Hard vs soft pimples (LP)

[Kopp]

Ok, I know this is a silly question.

I just found out there are hard pimples, soft and in between. LOL

What is the different? How to choose which one of them? Is there any correlation between the pimples hardness and the sponge thickness?

 

[haggisv]

It's no different to having hard or soft topsheets on inverted rubbers, it affects it's characteristics. There are many other characteristics that the affect the performance too, so you can't base your decision just on the pimple hardness.

Generally the softer ones grab the ball more easily so you can produce a little more of your own spin when chopping or pushing (with the right technique). The harder ones can be a bit more effective for hitting the ball.

The sponge thickness is yet another variable. Amateur players usually use OX (no sponge) if they play a close-in blocking/pushing style game, while for chopping a sponge is usually preferred, as it helps to absorb the pace of a loop a little better, and allows for more spin generation.

 

[John_]

Regarding pips out, because that's where pimple hardness really matters.

Hard pips have good reversal, so good block and on the table play, and soft pips have good absorption so chopping for defense.

Thicker sponge means more speed. Usually hard pips go with no sponge so the ball drops when hit, with the on the table style. And for a better trajectory that doesn't get altered by the sponge. So ox isn't only for beginners, but also for ox offensive players and defenders. Sponge is mainly used for arc and speed when chopping from long distance for soft pips.

Regarding inverted rubbers, softer pips means more deformation so generally more spin generation. It also works with the topsheet tension and hardness, so they all factor in. You can't really judge one aspect of an inverted rubber without factoring in everything else.