Weight
85.5g
Thickness
5.5mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
Fan Zhendong ZLC
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC is a premium offensive blade crafted for advanced players seeking a superior blend of speed, spin, and stability. Inspired by World Champion Fan Zhendong, its 7-ply construction with ZL-Carbon layers provides exceptional rebound and flexibility for powerful attacks while maintaining remarkable control. The Japanese-made blade offers a firm yet controllable hitting feel, ideal for aggressive topspin, precise flicks, and dynamic smashes.
Fan Zhendong ZLC features a 7-ply construction with five wood layers (Koto outer, Ayous middle, Kiri core) and two ZL-Carbon layers positioned directly beneath the outer plies. This arrangement provides the characteristic blend of speed, flexibility, and stability inherent to ZLC blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Fan Zhendong ZLC is rated highly for speed, offering significant offensive power suitable for aggressive play and fast rallies. While not the absolute fastest in its category, it delivers ample pace for powerful attacks, making it a top choice for players who prioritize a fast blade without sacrificing all feel.
Control is a standout feature of this blade. Despite its speed, players report excellent stability and predictability, allowing for precise shot placement even during fast exchanges. This high level of control makes it more manageable than many other offensive blades, distinguishing it in its class.
Fan Zhendong ZLC offers a medium-hard feel with a crisp response and high-pitched sound. It provides a good balance between direct feedback and a forgiving touch, offering more stability and a slightly softer sensation than some stiffer carbon blades.
Fan Zhendong ZLC typically produces a medium-high throw angle, beneficial for aggressive topspin shots. This trajectory helps the ball clear the net with a good arc before dipping sharply onto the opponent's side, creating effective attacking opportunities.
This blade provides good dwell time, allowing for sufficient ball contact to impart heavy spin, especially during topspin strokes and serves. The longer contact contributes significantly to its superior control and spin generation capabilities.
It offers medium-to-medium-stiff flexibility. The ZLC layers provide stiffness for power, while the wood plies allow for noticeable flex during strokes requiring dwell and spin, enabling both powerful drives and controlled finesse shots.
Vibration is rated at a medium-low level. The construction offers a controlled, comfortable feel that many players find less intrusive than some other carbon blades, contributing to overall stability during play.
Manufactured in Japan with meticulous craftsmanship, the Fan Zhendong ZLC embodies high-quality construction. It uses premium materials that ensure durability and consistent performance over time, reflecting the exceptional build standards players expect from top-tier equipment.
Technology
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC utilizes ZL-Carbon (ZLC) technology, an advanced composite material combining carbon fibers with Zylon fibers. This construction provides an exceptional balance of bounce and flexibility, enhancing both power and stability. The ZLC layers are strategically placed within the 7-ply structure to optimize the blade's sweet spot and energy transfer, enabling players to generate high speeds and spin while maintaining precise control.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Fan Zhendong
This blade is named after and inspired by the playing style of Chinese World Champion Fan Zhendong. It is engineered to emulate the characteristics that support his aggressive, fast-paced, and spin-oriented game, providing the power and stability needed for powerful topspin attacks and precise placement.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ALC
Fan Zhendong ALC is often compared to the ZLC variant. While both are designed for offensive play, the ALC offers a softer touch and greater flexibility, making it slightly easier to use for a broader player base. The ZLC version provides more speed and stability due to the ZL-Carbon material, appealing to those who prioritize ultimate power.
Butterfly Viscaria
Viscaria is a legendary blade with a similar construction philosophy using Arylate-Carbon fibers. Fan Zhendong ALC is considered an evolution, often perceived as slightly thicker with more power. The ZLC version appeals to players seeking a modern offensive blade with the distinct properties of ZLC, offering a different balance of speed and feel.