Advances in technology are expected in virtually everything today, and ping pong is no exception. All items of table tennis equipment are being transformed, and rackets are no exception. Because of its value to racket sales and improving play, expanding the sweet spot is an intense interest area. For those who might not yet be aware, the sweet spot is the optimal place on the racket to contact the ball. Expanded sweet spots improve play by providing players a larger spot from which to produce their best shots. Technological advance in racket design is focused in this area in hopes of helping players.
Most table tennis racket manufacturers are adding thin carbon sheets between the layers of wood in their blades. It's being described as a carbon composite design. Such rackets are more expensive, and many players are interested in having one – and the point is that the sweet spot is expanded. Its exact location varies by the player, which explains why expanding its size on a blade's surface is needed. The reason it's so sought after is that the sweet spot is where a player puts both spin and speed on the ball most effectively. There are several ways of describing its location. The opinions about it vary.
Among advanced table tennis players, top-heavy rackets are those with sweet spots moving out from the center. Quite a few high-end blades belong in this group and are popular with some players. Then there are rackets with more even weight distribution, and their sweet spots are in the center of the blade. Yet more expensive and technically advanced rackets belong in this group. Players who use power in their game prefer rackets with even and balanced weight distribution. High-level ping pong is a strategic game with both speed and spin as significant factors. Rackets that help both are in demand.
When all of these things are considered, it's clear why expanded sweet spots on table tennis rackets are in demand. Carbon-composite rackets do have a stiffer feel during play then their less sophisticated counterparts. To some players, stiffer rackets make it more challenging to return serves and play the short game. Because of these variations, it's always wise to racket shop at a table tennis pro shop rather than ordering online or buying on your own in a big-box store. Having a knowledgeable salesperson who likely also is a table tennis player lets you ask questions and make a more informed decision.
