Weight
85g
Thickness
5.3mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Innerforce ZLF
Butterfly Innerforce ZLF is a hybrid table tennis blade crafted for players who want the natural feel of wood enhanced by the performance of ZL Fiber. Its 7-ply construction, featuring an inner-fiber design, creates a large sweet spot and excellent dwell time, enabling superior spin generation and precise control. The blade offers a softer touch and enhanced feedback compared to outer-fiber models, making it ideal for aggressive close-to-the-table play. It's recommended for players who prioritize spin and control without needing extreme speed, and serves as an excellent tool for developing strong fundamental techniques.
This 7-ply construction features an Ayous core sandwiched by two layers of Zylon Fiber, with Limba outer plies. The inner-fiber placement enhances feel and control by providing a large sweet spot and excellent dwell time, while the Limba outer plies contribute to spin and touch.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Innerforce ZLF's speed is a topic of discussion, with most expert reviews placing it in the OFF- to OFF category. It's not a speed-demon blade but provides sufficient pace for offensive play, often described as mid-fast. The inner fiber placement contributes to a softer feel and slightly less direct speed compared to outer-fiber constructions, creating a well-balanced tool where speed harmonizes with control and spin capabilities.
Control is a standout strength of the Innerforce ZLF. The blade's construction, with its generous dwell time and large sweet spot, allows for precise placement and consistent stroke execution. Players report excellent accuracy and stability, making it ideal for those who rely on tactical play and consistent ball placement during rallies.
Innerforce ZLF offers a natural wood feel despite the ZL Fiber layers. The inner placement of the fiber contributes to a softer, more connected sensation on ball contact, providing excellent feedback that lets players sense the ball's spin and impact clearly.
The throw angle is typically described as direct and low, which benefits aggressive play and can make returns difficult for opponents. This low-to-medium trajectory is common for blades that prioritize control and spin.
The blade's construction provides significant dwell time, allowing the ball to stay on the racket longer. This extended contact enables exceptional spin generation and greater control over shot placement and trajectory, often described as the ball 'sticking' to the racket.
Innerforce ZLF has good flex, which is crucial for generating spin. This flexibility allows the blade to bend and pocket the ball, enhancing dwell time and spin potential during powerful strokes, without feeling overly stiff.
Vibration levels are generally moderate. The ZL Fiber provides some stiffness, but the inner construction and wood layers help dampen excessive vibration, resulting in a comfortable playing experience with good ball feedback.
Butterfly is a premium brand, and the Innerforce ZLF reflects this with high-quality materials and meticulous Japanese manufacturing. The use of ZL Fiber and quality woods results in excellent build quality and durability. Player feedback consistently praises its feel and performance, supporting its reputation as a well-crafted, reliable blade.
Technology
Butterfly Innerforce ZLF utilizes Innerfiber technology, positioning specialized ZL Fiber layers closer to the blade's core beneath the outer wood plies. This construction enhances the natural feel and control of wood while adding the benefits of advanced fibers. ZL Fiber is known for its strength, elasticity, and ability to create a larger sweet spot, improving dwell time and spin generation. The internal fiber placement maintains a softer touch and better feedback compared to outer-fiber blades, allowing players to hold the ball longer for greater spin variation and controlled offensive play.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Timo Boll ZLF
Timo Boll ZLF also features ZL Fiber but is generally described as having a slightly different feel and construction. Our testing shows the Timo Boll ZLF is often thinner with a crisper feel, while the Innerforce ZLF offers a softer touch and more dwell time due to its inner-fiber construction. Innerforce ZLF is often seen as more controllable and better for spin, whereas Timo Boll ZLF might provide a bit more directness.
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC
Innerforce Layer ALC is part of the same series but uses Arylate-Carbon fiber instead of Zylon Fiber. While both are innerfiber blades, the ALC construction typically provides a faster and stiffer response compared to the softer, more dwell-focused ZLF. Players seeking more speed and a crisper feel while retaining Innerforce control might consider the ALC version.