how fast you can play, and how much maintenance you'll need. Understanding the difference between napped and worsted cloth will help you make a better choice, whether you're replacing cloth on an existing table or buying a new one.

Napped vs Worsted Cloth: The Core Difference

The two main types of pool table cloth sold in the UK are napped baize and worsted cloth. The difference comes down to how the fabric is finished.

Napped baize is a traditional English cloth with a brushed surface that has a visible nap—short, raised fibres that all run in one direction. This gives it a soft, slightly fuzzy appearance. Worsted cloth, by contrast, is tightly woven with fibres laid parallel and often pressed smooth. It's denser and has no visible nap.

This seemingly small difference changes how a ball travels across the table. With napped baize, the ball slows down more noticeably, especially when rolling against the nap. Worsted cloth is faster and more uniform because there's no directional pile to catch the ball.

Speed and Playing Characteristics

Speed is one of the biggest practical differences you'll notice.

Napped baize plays slower. This is partly why it's been the traditional choice in UK snooker and pool clubs for decades—slower play rewards technique and precision over power. The cloth grips the cue ball more, giving you finer control. If you're still developing your game, this can actually be helpful.

Worsted cloth plays noticeably faster. The ball skids and travels further with the same strike. This appeals to players who want a quicker, more dynamic game. It also means less cloth contact and less friction, so wear patterns develop differently.

Speed also varies with how well the cloth is maintained. A clean, brushed napped baize plays faster than a neglected one. Dirt and chalk dust settle into the nap and slow the surface down further.

Weight and Quality

Cloth weight is measured in ounces per yard (oz/yd). Heavier cloth is generally more durable and holds its playing characteristics longer.

Napped baize in the UK typically ranges from 18 to 22 oz/yd. Premium competition-grade napped baize sits at 21–22 oz/yd and is what you'd find in serious snooker clubs. Lighter napped baize (18–19 oz/yd) is adequate for casual home tables but won't last as long.

Worsted cloth is usually heavier, ranging from 22 to 28 oz/yd. This density is part of why it lasts longer and resists pilling and wear better than lighter napped baize. Professional tournament worsted can push towards 30 oz/yd, though that's less common in domestic UK supply.

If you play regularly at home, a heavier cloth—whether napped or worsted—is a worthwhile investment. You'll get more play out of it before the surface degrades enough to affect ball roll.

Colour and Appearance

Pool table cloth comes in several colours, and your choice affects both looks and playability.

The traditional colours in the UK are forest green and burgundy (deep red). These are the standard for a reason: the darker tones reduce glare and eye strain during longer play sessions. Green in particular has excellent contrast with the white cue ball and most ball sets.

Navy blue and black are available but less common domestically. Some newer tables use purple or slate blue, which can look striking but are less practical for extended play—they're harder on the eyes over time.

Lighter shades like cream or grey exist but are rare in UK domestic tables. They show wear and dirt more quickly and aren't recommended unless you want to replace cloth very frequently.

The colour doesn't affect play speed directly, but darker cloths are easier on your eyes, which means you'll see angles and line-ups more clearly during longer sessions.

Durability and Maintenance

Napped baize requires more active maintenance. You need to brush it regularly (at least weekly with regular use) to restore the nap and keep it playing consistently. Without brushing, it becomes matted and sluggish. The upside is that this brushing keeps it playable for longer if you're committed to maintenance.

Worsted cloth is more forgiving. It doesn't need regular brushing because it has no nap to maintain. You still need to keep it clean—dust and chalk settle on any cloth—but you can go longer between deep cleans. This makes it more practical for busy households.

Both types eventually pill and wear. Pilling happens when loose fibres ball up on the surface, affecting ball roll. This is more noticeable on lower-quality or lighter napped baize. Worsted cloth, being tightly woven and heavier, resists pilling better.

How to Choose

If you play snooker or prefer a technical, slower game, napped baize is the traditional choice. It rewards proper technique and gives you finer control. Go for 21–22 oz/yd if your budget allows.

If you want lower-maintenance cloth and faster, more energetic play, worsted cloth is the better option. It's especially practical if you have family or casual players using the table regularly. Look for 24 oz/yd as a minimum for home use.

Choose forest green or burgundy regardless of type—they're standard for good reason and you won't regret it.

Finally, think about your commitment to maintenance. If you're willing to brush regularly, napped baize can last years. If you want to set it and forget it, worsted cloth removes that burden.