Nittaku Moristo SP is a short pips-out rubber developed for fast-paced, close-to-the-table offensive play. Known for its high speed and reliable flat hitting, it features a soft, responsive sponge paired with grippy, elastic pips that help produce a disruptive low-trajectory ball. This rubber is especially effective for backhand punch counters, active blocking, and quick exchanges over the table. It caters to flat hitters, counter-drivers, and players who like to apply pressure with controlled disruption rather than excessive spin.
High spin tolerance makes serve return and blocking easier
Creates low, disruptive trajectories
Excellent for backhand pressure and fast exchanges
Reliable durability for a high-performance pip rubber
Cons
Lively sponge may be less forgiving for beginners
Less effective from mid-distance play
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.5
Delivers strong rebound and acceleration on flat hits and smashes, particularly in Max sponge. The sponge provides great pace even on short strokes.
Control
4.0
Very playable on blocks and quick counters, but the lively sponge requires a steady hand in passive rallies.
Spin Capability
2.5
Limited brushing ability, but still possible to add light topspin or backspin on flicks and pushes.
Spin Tolerance
4.5
Excellent resistance to incoming spin. Spinny serves and topspin shots are easier to handle compared to inverted rubbers.
Disruption
4.0
The ball stays low and flat, especially on blocks and counters. It creates uncomfortable trajectories for opponents.
Flat Hit & Countering
5.0
Outstanding for punch shots and direct hits. The rubber excels at fast on the backhand.
Blocking Efficiency
4.5
Very stable in passive and punch blocks. Players can redirect heavy topspin with ease and maintain precision.
Durability
4.0
The topsheet and sponge maintain performance over time, though elasticity may reduce slightly after extensive use.
Core Performance Aspects
Flat Hitting & Counterattacking
Nittaku Moristo SP thrives in fast, compact strokes, particularly on the backhand. The sponge provides immediate rebound, allowing clean and efficient finishing shots even under pressure. It performs exceptionally well in punch counters and direct drives close to the table.
Blocking & Spin Rejection
Both passive and active blocking feel very stable with this rubber. The pips maintain structure under spin and absorb some of the opponent’s energy, making blocks against heavy topspin both controlled and disruptive. The ball leaves the bat quickly with a low trajectory, which often forces errors.
Serve Return & Pushes
One of the highlights of Moristo SP is how naturally it handles spinny serves. The short pips minimize sensitivity, allowing easier control and placement. Pushes can be aggressive or short, with the added benefit of neutralizing excessive spin from the opponent.
Spin Capability & Grip
While not designed for spin-heavy play, the topsheet has decent grip for a short pip. Some brushing is possible, especially with 1.8 mm sponge or thinner. Players can execute flicks and light topspin, but brushing consistency is limited compared to inverted rubbers.
Short Game & Flicking
The rubber handles drop shots and short pushes well due to the low dwell and responsiveness. Backhand flicks are quick and punchy, especially effective over the table. However, a slight adjustment in stroke mechanics is needed compared to inverted rubbers.
Strategic Considerations
Rubber Comparison
Compared to TSP Spectol or Yasaka Rakza PO, Moristo SP is softer and more geared toward speed and feel. It offers better control than Rakza PO and is faster than Spectol, making it ideal for players who value aggressive blocking and quick backhand pressure.
Sponge Thickness Variation
1.4 mm: More control and spin resistance, better for all-round blocking.
1.8 mm: Balanced between speed and control.
2.0 mm – Max: Maximum speed and punch power for offensive players.
Blade Compatibility
Best suited with composite blades (e.g., carbon, ALC) for players seeking speed and punch. Players who prioritize touch and spin control may prefer soft or all-wood blades to make the rubber easier to handle.
Ideal Player Fit
Perfect for advanced or intermediate players using short pips on their backhand for controlled aggression, flat hitting, and disruptive blocking. It suits modern all-rounders, counter-hitters, and those transitioning from inverted to short pips.
Nittaku Moristo SP is a high-speed, close-to-table short pips rubber with strong flat-hitting and blocking capabilities. Its soft sponge and responsive pips make it an excellent choice for backhand pressure, quick punch counters, and serve return. While not focused on spin creation, it offers solid disruption and high control under fast exchanges. A reliable option for players who favor speed and precision over spin.
If you’re looking for a short pips rubber that delivers fast backhand counters, confident blocking, and excellent spin handling, the Nittaku Moristo SP is a strong contender. Explore its speed and disruption potential today and elevate your close-table game.
