TL;DR — Key Takeaways Leather pockets last significantly longer, absorb ball impact more quietly, and add premium resale value. Plastic pockets cost less upfront and require near-zero maintenance — ideal for casual or family use. Professional and tournament tables (BCA, APA standards) almost exclusively use genuine leather pockets. For a long-term investment table, leather is the clear winner; for recreational or budget tables, plastic is sufficient. When shopping for a pool