Returning player (AR+/OFF–) looking for versatile rubbers for Xiom Hugo HAL [no longer: Cybershape Wood]

[Doppelschlag]

Hey everyone,
I’m returning to the game after a long break and could use some input on rubbers for my next setup. Thanks to help from the forum, I have landed here:

About me

• Probably an all-round type of player, focusing on placement and variation rather than power.
• I move well and stay active on my feet, and generally have a good feeling for the ball.
• Not a technical looper yet, but working hard on improving my technique.
• Training 2–4 times a week, sometimes with a group coach.
• I can keep up with many club players, but my technique is a bit rusty and inconsistent.

How much I’ve played
I played during my elementary school years, probably 1–2 hours a day for 9 years. Not in a club—played in my elementary school—however against many skilled team players. So the feeling and movements are very much deep ingrained in me. Break was 20 years though, I’m around 40 now. My new club mates want med to compete right away though.

What I’m looking for

• A rubber that doesn’t lock me in – something versatile for developing all aspects of the game.
• Preferably a similar feel on both FH and BH for a smoother learning curve.
• I might explore hybrids later, but for now I want something solid and forgiving.

What I’ve tried recently

• Smirnov Inner Carbon – was given to me used from a club player (with DHS 729 and Xiom Vega Europe) – a bit hard, but manageable. Probably has a small hair crack …
• Persson Power AR with Xiom Vega Pro – could control it well, not too fast for me, maybe lacking a bit in spin.
• Currently trying Vega Europe H on the Smirnov, which feels nice. Also a gift.

Blade I plan to buy

• Stiga Cybershape Wood, (probably non-CWT), with ST handle.
  I really like the feel and balance. If you have better suggestions for something similar, I’m all ears.

---

Rubber options​

Based on quite some amount of reading here on TTD …

Option 1
FH & BH: Nittaku Fastarc G-1

• + Very balanced and proven “get-and-forget” rubber
• – Slightly expensive, but known for great durability. Too fast?

Option 2
FH & BH: Xiom Vega X 1.8 mm (or maybe 2.0 mm on FH)

• + Good value and durable. Tad slower than Nittaku? Many players in my club’s best team play this.
• – Seems to be slightly behind the G-1 slightly in most areas?

Option 3
FH & BH: Tibhar Hybrid MK (2.0 mm, or MK FX on BH)

• + Even more control and feedback
• – No 1.8 mm version (heavier)
• – Durability reportedly lower

Option 4
FH & BH: Yasaka Rakza 7 (or Rakza 7 Soft on BH)

• + Classic and reliable,
• – though perhaps a bit dated compared to newer options?

Option 5
[–>Insert your genius insights here<—]

Bonus thought
Should I already try semi-hybrids like

• Vega Pro H/Europe H
• Rakza Z
  • on both sides? Or rather wait till I know who I am (maybe answered it myself there)

---

Main question
Given my level (rusty intermediate, AR+/OFF– style), which of these setups would best support developing a balanced, modern all-round game?

TL;DR
Returning intermediate (AR+/OFF–) player looking for a balanced setup to rebuild consistency and spin.
Settled on Stiga Cybershape Wood; main rubber candidates:

• Fastarc G-1 – best all-round choice, durable but pricey?
• Vega X – cheaper, durable, slightly less spin?
• Hybrid MK – more control, lower durability?
• (Rakza 7 – reliable classic?)
  ((Wondering if I should already test semi-hybrids (Vega Pro H / Europe H).))

 

[Scarfed Garchomp]

IMO you're putting too much thought into it, you have already tried and liked Vega Euro H so its a safe bet already. What you need to improve is a rubber you are familiar with and can manage well, and it looks to me you have already found a strong option to choose

In terms of blade, I prefer the Pure Cybershape to Wood, for me it is not quite as fast or as snappy as the Wood but it has less vibration, softer feeling and better stability and safety on hard hits. It is also less expensive to boot. But I like the Wood just fine. Clipper Cybershape is good too but it leans more towards the realm of hitting/smashing/fast looping than the Pure or the Wood

 

[chinacurious]

In regard to Hybrid rubbers I think Vega Europe H is fine for beginner. Rakza Z and Vega Pro H are much more difficult to play though.

