(By Truong Tu)

Recently, I had a chance to try Tenergy 05 Hard.

I have previously used Tenergy 05 for a long time on both my backhand and forehand. There are some differences that I am able to notice that I will describe based on my game.

I am an all-out attacker and I rely a lot on my forehand to win points. The Tenergy 05 Hard definitely increases my forehand loop speed without losing much of the spin. The harder sponge pushes the ball out right after it touches the rubber.  I lose a little bit of the dwell time (the time that the ball stays on the rubber) trading for that touch for speed. Therefore, this rubber requires a good stroke since you don’t have much time to adjust in the middle of the swings. However, if you have good, basic technique and footwork, this is a rubber that you will enjoy playing with. I would recommend this rubber to players who are at an intermediate level or above. There is a lower trajectory compared to the Tenergy 05 when I loop the ball. Counter loops are easy as the low trajectory helps to push the ball down and keeps it deep in the opponent’s side. Counter looping far away from the table is also enjoyable with the speed and the spin from the rubber.

Since the ball flies off of the rubber faster, I felt the need to soften my touch a little more for my short serve returns.  There was no problem making this adjustment after some time playing with Tenergy 05 Hard. With this rubber, I enjoy flipping more; the solid sponge creates a deep trajectory for my flip with increased speed. I still have the same feeling with my serve which easily generates spin without drifting long; the only difference is my fast serve is faster and easier to perform. Basically, you will be able to tell the difference only when you make a good impact with the rubber.  For blocking, it seems that the block is more aggressive due to the hard sponge, but it is easier for me since the rubber is not affected by the spin as much as the Tenergy 05 and also that there is a lower throw angle.

Overall, I would definitely recommended this rubber if you are looking for a faster forehand. A serve and attack style is the best style for Tenergy 05 Hard.