THE ULTIMATE TABLE TENNIS EQUIPMENT GUIDE
We strive to always provide you with the best equipment available. This guide helps you to choose the right table tennis racket for you. Here you can read more about our blades, rubbers, glue and technologies behind our table tennis rackets. You can also find out which blade and rubbers to choose in combination to create a table tennis racket that suits your playing style.
Table of Contents:
The defensive table tennis player
The all-round table tennis player
The offensive table tennis player
PLAYING STYLES
There are as many playing styles as table tennis players around the world, but we usually narrow playing styles down to three categories: defensive, all-round, and offensive. To make it easier for you to find the right blade, we’ve divided them according to the three playing styles.
)
BLADES
HANDLES & GRIP
Our blades are available with three different types of handles:
1. PEN / PENHOLDER
A conical, short and wide handle.
The grip allows the wrist to move quite freely, good for receives and all types of serves.
2. MASTER / CONCAVE
A concave, slim handle.
Handle with a wide handle end. It fits in the palm of your hand. The center of gravity comes closer to the handle.
3. CLASSIC / STRAIGHT
The classic, straight handle.
This handle is straight and thicker compared to a concave handle. It makes changing your grip easier between your strokes.
All handles are made of the top-quality wood and have a surface roughness that ensures an optimal gripping surface without the handle feeling slippery.
BLADE MATERIAL
Wood
Before we design our blades, we always consider the playing characteristics of the different wood types. In general terms, each wood type has something particular to offer. After testing hundreds of varieties, we have learned about the different playing characteristics of blades made in each wood type, and thus we’re able to offer the best blades for upcoming world champions. Here you’ll find our entire range of table tennis blades.
Reinforced artificial fibers
This thin, lightweight material contributes to increased speed while the blade retains its lightweight quality. Carbon fiber is the main feature of the blades in our Carbonado series, which uses the unique, patented and Swedish-made carbon fibre, Spread Tow Carbon. Carbon fiber is also used in Cybershape Carbon, Dynasty Carbon, Inspira CCF and Legacy Carbon.
Outer fiber:
The fibers is located beneath the outer veneer, which provides the blade with additional power and speed compared to the Close Core Fiber.
Close Core fiber:
The artificial fibers are applied directly over the wooden core, preserving the original characteristics of the blade while offering the sensation of an all-wood blade with less vibration. The Close Core Fiber structure provides a longer dwell time.
Limba:
Soft yet sturdy wood is used for outer veneers in blades, it provides greater control and improved touch without compromising on speed.
Koto:
Koto is a harder wood compared to limba and is commonly used for topspin shots and provides a sharper feel for powerful, direct shots.
For how long can a blade be used?
Heavy or light blade? Which weight should I choose?
How is Speed and Control calculated?
Q&A
BLADES
BLADE
SPEED
CONTROL
STYLE
WEIGHT
HANDLE
LAYERS
TOP VENEER
9.0
4.4
Offensive +
Adjustable
Master, Classic, Pen
5+2 (Close core fiber)
Black Koto
Inspira Hybrid Carbon
SPEED
9.5
CONTROL
3.3
STYLE
Offensive +
WEIGHT
High
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Outer fiber)
TOP VENEER
Koto
Dynasty carbon
SPEED
9.3
CONTROL
3.5
STYLE
Offensive +
WEIGHT
High
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Outer fiber)
TOP VENEER
Grey Koto
Legacy carbon
SPEED
9.2
CONTROL
3.4
STYLE
Offensive +
WEIGHT
High
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Outer fiber)
TOP VENEER
Black limba
Cybershape Carbon
SPEED
9.0
CONTROL
4.4
STYLE
Offensive +
WEIGHT
High
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Close core fiber)
TOP VENEER
Black Koto
Cybershape Carbon CWT
SPEED
9.0
CONTROL
4.4
STYLE
Offensive +
WEIGHT
Adjustable
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Close core fiber)
TOP VENEER
Black Koto
Inspira CCF
SPEED
8.9
CONTROL
5.2
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
High
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2
TOP VENEER
Koto
Clipper Cybershape
SPEED
8.3
CONTROL
5.2
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
7
TOP VENEER
Limba
Clipper CR
SPEED
8.3
CONTROL
4.8
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
7
TOP VENEER
Limba
Clipper
SPEED
8.2
CONTROL
4.9
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
7
TOP VENEER
Limba
Carbonado 45
SPEED
8.1
CONTROL
4.6
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5+2 (Outer fiber)
TOP VENEER
Limba
Cybershape Wood
SPEED
8.1
CONTROL
5.4
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Cybershape Wood CWT
SPEED
8.1
CONTROL
5.4
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Adjustable
