Friendship/729 Origin
Rubber description:
This sticky Chinese rubber features a medium-to-hard density sponge that provides a stable, non-reactive foundation. Its playing profile is defined by a distinct contrast between the energy-absorbing, dense sponge and a lively, elastic, and tacky topsheet. This combination allows for a high level of control in the short game, making it easy to execute precise pushes and short service returns.
Playing Characteristics
- Spin Potential: Capable of generating significant spin, particularly on serves and aggressive topspin loops. While not as extreme as the highest-end tacky rubbers, it offers enough grip to be dangerous against underspin.
- Speed and Dwell Time: Performance is moderate, requiring a faster or stiffer blade to maximize its output. The rubber is generally less reactive to incoming spin, providing a predictable feel during counter-looping exchanges.
- Control: Highly regarded for its steady, reliable nature. It is often described as a controllable alternative to more reactive, high-tension rubbers, allowing players to dictate play without being overwhelmed by excessive catapult effects.
Because of its less reactive sponge, this rubber excels for players who rely on active stroke mechanics to generate power. It is well-suited for a loop-oriented style, providing the necessary tacky surface to initiate topspin while maintaining enough composure for defensive or mid-distance consistency.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — July 2020
Highly controllable with very good spin, it feels surprisingly confident during play.
#2 — January 2018
I absolutely love this rubber! I have been using it on my forehand with the Stiga All Classic for the past four months, and I must say, my forehand has significantly improved.
My playing style primarily involves looping against underspin and executing counterloops. This rubber is very dense and hard, offering a non-reactive feel. However, the topsheet is quite tacky, which gives it that typical Chinese feeling.
It is easy to push short due to its tackiness and unreactive nature. Yet, it is also capable of generating massive spin and power when looping. I can confidently recommend this rubber if you are a looper looking for a quality Chinese forehand rubber.
#3 — September 2012
The H3 rubber is too spinny and reactive for my preference when playing against the most spinny players. However, this rubber tones it down a notch, which I appreciate. The speed is not overly quick, allowing for better control.
I like this rubber a lot and currently rate it among my top five options. I appreciate that it doesn’t try to do too much, making it more effective for a wider range of players. I have it on a fairly quick wood blade, but I would like to experiment with it on my other blades very soon.
If I had to choose again, I would pick this rubber first. In fact, I am choosing it right now, even though it wasn’t available back then. It reminds me of the old Mark V playing days, which is a painful reminder that it was 25 years ago! Overall, I find it to be a good all-around rubber. I highly recommend it.
It’s very inexpensive, especially considering how new and effective it is. I have only had it for a few months, so I cannot comment on its durability yet.
From the 729 range, I have also tried the 05, 08, Transcend Cream, and Transcend Purple.
Popular Friendship/729 rubbers
- Focus 3 Snipe
- Super FX
- Cream Transcend
- 729-5
- Battle 2
- Higher
- FX Super Soft
- GeoSpin Tacky
- Battle 2 Provincial Blue Sponge
- 729-08
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