The Donic Acuda S1 is a high-performance pimple-in rubber designed for modern offensive players who rely on speed, spin, and precision. Featuring a grippy topsheet paired with a medium-hard sponge, it excels in fast looping, counter-attacking, and third-ball play. Acuda S1 is particularly popular among aggressive loopers and power hitters who prefer a low arc and direct trajectory, allowing for rapid, high-pressure play close to the table or at mid-distance. While not overly tacky, its spin potential is notable, especially when combined with a brushing technique.
Specs
Type: Pimple-In (Offensive)
Top Sheet: Grippy (non-tacky), smooth surface
Sponge Thickness: 2.0mm, Max
Sponge Hardness: Hard (approx. 47,5°)
Throw Angle: Low
Color Options: Red, Black
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: Germany
Pros
Explosive speed is ideal for power looping and counter-attacks
Grippy top sheet supports heavy topspin on serves and brush loops
Very stable on active blocks and punch counters
A hard sponge gives crisp feedback and strong energy return
Cons
Low throw angle can be tricky for beginners or those who prefer higher arc rubbers
Less forgiving on soft touches like drop shots or chop-blocks
Not ideal for purely defensive players or passive styles
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
5.0
Very fast on loops and drives due to the tensioned sponge and low-throw trajectory. Ideal for offensive rallies.
Spin
4.5
Generates sharp topspin and serve spin, though slightly less than ultra-tacky rubbers. Needs good brushing technique.
Control
4.0
Surprisingly manageable for a fast rubber; forgiving on blocks and counter-hits with clean technique.
Grip / Tackiness
4.0
Grippy surface, not tacky. Offers excellent grip for modern spin mechanics but is less suited for spin reversal tricks.
Throw Angle
3.0
Low trajectory; benefits flat hitters and power loopers. May need adjustment for those used to higher arc rubbers.
Durability
4.0
Solid lifespan with proper care; retains spin and bounce for several months of regular play. Slight surface wear over time.
The Donic Acuda S1 is created for offensive-minded players who favor direct, high-speed shots with minimal compromise on control. Its grippy, tensioned surface pairs beautifully with the medium-hard sponge to offer a sharp catapult effect, crucial for powerful third-ball attacks and quick exchanges.
Looping & Serving On loops, the Acuda S1 is explosive and aggressive. Brush looping requires precision, but once dialed in, the arc remains low and deep, making it hard for opponents to counter. Power loopers will appreciate the fast rebound and solid bite into the ball. On serves, the grip provides sufficient friction for spinny short serves and sidespin variations, though it’s not as deceptive as tackier Chinese rubbers.
Short Game & Passive Receive In the short game, the low throw angle requires adjustments on pushes and flicks. Flicking over the table demands active wrist use, but rewards the player with low, spin-loaded returns. Passive receives, such as drop shots or soft pushes, may require an extra touch due to the lively sponge.
Blocks, Smashes, and Counter-Loops Blocking with the Acuda S1 is a breeze for experienced players. The rubber’s stable feel and crisp feedback give it a consistent blocking platform, even against spinny loop drives. Flat hits and smashes are lethal. The ball trajectory stays low and fast. Counter-looping at mid-distance is another strong suit, thanks to the elastic sponge and linear feel.
Under Pressure In fast rallies, the Acuda S1 maintains high stability. Its consistent bounce and grippy surface make it reliable under stress. Players with good footwork and compact strokes will get the most out of it during high-tempo exchanges.
Comparisons Compared to rubbers like Butterfly Tenergy 05 or Xiom Vega Pro, the Acuda S1 is slightly lower in arc and speed-focused, while retaining excellent spin potential. It’s more linear and predictable than rubbers with high catapult effect, which helps aggressive players stay in control during intense play.
Blade Pairing & Player Suitability The Acuda S1 works best with flexible all-wood blades for increased dwell time or with stiff carbon blades to maximize its directness and speed. It’s suited for intermediate to advanced players who want high performance without the extreme sensitivity of harder, tackier rubbers.
Long-Term Value Durability is quite solid for a tensor rubber. The topsheet stays grippy for several months with regular play. Although it may lose some bounce and spin after extended use, it remains playable longer than many ultra-soft rubbers in the same class.
If you’re considering DONIC Acuda S1 for your next setup, be sure to explore current deals and trusted retailers below.
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