It is easy to say that all table tennis bats are just the same. After all, they appear quite the same, right?
However, once you have learned the nuances of the game, you will eventually get aware of the difference between the constructions of these paddles. Specifically, you will realize that they are rated by three essential capabilities: speed, spin, and control.
This time, we are going to discuss briefly as to how we can pick a paddle for speed and spin. These two factors go hand-in-hand, especially if you are designed for all-out attacks and aggressive plays.
How To Choose The Ping Pong Paddle For Speed And Spin
Before you hop in the market, it is pretty crucial that you have an understanding of the overall anatomy of ping pong paddles. As I said before, they have different construction; there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution, unless a paddle is designed for all-rounded plays.
So what makes a paddle suited for a fast-paced and “spinny” playing style?
Well, we just have to take a look at the construction of the paddle first. Fortunately, dissecting a ping pong paddle is not that difficult, as it is composed of some essential parts.
Blade
When it comes to power and speed, the quality of the blade should be assessed. After all, this is the very platform that determines the motion and trajectory of the ball once it hits the surface.
If we are aiming for a paddle for a high-octane playing style, it is crucial the blade is constructed from a lightweight but highly rigid material. This type of setup enables optimization of your power output.
Furthermore, it is essential that the blade is constructed from five or more layers of material. A 5-ply paddle means that the latter has a 5-layer blade, while a 7-ply implies that the blade has seven layers.
The choice of material is vital for speed and spin. Wooden blades are already great; however, modern modifications featured the inclusion of carbon material for enhanced weight and power management.
Rubber
This time, let’s go to the rubber. The rubber is the part of the blade that is in direct contact with the ball; it is where things happen.
If the rubber has poor qualities, you’ll not be able to execute your desired playing style. Since our focus here is the speed and spin department, it is crucial that the rubber is designed to fulfill that.
The standard measurement for ping pong rubbers is tackiness. Specifically, this one refers to the ability of the rubber to “grip” the ball.
Hence, a tacky rubber is capable of making exceptional spins. Furthermore, rubbers that are soft also aid in the generation of spin to the ball, enabling you to loop it whenever it is necessary.
Since speed is a concern here, you might not want a rubber that is too soft. Otherwise, the impact of your shots will drastically be reduced.
Soft rubbers are designed for defensive playing style, as they offer impressive impact negation and ball control.
Sponge
Next, you should probe the quality and construction of the sponge. By the way, the sponge is the layer of material that is sandwiched between the rubber and blade of the paddle.
The sponge affects the motion of the ball. It is crucial that you can choose a paddle that has a suitable sponge for your needs.
Basically, there are three classifications for the sponge: thin, medium, and thick. When it comes to generating fast and powerful attacks, thick sponges (2.0 mm and above) are your best choice.
However, if you are into a controlled and slow-paced playing style, opt for thinner sponges. A 2.0-mm sponge is already suitable for making flawless spins.
Conclusion
These are the things that you should consider whenever selecting a ping pong paddle for speed and spin. You have to be wary about the respective nuances on the design, construction, and choice of materials for the different parts of the paddle.
By doing so, you will acquire the right ping pong paddle for you.
Keep in mind that ping pong is a great fitness activity, similar to archery and other outdoor sports. Hence, it is quite appealing to really invest in this endeavor.
That’s it for now. If you have questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.