New rubbers advice

Sam Nassiri Asked 1 week ago

Hi there,

I played 8 years of table tennis before COVID and my studies made me turn away from it and focus on school/other hobbies, but I feel I miss it. I'm planning on registering with a club again, but digging back in my table tennis materials from before, I noticed my bat is missing its forehand rubber (honestly no idea where it could've gone). I do still have a back rubber, but I remember not enjoying it because of its lack of control.

So I would like some advice. I do still have the wood which I would like to keep. It's a Stiga mid offense wood. But I myself play more defensively, appreciate control since I would describe my play style as "letting my opponent make mistakes instead of forcing them myself" and prefer my backhand over my forehand. I need a lot of spin on my forehand rubber to create top spin, and that's something I definitely need to train. But then, not a very spinny backhand rubber but lots of control.

Could you recommend me two rubbers that suit my strengths and play style, covers my weakness but also at a reasonable price point? 50 euros (80 AUD) or preferably lower per rubber. That's a lot to ask for not that much money, but as close as you can get me would of course be appreciated! Thanks!

Kind regards, 

Sam

Alois Rosario Answered 1 week ago

Hi Sam,

Great to hear you're getting back into table tennis. It's fantastic that you've retained your passion for the sport and are ready to dive back in.

Given your preference for a defensive play style with a focus on control and spin on the forehand, I would go with something like a Yasaka Mark V rubber.  Other players may have other ideas for you. 

Before making your purchase, it might be worth checking if there are any local shops or other players you know where you can test these rubbers or similar ones. This way, you can feel the rubber's performance firsthand, which can be quite enlightening.

Welcome back to the table tennis community, Sam. I hope these suggestions help, and you find yourself enjoying the game as much as you used to, if not more.