Friendship/729 Sky Wing

Skywing by Friendship is a rubber known for its excellent manufacturing quality. Notably, the red topsheet possesses a nice transparent quality. The rubber has a medium-tacky surface, and the sponge provides medium hardness.

I have played four sessions with this rubber on my backhand (BH) using a 7-ply all-wood Yasaka Ma Lin Extra Special blade. My verdict is that this is a very unforgiving rubber, much like the H3 on my forehand (FH). Skywing does not accommodate poor technique; it demands precision in your shots. It will teach you the Chinese style of play, emphasizing only backhand topspin and looping. Every attempt— and I mean every attempt— at a BH push or flat hit will likely result in the ball missing the table or hitting the net.

This rubber has highlighted my technical shortcomings. However, when used correctly, just like the H3, both your technique and the effectiveness of the rubber can improve over time. Therefore, I strongly recommend it for training in technique and developing topspin and loop strokes, but not necessarily for competitive play. Even with a good topspin, the speed and spin generated are often insufficient to overwhelm your opponent.

Overall, I would rate this rubber a 5.8 to 6 out of 10.

Update!

Even if the existing approval no. is missing and the rubber is only offered in 2 mm, one is surprised to find such a flawless (slightly sticky) surface on a rubber in this price range. The light yellow sponge, which is specified by the manufacturer as 40 degrees, is also of good quality. The rubber can therefore be cut very easily without fraying.

My selected, extra light rubber has a size of 166×165 mm and weighs 56 g incl. protective film. It was 85 g in the original packaging and in the end, when cut to size on my offensive blade (with 156×150 mm), it weighs 41 g.

After playing this rubber many years ago, I remembered its very low weight, which is why I have now ordered it again. Unfortunately, the rubber now weighs significantly more (between 3 and 5 g cut, … then 41 g) and I also remember the spin level was significantly higher!

Conclusion: not very light anymore! Control and speed good, catapult acceptable, and spin “not even mediocre!”

This rubber is perhaps slightly lighter than traditional Chinese rubbers, but it is heavier than European ones. It is not particularly soft; I would rate it around 40°.

It is a good choice for defensive play and pushing, but I find it difficult to loop with this rubber. Personally, I prefer the classic 729 FX Super.