STIGA DNA Dragon Power 52.5 is a high-tier pimple-in rubber designed for offensive and all-round players seeking strong spin, safety, and control. Built with a slightly tacky topsheet (C-Touch Tensor Technology) and a 52.5° hard sponge, it bridges Chinese-style spin capability with European speed and arc. Manufactured in Germany and co-developed with Chinese national team input, this rubber suits loopers and all-round attackers who want high grip, consistent arc, and a responsive, but not overly bouncy, feel.
Specs
Type: Offensive
Surface: Slightly tacky (C-Touch Tensor)
Sponge Hardness: 52.5° ESN
Sponge Thickness: 2.15 mm
Speed (Factory): 158
Spin (Factory): 146
Control (Factory):
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: Germany
Pros
High spin potential from tacky topsheet
Medium-hard sponge balances control and pressure play
Medium-high arc helps with consistent looping and safety
Excellent build quality and tack durability
Cons
Not ideal for players seeking instant catapult or trampoline effect
May feel too firm for players coming from softer tensor rubbers
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.0
Delivers solid acceleration on full strokes while staying stable.
Spin
4.5
Slightly sticky topsheet helps generate high spin, especially on loops and serves.
Control
4.0
Stable in passive play, controlled feel even under pressure.
Grip / Tackiness
4.5
Slightly tacky surface supports brushing and spin manipulation.
Throw Angle
4.0
Medium-high arc gives good net clearance for looping rallies.
Dwell Time
4.0
Offers enough contact time to shape spin and arc consistently.
Catapult Effect
3.5
Controlled catapult, springy only when engaged with effort.
Hardness Feel
4.0
Medium-hard feel with clear feedback and solid contact.
Durability
4.5
Well-built German quality; tackiness and performance last.
Core Performance Aspects
Looping & Topspin Play
STIGA DNA Dragon Power 52.5 performs exceptionally in loop-oriented play. The slightly tacky surface grips the ball well on slow and fast loops, producing heavy spin with a safe arc. Brush loops have good dwell, and the rubber provides a reassuring trajectory in rallies. Compared to classic Euro-style rubbers, it gives better spin and control during topspin exchanges, making it easier to place spinny attacks with confidence.
Driving & Hitting
Flat hits and forehand drives are crisp and stable. While not as bouncy as high-catapult rubbers like Tenergy 64 or Rasanter R47, it provides good directional control and follow-through speed when the stroke is committed. The medium-hard sponge allows strong energy transfer without bottoming out, giving players a solid hitting feel without requiring excessive force.
Blocking & Passive Play
Blocks feel consistent, especially on backhand punch blocks and forehand counters. The tacky topsheet doesn’t overly grip incoming spin, and the sponge helps stabilize shots under pressure. Passive play remains predictable even against heavy loops. The rubber absorbs power efficiently but still returns with control, especially on carbon blades.
Serve & Receive
Serve quality is a highlight; short sidespin and underspin serves are easy to execute, thanks to sharp rotation. The tacky topsheet gives more time to shape the spin, and backspin-heavy short serves are especially effective. On receive, the rubber is not overly reactive, allowing precise short pushes and flicks. It rewards active hand use while staying manageable for returns.
Flicks & Short Game
Touch play benefits from the rubber’s linear response and tackiness. Flicks, especially banana flicks, can generate good arc and rotation. Short pushes stay low and loaded with spin, though the slight stickiness means the angle must be adjusted compared to non-tacky rubbers. The sponge remains responsive during quick exchanges close to the table, though players used to bouncier topsheets may need to adapt.
Distance Play (Mid-Far Table)
At mid-distance, Dragon Power 52.5 retains its arc and spin well. The rubber allows consistent topspin play without requiring excessive physical effort. At a far distance, it still delivers with enough effort, though players seeking pure speed may prefer the 55° or 57.5° versions. It’s more forgiving than Hurricane 3 but keeps many of the same strengths, like arc control and spin.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Rubbers
DNA Dragon Power 52.5 combines the characteristics of a modern European rubber and a classic Chinese rubber. Compared to Hurricane 3 Neo, it has more bounce and arc; compared to Tenergy 05, it feels more linear and slightly tackier. Versus Rakza Z, it’s a bit faster but with a similar spin profile. It also outperforms DNA Platinum H in spin sensitivity while being slightly more forgiving.
Blade Compatibility
Works well with both inner carbon and stiff all-wood blades. Softer blades enhance dwell and help take advantage of the topsheet’s grip, while carbon blades bring out better rebound for mid-distance looping. On flexible blades, the dwell time increases, helping to amplify arc height, which benefits loopers.
Ideal User Profile
Ideal for intermediate to advanced loopers who rely on spin and controlled aggression. Suitable for players coming from Chinese-style tacky rubbers who want more catapult and safety, or for European-style players exploring tacky rubbers for the first time. It’s well-suited for forehand use but also provides a safe and spinny backhand.
STIGA DNA Dragon Power 52.5 delivers a compelling mix of arc, spin, and control for loopers and aggressive all-round players. Its slightly tacky topsheet and medium-hard sponge provide excellent brushing ability and consistency in open play. While not the fastest rubber in its class, it compensates with reliable grip and controlled power, making it a solid choice for players building a spin-based attack.
If you’re looking for a rubber that blends sticky surface grip with solid control and spin, STIGA DNA Dragon Power 52.5 is a great choice. Check out product listings to see if it fits your game and playing setup.
