Hardbat

Also known as Hard Rubber.

A type of racket covering with pips out rubber but no sponge underneath. Hardbats were the main type of racket used in table tennis until the development of sponge rubber in the early 1950's.

The use of hardbats is now rare, due to the reduced speed and spin they generate. However, some players enjoy playing in hardbat events as they believe the reduced speed and spin produce more interesting use of tactics and allow for longer rallies. Players who prefer hardbats to sponge rackets are often known as 'hardbatters'.