Donic BlueGrip S2

There were not many reviews available, so I had to rely on my previous experience with Acuda S2, which I used to play with years ago. This rubber is almost sticky and very grippy, which I prefer. My current setup is a J-Pen with a 10mm blade paired with Fastarc G1.

I had to buy the Bluegrip S2 for a Tamca 5000 that a friend gave me. From this combination, I find this rubber to be spinnier than the Fastarc G1 and Acuda S2, making it more reliable in that department. It is slower than the Fastarc G1 and has a higher throw angle as well. The control is good, especially if you rely on spin for that.

I would not recommend using it on anything slower than an offensive blade. It is also better for generating spinny serves. On this fast setup, I found that blocks of any kind are somewhat more difficult, but still doable. The adjustment from my favorite setup to this faster one was easy. I can smash confidently and execute better fast loops.

I hope this rubber proves to be as long-lasting as the Acuda S2. Overall, the combination of a fast blade with the Bluegrip S2 was a success since I didn’t have to modify my game too much compared to my regular setup. However, I will stick with the G1 setup for better control of my game.

This rubber has a short throw on topspin, making it perfect for the backhand. I can understand why some people say it is too slow; in fact, it is quite slow.

It is relatively tacky, which means it requires regular cleaning. However, that’s manageable if you have the time to maintain it. To be honest, I was expecting something a little better, so I will be replacing the rubber with a slightly pricier option.

Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a cheap, tacky backhand rubber, this one is suitable for you.

This rubber features a short throw on topspin. It’s important to clarify that a short topspin throw does not refer to the height of the throw arc. Instead, it indicates that the ball lands very close to the net, particularly on loops.

As a result, this rubber is excellent for backhand play. I recommend using it with a stiff inner carbon blade. Personally, I have tried it on the Stiga Cybershape Carbon and the Viscaria Alc.

This rubber produces a variety of effects while also offering great control. However, it may not be suitable for wooden blades, as it does not provide significant speed on its own.

When combined with a carbon blade, the rubber is able to unleash good speed.

Having transitioned from a C2 rubber to the S2, I found the change to be excellent. I experienced significant improvements in my control over slow strokes and enhanced performance in blocking.

While the topspin is not as fast, it is more precise. Additionally, the effect of the S2 rubber is almost equal to that of the C2.

Bluegrip S2 has been announced earlier than S1. This combination is similar to the DHS Nat Hurricane 3, featuring a blue and orange sponge. The Bluegrip S2 is much lighter than the DHS rubber. However, it requires significant time and practice to play well with it.

Drama, baby, drama! ;) In general, I don’t need rubbers thicker than 1.8 mm on my backhand side, especially when using an offensive blade. Unfortunately, with this particular rubber, I find that I require a thicker version.

Let’s go over the facts: it is a red rubber with a thickness of 1.8 mm, weighing 88 g in its original packaging. Once cut to 157 x 150 mm, it weighs 43 g. The sponge hardness, according to international standards, is 42.5 degrees (though the Chinese rating would suggest around 35 degrees!).

The reason for my disappointment stems from the discrepancy between the rating on a German portal, “TT-Spin,” and the reviews I’ve encountered both here and from various retailers. Along with a noticeable lack of speed, this rubber feels extremely “spongy” due to its very soft top layer. Most rubbers rated at 42.5 degrees on the international scale tend to feel harder.

The only positive aspect I experienced with this rubber, particularly when paired with a hard and very fast blade, was its performance during blocking. I made no mistakes, which was absolutely fantastic! Additionally, the high rotation and control values of this slightly sticky rubber are commendable.

In conclusion, if this rubber were not so soft, I might consider upgrading to a thickness of 2.0 mm. However, I fear that doing so would further amplify the “spongy” feel of the gameplay. Ultimately, I have no idea whom I could recommend this rubber to! :(