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Infinity VPS V
SPEED
7.5
CONTROL
5.6
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Energy wood V2 WRB
SPEED
7.3
CONTROL
5.8
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Mid
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Offensive Classic
SPEED
7.1
CONTROL
6.0
STYLE
Offensive
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Allround Evo
SPEED
6.3
CONTROL
6.8
STYLE
Allround
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Defensive Pro
SPEED
5.2
CONTROL
7.9
STYLE
Defensive
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Allround Classic Cybershape
SPEED
4.4
CONTROL
9.1
STYLE
Allround
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
Allround Classic
SPEED
4.1
CONTROL
8.8
STYLE
Allround
WEIGHT
Low
HANDLE
Master, Classic, Pen
LAYERS
5
TOP VENEER
Limba
TECHNOLOGIES
Behind each table tennis blade lies many decades of intensive research, development and table tennis experience. Since the end of the 60s, STIGA Table Tennis has been manufacturing its own blades – genuine craftsmanship by and for world-class table tennis players. Our blades feature the following technologies:
STIGA CUSTOM WEIGHT TECHNOLOGY
The STIGA Custom Weight Technology (STIGA CWT) innovation allows you to adjust the weight and balance of the blade using three weights of 3, 6, and 9 grams that you can easily attach to the bottom of the handle with help of a magnet inside the blade, this facilitates you to achieve your personal perfect characteristics of your STIGA blade.
CYBERSHAPE
According to measurements from tests carried out in collaboration with KTH, Cybershape has a larger sweet spot placed higher up on the blade than a standard shape which gives more power in your strokes without losing control of the ball. Our research has shown that for the majority of players their optimal hitting area is on the top half of the blade. So we’ve optimized the hitting area so that it is larger in comparison to the traditional shape of the blade’s upper half and slightly smaller on the lower half to maintain the blade’s balance.
TEXTREME® TECHNOLOGY
A technology based on the carbon fibre Spread Tow, which increases both a blade’s speed and sweetspot. Example: All blades in the Dynasty Carbon and Carbonado series.
WRB SYSTEM
A technology used to manufacture the handle, which optimises blade balance. Example: Offensive Classic and Clipper Wood.
CR SYSTEM (Combi Revolution)
The blade surface has undergone UV treatment, which provides increased speed at ball impact. Example: Clipper CR.
CLOSE CORE FIBER (CCF)
The artificial fibers are applied directly over the wooden core, preserving the original characteristics of the blade while offering the sensation of an all-wood blade with less vibration. The Close Core Fiber structure provides a longer dwell time compared to blades with the fibers located beneath the outer veneer
RUBBERS
S = Soft Sponge:
M = Medium Sponge:
H = Hard sponge:
XH = Extra hard sponge:
RUBBER &
THE SPONGE
)
Thicknesses and hardnesses
The thickness of a table tennis sponge plays an important role in the speed, spin, and control of a player's shots. Generally speaking, the thicker the sponge, the more speed and spin a player can generate.
However, it's important to note that as the sponge thickness increases, so does the loss of control. A thicker sponge provides more dwell time, which allows the player to generate more spin and speed on the ball. This is because a thicker sponge absorbs more of the ball's energy and releases it with more force. This effect can be especially noticeable on shots like topspin, which require a lot of spin and speed to be effective.
However, the increased sponge thickness also means that the player will have less control over their shots. This is because the ball will spend less time on the sponge, which can make it harder to predict its trajectory and placement. This can make it more difficult to hit precise shots and can result in more errors. It's important for players to find the sponge thickness that works best for their game. This can depend on a variety of factors, including the player's skill level, playing style, and personal preferences.
Some players may prefer a thinner sponge that provides more control, while others may opt for a thicker sponge that offers more speed and spin. In conclusion, the thickness of a table tennis sponge is an important factor in a player's game. While a thicker sponge can provide more speed and spin, it's important to find the right thickness that offers the right balance of control and performance.
Players can preferably experiment with different thicknesses to find the one that best suits their game and helps them to improve their overall performance on the table.
Which sponge thickness should I select?
At what point should I replace my rubber sheets?
What is the recommended cleaner for rubber sheets?
Which type of rubber is suitable for my playing style?
