In this study, the dynamics of droplet impact onto hydrophobic and superhydrophobic spherical surfaces are experimentally investigated, with the particle-to-droplet diameter ratio ($\mathrm{\Omega }$) ranging from 1.04 to 2.08. We analyze the transient deformations of water droplets on these surfaces and discover new impact regimes, referred to as ring rebound and claw rebound. At high Weber numbers, when $\mathrm{\Omega }>1.7$, the ring and claw rebound regimes are observed, triggered by Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. The causes of the claw rebound are examined, considering the influences of $\mathrm{\Omega }$, Weber number ($We$), and surface wettability. We identified the crucial factors contributing to regime formation—maximum spreading angle ${\beta }_{\max }$. A semiempirical formula is proposed to estimate the time required for a droplet to reach its maximum spreading state. Additionally, a theoretical model based on energy conservation laws and semiempirical formulations is developed, which can accurately predict regime transitions and maximum spreading behavior.

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• Drop interactions
• Hydrophobic interactions