DHS Hurricane 8-80

This is my current backhand rubber. I transitioned from Hurricane 8 Hard to Stiga Dragon Grip, and then to Hurricane 8-80 37.

This rubber offers a catapult effect, but it is not as overwhelming as some other European-style rubbers. I opted for the 37-degree version, and I am really pleased with it so far. It required no break-in time and had no unpleasant smell.

The rubber pairs exceptionally well with my Super Viscaria. I would recommend it to anyone who finds their European-hybrid rubber to be too fast and is looking to reduce speed while maintaining spin and control.

The rubber is quite tacky, which boosts my confidence when flicking backspin balls. Additionally, it is much lighter than the regular Hurricane 8 Hard, and approximately the same weight as the Stiga Dragon Grip. It provides more catapult than Hurricane 8 Hard but less than Dragon Grip.

I use this rubber on my backhand, and I find it to provide perfect tempo control. In the past, I have struggled with ESN rubbers on my backhand due to their catapult effect.

This rubber offers a catapult effect that is greater than the H3 Neo but less than traditional ESN rubbers, making it ideal for backhand play. With good technique, I find that flicks are possible, and I can also block effectively with it.

Topspin shots are easily manageable, and the balls grip well, enhancing overall performance. I believe this rubber could also be suitable for use on the forehand.

Using H8-80 Soft on Both Sides

I agree! H8-80 is a hybrid rubber that is closer to hard (Chinese) rubbers, offering a notch more speed than a typical Chinese rubber. It maintains all the essential characteristics of a Chinese rubber, including an excellent short game, spiny loops, and effective serves. I would estimate it is about 10% to 15% faster on soft shots, while providing the same speed on power shots. This added speed makes a significant difference in my game, especially when opening up and countering.

The increased dwell time is another advantage. Even flat hits and smashes are much easier compared to H3 Neo. Blocking is great too, although the low throw angle doesn’t help me on my backhand. Fans of DHS forehand rubbers should definitely give H8-80 a try. In my opinion, it is the best DHS rubber available so far.

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree that it is one of the best DHS rubbers ever!

Previously, I have been using Rakza Z on my backhand and Victas TDE on my forehand. I loved both, but they tend to last less and are more expensive. With H8-80, I feel more confident hitting and looping balls that have been sliced. Its high stickiness, which lasts longer without diminishing, allows it to grip the ball and enhance spin.

However, my only current issue is that when I block balls with my backhand, they often end up in the net; I find Rakza Z performs better for blocking. Despite this minor drawback, the final speed of the ball with H8-80 is enormous. The shots are powerful and effective, and the serves have plenty of spin!

I glued this rubber, with a hardness of 38 degrees, on the backhand side of my Yinhe V-14 PRO blade, after applying two layers of Haifu Seamoon booster. Previously, I had been using the Yinhe Big Dipper with the same hardness (38 degrees) on my backhand, which was also boosted.

The feel of these two rubbers is quite different. The Big Dipper is noticeably harder, even though both sponges are rated the same hardness. The 8-80 rubber provides excellent backspin in the short game and offers good control when playing away from the table. Top spins are relatively easy to execute; however, the effect is not as pronounced as with the Big Dipper. On the other hand, the 8-80 is more forgiving, making it a better fit for my playing style.

One thing to note is that this rubber tends not to play by itself, resulting in a slightly dead feel compared to the softer ESN rubbers. Initially, I found myself hitting the net frequently, especially when playing from half distance, as I was getting accustomed to its behavior. However, the “dead” feeling can be advantageous when defending, as the ball tends to stay in play more consistently than with my old Big Dipper.

I find it quite easy to place the ball where I want, making this rubber a lot of fun to play with. The 24-054 model has the same top sheet as the standard H8.

In terms of weight, the package weighs 92 grams uncut, 66 grams when cut, and 51 grams when mounted. It is not particularly lightweight, being about the same weight as the regular H8.

I have found the perfect backhand rubber for my playing style. It is very loud and has an impressive boost.

I use this rubber on the forehand of a PG7 blade. It provides enough speed and spin to secure points, while also offering excellent control.

At just 20 bucks, it is one of the better Chinese rubbers available.

One downside, however, is its weight.