Weight
87.5g
Plies
7-ply
Handles
ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
VSG-TWIST III
Butterfly VSG-TWIST III is a versatile table tennis blade celebrated for its unique fusion of speed, control, and spin generation. Engineered with a soft yet dynamic feel, it delivers exceptional ball sensitivity for precise shot placement. Its construction promotes a long dwell time, crucial for imparting heavy spin on serves and during powerful loops. An excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players, this blade adapts seamlessly from controlled looping to aggressive attacking, offering a balanced and reliable platform for developing a stronger offensive game without compromising consistency.
VSG-TWIST III features a 7-ply construction with two layers of Kevlar Carbon positioned between wood veneers. This hybrid design combines the flexibility and feel of wood with the added speed and stiffness of carbon fibers, creating a blade with a good balance of dwell time and offensive power. The Kiri core contributes to a lighter weight and softer overall feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
VSG-TWIST III offers solid speed suitable for offensive play. While not in the highest tier, it provides ample power for aggressive shots, particularly when combined with fast rubbers. Our testing shows its speed is well-balanced with control, enabling effective attacks without sacrificing precise placement.
This blade excels in control, a significant advantage for developing players and those who rely on precision. The longer dwell time and softer feel allow for excellent ball manipulation, making controlled shots, blocks, and placement attacks feel easier and more consistent.
VSG-TWIST III provides a soft, responsive feel attributed to its wood composition and Kiri core. This enhances dwell time and delivers excellent feedback, allowing for nuanced touch shots and a clear understanding of ball contact.
The combination of a soft feel and long dwell time typically produces a medium-high throw angle, which is highly beneficial for effective looping and generating significant spin.
Players report a good dwell time, which facilitates exceptional spin generation. This longer contact allows the rubber to grip the ball effectively, enabling players to produce heavy topspin and deceptive serves.
While specific data is limited, the hybrid construction with Kevlar Carbon and wood layers suggests a medium level of flexibility. This offers a balanced response, providing enough stiffness for power while retaining flexibility for control and feel.
With a low vibration rating, the blade provides a very stable and comfortable hitting experience. This minimizes unwanted feedback, letting players focus on executing strokes with precision and confidence.
Butterfly is renowned for high-quality manufacturing, and the VSG-TWIST III upholds this reputation. Players report a well-constructed blade with durable materials, contributing to its longevity and delivering consistent performance over extended use.
Technology
Butterfly VSG-TWIST III is built on a 7-ply design that strategically intersperses Kevlar Carbon layers within wood plies. This hybrid construction leverages the benefits of both materials: the carbon provides enhanced speed and a more direct feel compared to all-wood blades, while the wood retains a significant degree of control and dwell time. The specific arrangement, including a Kiri core for lightness and Koto outer veneers for grip, is part of Butterfly's design philosophy aimed at delivering a versatile and responsive playing experience for a wide range of styles.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Zhang Yining
Zhang Yining, a legendary Chinese player, is sometimes associated with blades that offer a blend of control and spin. While direct confirmation of her using this specific model is scarce, her powerful yet controlled game style aligns perfectly with a blade that provides ample dwell time for heavy spin and precision placement—traits central to the VSG-TWIST III.
Similar Blades
Butterfly VSG-TWIST II
VSG-TWIST II is a closely related predecessor, often described with similar characteristics like good control and spin potential, with slight variations in speed or feel. Players who enjoy the VSG-TWIST III might find it a comparable option, particularly if seeking a slightly different feel or a historically reliable blade.