When did simonis become standard?

[xianmacx]

Hello,

I was watching a 9ball match from 1991 and they are def. using a slower napped cloth. Curious as to when simonis became the standard and why?

Thanks,
Ian
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[Bob Jewett]

Hello,

I was watching a 9ball match from 1991 and they are def. using a slower napped cloth. Curious as to when simonis became the standard and why?
...

I think it was about then that it became the standard. I recall that 760 was used for about a year on the pro tour and then 860 was adopted. 760 was just too fast. Simonis cloth was standard at carom billiards before that (along with Gorina), but they were willing to be a sponsor for pool. It didn't hurt that Simonis worsted cloth is also more consistent and accurate than the napped cloths (IMO). Some of the old-time players bemoan the change, saying that you needed a real stroke to navigate on the old cloth.

 

[Jimmy M.]

Some of the old-time players bemoan the change, saying that you needed a real stroke to navigate on the old cloth.

Which is precisely why the IPT is using the old cloth. The problem is, it doesn't take more stroke to do anything when the cloth is brand new - and that's what they're playing on. They're putting brand new nap cloth on the tables and all it does is just slide more than brand new Simonis. If they actually used "old" cloth then they would achieve their goal. Otherwise, it isn't doing anything other than forcing the best players in the world to play on inferior equipment. But, hey, for that kind of money I wouldn't mind playing on real felt.