Weight
87.5g
Thickness
6mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Innerforce ALC
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC is an offensive blade that masterfully balances speed, control, and dwell time. Its 7-ply construction features inner Arylate-Carbon layers placed closer to the core, creating a softer touch, enhanced feel, and excellent vibration dampening. This 'innerfiber' design promotes dynamic, spin-focused play with precise placement, offering a natural feel reminiscent of all-wood blades while delivering the power and stability of composite materials. It's an ideal choice for players transitioning to fiber blades or those seeking a more controlled offensive game.
This 7-ply construction features five wood layers and two internal Arylate-Carbon fiber layers. The ALC layers are positioned beneath the outer wood plies in an 'innerfiber' configuration that maximizes dwell time and provides a softer, more controlled feel compared to outer fiber constructions.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Innerforce Layer ALC delivers solid offensive speed, classified as OFF. Our testing shows its inner ALC construction generates good pace with a controlled release, making it more than adequate for powerful attacks when paired with faster rubbers. While it doesn't reach the extreme speeds of some outer-fiber blades, its velocity is well-suited for a dynamic, spin-oriented offensive game.
Control is the standout feature of this blade. The inner ALC layers create a larger sweet spot and enhanced feel, making it exceptionally forgiving. Players report precise placement on all shots, from aggressive drives to delicate blocks and short game manipulations. This ease of use is realized without sacrificing power, allowing for confident, consistent play.
The inner placement of ALC fibers creates a softer, more dampened feel compared to outer-fiber blades. This 'woody' sensation provides natural feedback on ball contact, which many players appreciate when transitioning from all-wood setups.
The combination of its construction and extended dwell time typically produces a medium-high to high throw angle. This characteristic helps generate high-arcing topspin shots that clear the net comfortably and dive onto the table.
A significant advantage of this blade is its extended dwell time. The inner ALC construction allows the ball to sink into the blade longer, facilitating heavy spin generation and providing more time for controlled shot-making. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for loopers and spin-oriented attackers.
This blade strikes an excellent balance between stiffness and flexibility. It's not overly rigid, allowing for good flex during spin-oriented strokes, yet firm enough to provide stability and solid power transfer for offensive shots.
The ALC fibers effectively dampen vibrations while still providing useful feedback. The resulting feel is controlled and comfortable—not excessively buzzy but with enough sensation to maintain connection with your shots.
Butterfly blades are renowned for their excellent build quality and consistency, and the Innerforce Layer ALC is no exception. It offers a premium feel and durable construction that reflects its Japanese manufacturing. The attention to detail in its layered construction results in a blade that performs reliably and maintains its characteristics over time.
Technology
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC utilizes proprietary 'Innerfiber' technology, embedding Arylate-Carbon composite layers inside the wood construction between the middle and core plies. This inner placement differs from outerfiber designs where composites sit directly beneath the surface. The technology enhances natural wood feel, increases ball dwell time, and dampens vibrations—resulting in improved control and a softer touch while retaining ALC's power and stability. This approach delivers composite reinforcement benefits without sacrificing the refined feel and control associated with traditional wood blades.
Pro Players Using This Blade
MIYU Nagasaki
Miyu Nagasaki utilizes the Innerforce Layer ALC to support her aggressive topspin style with emphasis on control and placement. The blade's blend of dwell time, feel, and controlled power aligns perfectly with her ability to generate heavy spin and execute precise shots, making it ideal for her dynamic and controlled offensive game.
PARK Ganghyeon
Park Ganghyeon represents the type of offensive player who benefits from this blade's balanced characteristics. The Innerforce Layer ALC provides the comfortable feel and extended dwell time that aid in executing powerful yet controlled topspin rallies, which are central to his playing style and offensive capabilities.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Timo Boll ALC
Timo Boll ALC features an outerfiber ALC construction that makes it generally faster and stiffer than the Innerforce Layer ALC. Players who find the Innerforce slightly too soft or desire more direct, powerful response might consider this alternative while still benefiting from ALC technology.
Butterfly Viscaria
Viscaria is renowned for its exceptional speed and power with an outerfiber ALC construction. Compared to the Innerforce Layer ALC, it offers a faster, stiffer feel with less dwell time. Players seeking maximum offensive power and a more direct response—and who have the technique to control its speed—might prefer Viscaria, while the Innerforce provides more control and softer touch for spin-focused play.