Yinhe Kiso Hinoki V

Yinhe Kiso Hinoki V offers respectable speed, landing in the OFF- to OFF+ range. It's not an extreme speed blade, but its pure Hinoki construction delivers ample power for offensive shots, especially when combined with fast rubbers. Our testing shows it excels more in controlled all-round play than brute force, with its speed effectively complemented by outstanding feel and significant spin potential.

This blade earns exceptionally high marks for control, a direct result of the natural Kiso Hinoki wood feel that provides superb ball feedback. It allows for precise shot placement, making it ideal for controlled looping, consistent blocking, and chopping. Players report it's perfectly suited for anyone who prioritizes accuracy and consistency in their game.

Kiso Hinoki V delivers a soft and highly sensitive feel, a signature trait of pure Hinoki construction. Players experience exceptional ball feedback and a natural wood sensation, often described as a 'butterfly feeling' for the ball, enabling nuanced touch and control. It feels notably softer and less bouncy than many other blades.

The properties of Kiso Hinoki combined with the 5-ply build often produce a medium-high throw angle. This helps in clearing the net easily on aggressive loops and provides a favorable trajectory for offensive shots, while still allowing control for softer touches.

The soft feel and all-wood construction naturally create a long ball dwell time. This extended contact is key for imparting heavy spin on serves, loops, and drives, directly contributing to the blade's high control rating and making it a favorite for spin-oriented playstyles.

As a 5-ply all-wood blade, it possesses a moderate level of flexibility. This offers a good blend of speed and control, allowing players to generate spin through blade bending. It sits comfortably in the medium range, fitting the preferences of many all-round players.

Thanks to its five-ply construction and the damping properties of Hinoki wood, the Kiso Hinoki V typically exhibits moderate to low vibration. It's designed to minimize unwanted feedback, providing a clean and comfortable feel upon ball impact.

Quality assessment involves the prized Kiso Hinoki wood itself, universally acknowledged as premium, and Yinhe's manufacturing. While the inherent material quality is high, some players note variability in finish compared to specialized makers. Considering its construction from this sought-after wood and its consistent performance, we rate its overall quality as good to very good.