How long do rubbers last?

[reconcop]

I am a recreational player logging around 5 hours per week on an average. I have been using Xiom Vega Pro (FH), Xiom Vega Europe (BH) for the past 6 months. Both are European style tensor rubbers. I use a wet sponge to clean them after every use.

How do I know if the rubbers need to be changed? What are the general signs? How often is it recommended for recreational players to change rubbers?

 

[lodro]

this question is a new version of:"How long is a piece of string" 😁
There must be at least 300 answers for this.

 

[KM1976]

The use of the rubber in table tennis is to add spin to the ball. For a hobby player like me, this is sufficient. If I can impart spin on the ball and I get the 'right' feel from the rubber then by all means I will keep on using it. Rest all is marketing gimmick.

 

[sky500]

I've been told around 6 month is the rule of thumb but it depends also on the rubber itself. I know that Vega Pro is very durable, so it can easily last for a year or more. In the end you have to feel, if the rubber is to slippery or doesn't grip the ball as good as before anymore. Then you have to change.

 

[Infernal]

Given the amount of time you play, 1 year+. Xiom Vega line are very durable.

 

[Sims]

I'm

I am a recreational player logging around 5 hours per week on an average. I have been using Xiom Vega Pro (FH), Xiom Vega Europe (BH) for the past 6 months. Both are European style tensor rubbers. I use a wet sponge to clean them after every use.

How do I know if the rubbers need to be changed? What are the general signs? How often is it recommended for recreational players to change rubbers?

getting 1 yr + from Yasaka rubbers, R7, RX and RZ. Not the same as Xiom but also ESN Tensors.
In 12 mths I had a visibly worn patch on a FH Rakza Z (with a tiny hole) while the BH Rakza X was still ok for a few mths more.
This was 2-3 times a week playing, probably on average 5 hrs a week.
Some rubbers like Fastarc G1 or DHS H3 can last 2 yrs easily tho, they're just a more durable rubber so it just depends on the rubber and how hard you hit!

 

[Jan_]

Short answer: Depends.

Long answer: We'll be here talking for a week.

So yeah, someone can help explain.
Generally anywhere between 6 months for sensitive rubbers, for example the k3, and 2 years for the most durable old technology rubbers, like yasaka mkv. I've seen a mkv last for over 5 years with little play and good care. So it really depends.

I like to change mine after the match period is over so I can get used to them in time. So once or twice a year, depending on the schedule of the matches and what rubber it is.

That should give you a rough idea. The vega europe with normal use can easily last a year.

 

[Lazer]

Until you think it has “lost” it. You yourself is the only one that can decide this.

Cheers
L-zr

 

[Aizen]

If you want to quantify, the general say is that the lifespan is around 100 hours.

It depends on training intensity (multiball, how hard you hit), environment, dust, temperature, how you store (oxidation is formidable enemy), rubber’s type, boosting etc.

Many recreational player play until 200 hours commonly, even some can push up to 300.

There is no deadline, the rubber loses properties over time like %100-> %95 -> so on.

You can see yourself while you play, to determine when you should change.

 

[Tony's Table Tennis]

idea prime condition is around 80~120 hours.
of course with longer period of use, oxidation will also deteriorate the rubber further, thus reducing the lifespan.

Most leagues are 4 to 6 months long. I normally recommend players to get a new one during the start of the league, and maybe see how it goes. Chang half way and then the off season to use the "older rubber" to practice.

with your 5 hours a week, I would believe it is time for a change.

It is all relative to how worn out your rubber is until you don't like it any more.
The number is tangible based on the users preference