Trying Different Rubber
There is almost no way to pick the perfect rubber unless you have tried all of them. But, you can definitely narrow down your options.
Experimenting with different rubbers will make you aware of the different spins and speeds from you and your opponent. There is a wide variety to choose from in each skill level and style of play, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to stay in your element.
As most players say to beginners, you do not want to get a rubber past your level of play. But at the same time, you also do not want to get one that will not allow you to improve.
If you have not grasped the basic strokes with the rubber you are using (and it is a fairly decent rubber, with some grip) then it is probably not time to upgrade. When you feel your game is improving and you require more speed and spin, then (and only then) should you try some different rubbers.
It can be from the same brand or from different brands. Realize some brands are more expensive than others, and have less beginner and intermediate options available.
The bottom line is that you want to improve your game, not drown it. You want to get a rubber a bit faster and with more spin than you had, but not too much.
Initially, the ball should be bouncing off your rubber like you’re playing on the moon. Although after a few strokes you should get the feel for it and be able to do some light topspins, then carry on with your game after a few practices.
The Friendship 729 rubbers are a popular beginner sheet. The JUIC 999 line has some great intermediate and more advanced rubbers that are probably some of the cheapest out there.
Generally, you want thicker sponge (2.2, Max) on your forehand and one or two less (1.9, 2.0, 2.1) on your backhand. Rubbers also play very different on different blades, but I’ll leave blades for another post.
I will say, however, that a middle weight blade (about 78-87) is the most promising. A decent blade, probably with a Balsa wood core for better control is good; and medium speed. This will allow you to really feel the upgraded rubbers.
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