Section 2: Equipment
Required Equipment
- Cups: Each active player requires one lightweight, unbreakable cup capable of resting upright and inverted. Identical disposable or reusable plastic cups are preferred. A common recreational size is approximately 16 to 18 US fluid ounces (473 to 532 millilitres), although smaller cups may be used when every player receives the same type.
- Table: One stable, level table is required. It must have an unobstructed edge from which the cups can be flipped and enough length for both teams to stand in opposing lines.
- Beverage: Every cup must contain the same agreed serving at the start of a round. The beverage may be non-alcoholic. A modest fill of approximately 1 to 3 US fluid ounces (30 to 90 millilitres) is typical, but participants should choose an amount appropriate to the group and circumstances.
Equipment Preparation
Cups should be clean, undamaged, and dry on the outside before the round begins. Cracked glass, ceramic vessels, metal cups with sharp edges, and containers that could shatter or injure a player are unsuitable.
Each team's cups should be of equivalent size, shape, weight, and condition. Servings should be measured or visually checked for equality. The table must be wiped when spills make its surface or the surrounding floor slippery.
Optional Match Aids
A score sheet, scoreboard, or timer may help organize a longer match, but none is required to play. Towels and a water container may be kept nearby for cleanup and hydration, away from the flipping area.