Weight
87g
Thickness
5.7mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Fan Zhendong CNF
Butterfly Fan Zhendong CNF is a high-performance offensive blade engineered for players seeking a modern fusion of speed, spin, and dwell time. Its defining innovation is Cellulose NanoFiber (CNF) technology, an artificial fiber derived from processed plant fibers. This material provides a unique combination of powerful reaction and significant vibration dampening, resulting in a longer dwell time and a more controlled, natural feel. Designed to support the aggressive, fast-paced style of its namesake, it bridges the gap between traditional wood and modern composite blades, offering a crisp yet comfortable hitting sensation ideal for powerful attacks and precise control.
This 5+2 ply construction features outer Koto layers for a crisp feel and direct response, sandwiched by Cellulose NanoFiber (CNF) layers that provide unique vibration dampening and increased dwell time. The inner Ayous and Kiri core layers contribute to the blade's overall flexibility and feel, creating a balanced structure that harmonizes power with control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Fan Zhendong CNF is engineered for high speed, fitting firmly into the OFF+ category. The CNF technology contributes to a powerful and fast response, enabling aggressive attacking shots. Our testing shows it generates excellent pace on drives and loops, making it a potent weapon for players who rely on a fast, offensive tempo to dominate rallies.
Despite its impressive speed, Fan Zhendong CNF offers a surprising level of control, largely thanks to the unique properties of CNF. This material dampens vibrations and increases dwell time, allowing for better ball contact and precision. Players report it remains controllable for serves, short game, and blocks, provided they maintain proper racket angle and technique.
The combination of outer Koto, inner CNF layers, and a wood core creates a feel that balances directness with a softened touch. It's not as hard as some all-carbon blades; the CNF provides a distinct, slightly muted but highly responsive sensation that enhances dwell time and spin, offering a crisp yet forgiving impact.
Many players find it produces a medium-low throw angle. This means players may need to adjust their stroke technique slightly to achieve higher arcing loops. This characteristic can be advantageous for keeping the ball low and fast, or it can be complemented by pairing it with rubbers that have a higher inherent throw.
A defining characteristic of the CNF material is its ability to significantly increase dwell time. This allows the ball to stay on the racket surface longer, enabling players to impart more spin and control on their shots, which is particularly beneficial for heavy loops and spin-oriented topspins.
The blade offers a moderate level of flexibility, attributed to its wood core and the nature of the CNF material. This flexibility allows for good ball pocketing and spin generation on controlled shots and loops, while maintaining sufficient stiffness for stable, powerful offensive play when needed.
A key benefit of Cellulose NanoFiber technology is its excellent vibration-dampening property. Fan Zhendong CNF significantly reduces unwanted vibrations, leading to a cleaner, more comfortable hitting sensation even during powerful strokes. This characteristic directly contributes to the enhanced dwell time and overall control.
Manufactured in Japan, the Fan Zhendong CNF meets high production standards. The integration of advanced materials like CNF suggests meticulous engineering and quality control. While isolated feedback has mentioned finish details, the overall build quality, craftsmanship, and material integrity are considered excellent for a professional-grade blade from a top-tier manufacturer.
Technology
Butterfly Fan Zhendong CNF utilizes advanced Cellulose NanoFiber (CNF) technology. CNF is an ultra-fine artificial fiber created by minutely breaking down plant fibers to a nano-size. Integrated into the blade's construction, this innovative material provides a unique playing experience. Unlike traditional carbon fibers, CNF offers a softer feel, significantly reduces vibration, and enhances dwell time. This combination allows for high-speed shots with exceptional spin potential and a controlled, comfortable hitting sensation. The design is inspired by Fan Zhendong's aggressive, fast-tempo style, aiming to provide a tool that supports powerful attacks without sacrificing precision.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Fan Zhendong
As the blade's namesake, Fan Zhendong's attacking philosophy is the direct inspiration for this CNF variant. While famously associated with the Fan Zhendong ALC, the CNF blade's characteristics of high reaction, long dwell time, and low vibration align perfectly with his fast-paced, spin-oriented game. The design, including handle shape, is tailored to support his powerful topspin loops and aggressive play from both wings.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Revoldia CNF
Butterfly Revoldia CNF is based on the same core CNF technology and shares a similar construction philosophy. It is considered a close relative, often noted for offering a natural feeling close to pure wood blades with the benefits of CNF. Players looking for a slightly different feel or potentially a touch more control from a CNF-based blade might find the Revoldia CNF an interesting option to compare.
Butterfly Viscaria
The Fan Zhendong series, including this CNF model, draws heavily from the legendary shape and construction of Butterfly Viscaria. Viscaria is renowned for its excellent balance of speed, spin, and control using Arylate-Carbon fibers. Players who enjoy the Viscaria's performance profile but are curious about the distinct feel, enhanced dwell time, and vibration control offered by CNF technology might find Fan Zhendong CNF a compelling modern alternative.