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The Stiga Genesis M is an advanced table tennis rubber designed to blend the best qualities of both Chinese and European rubber types. It features a remarkably low tackiness rating of 4.7, which gives it a grippy feel without the overwhelming stickiness often found in traditional Chinese rubbers. This design choice fosters better control, particularly for players who prefer a style that relies on nuanced spins and effective placement. With a speed rating of 152 and a spin rating of 131, the Genesis M balances power with the ability to generate significant spin, making it a versatile choice for players of varying skill levels.
In terms of weight, this rubber falls into the medium category at 5.7, which some users have noted as a downside, particularly when combined with heavier blades. The hardness of its sponge is rated at 6.8, providing a firm and responsive surface that enhances both speed and control during play. Many players have reported improved performance in looping and counter-looping scenarios, although some find that the rubber may lack the pace needed for aggressive attacking styles, requiring consistent practice to unlock its full potential.
Durability is another vital aspect of the Genesis M, with a score of 7.1, indicating that it maintains its performance over time, even with regular use. However, some users have noted that the tackiness diminishes relatively quickly, which can be a factor to consider for long-term play. As for alternatives, players seeking a similar feel may look into rubbers like the Tenergy series or other hybrids, though many find the Genesis M to sit uniquely between the two. This rubber is ideal for intermediate players or those looking to refine their technique without sacrificing too much speed or spin.
Tried this on a Stiga Infinity VPS V. I’m not a big fan of the rubber, but it’s okay. The plus side for me is definitely control and feeling. It’s very easy to control spin and speed from the opponent, whether it’s blocking against loop or close to the table, serve return, etc. Amazing for snakes and chops!
When it comes to attacking play, the rubber falls a little short for me. Speed is quite slow, and you have to practice a lot if you want to find the right technique for playing fast loop drives. The grip feels really good, though, and therefore the spin is nice but not as much as, for example, H3N or T05. Especially away from the table, you feel this as the opponent can quite easily handle your attacks. However, I believe you can get decent speed if you use it on a faster blade!
Weight is a little downside, as it’s quite heavy and doesn’t give you that much power. It’s a solid rubber for intermediates, but for pros, I would use something faster or with more spin instead, as it’s a little mediocre.
I was looking for a hybrid rubber to substitute Hurricane 3 Neo and have partially found it. It loses its tackiness fast but remains grippy for a while, offering average durability.
Unlike H3N, this rubber isn’t very sensitive to incoming spin. It’s faster than H3N but not as fast as a tensor rubber. It’s not bouncy until you hit hard.
While it provides less spin in serves, it’s very spiny when looping. It’s less predictable than H3N but much more predictable than tensors. This can lead to occasional point losses, which I don’t experience with H3N.
Despite requiring less effort to play, I still need to use hip rotation and forward arm motion to make it work. I’m currently using it on my backhand with a flexible blade, the Stiga Maplewood Nct V. This combination gives me extra power without sacrificing control. However, it feels more uncontrollable and bouncy on carbon blades.
Overall, it’s a great option for counter looping. Players who struggle with consistency using tensor rubbers should consider it for their forehand or backhand.
Review of Black Max Rubber
Tested in Black Max on the forehand of a Stiga allround classic and an Xiom Offensive S, the speed of this rubber is slightly faster than the Vega Pro in 2.0mm. However, the feeling is more Chinese-like, with a slightly thicker contact on the ball compared to Chinese rubbers like the H3N, likely due to its softer topsheet.
This rubber offers excellent control over placement and trajectory, partly because it does not react excessively to spin. Another notable feature is its trajectory, which is particularly pronounced away from the table, especially on the allround classic, but requires effort to pick up the ball initially. The spin is high, comparable to the Vega Pro.
When used on the allround classic, the spin feels safe and controlled, while on the offensive S, it provides more speed and a longer trajectory. Compared to Euro rubbers, the Black Max offers improved linearity, while it differs from Chinese rubbers by being more elastic and dynamic.
This rubber is well-suited for an allround-offensive playing style that utilizes spin, placement, and speed. Enjoy your table tennis!
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