I have read very good things about the new Banda Allround Future Cybershape. Maybe worth looking into since it's a lot cheaper.

 

[Doppelschlag]

IMO you're putting too much thought into it, you have already tried and liked Vega Euro H so its a safe bet already. What you need to improve is a rubber you are familiar with and can manage well, and it looks to me you have already found a strong option to choose

In terms of blade, I prefer the Pure Cybershape to Wood, for me it is not quite as fast or as snappy as the Wood but it has less vibration, softer feeling and better stability and safety on hard hits. It is also less expensive to boot. But I like the Wood just fine. Clipper Cybershape is good too but it leans more towards the realm of hitting/smashing/fast looping than the Pure or the Wood

Well, I have played only one hour with the Euro H and have not really formed an opinion if I like it yet actually. Was a gift I just put on my blade without thought.

Very interesteing about the blade, could you elaborate a bit more? At the same time softer but also less vibration? Seems counterintuitive to me, but please explain! Is the handle and blade of the Pure thicker or in any way different than the Wood? ”Snappy” sounds like it’s harder for my ears, but Wood is supposed to be softer? Very interested in all your experiences with this. What handel did you use? What rubbers on Wood and Pure?

 

[Doppelschlag]

In regard to Hybrid rubbers I think Vega Europe H is fine for beginner. Rakza Z and Vega Pro H are much more difficult to play though.

I have read very good things about the new Banda Allround Future Cybershape. Maybe worth looking into since it's a lot cheaper.

Thanks! Upon trying, the Vega Pro (non-H) felt fine to play, very controllable.

If looking on non-hybrids, have you tried Vega X, Fastarg G-1 or Tibhar MK?

Banda is a steal, but not made in Sweden, unlike the Wood and Pure. QC supposedly a bit lesser.

 

[chinacurious]

Thanks! Upon trying, the Vega Pro (non-H) felt fine to play, very controllable.

If looking on non-hybrids, have you tried Vega X, Fastarg G-1 or Tibhar MK?

Banda is a steal, but not made in Sweden, unlike the Wood and Pure. QC supposedly a bit lesser.

I have hit with all of those rubbers at least a little bit.
I had G1 in Ultramax and didn't like the catapult even though it's supposed to be low.
MK I also didn't like as much as many others. I'm not sure why.
Vega Pro and X I only hit a few balls on friends blades, so even less of an opinion there. I know ppl who tried X and went back to Pro.

One more question: How long was your break and how much did you play before/at what age did you start?

Because if you train 2-3 times per week, have a coach and had a good level as a kid, it's a different story than someone who started playing for a year in his 30s and is coming back now.

 

[Lazer]

Hey everyone,
I’m returning to the game after a long break and could use some input on rubbers for my next setup. Thanks to help from the forum, I have landed here:

About me

• Probably an all-round type of player, focusing on placement and variation rather than power.
• I move well and stay active on my feet, and generally have a good feeling for the ball.
• Not a technical looper yet, but working hard on improving my technique.
• Training 2–4 times a week, sometimes with a group coach.
• I can keep up with many club players, but my technique is a bit rusty and inconsistent.

What I’m looking for

• A rubber that doesn’t lock me in – something versatile for developing all aspects of the game.
• Preferably a similar feel on both FH and BH for a smoother learning curve.
• I might explore hybrids later, but for now I want something solid and forgiving.

What I’ve tried recently

• Smirnov Inner Carbon – was given to me used from a club player (with DHS 729 and Xiom Vega Europe) – a bit hard, but manageable. Probably has a small hair crack …
• Persson Power AR with Xiom Vega Pro – could control it well, not too fast for me, maybe lacking a bit in spin.
• Currently trying Vega Europe H on the Smirnov, which feels nice. Also a gift.

Blade I plan to buy

• Stiga Cybershape Wood, (probably non-CWT), with ST handle.
  I really like the feel and balance. If you have better suggestions for something similar, I’m all ears.

---

Rubber options​

Based on quite some amount of reading here on TTD …

Option 1
FH & BH: Nittaku Fastarc G-1

• + Very balanced and proven “get-and-forget” rubber
• – Slightly expensive, but known for great durability. Too fast?

