The Friendship Super 729 FX is a legendary pimple-in rubber that has served as a developmental cornerstone for countless players. Positioned as a high-control, all-round offensive rubber, its defining characteristic is a very tacky (sticky) topsheet paired with a soft, absorbent sponge. This combination excels at generating immense spin at low to medium speeds, making it an ideal choice for players who are mastering their looping technique and building a spin-centric game. It is perfect for developing all-rounders, beginner-to-intermediate loopers, and any player who prioritizes control and spin manipulation over raw, outright speed.
Specs
Type: Pimple-In (Allround / Offensive)
Top Sheet: Very Tacky, Smooth Finish
Sponge Thickness: 2.2mm
Sponge Hardness: Medium-Soft (Approx. 38-41 degrees on the Chinese scale)
Throw Angle: Medium-High
Color Options: Red, Black
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: China
Pros
Unmatched Control: Incredibly forgiving, allowing for precise placement and a high degree of confidence in all strokes.
Massive Spin Potential: The tacky surface makes it easy to load serves and loops with heavy spin.
Excellent for Learning: Forces the use of correct technique to generate speed, building a solid foundation for future development.
Outstanding Value for Money: One of the most affordable, high-performing rubbers on the market.
Exceptional Durability: The topsheet remains playable for a very long time.
Cons
Lacks Top-End Speed: Does not have the "catapult effect" of modern rubbers and can feel slow away from the table.
Requires Effort: Players must use their body to generate power; the rubber will not do the work for you.
Sensitive to Dust: The tacky surface needs to be kept clean to maintain its grip.
Can Feel Sluggish on Blocks: Passive blocking is controlled but slow; active blocking requires a deliberate forward motion.
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
3.5
Offers controllable speed. It is not a speed monster like modern tensors, requiring the player to generate pace with proper technique and body engagement.
Spin
5.0
Exceptional spin generation. The tacky topsheet allows for very high rotation on serves, pushes, and especially on slow, brush loops.
Control
5.0
The non-bouncy nature and soft sponge provide a massive margin for error, making ball placement precise and consistent.
Grip / Tackiness
5.0
Extremely tacky out of the package. The ball will literally stick to the surface, which is fantastic for intricate spin play but requires a clean surface.
Throw Angle
4.0
Medium-High. The tacky surface grips the ball and throws it upwards in a pronounced arc during brush loops, making it easier to clear the net.
Durability
4.5
Built to last. The topsheet is famously durable and retains its playing characteristics for a very long time, offering outstanding value.
The Friendship Super 729 FX isn’t just a rubber. For decades, it has been the go-to choice for coaches teaching the fundamentals of spin, and its timeless qualities continue to make it relevant today.
Looping and Serving Performance: The tacky topsheet allows for a “brushing” motion that is less physically demanding yet imparts tremendous rotation on the ball. For players learning to loop, the high throw angle helps lift backspin balls over the net, building confidence and consistency. Serves can be loaded with deceptive amounts of spin, making them difficult for opponents to read and return. While it can execute power loops, it requires a full-body stroke and does not have the “easy speed” of a German or Japanese tensor.
Short Game and Passive Receive: In the short game, the Super 729 FX is a master of control. Its non-bouncy nature means pushes can be kept low, short, and loaded with backspin, preventing opponents from easily initiating an attack. Flicks are highly controllable, as the rubber won’t unexpectedly “fire” the ball off the end of the table. This predictability is crucial for building a safe and effective receiving game.
Comparison to Other Rubbers: Compared to a classic like Butterfly Sriver, the Super 729 FX is much spinnier (due to tackiness vs. mechanical grip) but slower. Against a modern entry-level tensor like the Yasaka Rakza 7, the 729 FX has far more control and better short-game feel, but is significantly outpaced in a fast rally. It occupies a unique space, prioritizing spin and placement above all else.
Ideal Blade Pairings and Player Suitability: The 729 FX is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide range of blades.
For Beginners: Pairing it with a 5-ply all-wood blade (e.g., Stiga Allround Classic, Tibhar Stratus Power Wood) is a perfect combination that maximizes feel and control.
For Intermediate Players: Mounting it on a slightly faster OFF-blade (e.g., Yasaka Ma Lin Extra Offensive) provides more than enough speed for a controlled attacking game.
This rubber is highly recommended for beginner and intermediate players. It builds discipline and teaches a player to rely on their technique, not the equipment, to win points. Advanced players may find it too slow, but it remains a popular choice for choppers or players seeking maximum control on one wing.
Long-Term Value: The value proposition is nearly unbeatable. For a fraction of the price of a high-end tensor rubber, the Super 729 FX delivers top-tier spin, elite control, and a lifespan that far exceeds its more expensive counterparts, making it a wise investment for any developing player.
If you’re considering Friendship Super 729 FX for your next setup, be sure to explore current deals and trusted retailers below.
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