Friendship 729 SST Cross offers a solid speed output, particularly for an allround rubber. It provides balanced speed with good acceleration, excelling in transitions from defense to offense and in fast rallies. Our testing shows it pairs well with a fast blade to unlock its full offensive potential.
Spin
The sticky topsheet allows for significant spin generation, especially on serves and controlled topspin shots. While not as extreme as some hyper-tacky rubbers, its spin capabilities are well-regarded, allowing players to impart good rotation to set up attacks and control rallies effectively.
Control
Control is a standout feature. Its stable sponge and grippy topsheet provide excellent feedback, making it easy to place shots accurately and maintain consistency. This high level of control makes it an ideal choice for developing players and those who value tactical play and a reliable short game.
Dwell Time
The high-elasticity and stable sponge contribute to a good dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the rubber for enhanced spin generation and control. This creates a medium to long dwell time, providing a satisfying ball feeling compared to harder, faster rubbers.
Tackiness
It possesses a noticeable tackiness that aids in ball grip and spin generation. While not as intensely sticky as some high-end Chinese tacky rubbers, it provides enough surface tack to be effective for players relying on grip for spin, contributing to its balanced feel.
Throw Angle
Players report a high arc and long first trajectory, indicating a medium-high throw angle. This is beneficial for generating spin on loops and suits players who prefer a higher ball trajectory in their game.
