Yasaka Rakza XX

Blade/Type: N/A

Sponge Hardness: Hard

Spin: High

Control: High

Speed: Fast

Pros:

• Excellent control
• High spin
• Fast and responsive
• Versatile for various strokes (spin, chop, smash)

Cons:

• N/A

Comparison to Other Rubbers:

• Similar spin and control to Dignics 05
• Similar speed to Hammond Z2

Overall:
This rubber offers exceptional control and high spin, making it an excellent choice for players looking for versatility and performance. Its fast speed and responsive sponge allow for aggressive shots while maintaining precision.

Excellent upgrade from Rakza X. It maintains the incredible balance we’re accustomed to with Rakza X, but now with even more speed and spin, while still offering superb control.

I have been using this rubber on my forehand, and I have been able to generate an incredible amount of spin on my shots. Even with the thinnest version, there is still sufficient speed. Playing topspins against chops is effortless with this rubber. I have been using it for an extended period, and it appears to be of very high quality. In my opinion, it will last for a very long time. Its only major drawback is its sensitivity to dust. However, I believe this is the best rubber I have used thus far.

This is a very impressive rubber, second to none. I am particularly surprised by its durability. After three sessions, it shows no signs of wear, unlike many hybrid rubbers.

Yasaka Rakza Max Speed: A Comprehensive Review

Impressed by its blistering pace, this rubber boasts a perfect blend of grip, spin, and speed. The shots dip in mid-table with a medium-high throw angle, accompanied by a distinctive clicking sound. Compared to Rakza 7, it offers less spin and control but excels in handling low balls and kill shots.

The slightly hard sheet feels medium-hard while driving, providing ample dwell time for optimal ball control. The rubber’s tackiness enables powerful counters and precise serves, chops, and flicks. However, it exhibits a slight spin sensitivity on incoming topspins and can be challenging to block fast drives due to its spring effect.

While the Max Speed excels in attacking, it requires precise footwork to reach its full potential. It is an exceptional backhand topspin rubber with a 1.8mm sponge, but the regular X variant may offer better control and blocking capabilities.

Overall, this is a highly recommended forehand rubber for offensive players. Its impressive speed and grip make it a formidable weapon, but requires skilled footwork for optimal performance. Yasaka’s reputation for durability ensures longevity, although it tends to be slightly heavy.

2.00mm on FH:

Most Impressive Features:

• Unbelievably compliant in the short game: The ball remains low and controlled during pushes and drop shots, outperforming even “Hurricane” rubbers.
• Exceptional spin on loops and serves: Despite feeling less spinny, opponents face difficulties returning shots.

Compared to Donic A1 2.0:

• Instant ball release when looping: Provides a quicker feel than A1, despite uncertain max velocity differences.
• Flat arc and perceived lack of spin: Opponents struggle to block despite the apparent lack of spin.
• Deadly flat drives/smashes: Require precision timing and hand speed.

Not So Impressive Features:

• Limited access to higher gears: Only gears 1, 2, 5, and 6 perform well, making slower loops/drives less effective.
• Sensitivity to dust: Requires frequent cleaning every ~45 minutes to maintain performance.

Yasaka Rakza X Soft Review

Previously using Rakza X, I upgraded to Rakza X Soft upon its release. I employed it with maximum thickness on my forehand, utilizing it on both 7-ply wood blades, primarily the Yasaka Falck W7, and several inner carbon blades.

Compared to Rakza X, the upgrade proved moderate, but not significantly so. I could have continued using Rakza X with satisfaction. The rubber exhibits linearity in its performance. My pushing and blocking with it are passable. It serves effectively. Overall, it is a solid all-around rubber. When paired with my inner carbon blade, however, I found myself wishing for a slightly softer sponge.