Soccer Table Rod Almost every manufacturer has different components and materials that make up their rods. Rods can have a huge impact on the speed of the foosball game. They are an expensive part on your table and some manufacturers try to cut corners on their rods because it can be easily overlooked by rookie players. Some tables come with heavy rods that make the game slow and sluggish. This will hinder your ability to perform foosball shots because it will be hard to maneuver the rods laterally. All quality tables are made with hollow light-weight, chrome rods that provide a smooth glide back and forth between the bearings so you can obtain maximum ball control and shot performance. Some tables have safety plastic end cap sat the end of their bars that may hide whether or not their rods are hollow. These plastic end caps are a great way to protect kids when the bars are moving in and out, especially since their head may be even with the rods.