Weight
82g
Thickness
6.7mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Maze Advance
Butterfly Maze Advance is a 5-ply all-wood table tennis blade designed for players seeking a perfect balance between offense and defense. As the successor to the Maze Performance, it offers a lightweight, easy-to-handle design with a moderate reaction property, making it versatile for various playing styles. This blade excels in providing precise placement, consistent spin generation, and a clear feel, making it an ideal choice for amateur and intermediate players looking to improve their game. It delivers a comfortable playing experience, allowing confident execution of both powerful attacks and solid defensive maneuvers.
Maze Advance features a traditional 5-ply all-wood construction where each layer contributes to its balanced playing characteristics. While specific wood types aren't detailed by the manufacturer, this configuration prioritizes feel, control, and dwell time over raw speed, creating a versatile blade suitable for a wide range of strokes and playing styles.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Maze Advance delivers a medium speed that offers good offensive potential for an all-wood blade. Players report its speed sits in the mid-to-high range for wooden blades, capable of delivering powerful shots when paired with appropriate rubbers, without being overwhelming like composite options. This balanced speed works harmoniously with its control, making it suitable for developing players who need both power and precision in their game.
Control is where Maze Advance truly shines. Its all-wood construction provides exceptional ball feel and dwell time, allowing for precise placement and spin generation. Many players find its stability makes it easy to handle for various skill levels, including those who play defensively or prefer strategic placement. The blade offers a forgiving nature that gives players confidence during fast rallies and delicate touch shots near the net.
Maze Advance offers a distinct all-wood feel characterized by good ball retention and a clear connection. While some describe it as having a direct, informative feel that's slightly stiff, others praise its comfortable and predictable nature. The blade provides secure ball contact that helps players develop their touch and timing.
Maze Advance produces a medium-high throw angle that complements its spin-friendly characteristics. This trajectory helps loops clear the net comfortably while landing deep on the opponent's side, making it particularly effective for players who rely on topspin attacks and spin variations.
The 5-ply all-wood construction naturally provides excellent dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the wood for enhanced spin generation on serves and loops. This extended contact time gives players more control over their spin-oriented shots and contributes to the blade's overall forgiving character.
This blade offers medium flexibility that strikes a balance between stiffness for controlled power shots and enough give for spin generation. While some players note it feels a bit stiff for an all-wood blade, this characteristic contributes to its stability and consistency during aggressive play.
Maze Advance delivers noticeable but not excessive vibration that provides clear feedback to the player. This characteristic gives you a direct sense of ball contact while maintaining comfort during extended play sessions. The vibration level helps players develop better feel for their shots without being distracting.
As a Butterfly product manufactured in Japan, Maze Advance demonstrates good manufacturing quality with consistent performance and solid durability for its price point. Players report a pleasant feel and reliable construction that holds up well over time. The blade's materials and craftsmanship contribute to its overall value, making it a worthwhile investment for players seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Technology
Butterfly Maze Advance utilizes a classic 5-ply all-wood construction that emphasizes feel, control, and dwell time for enhanced spin generation. As a successor to the Maze Performance, the updated version features modified wood composition with a slightly thicker core and enhanced outer layers. These refinements provide a firmer, more consistent feel, improved stability for powerful shots, and better control during fast rallies. Manufactured in Japan with precision craftsmanship, the blade maintains a lightweight, easy-to-handle profile while delivering reliable performance that helps players develop their skills.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Petr Korbel
Petr Korbel is another popular 5-ply all-wood blade from Butterfly that shares similar control-oriented characteristics with Maze Advance. Both blades excel in feel and suitability for all-round play, though Korbel typically features a slightly thinner handle and may offer different vibration characteristics. Players often debate which provides superior spin or speed, but both serve as excellent choices for intermediate players seeking reliable wooden blades.
Stiga CLCR (Allround Classic)
Stiga CLCR (Allround Classic) stands as a long-standing classic frequently compared to 5-ply all-wood blades like Maze Advance. While Maze Advance represents Butterfly's modern take, CLCR offers proven performance with excellent control and feel. Both blades cater to players who prioritize touch and spin over raw speed, providing predictable and forgiving playing experiences suitable for developing all-round attackers.