In table tennis, players often discuss the difference between sticky rubbers and non-sticky rubbers. Some people think that non-sticky rubbers have no friction, which is a wrong concept. Although viscous rubbers have a sticky surface, they are equipped with hard sponges to improve bounce speed, while non-sticky rubbers are equipped with soft bouncy cake sponges to create better spin. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics of these two types of rubbers and their application scenarios.
Sticky rubbers: a powerful assistant in spin production
Sticky rubbers are widely used in the table tennis world. They are characterised by a strong sticky surface, which creates strong friction on the surface of the ball. This makes it easier for players to create spin in techniques such as serves, pulls and topspin, thus making it more difficult for opponents to handle.
Matching hard sponge: Sticky rubbers are usually equipped with a high-density hard sponge. Hard sponges are characterised by less deformation and a faster rebound when the ball hits the rubber. This means that players can complete their shots in a short period of time, increasing ball speed and reaction time.
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Creating Spin: Due to the sticky surface of the tacky rubbers, a spinning effect is created when the ball rubs against the surface of the rubbers. This spin allows the player to better control the direction and arc of the ball when hitting the ball, increasing flexibility in attack and defence.
Applicable Scenarios: The ability of sticky rubbers to create spin makes them outstanding in forehand techniques, especially for serves and pull shots. By playing with the stickiness of the rubber, players can generate more spin and force their opponents to make incorrect judgements, thus gaining an advantage.
Non-sticky rubber: a powerful tool for leveraging power.
Compared with non-sticky rubbers, the surface of the rubber shows a more astringent characteristic rather than a strong adhesion. However, non-sticky rubbers have a place in the table tennis world, especially for backhand players.
Pairing with Soft Cake Sponge: Non-sticky rubbers are usually paired with soft cake sponge. Soft sponges are characterised by a high degree of deformation, and when the ball hits the surface, the sponge deforms and sinks into it, creating a wrap-around friction. This friction allows the player to better control the trajectory and speed of the ball at impact.
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Borrowed Power: Non-sticky rubber with a soft sponge allows the player to borrow power. In the backhand technique, the player can use a slight force and wrist flick to quickly increase the speed and quality of the ball to achieve a breakthrough shot.
Scenario: Due to the characteristics of non-sticky rubber, it has advantages in backhand technique. With a slight movement, players can use the elasticity of the rubber to achieve a break shot, thus increasing the power of the shot in backhand technique.
Hardness of sponge
The sponge of the rubber has different hardness and characteristics. The hardness and elasticity of the sponge will directly affect the overall performance of the racket. Therefore, players need to choose the right rubbers according to their own technical style and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sticky rubbers and non-sticky rubbers each have their own advantages and application scenarios. Sticky rubbers with hard sponge are suitable for forehand technique and can create stronger spin. Non-sticky rubbers with soft cake sponge are suitable for backhand technique, which is able to create more spin and increase the speed of the ball. As the game of table tennis has evolved, manufacturers have adapted rubbers to make them more compatible with modern table tennis. Therefore, when choosing a rubber, you need to make a reasonable choice according to your own technical style and needs to get a better performance on the court.
