Yasaka Valmo
Rubber description:
This rubber is a Japanese-manufactured tensor characterized by a medium-hard, tensioned sponge designed to complement modern plastic balls. It is designed to offer a unique feedback sensation where the ball sinks deeply into the sponge, allowing for a controlled energy release rather than a sharp, biting grip. While it is highly capable in offensive scenarios, it is frequently noted for its exceptional performance in backhand play, serving as a versatile tool for both intermediate and advanced players.
Playing Characteristics
- Spin and Speed: The rubber generates significant spin and high velocity when paired with proper technique. It is particularly effective for looping, with a high-arc trajectory that provides a comfortable margin for net clearance. It rewards aggressive, fast-paced play, though it remains controllable for service reception and active blocking.
- Feel and Dwell: The standout feature is its sponge behavior; it absorbs the ball upon contact, providing a click-like sensation and a sense of connection that prevents it from “bottoming out,” even during high-impact shots.
- Versatility: While it excels in close-to-table and mid-range play, the rubber is reliable enough to maintain pressure when executing flat hits or counter-topspins from further distances. It handles underspin lifts with ease, making it a reliable choice for players who prioritize consistency alongside high speed.
- Technical Notes: It performs optimally on stiffer, composite blades. Users have noted that it may exhibit a slightly higher throw angle during slower, passive shots, but this becomes predictable as the player increases their engagement with the rubber.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — June 2024
I bought it for 46 euros. It weighs 66 grams uncut. It folds inward when gluing it. (I will update the review after using it for a month.)
#2 — June 2022
Much research was done to attain this rubber. I personally find this rubber to have a Rakza 7 soft kind of feel, but it outperforms Rakza 7 soft. It does not have a biting feel as Rakza 7 may have at times, but instead, the sponge absorbs and then releases with control.
There is plenty of grip to loop with speed and control from close to mid, but I feel it needs to be somewhat flat hit on a closed angle further away to not only make the table but keep pressure on. This rubber can produce heavy spin and speed. It is able to lift underspin easily. It feels very controlled.
I use this rubber on my backhand and recommend it to anyone. I use it on a YEO7 blade. I read that this rubber performs better on harder composite blades, and I strongly agree. It is much better than MarkVHps.
#3 — May 2021
Review:
As usual, WoodhOUSEse in Sweden, the distributor of Yasaka, is the worst company ever in terms of marketing their rubbers and blades. However, occasionally, you can discover a few Yasaka masterpieces. This rubber has received high ratings on both Swedish and Japanese table tennis websites.
Regarding Rigan Spin, despite the success of Rigan, its successor, which is now the fourth best-selling rubber in Asia, Woodhouse never released it. It is the worst company ever. They don’t even have a marketing department! Shame on such a good brand that releases only three rubbers a year, all of which are very good, while Donic releases 30, half of which are just equal to the others.
Like Andro, which is so desperate that they have released Rasanter in versions 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 50, and 52, instead of giving us something new!
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