DHS Hurricane 3 National Blue Sponge vs Yasaka Rakza 7: Which Should You Buy?
| DHS Hurricane 3 National Blue Sponge | Yasaka Rakza 7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| best_side | Forehand | both |
| control | 70 | high |
| speed | 91 | offensive |
| spin | 98 | high |
| sponge_hardness | 39-42 degrees (varies by batch; commonly 40 or 41 deg) | 45–47° |
| type | Inverted / Tacky | tensor inverted |
| weight_uncut_g | approx 70-73 g uncut | 70 |
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Hurricane 3 National is the pure spin specialist at rating 8.4, requiring boost prep and full-power play. Yasaka Rakza 7 (8.6 rating) is a spin-first tensor offering near-Tenergy grip, higher control, and incredible value—playable on both wings without prep.
Rakza 7 is the safer choice: it plays immediately, offers versatile hardness grades (1.8/2.0/max), and excels on backhand. Hurricane is forehand-only and demands boosting, acclimation time, and elite athleticism. Rakza 7’s natural-rubber topsheet grips heavily without the tacky catch-and-release feel of Hurricane. Both favor active strokes, but Hurricane unforgivingly demands hard, full swings, while Rakza 7 rewards effort on all strokes.
FAQ
Which should I pick for backhand?
Yasaka Rakza 7 is one of the top club-level backhand rubbers and comes in softer grades (1.8/2.0). Hurricane is not recommended for backhand.
Is Rakza 7 as spinny as Hurricane?
Rakza 7 is rated 8.6 (higher overall) but Hurricane’s spin specifically is extreme (98). Rakza 7’s spin is high and near-Tenergy; Hurricane’s grip is unmatched.
Which needs more maintenance?
Rakza 7 needs regular cleaning for longevity and reacts to incoming spin, demanding clean technique. Hurricane requires boost prep and less total care once broken in.
Can I use these on softer blades?
Rakza 7 works decently on softer blades, especially at 1.8/2.0 thickness. Hurricane can bottom out on soft blades and is best paired with stiff frames.