Mastering Cue Tip Hardness: How to Control Your Game

When it comes to cue tips, hardness matters more than most players realize. The right tip can completely change how you control the cue ball — affecting spin, power, and precision on every shot. With so many tip options available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we created this guide — to break down cue tip hardness, explain how it’s measured, and help you choose the tip that gives you total confidence at the table.

Your cue tip is the critical point of contact between your stroke and the cue ball. Its hardness affects three key parts of your game:

• Spin: Softer tips grip the cue ball longer, making it easier to add draw, follow, or sidespin.
   
• Power: Harder tips transfer energy more efficiently, great for powerful breaks and long shots.
   
• Accuracy: A tip that matches your style gives you predictable feedback and consistent control.
   

The standard way to measure hardness is the Shore A durometer scale, which rates materials from 0 (softest) to 100 (hardest).

At Endurance™, we test every tip we carry using a digital Shore A durometer for accuracy.

Our process:

1. Apply of pressure with a calibrated durometer. You can purchase one of these on Amazon for $100 - $250
    
2. Measure three tips per brand, marked with the same hardness.
    
3. Take the average for a reliable rating you can trust. Our suggestion is 5 each if you have them.
    

This scientific approach ensures you know exactly what you’re getting before you install it.

Soft / Super Soft (Shore A ~60–75)

• Maximum grip and more “hold” on the cue ball
   
• Excellent for spin-heavy players and finesse shots
   
• Require more maintenance and mushroom faster
   

Medium (Shore A ~70–80)

• Balanced feel and response — the most popular choice
   
• Great all-around performance for league and tournament play
   
• Offers a mix of control, spin, and durability
   

Hard / Extra-Hard (Shore A 80+)

• Firm, crisp hit with minimal compression
   
• Excellent for breaking, jump shots, and players who want low maintenance
   
• Lasts longer and holds shape but provides less grip for spin shots

Soft Tips
✅ Superior chalk retention
✅ Easier to apply English (spin)
✅ More feedback on finesse shots
❌ Require more frequent scuffing/shaping
❌ Mushroom faster and wear out sooner

Hard Tips
✅ Hold their shape longer
✅ Require less maintenance
✅ Last longer between replacements
❌ Offer less grip — harder to get extreme spin
❌ Feel firmer, less “cushion”

Medium tips give you a balanced option — the most popular choice among all-around players.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you use lots of spin or rely on finesse? → Choose Soft or Super Soft.
   
• Do you want balanced performance for all types of shots? → Choose Medium.
   
• Do you break hard and want low maintenance? → Choose Hard or Extra-Hard.
   

There is no one-size-fits-all answer — the right tip is the one that gives you confidence every time you step to the table. The best tip is the tip you play best with. 

 Explore Endurance Tips 

• Soft Tips: Scuff lightly and often, trim if mushrooming occurs.
   
• Medium Tips: Check shape periodically, scuff as needed.
   
• Hard Tips: Minimal maintenance required — just roughen surface if it becomes glazed.
   

Hardness is just one variable. Also consider:

• Laminated vs. Single-Layer Tips: Laminated tips are more consistent and resist mushrooming.
   
• Tip Diameter: Affects contact area and spin potential.
   
• Chalk Choice: Impacts miscues and tip performance.
   
• Table Conditions: Faster cloth may make a tip feel softer, slower cloth may favor harder tips.
   

Every player is unique. The best way to find the perfect tip is to experiment with different hardness levels and pay attention to how they feel.

Over time, you’ll discover which tip gives you the confidence to play your best game — whether that means running racks with finesse or smashing through the break with power.

What hardness do pros use?
Many pros prefer soft or medium tips for maximum control, but often use a break cue with a hard tip for powerful breaks.

What tip is best for draw shots?
Softer tips grip the cue ball longer, making draw easier. Medium-soft tips are a great choice for players learning advanced cue ball control.

How often should I replace my tip?
As soon as it becomes too flat to hold chalk properly, mushrooms excessively, or wears too thin — it’s time to replace.

Ready to try it yourself?
Explore the Endurance™ High-Run Cue Tips, available in Super Soft, Soft, Medium, and Hard so you can find the perfect feel for your style.