Tibhar SUPER DEFENSE 40

Tibhar SUPER DEFENSE 40 is an ITTF-approved table tennis rubber, manufactured in Germany, designed for defensive players (DEF+) seeking high control, spin, and disruptive capabilities. This rubber features a medium-soft sponge (~45°) and a tacky, elastic topsheet, delivering excellent control (~9.9/20), high spin (~13.1/20), and limited speed (~8.0/20), typical of defensive playstyles.

SUPER DEFENSE 40 is optimized for versatile defensive play, enabling precise chops, disruptive pushes, and unexpected attacking strokes. Its moderately firm sponge provides sufficient energy for quick offensive actions while maintaining high control, making it suitable for players who combine defensive play with disruptive and attacking elements.

The rubber is available in red and black (ITTF-compliant) and six sponge thicknesses (0.5 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.9 mm) to accommodate various defensive styles. Compared to the Tibhar SPEEDY SPIN (~12.0/20 speed, ~9.4/20 control, ~11.8/20 spin), SUPER DEFENSE 40 offers lower speed but higher control and spin, making it ideal for pure defensive play.

Player feedback highlights that the rubber is "extremely controlled in chopping," "generates heavy backspin," and "facilitates disruptive play," making it suitable for both beginner and advanced defensive players.

Key Specifications:

• Rubber Type: Inverted (Smooth)

• Sponge Hardness: Medium-soft (~45° ± 3)

• Sponge Thickness: 0.5 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.9 mm

• Speed: 64/100 (~8.0/20 on general scale)

• Control: 99/100 (~9.9/20)

• Spin: 105/100 (~13.1/20)

• Trajectory Height: 8.5/10

• Topsheet Properties: Tacky and elastic, optimized for spin, control, and disruptive effects

• Technologies: SPI-System (Speed-Glue-Effect Inside), designed for defensive play

• Colors: Red, Black

• Origin: Germany

• Certification: ITTF-approved

• Ideal For: Defensive play, chopping, disruptive pushes, serves, and surprise attacks

Playing Characteristics & Performance:

1. Spin & Trajectory:
SUPER DEFENSE 40 excels in spin generation (~13.1/20), particularly in backspin chops, disruptive serves, and topspin strokes. The tacky topsheet and medium-soft sponge prolong ball contact, enabling heavy spin that disrupts opponents. The high, arched trajectory (8.5/10) ensures stable ball flight, aiding defensive rallies and disruptive play.

2. Control:
With outstanding control (~9.9/20), this rubber is highly effective in chopping, push play, serve reception, and unexpected topspin attacks. The sponge absorbs ball energy, making strokes manageable even for beginners transitioning to defense.

3. Speed & Offensive Capability:
The limited speed (~8.0/20) suits defensive chops and disruptive play, but the moderately firm sponge allows occasional attacking strokes. Compared to Tibhar SPEEDY SPIN (~12.0/20 speed), SUPER DEFENSE 40 is slower but more controlled.

4. Sponge Variants:

• 0.5 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.3 mm: Maximum control for pure defense.

• 1.5 mm, 1.7 mm: Balanced defense and attack.

• 1.9 mm: Aggressive defensive style with attacking options.

Technical Comparisons:

SUPER DEFENSE 40 outperforms competitors in spin and control, making it a superior choice for modern defensive play.

Playing Style Suitability:

• Chopping (9.7/10): Exceptional backspin generation and control.

• Disruptive Pushes (9.2/10): Precise and spin-heavy short game.

• Blocking (8.8/10): Effective against topspin due to tacky surface.

• Counter-Hitting (7.8/10): Stable but slower counters.

• Serves & Receive (9.3/10): Heavy spin serves and easy receive.

• Attacking (7.0–7.5/10): Limited but usable for surprise attacks.

Blade Compatibility:

SUPER DEFENSE 40 pairs well with defensive and all-round blades:

• Tibhar Defense Plus (DEF, 6.0/20 speed) – Pure defensive stability.

• Butterfly Joo Saehyuk (DEF, 7.0/20 speed) – Balanced defense/attack.

• Donic Defplay Senso (DEF, 6.5/20 speed) – High control and feel.

• Stiga Defensive Classic (DEF, 6.0/20 speed) – Classic defensive play.

• Yasaka Sweden Defensive (DEF, 6.0/20 speed) – Versatile defense.

Recommendation: Use with a defensive blade (e.g., Tibhar Defense Plus) for maximum control or a slightly faster blade (e.g., Butterfly Joo Saehyuk) for mixed defense/attack.

Additional Notes:

• Weight: Lighter than most defensive rubbers (~42g for 1.5mm sponge).

• Durability: SPI-System enhances longevity; use protective film and rubber cleaner.

• Player Level: Ideal for beginners to advanced defenders (0–7 years of experience).

Who Should Use Tibhar SUPER DEFENSE 40?

• Defensive players relying on chops, pushes, and spin.

• Players transitioning to a defensive style.

• Spin-oriented attackers seeking disruptive play.

• Junior players developing defensive techniques.

Advantages:

1. Spin (13.1/20): Heavy backspin and topspin potential.

2. Control (9.9/20): Unmatched precision in defensive strokes.

3. Trajectory (8.5/10): High arc for safety and consistency.

4. Versatility: Adaptable to passive and active defense.

5. Value: High-quality performance at a competitive price.

Final Verdict:

Tibhar SUPER DEFENSE 40 is a top-tier defensive rubber, combining spin, control, and disruptive effects for players who prioritize precision and tactical play. Its SPI-System technology, tacky surface, and medium-soft sponge make it an excellent choice for modern defenders at all levels.