What is billiards cushion?

Billiards cushion, also known as billiards rail or bumper, is an essential part of a billiards table. The cushion is made of rubber, and it's fixed to the wooden rail of the table. It's designed to rebound the billiard balls to the table after they hit the cushion.

The rubber material used in the cushion is typically made of a blend of natural and synthetic rubber, which provides the necessary elasticity and longevity. The cushion's rubber is divided into two sections - the nose, also known as the facing, and the angle.

The facing is a thin strip of rubber attached to the top of the cushion, where the ball comes into contact with it. The angle, on the other hand, is the section of the cushion that makes contact with the table bed.

The quality of the cushion has an impact on the game's performance. A poorly-made cushion may cause dead spots or insufficient rebound, making the game less enjoyable. High-quality cushions ensure the billiard balls bounce consistently and retain their kinetic energy for long distances, allowing players to execute precise shots accurately.

Typically, cushions wear out over time and should be replaced periodically to maintain game quality. When a cushion is worn out, it may be due to the rubber crumbling, hardening, or losing its elasticity, all of which impact the ball's bounce.