Identifying the Best Air Hockey Table

Identifying the Best Air Hockey Table

Although the very first air hockey table was made in 1969, it was not sold until a few years later in 1972. The table was originally made by an employee who produced billiard tables. They were actually experimenting and trying to make a table it didn't have any friction on the surface and consequently they eventually came up with an air hockey table. It did not take that long after it was put on the market for the game itself to become quite popular. Now, it is fairly common to find air hockey tables present in many recreational centers. There are also organized tournaments and competitions held on a regular basis.

The Air Hockey Table Design

As mentioned above, the surface of an air hockey table is frictionless. There is a ledge going around the edge of the table which is used to keep the actual puck on the table. Goals are scored by shooting the puck into a slot at the end of the table. There is a shelf underneath this opening where the pucks are stored until they are retrieved back into the game.

Why the Puck Moves So Fast

As mentioned, the table is frictionless. This is because the surface itself has small holes through which air is pumped up. The air hovers just above the surface of the table, effectively causing a cushion effect. Naturally, the pucks travel very fast across this cushioned surface because of the absence of any friction to slow them down. This is perfect for this game, which is meant to be a fairly fast paced activity.

The Cheaper Version

These original type of tables are quite expensive, and are used more for competition and professional playing. For home use, usually a cheaper type is purchased, one that instead has a slick surface rather than using the air pockets to support the puck. You can find them online or at stores that sell other items such as Lobster tennis ball machines.

It is also possible to find pucks that produce their own air cushion. While quite a novelty, many players find they are not that useful as they do become damaged quite easily when hit by a mallet during the course of the game.

Used Tables

Finally, if you are really trying to cut back on costs and you want a simple table to use at home you may want to consider purchasing a used air hockey table. They are considerably cheaper than the 0 often charged for a new one.

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