What Are the Striped Balls in Pool Called? (Official Name & Differences)

If you have ever watched a game of pool, you have likely noticed the specific set of colored balls on the table. While the plain white cue ball is easy to identify, the other balls feature colored stripes and solids that can be confusing for new players. What are the striped balls in pool called, and how do they function within the game?

Standard Terminology for Striped Balls

In the world of pocket billiards, the striped balls are officially known as "the 9-ball" through "the 15-ball," or collectively as "the stripes." In American pool, which uses a set of fifteen object balls, seven balls are solid colors (numbered 1 through 7), one is black (the 8-ball), and the remaining seven feature a white background with a colored stripe (numbered 9 through 15). The primary distinction between a striped ball and a solid ball is the visual design: stripes display a single color pattern running diagonally across the ball, while solids are one uniform color.

The Role of Stripes in Gameplay

The presence of stripes adds a layer of strategy and complexity to games like 8-ball and 9-ball. In 8-ball, players must determine their group early in the game. One player is assigned the solid balls (1 through 7), while the other is assigned the striped balls (9 through 15). The objective is to legally pocket all of your assigned group before attempting to sink the 8-ball. Failing to designate your group correctly or scratching while pocketing the 8-ball can result in an immediate loss, making the identification of stripes versus solids critical to winning.

Variations Across Different Disciplines

It is important to note that not all pool games use stripes in the same way. In 9-ball, for example, the balls are numbered 1 through 9, and only the 9-ball is solid yellow; the other object balls are not striped. The game progresses strictly by numerical order, so the concept of "stripes" does not apply here. Conversely, games like 10-ball or bank pool might use a standard set of fifteen balls where the distinction between stripes and solids dictates legal shots. Understanding the specific rules of the discipline you are playing is essential to avoid fouls.

Identifying the Stripes

While the concept seems straightforward, identifying the stripes requires attention to detail. The colored stripe can vary depending on the set, but common colors include blue, red, purple, orange, and green. The ball number is usually nestled within the stripe panel, which can sometimes make it difficult to distinguish the number from the background pattern. For beginners, focusing on the color of the stripe is often easier than trying to read the small numeral, ensuring they select the correct group of balls during the break.

Strategic Considerations for Stripes

Professional players treat the stripes and solids as distinct territories on the table. A skilled player will often use the stripes to block their opponent's access to the solids or position the cue ball to clear their own group efficiently. Because the 8-ball is usually a solid black ball, the stripes are frequently the key to controlling the center of the table. Players must plan several shots ahead to ensure they do not leave their striped balls in difficult positions while attempting to pocket their final object ball.

Common Misconceptions

One of the most frequent questions among casual players revolves around the naming convention. Some individuals mistakenly refer to all patterned balls as "stripes," but this is technically inaccurate. Only balls numbered 9 through 15 in a standard fifteen-ball set qualify as stripes. Another common myth is that the game is decided by who pockets the most balls; in reality, the winner is the player who legally pockets their designated group and then the 8-ball. Recognizing the specific rules regarding stripes prevents arguments and ensures fair play.

Visual Identification Guide

To eliminate any confusion during a match, here is a quick visual breakdown of a standard set: