You may have heard of steel block matchplay cushions – but what exactly are they?

Normal snooker table cushions are made of a hardwood surround with a softwood block attached, on to which the cushion rubbers are glued.

A steel block table has a 1/2 inch steel plate on to which the softwood block and rubbers are fixed. This is then bolted on to the slate bed, with a separate hardwood surround bolted on to the steel plate.

The idea is that it makes for a faster, more accurate rebound which improves playing quality. Whilst this is true, more significant is the quality of the rubber and the finish of the cloth. It’s also worth remembering the majority of snooker tables are not steel block and most players never notice. This type of table is usually around 20/30% more expensive as they cost more to manufacture.