Weight
84g
Thickness
5.7mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Waldner Ultra Senso Carbon JO Shape
Donic Waldner Ultra Senso Carbon JO Shape is a hybrid offensive blade that masterfully blends speed, control, and classic feel, inspired by the legendary Jan-Ove Waldner. Its unique JO Shape head—slightly longer and narrower than standard—facilitates versatile stroke play and smooth transitions between wings. Crafted in Sweden with a 7-ply construction integrating carbon layers, it delivers a dynamic, responsive experience ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking a powerful yet controlled weapon for modern attacking play.
This 7-ply, 5+2 construction features outer Limba veneers for feel, inner Ayous wood layers for stability and dwell, and two strategically placed carbon layers to enhance speed and stiffness without compromising too much on control, characteristic of its hybrid nature.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
The inclusion of hard carbon plies significantly increases the blade's speed compared to all-wood counterparts, offering ample power for offensive drives and loops. Our testing shows it delivers a solid OFF+ rating suitable for dynamic play, yet it maintains a balanced character that prevents it from becoming uncontrollably fast, making it a versatile choice for aggressive players.
Despite its carbon composition, this blade retains a remarkably high level of control due to its wood veneers and thoughtful construction. Players report outstanding precision in the short game, effective blocking, and confidence during aggressive rallies. This forgiving nature for its speed class makes it a standout choice for those who value placement and consistency alongside power.
The feel offers a proper woody character with a medium-hard touch. Players report good feedback that isn't overly harsh, and the carbon layers are integrated so well that the blade can sometimes present a softer, all-wood-like sensation during play, providing a balanced and communicative experience.
Many players find the blade produces a medium-high throw angle, which is conducive to lifting the ball with a good arc. This characteristic is beneficial for clearing the net with topspin shots and for effective looping play.
Our testing shows the blade maintains a good dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the rubber for effective spin generation. While carbon can sometimes reduce dwell, the specific wood and carbon layering in this construction preserves a satisfactory contact duration for looping and spin-oriented play, though it may have slightly less dwell than its classic predecessor.
The hybrid construction results in a medium level of flexibility. It provides good flex during looping and topspinning, offering a balanced response that aids in generating power while maintaining control, rather than feeling overly stiff or board-like.
The Senso hollow handle technology is designed to provide feedback while managing vibration levels. Players report manageable vibration that offers good shot feedback without being overly harsh or annoying, particularly on powerful shots, contributing to a connected playing experience.
Crafted in Sweden, the blade is generally considered well-made with quality materials and durable construction. While some users have noted minor inconsistencies in aesthetic finishing, the core performance and build integrity are widely praised. TTSensei experts note its overall craftsmanship delivers reliable, tournament-ready performance.
Technology
The blade features Senso Technology, which incorporates a hollow handle design. This aims to reduce overall weight while enhancing direct feel and feedback to the player's hand, allowing for better detection of the sweet spot and shot quality. It also utilizes a hybrid construction with strategically placed carbon layers integrated with traditional wood veneers (Limba outer, Ayous inner). This combination is engineered to increase speed and stiffness for more powerful shots, while the wood plies contribute to dwell time, control, and a distinct woody feel.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Jan-Ove Waldner
Jan-Ove Waldner is intrinsically linked to this blade, as it is designed in his signature JO Shape and developed in collaboration with him. While retired, his influence on the design and his historical use of Donic blades bearing his name is foundational. The JO Shape reflects his playing style, which emphasized versatility, control, precise placement, and attacking power.
Similar Blades
Donic Waldner Senso Carbon JO Shape Limited Edition
This is a very closely related model, often described as a version or upgrade of the classic Waldner Senso Carbon. It shares the JO Shape, Senso Technology, and carbon layers but may differ slightly in specific wood veneers or carbon placement, potentially offering a marginally different balance of speed and control. TTSensei experts note the 'Ultra' version is generally considered a faster iteration.
Donic Waldner Senso Carbon (Classic Shape)
This is the predecessor to the JO Shape variants. It offers a similar blend of carbon speed and wood control but in a standard head shape. Players who appreciate the Senso Carbon performance profile but are indifferent to the unique JO Shape might consider this alternative. Our analysis suggests it may have more dwell time and a potentially more pronounced dynamic effect compared to some JO Shape versions.