Table tennis is all about spin, doesnt matter what direction the ball spins. Defensive playing styles might not be that popular, but that doesnt mean it there arent players chopping left and right! I used to be a defender myself before my coach forced me to play more offensively so I know how fun chopping incoming spins deep into the opponents table can be.
That is why in this article we will be talking all about chopping and the best rubbers suited for it so you can choose the one that fits your needs.
The Role of Rubbers in Chopping Techniques
Rubbers play a crucial role in executing effective chopping techniques. Their grip and sponge characteristics determine the amount of spin you can impart on the ball while maintaining precision and control. There are various types of rubbers available, each with its unique attributes that cater to specific playing styles.
For a detailed overview of different rubber types, visit our comprehensive table tennis rubbers and blades blog. In the context of chopping, two primary rubber types come into play: long pips out rubbers and inverted rubbers. Short pips out rubbers are generally avoided in chopping techniques due to their limited spin capabilities.
In general, soft, tacky rubbers that offer lots of control are going to be the best rubbers to easily execute chops with. Rubber choice is going to be very subjective, but weโve listed a few rubbers below that will all be great choices for choppers.
How To Choose a Rubber For Chopping
Type of Rubber: The first thing we need to discuss is the type of rubber we want to chop with. Inverted, long pimps or short pimps can all be used for chopping.
Inverted: Almost all defensive players use an inverted rubber on their forehand side so they are not limited to only chopping on both sides.
Short Pimps: Short pimps are usually used for close to table attacks but they can be used for chopping. They will behave closer to inverted rubbers then long pimps, making it easier to adapt to the defensive playstyle.
Long Pimps: This is the most commonly preferred choice of rubber for chopping thanks to its ability to disturb and give backspin to incoming spins unlike any other type of rubber. Getting used to long pimps might take some time if you are just starting to learn chopping so be cautious.
Sponge Tickness: On inverted rubbers, if you are using your forehand more for attacking you should go for max or 2.1mm thickness. For a more controlled chopping experience on the forehand go for 1.5mm thickness.
Short and long pimps are easier to control with thinner sponges so for beginners to intermediates I would recommend sticking with 0.5mm sponge. As you build your confidence in your chops you can get thicker sponges for more spin and speed on your chops.
Our Recommended Rubbers for Chopping
Tibhar Grass D.TecS โ Best Long Pimps Rubber
Even hearing the name of this rubber makes me nervous. During my years learning table tennis almost all the veteran players in my club were using these. It is so effective in returning loops back with a heavy backspin that it almost made me quit playing table tennis!
It has really grippy pimps and the sponge version is quite fast. If you want the most pimps out effect out of it go with no sponge and if you choose the sponge version be careful cause it can get tricky to control the speed.
Butterfly Feint Long III – Second Best Long Pimps Rubber
Of course, we cant have a best of list without Butterfly on it. The table tennis giants have done a great job as always with their Feint Long 3 pimps out rubber. It has a really soft sponge that results in chopping even the fastest loops with ease. combine that with grippy pimples and you have a rubber that for sure will make your opponent sweat.
TSP Curl P3 Alpha R – Best Budget Long Pimps Rubber
This one would really suit players who like to play far back and chop those heavy spins long and deep into the other side of the net. I recommend the whole line up of TSPโs Curl rubbers, they all behave similarly so it is up to preference which one you prefer. This rubber also performs the best with no sponge so thats the version I recommend.
TSP Spectol Soft– Best Short Pimps Rubber
This one is not just great for attacking close to the table but also for chopping! If you dont believe me, check out Han Ying from the German National Team. From touch play to mid range heavy choops this one has it all. It is suited or players who like chopping but dont shy away from smashing every now and then.
DHS Hurricane 3 National– Best Inverted Rubber
We’ve all seen it on various lists before, we all heard people talking about it. This is the choice of Chinese National Team players and it is clear why. The super tacky top sheet combined with the hard and dynamic sponge gives you powerful and extremely spiny shots if you execute the right technique.
The tacky top sheet also makes it easy to control your chops if you find yourself in a situation where you cant attack the ball. It is quite expensive, but its still on top of the list of best sellers so the users think its worth the money, and so do I.
Chop Your Way to Victory
Selecting the right ping pong rubber is pivotal for excelling in chopping techniques. Each table tennis rubber recommendation outlined above offers unique characteristics that cater to specific chopping strategies.
Whether you seek precision, spin variation, or versatile control, these rubbers will enhance your chopping game, allowing you to command the table with finesse and mastery. Choose wisely, and elevate your defensive play to new heights.
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