Nittaku Hammond Z2 vs Stiga Mantra H: Which Should You Buy?
| Nittaku Hammond Z2 | Stiga Mantra H | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| best_side | forehand | forehand |
| control | 7.5 | 8.8 |
| speed | 9.0 | 9.4 |
| spin | 9.5 | 9.1 |
| sponge_hardness | 52 | hard (approx. 47.5 degrees) |
| type | inverted | inverted |
| weight_uncut_g | 70 | 65 |
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Nittaku Hammond Z2 is a hard, spinny forehand rubber with exceptional looping and counterlooping power. Its 52-degree hardness demands active, well-timed strokes, but rewards them with high spin output and broad gear range. Durability is above-average for ESN-class tensors, and community consensus marks it highly. Better suited to OFF-minus or flexible blades than stiff carbon composites.
Stiga Mantra H is a fast, grippy tensor with a sharp low trajectory perfect for aggressive attackers and close-to-table play. Its exceptional blocking stability and heavy topspin feel contrast with limited dwell time from its strong catapult. Durability runs only about three months under regular training, and the rubber is discontinued, making sourcing difficult.
Hammond Z2 suits upper-intermediate loopers and counterlooping specialists seeking durability. Mantra H works for advanced players comfortable with precision technique and frequent rubber replacement.
FAQ
Which produces more spin?
Hammond Z2 rates 9.5 vs Mantra H at 9.1 on spin. Both are high-spin options; Hammond edges out.
Which is faster?
Mantra H is faster at 9.4 vs Hammond Z2 at 9.0 on speed. Mantra’s low arc creates sharp, threatening trajectories.
How long does Mantra H last?
Roughly three months under regular training sessions. Hammond Z2 offers better durability for extended play.
Can I still buy Mantra H?
The rubber is discontinued and replaced by Mantra Pro H line. New stock is increasingly hard to source.