DHS Skyline 3 TG3 (No. 21 Blue Sponge)
Rubber description:
This rubber is a hybrid featuring a specialized blue sponge that provides distinct performance characteristics compared to standard versions. It is designed primarily for offensive play, particularly for players who rely on aggressive looping and high-power topspin attacks.
Performance and Playing Characteristics
- Speed and Dynamic Response: The rubber exhibits a gear-based response; it remains controlled during slower strokes but provides significant speed when engaging the sponge with harder, aggressive impacts. It is generally recommended for use with fast blades to fully unlock its offensive potential.
- Spin and Surface: The topsheet features a tacky surface that allows for the generation of heavy spin. This creates a challenging trajectory for opponents, characterized by a sharp drop on the second bounce. Users should expect the initial high level of tackiness to slightly reduce after a break-in period.
- Control and Dwell Time: While it offers greater control than many high-tension rubbers during touch play, it requires a deliberate, hard-hitting technique to perform effectively. The throw angle can fluctuate based on the specific stroke mechanics used.
Usage Recommendations
- Forehand Preference: Due to its hard sponge and specific speed characteristics, this rubber is widely considered best suited for the forehand. While some players find utility for it on the backhand, its weight and hardness are typically optimized for forehand-dominant aggressive loops.
- Adaptation: It is not intended for players accustomed to soft, elastic rubbers. Users should anticipate a transition period to adjust to the firm feel and the demanding nature of the sponge, which performs best during fast-looping exchanges rather than passive blocking or pushing.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — January 2015
I use hard rubbers such as commercial TG3 Neo and Hurricane 2, but this one is the hardest among them and also the most expensive. When I first played with it, I didn’t even like the feeling. You need some time to adjust your play style to fully appreciate it.
However, it is definitely a great forehand rubber. While blocking isn’t its strongest suit, it truly shines when looping and executing fast loops – it is definitely a killer in these aspects. This offensive rubber generates a powerful spin that causes the second bounce of the ball to drop significantly faster.
#2 — April 2012
Compared to the Tenergy 05, this rubber is much faster, making it ideal if you prefer to play fast loops. However, if you tend to play more defensive shots like blocks and pushes, you may find it significantly slower.
Initially, the rubber has a tacky texture, but after about six hours of play, it becomes noticeably less tacky. If you are accustomed to softer rubbers, this particular rubber may not be the best choice for you.
On the other hand, if you like hard rubbers that produce a different throw angle depending on your stroke, I highly recommend giving this one a try. However, I suggest using it exclusively on your forehand, as it is not suited for backhand play.
#3 — April 2012
I use this rubber with my Innerforce ZLC. It definitely needs to be paired with a fast blade. The speed is good, but it is slower than Tenergy 64.
I find that it offers more control compared to my T64 and Rakza 7, possibly due to its speed. Mine is very tacky, which contributes to its performance. It feels slow when you hit softly, but fast when you attack aggressively.
My third ball attack has improved significantly compared to the T64 and Rakza 7. However, for long drives, I still prefer the T64. I love to play aggressively, and I believe that Japanese and European rubbers do not suit my style.
Now, this rubber will always be my forehand, while I will continue to use T64 for my backhand. I am also considering trying the DHS Hurricane 3 Provincial to compare it with this rubber.
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