What will a DNA rubber with Power Sponge Cell (PSC) offer me?
Are the sponge and top-sheet already glued together when I order rubber?
Q&A
RUBBERS
MODELL
SPEED
SPIN
CONTROL
HARDNESS
PLAYING STYLE
SURFACE
MADE IN
*Depending on what spin your opponent makes.
DNA Platinum XH
SPEED
168
SPIN
140
CONTROL
72
HADENESS
52.5
STYLE
Offensive +
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Platinum H
SPEED
164
SPIN
140
CONTROL
74
HADENESS
50
STYLE
Offensive +
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Hybrid XH
SPEED
164
SPIN
144
CONTROL
74
HADENESS
52.5
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Semi-Sticky
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Hybrid H
SPEED
160
SPIN
144
CONTROL
76
HADENESS
50
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Semi-Sticky
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Platinum M
SPEED
160
SPIN
140
CONTROL
76
HADENESS
47.5
STYLE
Offensive +
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Platinum S
SPEED
156
SPIN
140
CONTROL
78
HADENESS
42.5
STYLE
Offensive +
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Germany
DNA Hybrid M
SPEED
156
SPIN
144
CONTROL
78
HADENESS
47.5
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Semi-Sticky
MADE IN
Germany
Mantra Pro XH
SPEED
156
SPIN
135
CONTROL
78
HADENESS
53
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Japan
Mantra Pro H
SPEED
152
SPIN
135
CONTROL
80
HADENESS
50
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Japan
Mantra Pro M
SPEED
148
SPIN
135
CONTROL
82
HADENESS
47.5
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Japan
Mantra Sound
SPEED
141
SPIN
90
CONTROL
131
HADENESS
42
STYLE
Allround +
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Japan
DNA Dragon Grip 55
SPEED
132
SPIN
146
CONTROL
80
HADENESS
55
STYLE
Offensive
SURFACE
Sticky
MADE IN
Germany
Symmetry
SPEED
120
SPIN
140
CONTROL
115
HADENESS
47.5
STYLE
Allround
SURFACE
Short pimple
MADE IN
Japan
ECO Future M
SPEED
115
SPIN
124
CONTROL
124
HADENESS
47.5
STYLE
Allround
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Germany
Mantra Control
SPEED
99
SPIN
108
CONTROL
140
HADENESS
45
STYLE
Allround
SURFACE
Standard
MADE IN
Japan
Vertical 55
SPEED
66
SPIN
*
CONTROL
151
HADENESS
55
STYLE
Defensive
SURFACE
Long pimple
MADE IN
Japan
Horizontal 20
SPEED
63
SPIN
*
CONTROL
154
HADENESS
20
STYLE
Defensive
SURFACE
Long pimple
MADE IN
Japan
*Depending on what spin your opponent makes.
TECHNOLOGIES
Behind each table tennis rubber lies many decades of intensive research, development and table tennis experience. Since the end of the 60s, STIGA Table Tennis – genuine craftsmanship by and for world-class table tennis players. Our rubbers feature the following technologies:
Tension rubber
Unique combination of sponge and surface rubber, offers skilled players the best of two worlds, speed and spin.
ABS ball optimized
By ABS-optimized, it is meant that the surface rubber has been developed for table tennis balls that are produced of this material.
C-touch Tensor
This advanced sponge technology has been developed with thorough feedback from top players and AI (artificial intelligence). By analyzing data digitally, we have been able to identify important material properties, which was previously only possible by analyzing thousands of different rubbers samples. The result of the data analysis is a rubber with unique properties and an extra hard sponge of 55 degrees. The feel and direct feedback from the rubber in the form of the characteristic sound helps you to find the perfect sweet spot in your strokes.
OCS
The OCS technology allows the sponge to provide an incredible catapult effect thanks to precisely measured air holes in the sponge, developed to generate maximum speed. The surface tension is created with a precis airspace between sponge and topsheet rubber.
ITTF
The ITTF symbol signifies that the rubber has been approved by the International Table Tennis Federation and can be used in all tournaments around the world.
Built-in speed glue effect
With the built-in speed glue effect, you get a unique combination of speed, control and maximum cooperation between the rubber sponge and the surface rubber.
Trans Tension Sponge
Trans Tension Sponge generates maximum tension, and it provides high acceleration returns for a fast spin and speed game. The Trans Tension Sponge is recommended for highly trained attackers with good technical know-how.
