Everything you need to know about sandpaper table tennis bats — history, rules, technique, and approved equipment.
SandBat (also known as sandpaper bat) is the oldest form of table tennis, played with a bat surface covered in abrasive sandpaper rather than the modern rubber-sponge combination.
The sandpaper surface dramatically reduces spin generation compared to modern rubber, placing a premium on touch, placement, consistency, and tactical intelligence. Rallies tend to be longer and require more precise ball control.
SandBat table tennis was the original competitive form of the sport, popular throughout the first half of the 20th century. The ICTTF has worked to preserve and grow this discipline, and it remains the most popular of the three classic categories with the largest player base worldwide.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Surface Material | 80-220 grit sandpaper only |
| Blade Material | Wood |
| Handle Type | Any approved handle style |
| Surface Colour | Natural sandpaper colour (tan/brown) |
| Blade Thickness | No restriction |
| Certification | ICTTF certification label required |
| Inspection | Must present bat on request during any ICTTF event |
Only 80-220 grit sandpaper is permitted in ICTTF competition. This is strictly enforced at all sanctioned events. Bats with other grit values (100, 120, 60, etc.) will be disqualified during equipment checks.
Homemade bats are permitted for practice and informal play but may not be used in ICTTF-sanctioned competition unless they have been submitted to the ICTTF Equipment Committee and received formal certification. The certification process requires submission of a batch sample and takes 8–12 weeks.
Professional players typically replace their sandpaper after every 2–3 tournament sessions or whenever the grit becomes noticeably worn smooth. Regular practice players may find their sandpaper lasts 3–6 months depending on intensity. A fresh surface provides better grip and feel.
The current approved manufacturer list includes: Butterfly, Donic, Stiga, TSP, Nittaku, Tibhar, and several specialist classic bat manufacturers. The full list is published on the ICTTF members portal and updated in January and July each year.
SandBat play requires adjustment in several areas: serves produce less spin so placement becomes more critical; loops and topspin drives carry less rotation; the ball can be "pushed" with more control; and defence is generally easier to sustain, leading to longer tactical rallies. Players transitioning from sponge rubber typically find the adjustment takes 4–8 weeks.
