Weight
88g
Thickness
6.6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Treiber Z
Andro Treiber Z is a high-class offensive blade that masterfully blends speed, control, and exceptional ball-feeling. Its unique construction with an artificial 'Z-fiber' layer harmonizes a soft impact with inherent hardness and stability, enabling solid blocks and powerful, spin-loaded attacks. The top-heavy balance facilitates precise targeting, making it a versatile multi-talent for aggressive play close to the table or from mid-distance. Manufactured in Germany, it offers a large sweet spot and a satisfying feel for players aiming to elevate their offensive game.
The 7-ply construction features outer Hinoki plies for touch and feel, combined with an inner core of Kiri wood for lightness. Sandwiched between these are two layers of 'Z-fiber' and two layers of Carbon, strategically placed to enhance speed, stability, and power transfer without compromising the blade's inherent flexibility and feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Andro Treiber Z is widely regarded as a very fast blade. This speed stems from its hybrid construction with Z-fiber and carbon layers, enabling powerful offensive shots and quick transitions suitable for aggressive playing styles. While fast, it maintains a manageable speed for most offensive maneuvers, allowing players to execute with confidence.
Despite its high speed, Treiber Z offers exceptional control. This balance is a key feature, allowing players to execute precise shots, engage in effective short play, and maintain consistency even during aggressive exchanges. Players report this high control is particularly noticeable in blocking and short game situations, providing a reliable platform.
Treiber Z delivers a medium-hard feel with a crisp yet soft impact. The Hinoki top layers provide excellent ball-feeling, while the Z-fiber and carbon layers add stability and direct energy transfer. It feels less 'woody' than all-wood blades but offers satisfying feedback, especially during offensive strokes.
Treiber Z typically exhibits a low to medium throw angle. This is a key reason to pair it with rubbers that have a higher natural throw to achieve sufficient net clearance during looping, particularly when playing against backspin or opening up from a passive position.
Dwell time is generally considered medium. It provides enough dwell for spin generation on looping shots, but during flat contacts like blocks and drives, the ball-off time is shorter. This characteristic benefits passive shots by putting pressure on the opponent, though it may require more active engagement for spin creation on slower shots.
Flexibility leans towards the stiffer side of medium. While it offers some flex for spin-oriented shots, its primary characteristic is stability and directness, especially during hard hits and blocks. This provides a solid, predictable platform for offensive play.
Vibration is minimal, with very little unwanted feedback. The construction, including the Z-fiber and carbon layers, effectively dampens vibrations, allowing for a clean and direct feel of the ball upon impact.
The build quality of the Treiber Z is consistently praised. Made in Germany, it reflects high standards of craftsmanship with a large sweet spot, solid construction, and good durability. This contributes to its premium feel and reliable performance over time.
Technology
Andro Treiber Z features a unique 7-ply construction that includes an artificial 'Z-fiber' layer integrated with carbon and Hinoki outer plies. This combination is engineered to provide a distinct playing experience, blending the soft touch and feel of Hinoki with the stability, power, and directness of carbon and Z-fiber. This hybrid approach aims to maximize speed and spin while maintaining exceptional control, a hallmark of precision engineering in table tennis equipment.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Treiber Z is frequently compared to the Butterfly Viscaria. Both are highly regarded offensive blades that utilize carbon fiber and wood construction for a blend of speed and control. Players note similarities in feel and performance, with some finding Treiber Z offers slightly more control or a different feel due to its specific fiber composition, while others prefer the Viscaria's characteristics. Both are considered top-tier options for offensive players.
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC
Treiber Z is sometimes considered an alternative to the Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC, particularly for players seeking excellent ball-feeling with offensive capabilities. While the Innerforce ZLC offers a more traditional wood-like feel with carbon reinforcement, Treiber Z aims for a similar balance of control and power through its unique hybrid fiber and wood structure. Both blades are known for their large sweet spots and versatility.