Tibhar Grass D.TecS is a long-pips rubber; the Powerkraft listing is the OX version, with no sponge. Consider it when you want to build a long-pips style and can practise that change. It is not a shortcut that guarantees awkward returns or errors from your opponent.
This is a specification-based buying guide, not a documented playing test. See the Grass D.TecS OX product page for current price, colour and availability.
What does Tibhar confirm?
Tibhar's product specification identifies D.TecS tension technology and a defensive role involving chops and chop-blocks. The manufacturer offers both OX and versions with sponge. This matters because advice about a sponged sheet is not automatically advice about the OX sheet sold here.
What does OX mean for your order?
OX means no sponge layer. Do not attach a sponge-hardness figure from another version to it. Confirm the exact sheet and fitting method before ordering, especially if you currently play with smooth rubber on that side.
The product is one rubber sheet, not a complete racket. Keep the blade and the other side of the racket in mind. A long-pips change affects the shots you practise and the combinations you use in a rally.
Who should consider this type of change?
Start with the style you want to learn: close-table blocks, chop-blocks or defence away from the table. Tell your coach which shots you use now and where you lose control. A player's level alone is not enough to decide whether OX is suitable.
If you are switching from inverted rubber, allow practice time. Treat the effect on your strokes as something to check, rather than assuming a sheet will reverse every ball's spin or make it wobble.
What should a useful playing comparison include?
- The exact rubber version and the blade used.
- The tester's usual rubber and intended defensive style.
- Returns against topspin, backspin and low-spin balls.
- Short placement, controlled blocks and active chops.
- The number of sessions, not just one successful return.
These are suggested checks. We do not have a recorded test here showing that Grass D.TecS is always faster, harder to control or more durable than every classic long-pips rubber. Tibhar's own ratings are brand figures, not a controlled comparison across brands.
How can you build the setup?
Read our rubber types guide to compare long pips, short pips and inverted sheets. If you want fitting, buy the blade and sheets with the paid rubber gluing service. Check that the service covers your chosen setup before ordering. Assembled rackets take one extra working day to dispatch and cannot be returned.