Tried out a new paddle with both the JP03 and M3 on either side. My last paddle had the Desto 3 and I have to say that both of the new rubber was easy to adapt to. I play penholder and I ordered the MAX thickness.
I tried playing both sides with forehand and back hand and I have the following conclusion:
JP03 has a tad bit more control and so I decided to use it as my forehand. The ball returns are lower than the M3 but it has a slightly less bouncy feel. Also, when you return a side spin with your paddle turned to counteract with the spin, the ball goes fast and low like no other rubber I have used putting a significant pressure on the server.
M3 - If I didn't have the JP 03 to compare, the M3 is also great for forehand. The throw angle is a bit higher than JP 03, and that is one of the reason why I decided to use it as backhand because I would have had to change my techniques a little bit coming from the Desto 3. From a back hand perspective, I am a little bit weaker so the extra power it generates compliments me well.
Overall, the loops on both sides are fantastic. I assume that if I am in a game of speed, I would use the M3 as forehand and if I am in a game of control and really short table rallies like the pros do in the first few hits after a serve, I would use the JP 03 against those opponents.
Worth the upgrade, but use it on a light blade because the weight isn't as light I wish it could be.
- Jason T, HI