Xiom Omega VII Guang China

This is the spinnest rubber I have used, and it provides excellent control on blocks, pushes, and chops. While it is still quite fast, it is slower than the Omega V Asia. I estimate that my offensive play has improved by about 100 points since I started using this rubber. However, I did have to adjust my strategy and technique to fully harness its capabilities.

Despite its name, Omega VII China Guang (O7CG) does not feature a tacky Chinese topsheet comparable to any Hurricane rubber. Instead, it is a hybrid rubber that bears similarities to Tibhar K3, albeit with a slightly harder sponge, making it less springy. From what I’ve read, O7CG is also comparable to D09c, though I have not had the opportunity to try that particular rubber.

O7CG requires advanced skills for effective use. In short-game situations, it performs excellently, allowing for a wide range of shots. However, as you move further away from the table, the margin for error narrows significantly. Even just 1-2 meters from the table, if you aren’t active enough—whether due to insufficient power or overly short strokes—the ball tends to end up in the net. When you do engage the sponge fully, the arc of the ball can become surprisingly high, making it difficult to keep the ball on the table.

On the positive side, spin control is very good with O7CG. The rubber is not particularly sensitive to spin, allowing for easy execution of spinny serves. In loop rallies, it shines as long as you maintain a position close to the table. Compared to Vega China, O7CG is bouncier and significantly less tacky. If you seek a more authentic Chinese feel but prefer not to purchase from DHS, consider opting for Vega China or Victas TDE, which offer a tackier experience at a lower price point.

I currently use O7CG on a Tibhar JC blade, which features inner dyneema/carbon. I find this pairing to be effective, but I intend to try it on an outer carbon blade in the future to see if it enhances my performance by providing a broader window, similar to what I experience with K3.

In summarizing a comparison among O7CG, VC, and K3 (all max), here’s how they stack up:

• Service: O7CG = VC > K3
• Loops: K3 > O7CG > VC
• Spin: VC < O7CG = K3
• Speed: K3 < O7CG << VC
• Control: VC < K3 < O7CG
• Short Game: O7CG = VC < K3
• Counter tops: O7CG < K3 < VC
• Bounce: K3 < O7CG < VC
• Block: VC < O7CG < K3

The rubber is very heavy, weighing 56 grams when cut to fit a Viscaria blade. It is not as tacky as the H3. Personally, I prefer the Xiom Omega VII Pro over this one.

I recently switched from DHS Hurricane 3 Blue Sponge 42° on my forehand to the O7 China rubber, and this review will compare them.

The first noticeable difference is the catapult effect. While the H3 has none, the O7 China has a significant catapult effect, making it quicker in the short game and during blocks compared to the H3.

Another difference is the lack of tackiness in the O7 China. The H3 is noticeably tackier, which greatly impacts gameplay. With the H3, you can brush the ball as thinly as you want, and the rubber will grip it effectively. Initially, I experienced the ball slipping on the O7 China. However, after a few hours of play, I adapted to both differences.

In general, the H3 produces more spin, although this does not mean the O7 China generates low spin; it’s just not as much as that from the H3.

Now, let’s discuss the similarities. The throw angle is very similar, the speed on drives is comparable, and the hardness of the two rubbers is alike as well. I would say the O7 China is easier to play with because you don’t need to activate every single shot due to its catapult effect. This effect is noticeable when compared to the H3, although it’s not as pronounced when compared to European rubbers.

In conclusion, the O7 China is a very good rubber. It is fast and gets even quicker with the force of your shot. It offers medium control but is not the easiest rubber to use. It demands good technique and power. If you prefer to play passive shots, this rubber may not be suitable for you. If you are considering a replacement for the Hurricane, I would describe the O7 China as a heavily tuned version of the Hurricane with about 85% of its tackiness removed.

Since the Vega DEF appears to have been discontinued, this rubber seems to be a good replacement. It is slightly softer now, rated at 55 degrees, but it still provides plenty of power.

This rubber performs reasonably well in all aspects, with no significant weaknesses. However, it can be quite hard and, in my opinion, may require some mild boosting on occasion. This can help reduce physical demands, improve recovery, and assist in managing humidity, among other benefits.

In short, this rubber is not particularly exciting, but it meets expectations and allows me to focus more on technique and positioning, which is certainly a positive aspect.

I would recommend this rubber if you possess sufficient technique and power, enjoy a bit of boosting, and are looking for something stable, spinny, and powerful. However, there may be better alternatives among the current generation that I have not tested yet.