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The Butterfly Soft D13 was an entry-level table tennis rubber aimed at beginners and recreational players. It’s no longer widely available, especially outside of Japan, but here’s what we know about it:
Focus on Control for Beginners:
Less Grippy Top Sheet: Compared to modern Butterfly rubbers, the Soft D13 likely had a less grippy topsheet. This meant it generated less spin but offered significantly more control over shots, especially for those new to the sport.
Softer Sponge: The sponge in the Soft D13 was likely on the softer side. This resulted in a longer dwell time (the time the ball stays on the rubber during contact), allowing for better control over strokes and easier execution of basic techniques.
Benefits for Beginners and Recreational Players:
Easier Learning: The focus on control made the Soft D13 ideal for beginners who were just starting out. It allowed them to concentrate on proper stroke mechanics without the added difficulty of managing high spin or speed.
Improved Consistency: The controllable nature of the Soft D13 helped beginners develop consistency in their shots, leading to more enjoyable rallies.
Suited for Recreational Play: If you played table tennis for fun and exercise, the Soft D13 was a good option due to its ease of use and focus on control for basic rallies.
Alternatives to Butterfly SOFT D13 (Since it’s not readily available):
Butterfly Amic: Considered the successor to the Soft D13, the Amic is a beginner-friendly rubber with a focus on control and feel, potentially offering slight improvements over the Soft D13.
Donic Do it Easy: Another beginner-friendly rubber with a focus on control, similar to the Soft D13.
Yasaka Ryu Sei: A good option for beginners with a slightly grippier topsheet compared to the Soft D13, offering a bit more spin potential while maintaining good control.
Overall, the Butterfly Soft D13 was a good choice for its time, helping beginners learn the game with a focus on control. If you’re looking for a similar option today, consider the alternatives mentioned above.