Pool Cue Hard Cases vs. Pool Cue Soft Cases
Pros and Cons of a Pool Cue Hard Case
Tough. Durable. Classic. Hard pool cue cases have been around nearly as long as the game itself. Used by hustlers, pool sharks, amateurs and professionals alike, the pool cue hard case will always have its supporters.
There are two main varieties of hard pool cue cases. Newer models have an outer shell that prevents damage from scratching or scuffing. Some are equipped with internal tubes that fit your pool cues, providing additional resistance to moisture and bending.
Other pool cue hard cases resemble long, rectangular briefcases with foam padding on the inside. This kind of cue case is also known as a box case. When pool cues are placed inside and the case is closed, the foam padding holds them in place while preventing them from jostling around.
Hard Pool Cue Case Pros
The most obvious benefit of a pool cue hard case is its durability. The outer shell provides superior protection during travel. Hard pool cue cases typically have an exterior vinyl layer or molded rubber shell that safeguards your cue sticks. These tubes prevent moisture from reaching your wood cues and provide resistance to warping and bending.
Additionally, pool cue hard cases tend to hold more cue sticks and offer similar storage options for chalk, gloves and other equipment.
The Cons of Hard Pool Cue Cases
The most difficult thing about utilizing a pool cue hard case is the amount of space it takes up. At the local pool hall, your hard case can occupy a lot of space on your bar table. A floor cluttered with hard pool cue cases becomes an obstacle course.
They also tend to be more expensive than soft cue cases due to the materials involved in construction. If your hard cue case has internal tubes, it could become unusable if the tubes are bent or damaged. Unusually-sized cues may not fit in some plastic molds. They also weigh significantly more than soft pool cue cases — sometimes weighing as much as ten pounds.
Pros
- Durable
- Long-Lasting
- High Capacity
- Maximum Protection
Cons
- More Expensive
- Large/Cumbersome
- Heavy
- Difficult to Store
Pool Cue Hard Case Recommendations
For weight, capacity and style, we are big fans of the Predator Urbain Houndstooth hard pool cue case. Weighing in at just under four pounds, this pool cue hard case comes with molded interior pockets, breathable mesh storage for accessories and a comfort grip handle.
For the best value, Apex pool cue hard cases provide reliability and capacity for your cue sticks whenever you need to transport them to the billiard rooms.
Pros and Cons of a Pool Cue Soft Case
If a hard pool cue case is like a briefcase, then a soft pool cue case is like a backpack. Typically made of canvas, leather, cotton or nylon, a pool cue soft case is typically lined with a thin layer of padding. A popular choice among players, the soft cue case comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Soft Cue Case Pros
Pool cue soft cases offer flexible storage options for one or more pool cues. Most soft cue cases consist of padded or cushioned sleeves that offer some protection from handling and transport. When not in use, soft cue cases can be folded, stacked or rolled and placed out of the way. Due to their materials, a pool cue soft case is the cheaper option between the two.
Additionally, a soft cue case is generally very light, typically weighing no more than a couple of pounds. Soft cue cases are also far easier to clean. They make great options for players who only have a few cue sticks to transport.
The Cons of Soft Cue Cases
Because of their low capacity, it can be rather easy for a billiard enthusiast to outgrow their soft cue case. The lack of compartments or form-fitting tubes can lead to your cue sticks being susceptible to scratches or scuffing during transport. Likewise, the case itself is also more likely to become damaged.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to Store
- Easy to Clean
- Less Expensive
Cons
- Less Durable
- Smaller Capacity
- Susceptible to Wear
Pool Cue Soft Case Recommendations
From one of the best cue manufacturers comes one of the best soft cue cases around. The Lucasi DUO soft cue case is worth every penny. Individual sleeves for cues and shafts provide additional protection while ample storage compartments make room for all your accessories.
On the value side, the Apex Butterfly soft cue case is a great entry when you're just getting started. It comes with enough space for your pool cue and a mid-sized pocket for chalk or other equipment.
Find Your Next Pool Cue Case at FCI Billiards
FCI Billiards is a premier supplier of pool cue cases for all levels of play. Everything from soft cue cases to large travel cases for dealers and exhibitors is available in our online store. Get free shipping within the continental United States on all orders of $50 or more. Browse our selection of pool cue hard cases and soft cases to order yours today!
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