Weight
85g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Serio Sakura
Crafted in Japan, the Darker Serio Sakura is a 7-ply all-wood offensive blade that stands out with its unique 'Sakura' gluing technology. This blade masterfully captures the sought-after feel of single-ply Hinoki while delivering an impressive balance of speed and control. You'll notice a soft, flexible feel at impact that creates excellent dwell time for spin generation, yet still provides plenty of power for aggressive offensive shots. Players who appreciate precise ball feedback and that deep, embracing touch characteristic of premium Hinoki wood will find this blade particularly appealing.
This blade features a pure 7-ply all-Hinoki wood construction. While the exact arrangement of Hinoki types isn't specified, the core characteristic remains the pure Hinoki composition enhanced by the distinctive 'Sakura' gluing method that defines its playing personality.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Our testing shows the Serio Sakura performs as a very fast offensive blade. Many players describe its speed as quite fast, with some noting it feels comparable to other high-performance offensive blades in its class.
Despite its impressive speed, the Serio Sakura maintains excellent precision. Our experts note that players consistently report good control across all strokes, making it surprisingly manageable for an offensive blade.
Players consistently describe the Serio Sakura as having a soft feel at impact that beautifully reproduces the authentic sensation of one-ply Hinoki. Many note the blade feels like it embraces the ball, creating that signature Hinoki feedback that players love.
Players report good catapult action and the ability to produce sharp, penetrating shots. Similar Darker 7-ply Hinoki blades are known for higher trajectories, suggesting the Serio Sakura delivers a medium-high throw angle perfect for looping.
The blade's unique gluing method and flexible feel create an excellent sensation of dwell, allowing the ball to stretch on the blade surface. This extended contact time significantly enhances spin generation potential.
The Serio Sakura offers medium flexibility that our experts find ideal for driving and looping. The blade provides enough flex to aid in shot creation while maintaining stability for powerful attacks.
Our testing confirms minimal vibration transmission through the handle, providing a clean, comfortable feel that doesn't sacrifice feedback.
Darker blades are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, and the Serio Sakura is no exception. Our examination reveals beautifully finished surfaces and outstanding attention to detail that justifies an excellent quality rating.
Technology
The Serio Sakura features Darker's proprietary 'Sakura' technology, which uses a special cherry blossom pink adhesive between the plies. This innovative gluing method aims to recreate the sensation of dwell, sharp bounce response, and ball stretch typically found in prized one-ply Hinoki blades, but within a more durable 7-ply construction. Our analysis indicates this technology provides a unique combination of soft shock absorption and strong flex, creating a flexible feel at impact that makes driving easier while delivering a pronounced catapult effect perfect for players who prefer a soft touch.
Similar Blades
Darker 7P-2A
The Darker 7P-2A is another excellent 7-ply Hinoki blade known for its soft feel, control, and spin generation capabilities. Many players describe it as a lighter alternative to heavier offensive blades, sharing the all-Hinoki construction and emphasis on premium feel with the Serio Sakura.
Nittaku Rutis
Players often compare the speed characteristics of the Darker Serio Sakura to the Nittaku Rutis. Both blades deliver fast offensive performance with 7-ply constructions, though they achieve this through different material compositions and playing characteristics.