Weight
82g
Thickness
5.7mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Timo Boll CAF
Butterfly Timo Boll CAF bridges the gap between traditional wood and modern composite blades, offering a balanced offensive experience. Introduced in 2016, its unique CA Fiber provides a flexible, wood-like feel that enhances ball holding for superior control and spin generation. The blade excels in looping and close-to-mid-distance attacks, delivering a stable platform for powerful drives. With a standard form factor and balanced weight, it's a versatile choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a reliable, high-quality tool that combines familiar touch with enhanced performance.
The blade features a 3+2 ply construction with Koto wood forming the outer layers, Kiri wood as the core, and CA Fiber layers positioned between the outer and center plies. This configuration aims to provide a natural wood-like feel while incorporating composite material benefits. The CA Fiber's flexibility contributes significantly to ball holding and control characteristics.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Timo Boll CAF offers sufficient speed for offensive play, particularly effective for close to mid-distance attacks. While not as explosive as some high-end ALC or ZLC blades, it provides more than enough power for strong looping and driving shots. Our testing shows it delivers noticeably more speed than traditional 5-ply wood blades, making it an excellent step up for players seeking enhanced offensive capability without sacrificing control.
Control stands out as a major strength of the Timo Boll CAF. The flexible CA fiber creates excellent ball holding, providing exceptional precision in the short game and during blocking. Players report feeling very comfortable and confident with placement abilities. TTSensei experts note its low spin sensitivity significantly enhances control and consistency, making it easier to handle incoming spin with confidence.
Timo Boll CAF delivers a unique tactile experience, offering a natural, wood-like sensation during slower strokes while providing a crisper, more composite-like feel during powerful shots. Many players find it has more tactile feedback than many ALC or ZLC blades, making it appealing for those who value connection with the ball. The feel transitions smoothly between different stroke types.
Throw angle sits in the medium-high range, offering a good arc for attacking shots, particularly loops. It provides a safe and effective trajectory for offensive play without being excessively high, allowing players to maintain control while attacking consistently.
Dwell time is particularly impressive when executing powerful topspin shots. The CA fiber's flexibility helps hold the ball on the racket longer, allowing for greater spin generation and control during loops. This extended contact benefits players who rely on spin-based attacks and creating high-arcing shots with confidence.
The blade exhibits good flexibility thanks to the CA Fiber layers, which is key to its ball-holding characteristics. This flexibility enhances dwell time and control while providing a more forgiving playing experience. It aids significantly in spin generation, making it suitable for players who prefer blades with some give rather than extreme stiffness.
Vibration levels remain relatively low for a composite blade, contributing to its controlled feel. While some vibration transmits during hard hits, it's generally described as pleasant and manageable rather than excessive. The design successfully balances feedback with comfortable playing experience.
As expected from Butterfly, the Timo Boll CAF demonstrates excellent build quality with well-integrated materials and robust construction. The blade feels solid and reliable in hand, contributing to consistent performance and durability over time. This premium quality ensures players can trust their equipment during intense matches and practice sessions.
Technology
Butterfly Timo Boll CAF features innovative Control Assist Fiber technology, a unique composite material derived from wood. This special fiber is engineered for high flexibility, enabling the blade to hold the ball longer for enhanced control and feel. The CA Fiber provides a more natural hitting sensation compared to synthetic fibers like carbon, while the construction with a thick central Kiri ply between Koto wood and CA Fiber layers creates a stable platform for powerful drives and offensive play. This technology makes it ideal for players transitioning from traditional all-wood blades.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Timo Boll
While the blade bears his name, Timo Boll is most famously associated with blades like Butterfly Viscaria and Timo Boll ALC in professional competition. The Timo Boll CAF is marketed as a blade inspired by his attacking style and suitable for players who emulate his game, rather than being his primary competition blade.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Viscaria serves as a benchmark for high-performance offensive blades with its Arylate Carbon construction delivering a faster, stiffer feel. Timo Boll CAF offers similar offensive capability with a slightly softer, more controlled alternative. Players looking for Viscaria's power but preferring more ball feel and dwell time might find the CAF an excellent option.
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ALC
Innerforce ALC blades share hybrid construction and offensive capabilities but feature inner fiber placement for a softer feel and more dwell time. Timo Boll CAF with its outer CA Fiber offers a different tactile experience while aiming for a similar blend of control and power. It's a strong alternative for players seeking composite performance with enhanced ball feeling.