Yasaka Rakza X Soft is the softer variant of the Rakza X series, designed to offer greater control, longer dwell time, and improved touch without sacrificing offensive capability. Built with the same grippy topsheet and Hybrid Energy sponge concept as its harder sibling, this version caters to players who rely on heavy spin, precise placement, and consistency in both looping and short play. Ideal for developing attackers, all-round players, or those seeking a softer, more forgiving feel with high spin performance.
Specs
Type: Offensive
Surface: Grippy
Sponge Hardness: 42.5° ESN
Sponge Thickness: 2.0 mm / Max
Speed (Manufacturer): 84
Spin (Manufacturer): 88
Control (Manufacturer): 74
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: Germany
Pros
High spin potential with long dwell time
Excellent control and soft feel across all strokes
Great for touch play and serve receive
Cons
May feel too soft for those used to harder rubbers
Less suitable for players who rely on high-speed finishing
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.0
Fast enough for offensive strokes, but slightly toned down for better control and feel.
Spin
4.5
The grippy topsheet and softer sponge help generate excellent spin on loops and serves.
Control
4.5
One of its standout traits. High forgiveness on blocks and consistency across various shots.
Grip / Tackiness
4.5
High-friction surface provides reliable grip on contact.
Throw Angle
4.5
Medium-high arc gives safety and confidence over the net.
Dwell Time
4.5
Long contact time with the ball makes spin shots and touch play easier to execute.
Catapult Effect
4.0
Noticeable trampoline effect at mid-to-high swing speeds. Softer sponge contributes to rebound.
Hardness Feel
3.0
Soft feel with pleasant feedback. Great for players who value control and comfort.
Yasaka Rakza X Soft excels in spin-oriented looping thanks to its long dwell time and medium-high throw angle. It allows easy brush contact and offers a forgiving arc, making it suitable for both slow spinny loops and fast topspin shots. Players can loop safely from both wings, especially when transitioning from all-round play to a more offensive style.
Driving & Hitting
Flat hits and counter drives are consistent but not as powerful as harder rubbers. The softer sponge helps with directional control and touch but can feel slightly muted on full-power shots. That said, players who rely on precision rather than speed will find Rakza X Soft effective in driving play.
Blocking & Passive Play
Blocking is a major strength. The sponge absorbs incoming spin and speed, making it easy to control blocks and maintain placement under pressure. Punch blocks are solid and stable, especially on the backhand.
Serve & Receive
Serving with Rakza X Soft is effective, particularly for short backspin and sidespin serves. The grippy topsheet enables high spin generation, while the soft sponge provides good feedback. On receive, the rubber excels with controlled pushes, soft flicks, and gentle returns. Players can keep returns short and low with minimal effort.
Flicks & Short Game
Touch play is one of the highlights of Rakza X Soft. Short pushes, drop shots, and over-the-table flicks feel comfortable and precise. The softer sponge helps maintain control on slow, deliberate strokes and doesn’t overreact in the short game. Backhand flicks can be executed with confidence thanks to the long dwell and controlled rebound.
Distance Play (Mid-Far Table)
From mid-distance, Rakza X Soft performs reliably as long as the stroke is active. Its spin and control remain consistent, though it requires more physical effort to generate power compared to firmer rubbers. At far distance, the reduced catapult becomes noticeable, so it’s best suited to close or mid-range play.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Rubbers
Compared to Rakza X, this version is softer and more forgiving, with longer dwell time and improved short game performance. It trades some top-end power for better control and touch. Versus Tibhar Evolution FX-S, Rakza X Soft feels more linear and less bouncy. It also offers a slightly higher throw angle than Butterfly Tenergy 05 FX, with better control in passive play.
Blade Compatibility
Pairs well with medium or stiff blades. On stiffer blades, it brings out more dwell and control, while on flexible all-wood blades, it enhances feel and spin even further. Players using fast carbon blades may benefit from the added softness for better control balance.
Ideal User Profile
Designed for intermediate to advanced players who value spin and placement over pure speed. Ideal for two-wing loopers, all-round attackers, or backhand-dominant players looking for comfort and forgiveness without sacrificing offensive potential. Also, a strong transition rubber for developing players upgrading from basic tensors.
Yasaka Rakza X Soft combines a spin-friendly topsheet with a soft, controllable sponge to deliver a highly reliable rubber for modern offensive and all-round play. While it’s not built for maximum speed, it excels in dwell time, touch play, and control. A well-balanced option for players who rely on consistent looping and short-game finesse rather than overpowering their opponents.
If you’re looking for a softer offensive rubber that combines spin, control, and comfort in a well-rounded package, Yasaka Rakza X Soft is a top contender. Check current offers from trusted retailers below to find the right fit for your style.
