Yasaka Rakza Z

Rubber description:

Yasaka Rakza Z is an innovative table tennis rubber that combines the best attributes of both Chinese tackiness and European elasticity, making it a versatile choice for players who prioritize spin and control. With a speed rating of 11 and a spin rating of 14, it excels in generating powerful topspin and serves while maintaining a high level of control, evidenced by its control rating of 9. The rubber’s grip allows players to lift underspin with ease, creating high arcs and complex angles that can trouble opponents.

In terms of tackiness, the Rakza Z scores a commendable 6.3, providing ample grip without excessively compromising speed. Its medium weight of 6.7 suggests a balanced feel; while some players may note a slight heaviness, this can actually aid in achieving controlled shots. The rubber demonstrates impressive durability at 8.3, allowing it to withstand regular play without rapid wear. Although some reviews mention the need for constant cleaning to maintain tackiness, many players find that the rubber retains its performance characteristics over an extended period.

Alternatives to the Yasaka Rakza Z include well-known options like Butterfly Tenergy and Nittaku Dignics, both of which are highly regarded but often at a significantly higher price point. Other hybrids like Donic Bluefire or Xiom Vega may offer similar performance attributes but with different feel and characteristics. Ultimately, Yasaka Rakza Z presents an exceptional value proposition for intermediate to advanced players looking for a rubber that enhances their spin and control game.

Recent Reviews

#1 — April 2023

Very good rubber for forehand (FH) and backhand (BH). I tried it in both maximum and 2.0 thickness, but I prefer the 2.0 because the rubbers are quite heavy.

This rubber is good for FH, but it ultimately served as a stepping stone to Chinese rubbers. However, it’s my favorite BH rubber for hinoki blades.

It’s controlled and very spinny, though not super fast. It’s fast enough, with very good short game and flicks. It’s also good for all kinds of spin play, especially spinny looping with beautiful arcs. It can even chop pretty well.

It has a somewhat high throw. I don’t like high throw on FH, but I do on BH. I think Yasaka did a great job with this hybrid-style rubber. It’s hard, but it doesn’t feel that hard because of the tackiness.

#2 — April 2023

I use this as BH on my Xiom Ice Cream AZXi. It offers super control and spin. I can swing hard and the ball will stay on the table. This is also partly due to my blade, which has very high control on the AZXi. For me, this rubber has as much spin as an H3 neo Boosted, but it is slower. I still think it has enough speed to finish off a point. My backhand money shot is hard flat hits, and it works very well with Rakza Z, even though it’s on the slower side. It works very well for my game.

If you are looking for a Tenergy-like speed rubber, this is not it. But if you are looking for a spinny, controllable rubber with all+ to -off speed, this rubber works extremely well. I recommend this rubber for a spinny, control-oriented game.

#3 — March 2023

Excellent rubber, but it seems to be discontinued. Any ideas for the best replacement (other than Rakza Z Hard)?