STIGA STS 285 Table Tennis Table

We wanted a higher-end ping pong table that would last for years, and this item does not disappoint. The production description is accurate about each feature: it is certainly well-crafted with lots of extra features that make a big difference. For example, the easy-lock mechanism that keeps the table safe and balanced when it is in the upright position is both clever and durable. Surprisingly, the pong-pong ball trays on each table really ended up becoming a favorite feature for us: so convenient for storage and during play. No more plays in drawers or bags, and they stay in the table in both flat and upright positions.But the biggest reason we love this table is because of the excellent customer service we received from Escalade Sports. When our table was delivered, it had been damaged in shipping. Even though it is boxed with a wooden support frame to protect it, something large had fallen on it during transit, breaking the wood protective frame and damaging some of the smaller features on the table (some corner brackets, the ball holder, etc.). I felt the damage was minor, so I accepted the shipment and called Escalade: without the slightest hesitation they immediately shipped all the damaged parts to me for free (and sent me some extras just in case I needed them). They arrived in 3 days, so we were thrilled.But the best part of the story is that after a couple of weeks, we noticed there was a slight sag in the middle of the table. It didn't really affect the play of the table, but it was noticeable: as if in shipping there had been a weight on the package that had slightly bent the wooden boards. Again, I contacted Escalade to ask them what I could do to correct the problem. They insisted that if the table was defective they would replace it. They have a nice online site where you upload photos of the damaged item and proof of purchase and then customer service agent Khris contacted me directly to tell me they would be shipping me A BRAND NEW TABLE! I couldn't believe I didn't have to argue, plead or beg with anyone. Finally, a company that treats customers the way they would want to be treated! The told me to feel free to give away the first table "as is" to someone who would enjoy it.My second table arrived today without a single flaw, evidence that the first shipment damage must have been an anomaly. The wooden packing protected the new shipment nicely and within minutes we were up and playing on the new table. The table is made of high-gauge materials that will last for many, many years. But the customer service experience is what will make me buy from Escalade Sports next time. It is rare to come across a company that has integrity and stands behind their customers. I hope that Escalade starts a new trend in retail customer support!

The table was delivered in fine condition... no damage. The best thing about the table is the "no assembly required" feature. We unpacked the table in roughly 10 or 12 minutes and the table was set up and ready to go. One of the first things I did was put a 6 foot level across it to check for flatness. I was relieved to see that the top was relatively flat. However, after about 2 weeks I was detecting a noticeable sag towards the center near the net edge. I put my level across the table and determined it was sagging about 3/4's of an inch. Keep in mind I only set the table up when I play... other than that it is stored in the upright position. I called Escalade about the problem and they offered to send out a new table, however, I mentioned that I didn't believe there was necessarily a problem with this table per se, but a problem with the design of the table. I believe there is an inherent design flaw in this table in that there is insuffient support in the area of the table where it sags. I asked them if I could exchange the table for a more expensive, better designed table and pay the difference, however, they told me they couldn't do that. I figured there was no sense in exchanging the table for a table that I believe would have had the same problem. I suppose I could have gone through Amazon and made the exchange, but instead I seemed to have fixed the problem myself. I purchase 2 four foot lengths of angle iron ($22.00) and screwed to the undrside of the table on each side, cross-wise, in the area of the sag and that seemed to do the trick. I know now that there are better designed tables out there in about the same price range (or cheaper) that require 2 or 3 hours of assembly time, so if you have the time and wherewithal, I would go that route. Other than that the table is holding up just fine with my modification.

This is my follow up review after 1.5 years. The table developed a prominent sag very quickly. Should have paid heed to the other reviews!!

Table arrived easy and ready to go. Like others have stated, you are ready to play within 5 minutes. The big issue I had was that the first table had a sagging middle. Amazon was fantastic with the exchange and just a pleasure to deal with. My second table arrived today. Yet again, another sag in the middle of the table...albeit not as severe. Total shame to have to return a second table.

We are happy that all the parts are assembled, no need to put extra effort to put them together. But, the net holder part is plastic which looks very cheap, easy to break. The connection hinge of 2 huge table board is not easy to fit in, it takes us a while to put them together. Plus, there is a slightly damage on the edge of the table board. We have no where to put it inside our house, so it is setting up permanently outside the patio. Hopefully, it won't get deteriorated easily. Surely, we love to fold it up and put away, but it is so heavy and takes us a lot of time/energy to set itup again. Anyway, we do play a lot with it and have great fun! Thanks!