Nittaku Narucross EX Soft

Rubber description:

Nittaku Narucross EX Soft, a high-performance table tennis rubber handcrafted in Japan, caters to a wide spectrum of players seeking superior control, spin, and feel. With a speed rating of 9.1, spin rating of 9.6, and control rating of 7.5, this rubber excels in generating devastating spin and maintaining excellent control during fast-paced rallies.

The Narucross EX Soft features a unique topsheet formula that enhances grip and dwell time, allowing players to impart maximum spin on the ball. This, coupled with its medium-soft sponge (2.8 hardness), provides a catapult effect that propels the ball with impressive speed and spin. The tacky surface (2.5 tackiness) further contributes to outstanding spin generation, enabling players to execute a variety of shots with precision and control.

The Narucross EX Soft exhibits exceptional consistency, earning a rating of 10. Its uniform performance allows players to maintain a steady level of play, minimizing unforced errors and maximizing consistency during matches. Despite its emphasis on spin and control, the Narucross EX Soft boasts a relatively high speed rating (9.1), making it suitable for aggressive players who seek a balance between spin and speed.

The rubber's throw angle is rated at 3.2, indicating a medium-high trajectory. This enables players to generate powerful topspin shots with a penetrating弧圈球弧线弧圈球弧线弧圈球 arc, making it effective for both looping and attacking play. Additionally, the Narucross EX Soft's 9.4 rating for gears highlights its versatility, allowing players to transition seamlessly between different playing styles and shot types.

While the Narucross EX Soft offers exceptional performance, its durability is rated at 6.8, indicating that it may require regular replacement. However, this is a common trade-off for high-performance rubbers that prioritize spin and speed. Overall, the Nittaku Narucross EX Soft is a top-notch table tennis rubber that caters to players of various skill levels, providing a harmonious blend of spin, speed, control, and consistency.

Recent Reviews

#1 — April 2017

The Narucross Ex Soft is an excellent backhand rubber. I always opt for the black version in a 1.8 mm thickness. It blocks very effectively due to its low throw, yet it allows for remarkable looping abilities, making opening loops quite easy.

The serving and short game performance are superb, and unlike many ESN rubbers—which I find unsuitable for my backhand—this one is not overly springy. Previously, I played with Hammond Pro Beta on my backhand, but I believe this rubber is slightly better.

Another significant advantage is its light weight, coming in at 38-39g when cut. It also does not shrink after gluing, especially if you use VOC-free glue; I recommend Donic Blue Contact as it is user-friendly and foolproof.

Moreover, smashing and straight hitting feel effortless with this rubber. The only drawback is that it is challenging to find in Germany, which is why I order it from Japan.

#2 — May 2016

I really like the Narucross EX! I use a 2.1 thickness on both my backhand (BH) and forehand (FH) and I’m currently on my third pair of sheets.

My playing style is pretty normal and aggressive; I loop, hit, and block on both sides. I utilize an ALL+ wood blade that is 5 ply.

The Narucross EX feels similar to Mark V with speed glue. The sponge has that pillow-like puffiness and softness reminiscent of what speed glue used to provide for me. Additionally, it produces that distinctive ‘clock noise’ that I remember.

I get about six months of playtime out of it. The top sheet seems to be very durable, but the sponge does eventually go dead.

Previously, I played with Barracuda but found it too hard to control. While it felt great in practice, I struggled during games. I’ve realized that I don’t prefer a high throw angle. The Narucross provides me with both speed and spin while keeping the ball on the table.

#3 — April 2010

Actually, this rubber is great for backhand (BH) and suits any blade. Besides being spinny, this rubber is also good for flat hitting.

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