Weight
83g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
3-ply
Head Size
157x161
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Shiono DEF
Donic Shiono DEF is a specialized defensive blade crafted in collaboration with Masato Shiono. This 3-ply all-wood design prioritizes exceptional control and a distinct feel, enabling precise chops and deliberate defensive maneuvers. While built for stability, it offers surprising attacking potential for opportunistic counter-hits. The blade's emphasis on ball feedback helps defenders react effectively to varying spin and pace, making it a distinct choice for players who rely on consistent defense with the ability to surprise opponents.
A simple 3-ply construction using only spruce wood, known for providing good feel and control. This all-wood nature contributes to a softer feel and enhanced dwell time, ideal for defensive play.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Shiono DEF offers moderate speed, aligning with its primary defensive function. While designed for control, it provides enough pace for surprise attacks and counter-hits, making it a versatile option rather than an offensive powerhouse.
Control is the standout feature, consistently rated very high. This exceptional control allows for precise placement of defensive shots, effective blocking, and easy manipulation of the ball, making it a reliable tool for defenders.
Players report a distinct 'deadness' or persistent dead contact, contributing to a softer feel. This enhances ball feedback, allowing defenders to precisely gauge impact and spin, with a unique momentum and depth.
The all-wood construction and moderate speed suggest a medium-high throw angle, beneficial for generating effective spin on chops and defensive strokes while allowing controlled attacking shots.
The 3-ply all-wood spruce construction typically results in longer dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade. This facilitates more spin on chops and better control for defensive shots, with a unique momentum and depth.
Shiono DEF is described as a bit stiffer than comparable defensive blades, yet its construction allows sufficient flex to generate spin and absorb pace, balancing stiffness for attack and flexibility for defense.
Vibration is present but dampened by the blade's construction, leading to a 'dead' feel. This medium level helps absorb incoming pace while still providing enough feedback to feel the ball.
Handcrafted in Germany to a high standard, the blade receives consistent praise for its build quality, durability, and consistent performance. The use of spruce wood and precise construction contribute to its excellent quality rating.
Technology
Donic Shiono DEF utilizes a straightforward 3-ply construction exclusively from spruce wood, known for its lightness and excellent ball feedback crucial for defensive play. German manufacturing ensures a consistent, high-quality build for reliability. While lacking synthetic fibers, its simple yet effective design maximizes control and feel, catering specifically to modern defensive table tennis demands.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Masato Shiono
Masato Shiono is the namesake and primary advocate for this blade, a renowned Japanese defensive player known for exceptional chopping and strategic offense. He collaborated with DONIC to develop it, ensuring it meets modern defender requirements. He uses it to execute precise, high-spin chops and transition effectively into offensive opportunities, relying on its exceptional control and feel to dictate rallies.
Similar Blades
Donic Defplay Senso
Donic Defplay Senso is frequently mentioned as a comparable defensive blade, both designed for control and feel. While Shiono DEF is noted as slightly stiffer and quicker, Defplay Senso is known for its softer feel and excellent control with a larger head size. Both are favored by defensive players for consistent performance and spin generation.