Option 2
FH & BH: Xiom Vega X 1.8 mm (or maybe 2.0 mm on FH)

• + Good value and durable. Tad slower than Nittaku? Many players in my club’s best team play this.
• – Seems to be slightly behind the G-1 slightly in most areas?

Option 3
FH & BH: Tibhar Hybrid MK (2.0 mm, or MK FX on BH)

• + Even more control and feedback
• – No 1.8 mm version (heavier)
• – Durability reportedly lower

Option 4
FH & BH: Yasaka Rakza 7 (or Rakza 7 Soft on BH)

• + Classic and reliable,
• – though perhaps a bit dated compared to newer options?

Option 5
[–>Insert your genius insights here<—]

Bonus thought
Should I already try semi-hybrids like

• Vega Pro H/Europe H
• Rakza Z
  • on both sides? Or rather wait till I know who I am (maybe answered it myself there)

---

Main question
Given my level (rusty intermediate, AR+/OFF– style), which of these setups would best support developing a balanced, modern all-round game?

TL;DR
Returning intermediate (AR+/OFF–) player looking for a balanced setup to rebuild consistency and spin.
Settled on Stiga Cybershape Wood; main rubber candidates:

• Fastarc G-1 – best all-round choice, durable but pricey?
• Vega X – cheaper, durable, slightly less spin?
• Hybrid MK – more control, lower durability?
• (Rakza 7 – reliable classic?)
  ((Wondering if I should already test semi-hybrids (Vega Pro H / Europe H).))

The most important bit that you don’t go too fast…

I would start with än allwood blade a little flexible. 5 layer around 6mm thick.
If you desperately want a carbon blade, I really really like the Donic Appelgren WC89. It’s an excellent blade.

With this I would go with something with low cartapult not too spin sensitive until I get more experience and knowledge with new equipment. A good old fashioned Mark V is not a bard choice or something similar cheaper since Mark V is really too expensive…

Cheers
L-zr

 

[Doppelschlag]

I have hit with all of those rubbers at least a little bit.
I had G1 in Ultramax and didn't like the catapult even though it's supposed to be low.
MK I also didn't like as much as many others. I'm not sure why.
Vega Pro and X I only hit a few balls on friends blades, so even less of an opinion there. I know ppl who tried X and went back to Pro.

One more question: How long was your break and how much did you play before/at what age did you start?

Because if you train 2-3 times per week, have a coach and had a good level as a kid, it's a different story than someone who started playing for a year in his 30s and is coming back now.

Good point. I played in my school years, probably 1–2 hours a day for 8 years. Not in a club—played in elementary school—however against many club players. So the feeling and movements are very much deep ingrained. Break was 20 years though. My new club mates want med to compete right away though.

 

[Ultravisitor]

Rakza 7 durable and easy to play. The topsheet is a bit softer than G1 which makes it a bit easier to engage properly on lower powered shots.

Fastarc C1 also an option, slightly softer than G1. You can good deals on Fastarc coming black friday.

Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena are also durable and not crazy fast, maybe worth looking into.

Most hybrids have a short lifespan. Tibhar mk is a hybrid too. If you want something very durable it's not a hybrid most of the time.

 

[Doppelschlag]

The most important bit that you don’t go too fast…

I would start with än allwood blade a little flexible. 5 layer around 6mm thick.
If you desperately want a carbon blade, I really really like the Donic Appelgren WC89. It’s an excellent blade.

With this I would go with something with low cartapult not too spin sensitive until I get more experience and knowledge with new equipment. A good old fashioned Mark V is not a bard choice or something similar cheaper since Mark V is really too expensive…

Cheers
L-zr

Thanks! Yes, that’s why I’m pretty much settled on the Cybershape Wood a 5ply AR/OF- blade.

All the rubbers I listed are supposed to have low catapult and pretty los spin sensitivity, so looking for recommendations out of experience.

 

[Doppelschlag]

Rakza 7 durable and easy to play. The topsheet is a bit softer than G1 which makes it a bit easier to engage properly on lower powered shots.

Fastarc C1 also an option, slightly softer than G1. You can good deals on Fastarc coming black friday.

