Yasaka Rakza X vs Yasaka Rakza Z: Which Should You Buy?
| Yasaka Rakza X | Yasaka Rakza Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| best_side | both | forehand |
| control | medium-high | high |
| speed | high | medium |
| spin | high | extreme |
| sponge_hardness | 47.5 (medium-hard, roughly 45-50 degrees) | 50 degrees (medium-hard; Extra Hard version around 57 degrees) |
| type | tensor inverted | hybrid tacky tensor |
| weight_uncut_g | 69 | 72 |
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These two Yasaka rubbers solve different problems. Rakza X is a grippy tensor with a high, safe arc that works on both wings, blends loops with blocks and short play, and rewards smooth, linear strokes. Rakza Z trades that easygoing feel for a tacky topsheet and extreme spin, but it only comes alive when you commit to a full swing.
If you want one rubber for both forehand and backhand, or you are stepping up and still value control in blocks and loop exchanges, Rakza X is the safer call. Its medium-hard sponge and faster, more direct response make it the more forgiving all-rounder.
If you are a proactive forehand looper who wants to bully opponents with heavy spin and placement, Rakza Z is the weapon. Expect to close your blade angle for the higher throw and accept weaker passive and flat-hitting shots. Both rubbers run heavy, so balance your blade accordingly.
FAQ
Which one is more beginner-friendly?
Rakza X. It is more linear, faster, and works on both wings, while Rakza Z punishes passive or out-of-position shots and needs a full commit to perform.
Can I use either on my backhand?
Rakza X suits both forehand and backhand depending on the blade. Rakza Z is built around the forehand and is weaker when you cannot swing fully, so it is a less natural backhand choice.
Which has more spin?
Rakza Z. Its tacky hybrid topsheet delivers extreme, low-slip spin on loops, backspin openings and serves. Rakza X is still high-spin but more about grip and arc than raw tackiness.