Just to add some context to all of this Z03 discussion….. Because I really do believe that “ability” is massively overlooked when discussing equipment.
For clarity, me (far side, large human), is playing with an inner carbon ALC blade and D09c on both sides.
Near side has a ZJSALC (yes, super!) with a BOOSTED Z03 forehand rubber.
I’ve used it, it’s quick, and too reactive for me personally.
But everyone has this impression that D09c is slow, or useless away from the table, and somehow Z03 is the answer.
Technique matters. A lot. And you can see from the very short video that even a boosted Z03 on a fast blade can be controllable (my playing partner was pretty consistent considering it was the first time he’d used it!) and D09c can be a weapon from away from the table if needed!
For what it’s worth…. The reason I moved to D09c was to get that safety - Just look at the arc, the ball bounces 50-75% down the other side of the table, and it’s quick ENOUGH.
It’s not a rocket, nor as quick/direct as D05 or Z03 but it’s puts the ball in the table much more….
And yes, this is the only clip I have from the match (he recorded), because who doesn’t want to see a backhand winner down the line to go 2-0 up….. 😂
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