Weight
88.5g
Thickness
6.2mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
159x153
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon
GEWO Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon is a premium offensive blade crafted for players who demand a sophisticated blend of spin, controlled power, and sensitive feel. Developed with Spanish pro Alvaro Robles, its unique 5+2 ply construction pairs outer Hinoki layers for classic dwell time with strategically placed carbon fiber beneath the top plies. This design enhances power and stability while maintaining flexibility, creating a dynamic tool ideal for aggressive loopers and attackers who rely on precision and spin-heavy rallies.
The 5+2 ply construction features Hinoki as the outer and inner-most wood layers for excellent feel and dwell time. Sandwiched between are Koto and a core Ayous layer. The carbon fiber layers are placed under the Koto outer plies, not directly on the core. This placement, along with specific gluing techniques, is designed to provide a flexible feel while retaining carbon's power and stability, preventing the blade from becoming too stiff.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
GEWO Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon delivers high-level speed, fitting for an offensive blade with carbon reinforcement. The combination of Hinoki and strategically placed carbon layers enables powerful shots, especially in aggressive topspin rallies and counter-attacks. It provides the necessary pace for winning points through sheer power while retaining enough control for measured offensive play, making it a potent weapon for dynamic attackers.
Despite its high speed, this blade maintains impressive control, thanks to the Hinoki outer plies and construction that avoids excessive stiffness. This precision is crucial for executing accurate shots, managing spin-dependent strategies, and placing the ball exactly where intended. Players with solid technique will find it exceptionally responsive, allowing for intricate play and confident touch.
Players report a flexible and sensitive feel, achieved by placing carbon layers under the top veneers and using specific gluing techniques. This creates a clear connection to the ball, allowing you to sense spin and trajectory distinctly. It offers a more nuanced impact than some stiffer carbon blades, providing satisfying feedback during play.
The combination of Hinoki and carbon, along with the blade's speed, produces a medium-high throw angle. This is excellent for generating powerful loops with a good arc and penetration, helping aggressive shots clear the net while maintaining a downward trajectory.
The use of Hinoki wood on the outer plies significantly enhances dwell time, letting the ball sink into the blade's surface longer. This extended contact is ideal for imparting maximum spin on loops and drives, giving spin-oriented players a tangible advantage.
Designed with flexibility in mind, this blade achieves a supple response by positioning carbon layers beneath the top veneers. This flexibility is key for generating spin and offering a comfortable feel during strokes, setting it apart from more rigid carbon alternatives.
While the carbon layers add stiffness and power, the overall construction results in a medium level of vibration. This provides useful feedback without being harsh, contributing to the blade's controlled and communicative feel during strokes.
Built with high-quality materials and precise German manufacturing, the GEWO Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon reflects a commitment to excellence. The blend of fine woods and carbon results in a durable, finely tuned instrument that offers a satisfying tactile experience and consistent performance. Our testing shows it delivers a distinct and reliable feel that stands up to rigorous play.
Technology
GEWO Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon employs a specialized 5+2 ply hybrid construction, integrating five wood layers with two carbon fiber layers. The core innovation is the strategic placement of the carbon fiber layers under the outer Koto wood plies, not directly adjacent to the Ayous core. This unique configuration, combined with precise gluing techniques, aims to balance a flexible feel and enhanced dwell time—characteristic of traditional wood blades—with the power, speed, and stability of carbon fiber. The design prevents excessive stiffness, delivering a nuanced and sensitive playing experience favored by spin-oriented attackers.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Alvaro Robles
Alvaro Robles, the Spanish professional and runner-up World Champion in men's doubles (2019), is the namesake and primary user of this blade. Developed based on his playing style, the blade supports his aggressive, spin-oriented game that relies on precise placement and powerful counter-attacks. Its flexible feel and enhanced dwell time allow him to execute signature spin-heavy loops and controlled aggressive shots effectively at the highest competitive level.
Similar Blades
GEWO Aruna Hinoki Carbon OFF
TTSensei experts note that the Robles Hinoki Ex-Carbon is based on the GEWO Aruna Hinoki Carbon OFF model. While both feature Hinoki and carbon, the Robles Ex-Carbon differentiates itself by placing the synthetic fiber layer under the top ply, aiming for a more flexible and sensitive feel. This makes the Robles Ex-Carbon a refined alternative for players seeking a similar offensive profile with enhanced touch and nuance, whereas the Aruna model may feel slightly stiffer.