When it comes to pool, there is an etiquette to follow. It isn’t stringent, but more experienced players may call you out. But is the pool chalk color a part of that etiquette?
Most players will say that the color of your chalk doesn’t matter, and you can use whichever color you want. There are a few that may say otherwise, but a select few.
There are many reasons why the chalk color is blue and why some people may consider it bad etiquette to use a different type of chalk. Here is everything you need to know.
Does Pool Chalk Color Matter?
For most players, it doesn’t really matter. Chalk can come in many different colors, but pool chalk usually comes in blue, but people have used white chalk and other colors as well.
When playing with experienced players, they may see using different colors of chalk as bad etiquette. This is because blue chalk is easier to see on the felt.
Why is this important? Well, if you can see the blue chalk on the felt, you can brush it off. When there is chalk on the table, it can interfere with the playing field.
Using whatever chalk you have available for casual playing is okay, but if you are playing with professionals, then using the blue chalk is your best route.
What Is Bad Pool Etiquette?
Pool etiquette is all about showing respect to your opponent while competing. It shows that you have good sportsmanship, so having bad pool etiquette can show a wrong message.
There are a few things you can do that are considered bad pool etiquette. Here are a few rules to follow:
- Never set drinks or food on the table.
- Set a stack of quarters to be in line for a table.
- Don’t be a distraction.
- Don’t stand near the opponent on their turn.
- Leave things better than you arrived.
- Keep at least one foot on the ground.
These are the basic rules. When playing with individuals, remember that everyone has specific rules they follow. If you are new, it is always good to ask about their preferences.
Never Set Drinks Or Food On The Table
Not only is this rude, but it is also as if you were setting food and drinks in the middle of a field or court while someone is playing a game. It is a distraction.
Doing this can also damage the table and warp the felt. The wood can stain, and any damage made can be expensive as well as make it hard to play pool on. Just don’t do it.
Set A Stack Of Quarters On The Table
If you are waiting for a pool table to open up, take a stack of quarters and put it on a table. This tells the current players that you are next in line to play.
If you see a stack of quarters already on the table, there is someone ahead of you in line. It is best to look for another table on which to set a stack.
Do Not Be A Distraction
Try not to be a distraction. If you are a beginner, it is okay to ask questions but try not to distract your opponent while they are making a shot.
Don’t twirl your pool stick around or purposely mess up your opponent’s shot. It is rude and disrespectful, and people will soon stop playing with you.
Do Not Stand Near Your Opponent
Keep some distance between you and your opponent on their turn, especially behind them. They may accidentally hit you with their pool stick, messing up their shot.
Be aware of other players around you as well. Sometimes players on other tables may be within striking distance of you. Try to stay clear from them, so you do not interfere with their shot.
Leave Things Better Than You Arrived
Always leave things better than you arrived. If you can’t, at least ensure you have cleaned up all your messes and put away all the pool sticks and balls.
You don’t want to show up at a pool table covered in trash with pool sticks lying around and the balls not racked. Try to be respectful to the public area and those providing this space for you to play.
Keep At Least One Foot On The Ground
As a beginner, you will hear that you need to keep at least one foot on the ground when making a shot. This will keep you from reaching across the table immediately, showing you are new.
More experienced players will ask that you keep both feet on the ground, but as a beginner, it is okay to have at least one foot on the ground.
Outro
Pool is a great game to get into, even if you are a beginner. Just be aware of some basic rules before going out and playing a game. It is always good to be informed.