Butterfly Glayzer and Rozena are also durable and not crazy fast, maybe worth looking into.

Most hybrids have a short lifespan. Tibhar mk is a hybrid too. If you want something very durable it's not a hybrid most of the time.

Thanks for taking the time to reply!

I am ready to work on engaging to gain power, if I therefore can get less catapult in the short game. Is the C1/Rakza 7 bouncier on soft touches than G-1/Vega X?

Most people seem to categorize the MK as a non hybrid—despite it’s name—but still, maybe too much of a compromise.

 

[Ultravisitor]

---

Thanks for taking the time to reply!

I am ready to work on engaging to gain power, if I therefore can get less catapult in the short game. Is the C1/Rakza 7 bouncier on soft touches than G-1/Vega X?

Most people seem to categorize the MK as a non hybrid—despite it’s name—but still, maybe too much of a compromise

I'd order them like this from most bouncy to least:

Vega X > Rakza 7> G1 almost the same as C1.

But for me its less about power needed to engage, but better control on lower powered shots. It's hard to explain; I feel g1/c1 are better at shots that need more power. I think Rakza 7 is a little more versatile. But we're talking nuances... You will be fine with any of the options and if you're not happy you'll get something else in a few months.

 

[chinacurious]

Good point. I played in my school years, probably 1–2 hours a day for 8 years. Not in a club—played in elementary school—however against many club players. So the feeling and movements are very much deep ingrained. Break was 20 years though. My new club mates want med to compete right away though.

In that case I think you will be totally fine with the blade you chose and, since you seem to be set on it, I wont try to convince you of anything else.
As for the rubbers, like someone else said, if you want longevity Rakza 7 is probably the best choice. If you don't mind changing more frequently, stick with the Vega Europe H. At least if you still like it after more testing.

 

[S2000]

Hey everyone,
I’m returning to the game after a long break and could use some input on rubbers for my next setup. Thanks to help from the forum, I have landed here:

About me

• Probably an all-round type of player, focusing on placement and variation rather than power.
• I move well and stay active on my feet, and generally have a good feeling for the ball.
• Not a technical looper yet, but working hard on improving my technique.
• Training 2–4 times a week, sometimes with a group coach.
• I can keep up with many club players, but my technique is a bit rusty and inconsistent.

How much I’ve played
I played during my elementary school years, probably 1–2 hours a day for 9 years. Not in a club—played in my elementary school—however against many skilled team players. So the feeling and movements are very much deep ingrained in me. Break was 20 years though, I’m around 40 now. My new club mates want med to compete right away though.

What I’m looking for

• A rubber that doesn’t lock me in – something versatile for developing all aspects of the game.
• Preferably a similar feel on both FH and BH for a smoother learning curve.
• I might explore hybrids later, but for now I want something solid and forgiving.

What I’ve tried recently

• Smirnov Inner Carbon – was given to me used from a club player (with DHS 729 and Xiom Vega Europe) – a bit hard, but manageable. Probably has a small hair crack …
• Persson Power AR with Xiom Vega Pro – could control it well, not too fast for me, maybe lacking a bit in spin.
• Currently trying Vega Europe H on the Smirnov, which feels nice. Also a gift.

Blade I plan to buy

• Stiga Cybershape Wood, (probably non-CWT), with ST handle.
  I really like the feel and balance. If you have better suggestions for something similar, I’m all ears.

---

Rubber options​

Based on quite some amount of reading here on TTD …

Option 1
FH & BH: Nittaku Fastarc G-1

• + Very balanced and proven “get-and-forget” rubber
• – Slightly expensive, but known for great durability. Too fast?

Option 2
FH & BH: Xiom Vega X 1.8 mm (or maybe 2.0 mm on FH)

• + Good value and durable. Tad slower than Nittaku? Many players in my club’s best team play this.
• – Seems to be slightly behind the G-1 slightly in most areas?

Option 3
FH & BH: Tibhar Hybrid MK (2.0 mm, or MK FX on BH)

• + Even more control and feedback
• – No 1.8 mm version (heavier)
• – Durability reportedly lower

Option 4
FH & BH: Yasaka Rakza 7 (or Rakza 7 Soft on BH)

• + Classic and reliable,
• – though perhaps a bit dated compared to newer options?

