Friendship/729 Super FX
Rubber description:
Rubber Classification
This is a sticky (tacky) Chinese-style rubber characterized by a high-durability, firm top sheet and a hard sponge. It is recognized as a traditional, non-tensor rubber that relies on mechanical grip and surface tackiness rather than a built-in catapult effect.
Performance Characteristics
- Spin and Tackiness: The surface provides significant spin potential, particularly effective for serves, pushes, and controlled loops. While the black version is frequently noted for longer-lasting tackiness compared to the red version, consistent cleaning is required to maintain its grip. It is sensitive to incoming spin, requiring active technique when returning serves.
- Speed and Dwell Time: Generally considered a slow-to-moderate speed rubber. It lacks the explosive “bouncy” feel of modern tensor rubbers, instead offering a flat, predictable trajectory. It functions best when paired with a faster or more flexible blade to compensate for its inherent lack of speed.
- Control and Throw Angle: Control is cited as the primary strength of this rubber, making it a popular choice for all-round players and defensive styles. It features a low-to-medium throw angle, which facilitates consistent blocking and precise short-game play.
- Physical Properties: The rubber is known for being relatively heavy and highly durable. Users often emphasize that the hardness of the sponge requires developed stroke mechanics to generate maximum penetration and speed. It is frequently noted as an excellent, budget-friendly training tool for those learning foundational techniques.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — June 2024
Overall, I rate the rubber 8.5 for training purposes. It’s cheap, consistent, and durable while providing enough spin and control to develop good technique.
Training rubbers should prioritize these qualities. As an example, when my workplace acquired a table, I provided four rackets instead of the low-quality ones that came with it. I chose ALLround blades to maintain a slower pace, but even inexperienced players were surprised by the bounce.
Despite office abuse and infrequent cleaning, the mildly tacky surface vanished within months. However, the rubber still offers sufficient mechanical grip after two years.
With the slower blade, many in my office have enjoyed the game, improved their consistency, and become decent players. Some who had never played before now participate.
Regular players can also enjoy the rubber’s capabilities, eliminating equipment as an excuse for performance.
I highly recommend this rubber as a trainer for new players or children. It’s affordable and provides the necessary playability for a solid foundation.
Keep in mind: Don’t underestimate the Super FX. Pair it with the fastest blade you can afford. As your game progresses (or your children outgrow it), you can upgrade the rubbers.
#2 — March 2023
The rubber is cheap and semi-tacky, making it a decent choice for the backhand. However, the tackiness gradually fades over time, becoming almost non-existent after a year or two of use.
#3 — March 2023
Cheap and worth the money, this rubber is sort of like Hurricane 3 but slower and has slightly less spin. However, it has better control and a slightly lower throw angle.
It costs 10 bucks at most, so if you like harder tacky rubbers, give it a try.
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