Innershield ZLF

Innershield Layer ZLF is generally rated as a slow to medium-slow blade. While its primary focus is control and defense, the ZL Fiber construction provides enough speed for effective offensive actions like counter-loops and spinny topspins, especially for a defensive blade. Some players report it as very slow, while others find it has adequate speed for a defensive blade with offensive capabilities.

Control is the standout feature of Innershield Layer ZLF. Its design prioritizes stability and precision, making it exceptionally easy to handle for defensive maneuvers like chopping and blocking. The blade offers a large sweet spot and minimal vibration, contributing to consistent ball placement and reducing errors.

Innershield Layer ZLF delivers a soft impact and feel, despite the underlying stiffness from the ZL Fiber layers. This soft touch is beneficial for defensive play, allowing for good ball feedback and control on chops and pushes, with noticeable feedback in the handle for precise touch shots.

The combination of defensive design, flexibility, and dwell time creates a medium-low throw angle. This is beneficial for controlling hard-hit shots and executing precise defensive strokes, allowing for effective chopping without the ball flying too high.

The blade offers significant dwell time, which is crucial for defensive players. This extended ball contact allows for greater spin generation on chops and provides excellent control over the ball's trajectory and spin, making it easier to execute precise defensive shots.

Innershield Layer ZLF is noted for its high flexibility. This characteristic contributes to its soft feel and allows for increased dwell time, which aids in generating spin and controlling defensive shots. The flexibility also helps the blade absorb incoming power effectively.

While the Innerfiber technology is intended to reduce vibration, player experiences vary. Some report very low vibration consistent with the design goal, while others describe noticeable and sometimes excessive feedback during play.

Butterfly blades are generally known for their high build quality, and Innershield ZLF is no exception, being made in Japan. The use of ZL Fiber and quality wood layers suggests durable construction. While most users praise the quality, isolated incidents of splintering have been noted, which may not reflect the typical experience.