OCS
The OCS (Oxygene Capsule System) technology provides increased speed through steady, even strokes.
OCS Sponge with the right air hole mixture
Surface tension rubber with precised airspace
Gives the ball the superb OCS effect
Power Sponge Cells
Thanks to PSC technology (Power Sponge Cells), you get a longer ball trajectory with more power in your shots and a more aggressive arc when looping. The sponge cells also enhance the contact between the rubber and the blade, so you get that crispy, sought-after sound in your strokes.
PSC
A uniquely developed sponge, combined with a unique pimples structure and surface thickness, provides you with a maximum power in your strokes and enables you to achieve both harder shots and longer ball trajectory.
)
FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT
PRE-ASSEMBLED SYSTEMS
Semi Pro
(Control system) For players to handle the ball confidently under any circumstances.
Professional
(Power system) For players with strong impact and powerful offense.
(Spin system) For players using extra spin in serve, returns and top spin rallies.
(Control system) For players to handle the ball confidently under any circumstances.
World Class
(Power system) For players with strong impact and powerful offense.
(Spin system) For players using extra spin in serve, returns and top spin rallies.
GLUE TABLE TENNIS RUBBER
Are you playing with ready-made table tennis bats but keen to start gluing them yourself? It's actually much easier than you think. By gluing them yourself, the options available to you become much wider: you can choose just the right combination of blade and rubber to suit your particular playing style.
This is what you need to glue table tennis rubber:
)
1. Apply glue to the rubber and use the glue applicator to achieve a smooth surface. We recommend STIGA’s water-based glue.
2. Do the same on the blade. It is important to only apply a thin layer on the blade as the water-based glue can soften the top ply with each application.
3. The optimal playing characteristics are achieved by applying two twin layers of glue on the rubber and one thin layer on the blade surface.
4. Allow the glue to dry until it becomes completely transparent. This should take around 20 minutes.
5. Place the blade on a table with the glued side facing upwards.
NOTE: If you put on the rubbers before the glue is completely dry it may affect the adhesion and playing characteristics.
6. Take the glued rubber and, starting from the shaft of the blade, roll the rubber outwards. Use the rolling pin or ball tube to ensure that the rubber has a completely smooth surface, without any bubbles. The rolling pin also helps to ensure that the rubber adheres properly to the blade.
7. Cut off any excess rubber with a sharp scissor. Be carful and avoid cutting the fragile edges of the wood.
8. Repeat steps 1-5 on the other side of the blade.
9. Finish by gluing the edge tape or edge protector onto the racket.
HOW TO REMOVE YOUR RUBBERS
Replace rubbers regularly! It is important to regularly replace the rubbers, as a worn rubber will not provide enough grip and will negatively impact the playing technique. When removing the rubbers, always begin at the handle and peel them off diagonally and upward across the blade. Since the outer veneer is delicate and fragile, it is crucial to exercise caution to prevent damaging the blade. It should take at least 15 seconds to remove each rubber. If you want to re-use the same blade and rubbers it is important to also clean the blade and rubber by rubbing it, as glue may be present from previous applications. A piece of peeled rubber can be used for this task. The blade surface should feel smooth before applying a new layer of glue.
VIDEO EXPLAINER
Check out our video or read on about how to glue your racket and you'll be gluing like a pro in no time!
HOW TO PROTECT AND STORE YOUR RACKET
Lifespan of rubbers
The lifespan of a rubber depends on many factors, such as play time or intensity of training. The more you practice, the faster the rubber can wear out. When not in use for a longer period, a rubber can also lose elasticity. We recommend replacing a rubber regularly depending on usage time.
We recommend all to use edge tape or Protect for extra protection of the blade and rubbers.
Once you have glued the rubber yourself, it is important to take care of it. In order to maintain the highest quality and performance, protect the rubber from dust, moisture and sunlight by using protective film and store your racket in a bat wallet or bat cover after training and matches.
Rubber clean is also usable for extra protection of the rubber surface to remove dust and dirt which prolongs the lifetime.
)
Join STIGA Sports Club
Discover all STIGA Sports stories – and be the first to hear about new products, promotions and events. Simply, get moving!
Service
About us
Categories
Follow us
Visiting adress:
Tång Lindströms väg 7 - 9
633 46 Eskilstuna Sweden
Org.nr: 556448-8178
Terms and conditions
Privacy
Consent
Imprint
Copyright © 2017-2023 STIGA Sports AB. All rights reserved.
© 2023 STIGA Sports AB