Option 5
[–>Insert your genius insights here<—]

Bonus thought
Should I already try semi-hybrids like

• Vega Pro H/Europe H
• Rakza Z
  • on both sides? Or rather wait till I know who I am (maybe answered it myself there)

---

Main question
Given my level (rusty intermediate, AR+/OFF– style), which of these setups would best support developing a balanced, modern all-round game?

TL;DR
Returning intermediate (AR+/OFF–) player looking for a balanced setup to rebuild consistency and spin.
Settled on Stiga Cybershape Wood; main rubber candidates:

• Fastarc G-1 – best all-round choice, durable but pricey?
• Vega X – cheaper, durable, slightly less spin?
• Hybrid MK – more control, lower durability?
• (Rakza 7 – reliable classic?)
  ((Wondering if I should already test semi-hybrids (Vega Pro H / Europe H).))

If you are close to Stockholm Stiga has a test centre at Söder. I came back after many years. Tested some "easy" rubbers and has for now ended up with Mantra Pro M.It is an offensive rubber but not an extreme one. Has more development capacity than Rakza 7 and more forgiving for incoming spin.You need to learn to active the spin but once you are there it gives great spin both for brush and harder strike. It basically a do it all offensive rubber. Rakza Z I think has similar properties to DNA Hybrid both being slightly tacky but have lower throw than the Mantra Pro or Rakza 7. The DNA Hybrid comes in three different hardnesses whereof M is quite controllable. If you want a really controllable rubber then Rakza 7 soft is great and great stepping stone towards a faster rubber.

 

[Scarfed Garchomp]

At the same time softer but also less vibration? Seems counterintuitive to me, but please explain! Is the handle and blade of the Pure thicker or in any way different than the Wood? ”Snappy” sounds like it’s harder for my ears, but Wood is supposed to be softer? Very interested in all your experiences with this. What handel did you use? What rubbers on Wood and Pure?

I used flared handle but I have also used Pure with a straight handle. Pure is slightly thicker than Wood (6.4mm vs 6.0mm), and Pure is 7 ply vs Wood 5 ply. With Pure the vibration is less harsh, less loud, hence 'softer' likely because there is more wood in the composition to absorb vibration. Wood felt harder to me, as though the top ply seems to be treated with something (the top ply of Pure and Wood are the same), and apparently the Wood is based off of the Infinity which is also a fairly hard feeling blade. When I say "snappy" I felt that when I hit the ball more aggressively with the Wood, I perceived the blade to flex and throw the ball out stronger than with the Pure. On Pure I have tried Bluestar A1, DNA Platinum H, D80 and D09C, H3, Glayzer, Rakza 7. I have borrowed a couple clubmates Wood, one who had MXP-50 on it, the other had DNA Platinum M bh and H fh on it. The guy who had Platinum on his racket also agreed with me that Pure felt softer and slower than Wood despite having more layers and a thicker composition but ymmv

 

[Doppelschlag]

In that case I think you will be totally fine with the blade you chose and, since you seem to be set on it, I wont try to convince you of anything else.
As for the rubbers, like someone else said, if you want longevity Rakza 7 is probably the best choice. If you don't mind changing more frequently, stick with the Vega Europe H. At least if you still like it after more testing.

Thanks, helps a lot. Sounds like you might have an opinion on the blade? Pleas do share, I simultaneously trust my feeling and try to be open to wise words of advice.

 

[Doppelschlag]

If you are close to Stockholm Stiga has a test centre at Söder. I came back after many years. Tested some "easy" rubbers and has for now ended up with Mantra Pro M.It is an offensive rubber but not an extreme one. Has more development capacity than Rakza 7 and more forgiving for incoming spin.You need to learn to active the spin but once you are there it gives great spin both for brush and harder strike. It basically a do it all offensive rubber. Rakza Z I think has similar properties to DNA Hybrid both being slightly tacky but have lower throw than the Mantra Pro or Rakza 7. The DNA Hybrid comes in three different hardnesses whereof M is quite controllable. If you want a really controllable rubber then Rakza 7 soft is great and great stepping stone towards a faster rubber.

