Butterfly Impartial XS is a high-tension short pips-out rubber designed for aggressive close-to-the-table attackers. It offers explosive speed, low-arc trajectories, and surprisingly strong spin generation for a short pips sheet. This makes it a top choice for players who thrive on fast counters, flat hits, and disruptive backhand pressure. Unlike traditional short pips that focus only on control and disruption, the XS introduces more spin potential, bridging the gap for players transitioning from inverted rubbers.
Specs
Type: Short Pips-Out (High Tension)
Sponge Thickness: 1.7 / 1.9 / 2.1 / 2.3 mm
Sponge Hardness: 30° (Soft, Butterfly scale)
Speed (Factory): 70
Spin (Factory): 70
Control (Factory): N/A
Arc (Factory): 70
Characteristics: High tension, flat trajectory, fast topspin, strong pushes
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: Japan
Pros
Very fast with strong catapult effect
Unusual spin potential for short pips
Great for quick counters and punch shots
Solid against incoming spin
Suits offensive backhand strategies
Cons
Control is demanding, easy to overshoot
Less disruptive wobble than older short pips
Requires precise timing
Softer sponge may wear faster with heavy play
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
5.0
Exceptionally fast with strong rebound. Drives and counters shoot out with pace.
Control
3.5
Powerful but demands precision; can overshoot if not managed carefully.
Spin Capability
4.0
Remarkably spinny for short pips; supports brushing loops and heavy pushes.
Spin Tolerance
4.0
Handles incoming spin well, especially on blocks and serves.
Disruption
3.5
Low arc and fast rebound disturb opponents, though not as deceptive as classic pip rubbers.
Flat Hit & Countering
5.0
Punch shots and direct counters are crisp, quick, and very effective.
Blocking Efficiency
4.0
Great for active blocks; requires sharp timing to avoid overshooting.
Durability
4.0
High build quality with resilient sponge and pip structure.
Core Performance Aspects
Flat Hitting & Counterattacking:Butterfly Impartial XS excels here. The feel is crisp with minimal dwell, and rapid, direct responses make drives and counters feel decisive.
Blocking & Spin Rejection: Blocks are speedy and forceful. While consistency is solid in practice, match intensity can lead to overhit. Wrist work helps keep blocks low and fast.
Serve Return & Pushes: Can generate surprisingly heavy pushes; serve receive requires a light touch to avoid pop-ups.
Spin Capability & Grip: Supports brushing strokes, rare for pips; can produce near-inverted-level topspin.
Short Game & Flicking: Demands good timing but delivers sharp flicks and aggressive openings.
Strategic Considerations
Rubber Comparison: Compared toImpartial XB, the XS is faster, spinnier, and more aggressive, but harder to control. Compared to traditional short pips (e.g., Friendship 802), Impartial XS offers greater speed and spin, but less deceptive reversal. Good for players transitioning from inverted to pips.
Blade Compatibility: Pairs well with stiff, fast blades (e.g., Balsa Carbo X5, Timo Boll CAF, Sardius, Primorac Carbon), which complement its dynamic, punchy character. Softer all-wood boards may exaggerate bounce.
Ideal Player Fit: Best for aggressive, close-to-the-table attackers or counter-attackers. Backhand users and penholders who value punch and quick reaction will find it especially fitting. Less ideal for defensive or rhythm-oriented players.
Butterfly Impartial XS is a dynamic short-pips rubber built for speed, spin, and precise offensive control. It offers a rare combination of whip-like drives and spin grip uncommon in pips. Ideal for close-to-the-table hitters and backhand offensive players, it demands accurate timing and plays best with a committed, flat-hit style. If you want to blend the feel of inverted rubber with the quickness of pips, this is a compelling choice.
Looking for a fast, spin-sensitive short-pips rubber that excels at backhand counters and flat shots? Try the Butterfly Impartial XS short pips rubber, a high-tension sheet that delivers speed, control, and a disruptive edge all in one.
