Friendship/729 SST Cross

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.

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.

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

I have been using this rubber for three months and have loved it for its all-around offensive play. I highly recommend this rubber for players who focus on offensive strategies.

However, I found that this rubber is not suitable for blocking and defensive play.

BS98 states: It’s quite a good weapon.

The sponge is similar to the Dr. Neubauer ABS, which is characterized by being slow and dead.

Review Summary: Buying Considerations for Table Tennis Rubbers

When it comes to choosing a rubber for chop play, there are two main options: soft sponge or hard sponge. The SST rubber features a 45-degree hard sponge, which provides a low bounce. However, when compared to the BTF Tack C, it is easier to use a soft chopping sponge.

I have been using the SST Red 1.5 for over two years, and while it has lost its tackiness, it still maintains a decent speed, even on my Toxic blade. However, I have noticed that chop shots may go long, and executing a forehand chop while on the run can be difficult to control.

On the other hand, I find that the SST rubber works well on the backhand of my regular looping setup, especially for slow loops.

In contrast, the Regular 729 2.0 sponge features a softer sponge, which I believe is better suited for chopping. If you are looking for a more affordable option, the JUDO rubber could be a good choice. Additionally, the 729FXC 1.0 sponge might be more suitable for my preferences, especially since I struggle to adjust to the 45-degree hardness of the SST.

Final Thoughts: Consider your playing style and preferences when choosing between these options.

A budget-friendly tactical weapon.