How to choose a table tennis racket?
Which racket for which use?
Choosing the right racket is decisive for any table tennis player. The aim is simple: to find the model best suited to how you use it and how you play.
Indoors or outdoors? Your choice follows from this essential first criterion. Whether you play for leisure, want to be able to play anywhere in any weather, or are looking for equipment for intensive play or even competition, Cornilleau has developed models to suit all your needs.
As you can see, defining your use is the first step. If you already know what you are looking for, go straight to all our rackets. If not, the following sections go through each criterion in detail.
Outdoor rackets: built to last
Resistant to the weather (UV, water) and to knocks, outdoor rackets are perfectly designed for playing outside. But that is not all: they are also recommended indoors in many cases. They are surprising for their qualities and resistance. In speed, precision and spin, they have nothing to envy indoor rackets. Their exceptional resistance also means they can be stored outside all year round.
Softbat rackets
A racket, yes, but no ordinary one! The first eco-designed outdoor racket on the market, this innovative, durable product is 100% made in France from recycled Armor-Lux textile fibers. The Softbat’s design offers good resistance to knocks and humidity. Its dynamic polymer surface ensures good playing speed, and its round handle with a marked hand area suits players of all ages.
Softbat rackets
Tacteo rackets
Offering grip and control for a perfectly managed game, the Tacteo outdoor racket will delight all players with its colorful look. Able to withstand any weather, this 100% French outdoor racket will bring young and old together in the pleasure of family play.
Tacteo rackets
Nexeo rackets
Drawing on their expertise in outdoor materials, Cornilleau engineers have developed a table tennis racket using patented technology based on four durable materials. They have created an outdoor racket that stands out for its playing performance. Thanks to its pimple-free foam surface, the Nexeo is a fast and very precise racket.
Nexeo racketsWooden rackets for indoor play
Wooden rackets are the rackets traditionally used for indoor play. Cornilleau indoor rackets are all fitted with rubber approved by the international federation (ITTF), and suit occasional and more experienced players alike.
1. The rubber
The quality of Cornilleau rubbers is rated with stars, from moderately grippy and elastic to very grippy and very elastic. All our wooden (indoor) rackets have ITTF-approved rubbers (International Table Tennis Federation).
2. The sponge
The thicker the sponge, the faster your racket. It should therefore be matched to your playing level.
3. The blade
The blade is the central element of your racket: the thicker the wood, the faster the racket.
4. The handle
There are three main types of handle: straight, anatomic and concave. Cornilleau rackets have a concave handle, which offers an optimal grip.
Discover our indoor racketsChoosing a racket for your level
Once you have defined the type of use you will favor, choose the racket that suits your level and goals. For a complete playing experience, pair your racket with a Cornilleau table.
Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate player or an experienced competitor, Cornilleau has developed a complete range of rackets for every profile.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about choosing a racket
What is the difference between an outdoor and an indoor racket?
An outdoor racket is made from materials resistant to humidity, UV and knocks, so it can be stored and used outside all year round. A wooden indoor racket offers superior bounce quality but is strictly for use under cover. If you play both indoors and outdoors, an outdoor racket is the most versatile choice.
What do the stars on a racket mean?
The stars show the performance level of the rubber on an ITTF-approved scale. The more stars, the grippier, more elastic and more precise the rubber. All Cornilleau wooden rackets have rubbers approved by the international federation.
Which racket should a beginner choose?
To start with, an outdoor racket is often the best choice: it is sturdy and versatile, works both outdoors and indoors, and needs no particular care. If you only play indoors, a 1- or 2-star rubber focused on control will be more suitable.
Can an outdoor racket be used in competition?
Cornilleau outdoor rackets are approved for leisure play and informal matches. For official competition, players must choose wooden indoor rackets fitted with ITTF-approved rubbers. Cornilleau offers a complete range of competition rackets for players who want to progress to the highest level.
Can an outdoor racket be used indoors?
Yes. An outdoor racket can be used indoors without restriction: its resistance to UV and humidity in no way affects its playing behavior. The reverse is not true: a wooden indoor racket cannot withstand exposure to the weather. If you alternate between the two, an outdoor racket is therefore the most versatile choice.
Which sponge thickness should you choose?
The thicker the sponge, the faster the racket. A thin sponge favors control and precision, which suits beginners and players looking for consistency. A thick sponge speeds up the ball and amplifies spin, but demands more technique. Thickness should therefore be matched to your playing level.
What is the difference between straight, anatomic and concave handles?
A straight handle has a constant cross-section and gives the most freedom to change grip during a rally. An anatomic handle follows the shape of the hand and curves out at its center. A concave handle narrows in the middle and flares at the end, making the grip more secure. Cornilleau rackets have a concave handle, which offers an optimal grip.
