Defplay Inner Carbon

With a speed rating of 6.5, this blade sits in the medium-fast range, tailored for defense with offensive capability. The inner Hyramid Carbon layers provide sufficient acceleration for effective counter-attacks and surprise offensive strokes, giving it more pop than a purely wooden defensive blade. However, its control-oriented construction moderates the speed, ensuring it remains manageable for precise defensive play and controlled rallies.

Control is a primary strength, rated at an excellent 9.0. The construction, featuring a thinner inner veneer, larger sweet spot, and the vibration-dampening Hyramid Carbon, contributes to exceptional precision. This allows for confident blocking, precise placement of defensive chops, and reliable ball placement on all shots, making it a highly trustworthy blade for strategic play.

The blade offers a medium-soft feel, characterized as sensitive and providing a good connection to the ball. The inner carbon layers and wood composition create a slightly dampened but responsive touch, offering an excellent balance between feedback for control and reduced vibration for comfort during extended play.

It produces a medium-high throw angle. The inner carbon layers contribute to a noticeable catapult effect, especially when paired with modern tensor rubbers. This helps in executing powerful attacking shots, clearing the net comfortably with loops, and adding arc to offensive plays from a defensive position.

Dwell time is rated at 7.5, indicating a moderate to long contact. The combination of a slightly larger head, thinner inner veneer, and the flexible wood plies allows the ball to stay on the racket face longer. This is beneficial for generating spin on serves, loops, and during defensive strokes that require brushing action.

With a flexibility rating of 4.0, the blade leans towards the stiffer side of medium. The carbon layers add structural stiffness for power transmission, but the multiple wood plies and Kiri core prevent it from being overly rigid. This results in a blade with good feel for controlled shots while providing a solid platform for attacks.

Vibration is very low at a 3.0 rating. A key feature of this blade is its significantly reduced vibration amplitude, which is a major contributor to its enhanced control and playing comfort. This makes it forgiving on off-center hits and pleasant to use over long sessions.

Donic Defplay Inner Carbon demonstrates high-quality craftsmanship, earning an 8.5 rating. It utilizes specific wood types like Limba and Kiri alongside advanced Hyramid Carbon in an innovative layout. The build is consistently noted for its durability and performance, reflecting the careful material selection and manufacturing standards expected from a performance-oriented blade.