Weight
82.5g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157.5x150.5
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Avalox Blue Thunder 550 (BT550)
Avalox Blue Thunder 550 (BT550) is a Swedish-crafted 5-ply all-wood blade celebrated for its exceptional blend of control, feel, and spin-oriented play. Its lightweight design enhances maneuverability and racket speed, making it a favorite for technical players who vary spin and power. The blade delivers a substantial trampoline effect that amplifies spin, with a soft yet lively feel and good vibration feedback ideal for developing players refining their all-around game. Factory pre-sealing simplifies rubber removal and protects the wood fibers.
BT550 features a traditional symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction with Limba outer plies, Spruce second layers, and a thicker Ayous core. This construction contributes to its soft feel, high dwell time, and excellent control, with the thicker center ply enhancing the trampoline effect.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
BT550 is generally categorized as an OFF- or strong ALL+ blade. While not considered a fast blade for outright power, its design optimizes for a lively feel and significant trampoline effect that increases ball speed when combined with powerful strokes. It provides sufficient speed for offensive play, especially for players who rely on spin to generate pace.
Control is a hallmark of the BT550. Its construction emphasizes a high level of precision, making it exceptionally easy to keep the ball on the table during various strokes like pushes, chops, and blocks. This high control is beneficial for developing players and those who prioritize placement and consistency.
BT550 offers a soft yet lively feel, providing good feedback to the player. This characteristic allows for excellent touch and control, especially in the short game and during spin-heavy rallies. Many players describe a trampoline effect due to its flexibility and springiness.
Our testing shows BT550 is a high-throw blade, meaning shots tend to arc upwards more significantly, which is beneficial for generating heavy spin and creating aggressive topspin loops.
The blade's flexibility and soft feel contribute to a longer dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade. This extended contact time is crucial for generating high levels of spin and offers greater control over the ball's trajectory and placement.
The blade is described as flexible, contributing significantly to its dwell time and spin-generating capabilities. This flexibility allows for a more pronounced trampoline effect, enhancing the power of spin shots.
BT550 exhibits a noticeable level of vibration, which many players find beneficial for developing feel and understanding ball contact. This vibration provides sensory feedback, aiding in shot execution and control, though players sensitive to vibrations might find it less ideal.
Avalox blades are consistently praised for superior Swedish craftsmanship and high build quality. BT550 features durable wood construction, precise assembly, and a smooth finish. The blades are often pre-sealed, which adds to their longevity and ease of maintenance.
Technology
Avalox Blue Thunder 550 is constructed using traditional Swedish blade-making techniques with a 5-ply all-wood composition. A key feature is factory pre-sealing, which protects wood fibers from damage during rubber removal, preventing splinters and extending the blade's lifespan—particularly useful for players who frequently change rubbers. The Swedish manufacturing emphasizes tight tolerances and small production runs, ensuring high quality and consistency distinct from mass-produced blades.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Wang Nan
Wang Nan, a multiple World and Olympic Champion, used Avalox blades during her career. While not specifically linked to BT550, her association with the brand indicates the high-level performance and quality that influenced models like BT550 for top players.
Ma Wenge
Ma Wenge, a prominent Chinese player, used Avalox blades. BT550, as part of the Blue Thunder series developed with input from Chinese players, embodies characteristics favored by offensive-minded players who rely on spin and control, reflecting styles like Ma Wenge's.
Similar Blades
Stiga Allround Classic
BT550 is frequently compared to Stiga Allround Classic, often described as an improved version. Both are 5-ply all-wood blades known for control and suitability for developing players. However, TTSensei experts note BT550 offers more spin potential and a slightly higher trampoline effect due to its construction and flexibility.
Avalox Blue Thunder 555 (BT555)
BT555 is a sibling to BT550, often described as a slightly faster and more powerful version. While BT550 is praised for exceptional control and spin, BT555 offers more speed and a crisper feel, suitable for players wanting more attacking power while retaining many of BT550's desirable characteristics.