Yinhe Apollo II
Rubber description:
This product is a hybrid rubber designed to bridge the gap between traditional Chinese tackiness and modern European-style performance. It features a porous, tensor-like sponge available in varying degrees of hardness (Soft, Medium, and Hard), which contributes to its dynamic response. Depending on the version, the topsheet ranges from medium-tacky to purely grippy, offering a versatile playing experience that accommodates both backhand control and forehand aggression.
Playing Characteristics
- Spin and Throw: The rubber provides significant spin potential, characterized by a medium to high throw angle. This allows for effective looping and spin-heavy offensive play.
- Speed and Dwell: While described as fast, it maintains a level of control that makes it accessible for intermediate to advanced attackers. The porous sponge allows for sufficient dwell time, aiding in shot placement and touch play.
- Weight and Construction: When cut to standard blade sizes, the rubber weighs between 45 and 50 grams. The sponge is porous and receptive to boosters, which can be used to further customize the speed and feel, though the sponge requires careful maintenance when removing adhesive.
Tactical Application
The rubber is highly adaptable, functioning well as a backhand-focused sheet for blocking and controlled rallies, or as a powerful forehand option for players who prefer a blend of grip and mechanical spin. Due to its balanced nature, it performs reliably on blades ranging from medium-speed offensive setups to more controlled, softer-feeling frames.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — February 2022
This rubber is not a typical backhand (BH) rubber, as it is less tacky and not as high tension as many European rubbers. I have a hardness rating of 39 degrees, and I believe it is more suitable for the forehand (FH) in my opinion.
The rubber offers a low throw angle with good control and decent spin.
#2 — November 2014
This rubber is fast, though not the absolute fastest available. It provides an adequate speed for most players, but may be considered too fast for some. The spin it generates is excellent, and the control is surprisingly good, especially given its speed.
While it is primarily marketed as a backhand rubber, I find it works well for both backhand and forehand strokes. I’m quite particular about my forehand, and this rubber meets my expectations. It is grippy rather than tacky, which I really appreciate.
However, I am unsure about its durability. Generally, Galaxy rubbers tend to be less durable compared to Friendship rubbers. I would recommend this rubber for advanced attackers or intermediate-level players, especially those using a slower blade.
#3 — July 2013
Blade: Butterfly Jonyer-H (medium speed OFF-, soft feel, great control)
Forehand (FH): Galaxy Apollo II Max Tense 2.2 H34
Backhand (BH): DHS Hurricane 3 Neo National 2.2 H39 or Haifu Blue Whale III 2.2 H39
I am a fan of Chinese rubbers and have been using the Apollo II on my forehand for 4 months. I must say that this is one of the best rubbers I have ever tried. It is so good that my close friend, a professional player for 30 years, sells this rubber to his friends. When cut to regular blade size (153 - 159 mm), it weighs between 45 - 50 g.
Topsheet: The topsheet is medium tacky with a medium to high throw angle. It provides exceptional spin and remarkable durability.
Sponge: The sponge is porous, similar to tensor rubbers. There are two versions: the first is dark orange (the old version, featuring Chinese letters on the sponge) with larger pores and a more tacky topsheet. The new version (factory-tuned) is brighter, with a less tacky and more grippy topsheet. I applied 2 layers of booster (Falco Long Booster) to the sponge and allowed it to rest for 7 days to flatten. Afterwards, I used 2 layers of Haifu VOC Free Glue.
The rubber offers medium speed, high spin, and excellent control. When removing the glue from the sponge, it is important to use 2 - 3 layers of paraffin oil to avoid damaging the sponge.
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