Friendship/729 Cross Blue Sponge

Absolutely need to be boosted. Put baby oil three times for 3 days and you’ll get more speed.

Put 3 layers of olive oil on the top sheet and it becomes like Yinhe Jupiter II with more control.

Good rubber!

The 729 Battle 3 requires several layers of booster to reach its full potential. Even with the booster, it may still have some deficiencies in speed. However, it offers advantages over other 729 rubbers, including its reduced weight, affordability, and blue sponge, which responds favorably to boosters.

It remains to be determined whether its lower speed compared to the Battle 2 will hinder its performance in competitive play. It may not reach the same level as the Feng Hun or B2, but it could potentially surpass the harder and heavier 729 rubbers.

The blue sponge used in the 729 Battle 3 is noteworthy. It exhibits compatibility with boosters that may even exceed that of the Haifu Seamoon. As the 2019/2020 season progresses, we will gain a clearer understanding of its capabilities.

729 Cross: A Budget-Friendly Control Rubber

This budget-friendly rubber excels in spin and control, making it ideal for training and developing technique. Despite its affordability, its tacky surface provides a surprising amount of spin generation on serves and small motions.

However, the rubber’s primary drawback is its low speed, which becomes noticeable during drives and loops. Full swing drives and loop drives with weight transfer and waist movement still feel slow, lacking the desired catapult effect. This sluggishness may be attributed to its hardness (46 degrees).

Despite its lack of speed, the 729 Cross offers remarkable control, making it one of the most controllable rubbers on the market. Beginners looking to experiment with tacky Chinese rubbers may find this a suitable option. However, for intermediate or advanced players seeking faster and more dynamic rubbers, Hurricane 3, Skyline 3, or Battle II are recommended.

Only black rubber with blue sponge.

Pros:

• Durable: The rubber is highly durable and can withstand frequent play.
• Good spin: The rubber provides good spin, allowing players to generate more spin on their shots.
• Control: The rubber offers excellent control, making it easier for players to place their shots accurately.

Cons:

• Limited speed: The rubber has limited speed, which may not be suitable for players who prefer a faster game.
• Not suitable for all playstyles: The rubber may not be suitable for all playstyles, as it is best suited for players who prefer a controlled game.

Overall, this rubber is a good choice for players who are looking for durability, spin, and control. While it lacks speed, it is a good option for players who prefer a controlled game.