Weight
77g
Thickness
6.3mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
150x157
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Virtus 5
Animus Virtus 5 is a handcrafted Italian composite blade designed for all-round attacking players. Its unique 5-ply construction combines a lightweight balsa core with responsive aramid fibers and cypress outer plies, creating a dynamic yet controlled playing experience. This blade offers a lively feel with noticeable flex, making it excellent for precise counter-hits, blocks, and spin generation. Ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking to enhance their offensive game without losing touch and placement, the Virtus 5 delivers a balanced blend of speed and control that adapts to various playing styles.
This 5-ply construction features a balsa core for lightness and elasticity, reinforced by aramid fibers for added speed and a responsive feel. Encapsulated by cypress outer plies, the design prioritizes control and touch, creating a balanced hybrid blade ideal for all-round attacking play.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Animus Virtus 5 delivers a good level of speed suitable for offensive play, falling into the OFF- to OFF category. The combination of aramid fibers and a balsa core provides a lively, elastic feel that enables quick attacks and effective counter-hits, making it a versatile option for players looking to ramp up their offense without overwhelming speed.
Despite its offensive capabilities, Virtus 5 retains a high level of control thanks to its cypress outer plies and overall blade flexibility. This allows for precise placement on serves, pushes, and controlled looping, giving players the confidence to execute nuanced shots while maintaining consistency in their game.
Players report a medium-hard feel with noticeable flex, allowing for clear sensation of ball impact. This tactile feedback aids in control and helps players understand ball trajectory, making it easier to adjust shots and maintain consistency during play.
The combination of speed and flexibility suggests a medium-high throw angle, ideal for generating powerful topspin shots with a good arc. This allows players to loop effectively from mid-distance while maintaining control over ball trajectory.
The blend of wood and composite materials, along with the blade's inherent flex, suggests a medium to long dwell time. This characteristic is beneficial for generating spin on serves and drives, giving players more time to impart rotation on the ball.
This blade is noted for its significant flexibility, which enhances control and feel, particularly for players who rely on wrist action and touch shots. The flex contributes to a dynamic playing experience, making it easier to execute nuanced strokes with precision.
Virtus 5 offers a moderate level of vibration due to its balsa core and composite layers. This provides useful feedback during ball impact without being harsh or distracting, allowing players to maintain a good feel for their shots throughout rallies.
Crafted by hand in Italy, Animus Virtus 5 showcases a high level of attention to detail and quality materials. Our testing shows that its construction emphasizes durability and a refined finish, making it a reliable choice for players who appreciate craftsmanship in their equipment.
Technology
Animus Virtus 5 utilizes a 3+2 ply construction that blends traditional wood with modern composites. At its core is balsa wood, known for lightness and elasticity, which boosts speed and feel. Sandwiched between wood layers are aramid fibers, adding enhanced responsiveness and power. The outer plies are cypress, providing control and a softer touch. This handcrafted Italian design emphasizes quality and unique playing characteristics, making it a standout choice for players seeking a balanced, high-performance blade.
Similar Blades
Animus Virtus Series 2 CarboKev
Virtus Series 2 CarboKev is a related blade within the Animus line, featuring a similar construction but with Carbon Kevlar fibers instead of Aramid. This likely results in a stiffer and faster blade while maintaining good control, offering a comparable playing experience for attacking players seeking a different material response.