Football Tables

Table football or ‘foosball’ to use Joey and Chandler’s of ‘Friends’ fame name for the game is probably one of the most appealing table top games around.  From the skilled players to the controversial ‘spinners’ there are few tables in pubs and venues countrywide that don’t enjoy regular play.  

The rules are based loosely on Association Football (soccer) and most games tend to be played on a first to a given number of goals basis – although if you know anyone who sticks to 45 minutes each way let us know!

It’s a serious sport for some too with associations and tournaments the world over – some with quite attractive cash prizes.

So if you want to net some money playing ‘baby foot’ or simply fancy investing in a table for the fun of it here are a few pointers to help you on your way.

• Size – there are a number of table sizes available so you want one that fits your room.  Few could accommodate the longest known table which measures 101 meters lone and has the capacity for 334 players. 

• Rods of Steel – the best material all round for the rods is typically steel.  Solid is obviously better than hollow,  this will be reflected in the price

• Wood, board or composite? – cheap wood tables will absorb moisture and eventually warp while particle board will weaken and crumble.  Composite of at least an inch thickness is a better bet because it’s dent and moisture resistant. 

• Laminate lines – avoid stuck-on field markings if you can, the perma-dyed laminates last longest

We’re confident investing in a football table will be a powerful mate magnet, but if you’ve got no one to play with perhaps you’d consider the table football playing robots developed at the University of Freiburg.  But practice first - they win 85% of games.