STIGA DNA Dragon Power 57.5 is the hardest and fastest rubber in the Dragon Power lineup, developed for elite-level offensive players who demand maximum power, spin, and precision. With a 57.5° sponge and slightly tacky topsheet, this rubber is built for high-intensity looping, aggressive counterattacks, and third-ball dominance. Manufactured in Germany using STIGA’s C-Touch Tensor technology and co-developed with Chinese national team input, this rubber caters to physically strong players who can fully engage a hard sponge and want a Chinese-style topsheet with more speed and arc than traditional tacky rubbers.
Specs
Type: Offensive
Surface: Slightly tacky (C-Touch Tensor)
Sponge Hardness: 57.5°
Sponge Thickness: 2.15 mm
Speed (Factory): 158
Spin (Factory): 146
Control (Factory): 73
ITTF Approved: Yes
Made In: Germany
Pros
Maximum power and speed for advanced loopers
Tacky topsheet enhances spin and serve quality
Great stability on high-speed impacts
Elite-level performance with durable construction
Cons
Very demanding, requires strong strokes and fast timing
Not suitable for intermediate or developing players without physical engagement
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
5.0
Extremely fast when fully engaged; strong rebound with proper technique.
Spin
4.5
High spin generation, especially during fast brushing strokes.
Control
3.0
Requires advanced touch and timing; less forgiving in passive play.
Grip / Tackiness
4.5
Slightly tacky surface aids in spin control on loops and serves.
Throw Angle
3.5
Medium arc with direct, fast trajectory, optimized for loop drives.
Dwell Time
3.0
Shorter contact time; best for players who make clean, fast strokes.
Catapult Effect
4.0
Firm but elastic rebound when compressed through strong impact.
Hardness Feel
5.0
Very hard; best suited for powerful strokes with proper technique.
Durability
4.5
High-quality construction with long-lasting tack and consistency.
Core Performance Aspects
Looping & Topspin Play
STIGA DNA Dragon Power 57.5 excels in high-speed topspin exchanges. The slightly tacky topsheet grips the ball well for brushing, but the hard sponge responds best during fast, confident strokes that press into the rubber. Loop drives are direct and penetrating, with less arc than softer versions. It is Hurricane-like in hardness but much faster with less dwell, making it ideal for powerful forehand looping.
Driving & Hitting
This rubber is exceptional for flat hits, counter-drives, and kill shots. The 57.5° sponge produces explosive rebound with solid, direct feel. Power hitters will appreciate the feedback and stability on smashes. It performs best with full swings, while light or incomplete strokes may feel unresponsive.
Blocking & Passive Play
Passive blocks are difficult to execute well unless paired with a softer blade. The rubber’s hardness doesn’t absorb incoming energy as easily, making it sensitive to timing. Active blocks or counter-hits are more effective, especially with fast hands and precise angles.
Serve & Receive
Serving is a strong point, especially for players who engage their fingers and wrist. The slightly tacky surface produces spin-rich short and long serves. However, receiving requires care, pushing is effective but needs proper blade angle, and flicks demand excellent acceleration to compensate for the short dwell time.
Flicks & Short Game
The short game is manageable but stiff. The hard sponge and fast rebound limit touch sensitivity. Short pushes tend to pop up if not executed precisely. Backhand flicks can be deadly when executed aggressively, but less confident players may struggle to control touch shots. Pairing with a flexible blade can help.
Distance Play (Mid-Far Table)
Dragon Power 57.5 performs best at mid to far distance, where the full potential of its sponge and topsheet can be realized. Counter-looping and power looping from the back court are strong suits. The rubber delivers heavy, fast topspin with solid control when played actively, making it a strong choice for power loopers and physical forehand attackers.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Rubbers
Dragon Power 57.5 plays like a more user-friendly version of DHS Hurricane 3 National, offering faster, more elastic, and less tacky performance, while maintaining comparable hardness. Compared to Butterfly Dignics 09C, it offers a flatter arc and a more direct rebound. Compared to TIBHAR MX-P, it has less catapult but greater stability and spin when brushed properly.
Blade Compatibility
Best suited for inner-carbon or soft 5-ply wood blades to help balance its hardness. Outer carbon blades may create an overly stiff feel unless the user has a high level of touch and power. Limba outer plies or soft carbon (e.g., ALC, Viscaria-type structures) are often recommended.
Ideal User Profile
Ideal for advanced or professional players with fast, aggressive forehands. Recommended for loopers who favor power and fast transitions over safety. This rubber is not forgiving and demands clean technique, making it best suited for physically strong or technically refined players looking for elite performance.
STIGA DNA Dragon Power 57.5 is a high-speed, high-spin weapon for serious loopers. Its hard sponge and slightly tacky topsheet deliver power and precision, but only for players who can fully activate its performance with fast, full strokes. While not beginner-friendly, it’s a top-tier choice for elite forehand play and aggressive topspin offense at the highest levels.
Looking for maximum power and spin in a tacky European-style rubber? Try STIGA DNA Dragon Power 57.5 and experience its full potential in high-level offensive play. Available now at select table tennis retailers.
