Weight
87.5g
Thickness
5.6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
167x157
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Wanokiwami Midori DEF
Andro Wanokiwami Midori DEF is a premium defensive table tennis blade meticulously crafted in Japan, embodying traditional woodcraftsmanship. Developed with master carpenter Takeshi Wanaka, it offers an exceptional balance between control and offensive capability for modern defenders. The blade prioritizes high control for defensive shots while retaining enough power for disruptive counterattacks. Its aesthetic appeal and performance make it a standout choice for players seeking precision, comfort, and a competitive edge in their defensive game.
Wanokiwami Midori DEF features a 7-ply all-wood construction with a thick core veneer for power, complemented by extremely thin intermediate and outer veneers. This layering aims to provide excellent control and feel while maintaining offensive capabilities, with outer layers described as soft for control and the core providing power. Specific wood types beyond Limba and Anigre are not consistently identified, but the emphasis is on premium wood selection and bonding.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Wanokiwami Midori DEF is primarily a defensive blade, and its speed reflects this focus. It offers enough pace for controlled counterattacks and offensive plays but prioritizes control and dwell time over raw speed. The 7-ply construction with a thick core helps generate pace when needed, though it's not built for fast, aggressive attacks.
Control is the standout feature of this blade. Its construction is optimized for precision in defensive shots like chops and blocks, with soft outer layers and overall balance contributing to exceptional ball feedback and stability. This high level of control is crucial for accurate placement and disruptive defensive play.
Wanokiwami Midori DEF provides excellent feeling and feedback, with soft outer layers contributing to a comfortable and sensitive touch on the ball. This balanced feel allows players to sense spin and trajectory accurately, crucial for precise defensive maneuvers and controlled attacks.
While primarily defensive, Wanokiwami Midori DEF is noted for its ability to generate spin and facilitate counterattacks, suggesting a medium-high throw angle. This allows for sufficient arc on defensive shots and an effective trajectory on attacking strokes.
The combination of a thicker core and softer outer veneers offers noticeable dwell time on the ball. This extended contact allows for greater spin generation on serves and topspins, as well as better control during chops and blocks, a hallmark of high-control defensive blades.
The blade has a moderate flex, allowing it to bend slightly during shots, which contributes to dwell time and spin. This flexibility is balanced—not overly stiff nor excessively whippy—enabling controlled offensive shots while maintaining stability for defensive play.
Focus on control and feel, along with its all-wood construction, results in a low vibration level. Defensive blades like this aim to minimize harsh vibrations to provide a softer touch and better control, especially during chops and blocks.
The blade is consistently praised for exceptional build quality, craftsmanship, and premium materials. Developed with a Japanese master carpenter, it shows meticulous attention to detail and a high finish. Premium woods and expert bonding result in a durable and aesthetically pleasing blade that stands out in quality.
Technology
Andro Wanokiwami Midori DEF results from a unique collaboration between Andro's development team and Takeshi Wanaka, a renowned Japanese carpenter specializing in fine woods. This partnership blends traditional Japanese woodworking with modern blade design. Meticulous selection, processing, and bonding of premium woods achieve a delicate balance between offensive power and defensive control. A thicker core veneer provides necessary power, while extremely thin intermediate and outer veneers ensure excellent control and feel. This layering technique, with careful wood selection, offers exceptional dwell time, spin potential, and precise placement, maintaining a comfortable playing experience for defensive players.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Joo-Se-Hyuk
Players report similarities between Wanokiwami Midori DEF and Butterfly Joo-Se-Hyuk in all-around capabilities with a slight lean towards defensive play. The Midori DEF is noted as slightly slower and lighter but offers more versatility for play, making it suitable for both defensive chops and attacking shots.