Thanks to our cooperation with our partner TT-SPIN.COM (TT-SPIN.DE), we were already able to test and provide many blade-rubber combinations in the past. These reach customers of all kinds: Classical allround players all the way up to modern attackers.
After numerous tests we now want to present to you the table tennis bat "Stiga Infinity ARC". Its name is based on the utilization of the blade Stiga Infinity VPS V, and the rubbers Nittaku Fastarc (on each side).
The gaming characteristics of the Stiga Infinity ARC: Maximum rotation & outstanding feeling!
There are several issues which need to be considered when searching for a bat which is supposed to provide maximum spin for the new plastic balls.
First, you need to be aware of the fact that you cannot fully compensate the changed properties induces by the new plastic balls. The former celluloid balls are in fact different. Hence, the harmony between the bat and the plastic ball is very important.
The largest issue here is the changed touch of the ball, it feels harder. To counteract this best possibly, we have selected the Stiga Infinity VPS V. This racket is made of an offensive (OFF) all-wood blade.
Due to the veneer composition there is a very sensitive touch of the ball and a relatively high trajectory. Hence, the ball feedback is perfect for our overall aim, which is to create a table tennis bat for the plastic ball. The next challenge is the ball contact. To induce the best possible amount of rotation and spin, we need an appropriate rubber.
The solution to this is the best-seller rubber Nittaku Fastarc G-1. There is a pronounced transfer of spin, not only when doing the first soft topspin, but also when doing hard and tight finishers. You can even master extreme angles. This rubber is probably one of the best tensor rubbers worldwide and a real killer!
Based on the Stiga Infinity VPS V you can fully exploit the potential of the Fastarc G-1. The combination of a soft & sensitive touch of the ball as well as the high trajectory of the Infinity with the hard and extremely catchy Fastarc G-1 (with only little catapult), makes this table tennis racket a dangerous weapon.
However, the Stiga Infinity ARC would not be perfect if there wasn´t a solution for a little more control. For this, the Nittaku Fastarc C-1 is appropriate. Equipped with the same topsheet as the G-1, but glued to a softer medium-sponge, the C1 fully satisfies the demands of a very rotational, but also flexible rubber! This is often very helpful for the backhand, because many players use their BH to play passive strokes, such as chopped balls, blocks, or receiving serves.
All in all, the Stiga Infinity ARC (as present in the current pre-selection) is a racket best suitable for the spinny topspin game on each side. The focus on the forehand side is clearly on maximum spin and speed, whereas on the backhand, the focus is clearly on spinny topspin openers with much variations and flexible gaming properties during the passive game.
Stiga Infinity ARC: Selection options for your own game
In order to individually match this table tennis bat, there are several possibilities. These include the selection of the handle type, the color of the rubbers for your forehand and backhand, or if you desire a sealing of the blade. More importantly, however, are the selection of the type of rubber and the corresponding thicknesses.
Possible selections in detail:
- Stiga Infinity VPS V: flared-narrow, flared-thick, straight, anatomical
- Nittaku Fastarc G-1: red/black in 1.8 or 2.0 mm
- Nittaku Fastarc C-1: red/black in 1.8 or 2.0 mm
- Tibhar Evolution EL-S: red/black in 1.8, 2.0, or Max.
Finally, we want to give you some hints. In case you prefer playing in a very variable manner, you should consider the Fastarc C-1 on each side. For a pronounced power-game on both sides we recommend the Nittaku Fastarc G-1 (on each side).
You can also select the Tibhar Evolution EL-S. This corresponds to a kind of Golden-Mean-solution in case you prefer maximum spin & speed, but also a slightly decreased hardness (not as hard as the G-1).
Please also note that the following rule applies: The thicker the rubbers, the more offensive the behavior. The thinner the rubbers, the more control.