Friendship/729 SST Cross

Rubber description:

Friendship 729 SST Cross is a Chinese table tennis rubber renowned for its exceptional speed, spin, and control. This rubber combines the strengths of traditional Chinese rubbers with modern technologies to deliver a dynamic playing experience. With a speed rating of 9, it enables explosive shots and fast-paced rallies. The high spin rating of 9 allows players to generate tremendous spin and achieve sharp angles, making it a formidable weapon for aggressive playstyles.

The control rating of 9 makes Friendship 729 SST Cross accessible to a wide range of players, from advanced to intermediate levels. It offers excellent responsiveness, allowing for precise shot placement and consistent performance. The tackiness level of 5.3 provides good grip on the ball, enhancing spin and enabling controlled play. Although not as tacky as other Chinese rubbers, it still offers sufficient grip for effective spin generation.

The weight of 5.7 grams contributes to the rubber's overall balance, making it suitable for both offensive and defensive playstyles. The sponge hardness rating of 9 results in a firm feel, which provides excellent feedback and control. The gears rating of 8.5 indicates the rubber's ability to generate different levels of spin and speed depending on the amount of force applied, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles.

The throw angle rating of 4.3 suggests a relatively low trajectory, allowing players to keep the ball close to the table and maintain control during fast-paced exchanges. The consistency rating of 10 denotes the rubber's reliability and predictability, ensuring a consistent level of performance throughout a match. The durability rating of 7.2 indicates good longevity, although it may require regular maintenance to maintain its optimal playing characteristics.

Overall, Friendship 729 SST Cross is a versatile table tennis rubber that combines speed, spin, control, and consistency. It is suitable for a wide range of playing styles and skill levels, making it a popular choice among competitive players seeking a rubber that excels in all aspects of the game.

Recent Reviews

#1 — August 2014

I have this rubber in both orange sponge and blue sponge, both with a thickness of 1.5 mm. Currently, I cannot fully compare them as I primarily play as a long-pips (LP) pushblocker.

I can say that looping with this rubber on my slower blade is difficult, while it is easier to perform on my carbon blade. Conversely, it chops well on my slower blades. However, I find it much easier to use the BTF defensive rubbers, as the hard sponge really stands out, along with the spin. This rubber is quicker and spinnier than, for example, the BTF Tack-C.

Although I found it harder to control, it is still regarded as a good forehand rubber for pushblocking.

#2 — March 2013

If you are a beginner, you can rely on this rubber to help you develop your own style of play. However, as you progress, you will need to switch to something more advanced.

#3 — October 2011

The rubber is excellent for backhand play, allowing players to switch the ball’s direction with ease.

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