Weight
70g
Thickness
7.4mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
153x151
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Appelgren Dotec Control
Donic Appelgren Dotec Control delivers exceptional control and a unique tactile experience for players who prioritize feel. Its standout feature is the ergonomic Dotec handle, crafted from a single piece of wood and wrapped in natural cork, offering a comfortable, conforming grip that reduces hand fatigue and promotes natural wrist movement. This 7-ply hybrid construction with a balsa core and Dotec fiber layers provides a balanced, responsive playing surface suitable for allround plus strategies. The blade excels in touch and accuracy, making it a favorite for players seeking harmony between their hand and the equipment.
This 7-ply construction uses a symmetrical 5+2 build. A central balsa wood core is sandwiched between two layers of Dotec fiber. Ayous wood layers sit outside the fiber, and Limba forms the outer playing surfaces. This stack is designed to combine the soft, controlled feel of balsa with the stabilizing effect of the fiber, all topped with spin-friendly Limba.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Appelgren Dotec Control offers speed on the faster side of the allround spectrum, suitable for ALL+ to OFF- play. It provides enough pace for confident attacking shots, but its design philosophy prioritizes controlled acceleration over raw power. You get responsive speed for rallies without sacrificing the precision that defines this blade.
True to its name, this blade delivers exceptional control. The combination of its composite layers, balsa core, and the unique Dotec handle provides outstanding feel and precision for ball placement. It excels in touch shots, short game, and allows for accurate, controlled loops, making it a reliable partner for players who value consistency.
The blade provides a medium-soft feel, characterized by a comfortable, forgiving touch on impact. The balsa core and fiber layers absorb some of the ball's energy, resulting in a pleasant, dampened sensation that enhances dwell time and spin sensitivity.
The throw angle is medium-high, ideal for players who enjoy looping and spin-oriented play. This characteristic helps in producing arcing, spin-heavy attacks over the net while maintaining good control over the trajectory.
You get good dwell time with this blade. The softer feel and construction allow the ball to stay on the racket face slightly longer, which is excellent for brushing the ball to generate heavy spin and for fine-tuning your touch during controlled strokes.
Flexibility is medium, offering a balanced response. It has enough give to aid in spin generation and control on slower strokes, yet retains sufficient stiffness to transfer power effectively when you accelerate through your shots, making it versatile for allround play.
Vibration feedback is at a medium level. The construction provides enough sensation to feel the ball contact clearly without being harsh or jarring, offering useful feedback for stroke adjustment while remaining comfortable during extended play.
Donic Appelgren Dotec Control is a well-crafted blade with notable attention to detail. The innovative one-piece handle integration and cork wrapping showcase thoughtful design, while the wood and fiber layers are solidly constructed. It feels durable and purpose-built, offering a unique quality centered on ergonomic comfort and playing feel.
Technology
The core technology is the proprietary Dotec system, centered on an ergonomic handle crafted from a single piece of wood that flows seamlessly into the blade head, eliminating sharp edges. This handle is wrapped in natural cork, providing a soft, conforming, and exceptionally comfortable grip that reduces fatigue and promotes a natural wrist position. Additionally, integrated Dotec fiber layers within the blade construction work in harmony with the handle to enhance feel, control, and provide a balanced, responsive playing characteristic with good dwell time.
Similar Blades
Donic Waldner Dotec AR
Waldner Dotec AR is a close relative within the Dotec family, sharing the unique ergonomic handle technology. Players report the Appelgren Dotec Control offers a slightly softer feel and easier control, while the Waldner version may provide a touch more direct speed or a different balance point, making it another excellent option for players committed to the Dotec grip experience.
Donic Appelgren Allplay
Appelgren Allplay represents the classic counterpart. It's a traditional 5-ply all-wood blade that shares the namesake but foregoes the Dotec technology. The Allplay offers a more conventional, direct wood feel and handle, while the Dotec Control provides a modern, ergonomically advanced experience with composite layers and its signature cork-wrapped grip for enhanced comfort and control.