Clothing for table tennis at the club
Short answer: Table tennis means quick sideways steps, short sprints and many deep knee bends. Light shorts, underwear that stays in place as you move and fabrics that carry sweat away make training far more comfortable.
A faster sport than it looks
From the stands table tennis can look calm, but players are constantly on the move. You shift sideways, drop into your knees, rotate your upper body and burst forward to reach a short ball. An hour of drills can push your heart rate up and get the sweat running. Clothing should therefore be light, give full mobility in the hips and shoulders and not grow heavy as you sweat through a long session at the table.
Shorts with room for your legs
Shorts are standard in table tennis because they give freedom at the knees and hips. Choose a length that does not flap against your thighs, and a waistband that stays put without squeezing. Shorts made of viscose from bamboo are soft and light and feel cool against the skin. See bamboo shorts for women. Pockets are handy for a spare ball, but they should not be so large that the ball bounces around while you move.
Underwear that stays in place
When you drop low and take quick side steps, you instantly notice underwear that creeps or chafes. Smooth fabrics with good stretch follow the movement. See bamboo underwear for women. Briefs with wide edges that do not dig in are a good choice for the sports hall. See bamboo panties. Choose a fit that offers good coverage so you can focus on the game rather than adjusting your clothes between points.
Sweat and temperature in the hall
Many clubs play in sports halls or rooms with limited ventilation, and it can get warm during matches. At the same time it may be chilly during breaks. A thin top for warming up and resting helps keep your muscles warm. Avoid thick cotton sweatshirts, which grow heavy with sweat. Bring a second set of clothes if you are playing a tournament with several matches on the same day, so you can change into something dry.
Shoes and socks
Table tennis calls for indoor shoes with good grip and a low sole, so that you stay stable during quick changes of direction. Running shoes with a thick heel give less control. Socks should fit snugly so they do not slip inside the shoe, and be thin enough that you can feel the floor. A spare pair of socks in your bag is useful when training runs long or the hall is especially warm.
Care after training
Sportswear left damp in a bag soon starts to smell. Take it out as soon as you get home and hang it to dry if it is not going straight into the wash. Viscose from bamboo is washed at 30 to 40 degrees inside out. Avoid fabric softener, as it can coat the fibres. A hot tumble dryer may cause the knit to shrink, so it is better to let your kit dry on a rack.
Frequently asked questions
Which shorts are best for table tennis
Light shorts with good mobility and a waistband that stays in place. The length should allow deep knee bends.
Why does underwear ride up during sport
Often because the fabric is too stiff or the size too small. A soft, stretchy material follows the body better.
Should I wear a top for warming up
Yes, a thin top keeps your muscles warm, especially in breaks between matches.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
