How to Choose the Right Zhang Jike Table Tennis Blade & Rubber for Your Game
When it comes to combining elite performance with expert engineering, few names in table tennis command more respect than Zhang Jike. A former Olympic Champion, World Champion, and World Cup winner, Zhang is one of the few players in history to complete a career Grand Slam.
Now, through a unique partnership with DONIC, Zhang Jike brings his playing wisdom into a new generation of table tennis gear – a range of Zhang Jike blades and rubbers developed for players who want to play fast, powerful, and with precision.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- Zhang Jike’s impact on the Donic product line
- The differences between the Zhang Jike Original Carbon and New Era blades
- How to choose the right Bluegrip J rubber (J1, J2 or J3) for your style
- Recommended setups for different types of attacking players
Who Is Zhang Jike – And Why Does It Matter?
Zhang Jike’s game was defined by aggressive forehand loops, incredible footwork, and mental intensity. His equipment needed to deliver maximum speed while maintaining touch and precision under pressure. These same principles now define the Donic Zhang Jike Series, blending cutting-edge materials with Zhang’s personal feedback from years at the top.
This isn’t just a name on a product – Zhang Jike personally tested and co-developed the rubbers and blades in this collection, refining every detail to suit serious players.
Blade Guide: Zhang Jike Original Carbon vs New Era
Donic Zhang Jike Original Carbon Blade
- Speed Level: OFF / OFF+
- Feel: Stiff, direct, powerful
- Composition: 7-ply (Kiri core, Ayous plies, Cured Aramid Carbon, Koto outer)
- Best For: Advanced attackers who rely on explosive topspin and fast rallies
Why choose it?
This is the blade Zhang Jike used during his career, designed for maximum pace and pressure. If you're an experienced player with excellent timing, this blade offers an elite-level offensive platform.
👉 Shop the Original Carbon Blade
Donic Zhang Jike New Era Blade
- Speed Level: OFF- / OFF
- Feel: Softer touch, more controlled
- Composition: 7-ply (Kiri, Ayous, Trio UAC fibres, Limba outer)
- Best For: Developing attackers or all-rounders seeking more ball feel
Why choose it?
Zhang Jike developed this blade with players at his own academy in mind. He recognised that not every player benefits from max speed – this blade delivers greater control without sacrificing power.
Rubber Guide: Donic Bluegrip J1 vs J2 vs J3
The Bluegrip J Series was created by combining the best of Donic's Bluestar A and Bluegrip C rubbers – then perfected through countless hours of testing by Zhang Jike himself.
Each version suits a different player type. Here's how to choose:
Bluegrip J1 – The Power Option
- Sponge Hardness: 55° (Hard)
- Catapult Effect: Very High
- Top Sheet: Slightly sticky, ultra grippy
- Best For: Advanced attackers with powerful strokes and aggressive topspin
Why choose it?
This rubber is built for maximum speed and spin, perfect for high-level players who like to dominate rallies and finish points quickly.
Bluegrip J2 – The Balanced Performer
- Sponge Hardness: 52.5° (Medium-Hard)
- Catapult Effect: High
- Top Sheet: Slightly sticky
- Best For: Modern offensive players who want power and touch
Why choose it?
With a perfect middle-ground feel, the J2 suits players who loop confidently from both wings but still need control in passive play.
Bluegrip J3 – The Controlled Attacker
- Sponge Hardness: 50° (Medium)
- Catapult Effect: Moderate to High-
- Top Sheet: Slightly sticky, softest feel in the series
- Best For: All-round attackers or spin-based players looking for comfort and dwell time
Why choose it?
If you prioritise spin control, touch, and consistency, J3 gives you confidence in rallies while still delivering enough power for finishing shots.
Which Setup Is Right for You?
| Player Type | Blade Recommendation | Rubber Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Aggressive Topspin Attacker | Zhang Jike Original Carbon | Bluegrip J1 |
| Balanced Offensive All-Rounder | Zhang Jike New Era | Bluegrip J2 |
| Controlled Looper or Developing Attacker | Zhang Jike New Era | Bluegrip J3 |
Ready to Play Like Zhang Jike?
Every item in this range reflects Zhang Jike’s championship mindset, designed for players who want to elevate their game with elite-level gear.
🔥 Explore the full Zhang Jike range now:
👉 View All Zhang Jike Blades & Rubbers