Thanks a lot! Unfortunately, despite having grown up there, I live elsewhere. Interesting about Mantra Pro M. Important for me, I believe at least, is that it should not have too much catapult, I like it to be slow/dead with soft touch, and needing me to activate the catapult, so that the short game does not suffer. How is that with the Mantra? And the control in general? Would it pair Weill with a 5ply wood blade? And have you compared to Pro H, and DNA Platinums?

Also, do you have any experience of the different cyberspace blades? Collecting all the infos I can get (and chillin’ till Black Friday).

Edit: Also, one reason I didn’t shortlist the Mantra (And the DNA Platinum S) is that they do not have any 1,8mm – I thought it a good idea to start thinner …?

 

[S2000]

Thanks a lot! Unfortunately, despite having grown up there, I live elsewhere. Interesting about Mantra Pro M. Important for me, I believe at least, is that it should not have too much catapult, I like it to be slow/dead with soft touch, and needing me to activate the catapult, so that the short game does not suffer. How is that with the Mantra? And the control in general? Would it pair Weill with a 5ply wood blade? And have you compared to Pro H, and DNA Platinums?

Also, do you have any experience of the different cyberspace blades? Collecting all the infos I can get (and chillin’ till Black Friday).

Edit: Also, one reason I didn’t shortlist the Mantra (And the DNA Platinum S) is that they do not have any 1,8mm – I thought it a good idea to start thinner …?

Mantra Pro - if you have soft touch works really well for short play. If you push a bit harder then there is a point where it will go too far. If you have good feeling you will learn rather quickly. It has catapult but so has most modern rubbers including Rakza 7. If you are OK with Rakza 7 then mantra should be OK but has a bit more catapult than Rakza 7. Otherwise go for Rakza 7 soft but for me it took maybe a month or two to outgrow. If you want very little catapult then a rubber like Yasaka Riganis not a bad choice. It is like the big brother of mark V but you need max thickness. I however outgrew that in two sessions haha. In comparison DNA Platinum S has even more catapult then Mantra Pro M and will need more skill to master. Less spin sensitive than the Rakza also. I am using it from time to time. The racket you are looking for Cyberhsape Wood is probably really great for you. Seems to have some similar properties to my blade. I personally use a Donic Waldner Offensive which has some similar properties. When it comes to blocking all of these rubbers are OK but the slower rubbers need more precision in the block. In my opinion both Mantra Pro (go for medium) as well as Rakza 7 normal and soft pair well with 5 ply. Actually very good for looping.

I have not used the cybershape blades so sorry about that. There is some interesting technical analysis of these blades and many others at TTGearLab.com. One thing which I found out was to have a blade that fits y hands. I have size 10-11 for gloves. The only really good handle for me has been the above Donic Waldner Offensive in anatomic shape which is the old banda design (has a the largest circumference of blades I have tested). For me Stiga straight is OK but a bit tiny but works. The flared Stiga get locked into my palm and does not feel so good and restrict my movements. Yasaka has also decent handles straight or anatomic. The handle in my opinion is underrated because it steers a lot what you can do with the bat. Good luck!

 

[MarekD]

I used flared handle but I have also used Pure with a straight handle. Pure is slightly thicker than Wood (6.4mm vs 6.0mm), and Pure is 7 ply vs Wood 5 ply. With Pure the vibration is less harsh, less loud, hence 'softer' likely because there is more wood in the composition to absorb vibration. Wood felt harder to me, as though the top ply seems to be treated with something (the top ply of Pure and Wood are the same), and apparently the Wood is based off of the Infinity which is also a fairly hard feeling blade.........

Can you also tell me what the difference is between Clipper And Pure?

 

[Scarfed Garchomp]

Can you also tell me what the difference is between Clipper And Pure?

They are very similar, but Pure has a thinner center ply. My Clipper is ~6.6mm and my Pure is ~6.4mm iirc. Clipper feels both stiffer and harder to me, and plays more direct. Clipper has a longer and lower trajectory, it produces more threatening quality shots for me, but off the table I have to be more mindful of the lower trajectory or sometimes my shots will hit the net. Where the Pure has a higher but shorter trajectory, which I feel allows me a higher margin for error when attacking aggressively even if the ball it produces is not quite as penetrating as Clipper