Weight
69g
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
nullxnull
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Aurora
Hallmark Aurora is a specialized table tennis blade designed for players who blend offense and defense. Its defining feature is distinct playing characteristics on each side: a faster forehand side built for aggressive topspin attacks and a slower backhand side optimized for control and spin reversal with long pips or anti-spin rubbers. The blade incorporates ACT (Anti-Vibration Cork Technology) to enhance feel and dampen vibrations. Lightweight and stiff, the Aurora offers agility and a responsive touch, making it a versatile tool for players who disrupt rhythm and control the game's pace from mid-distance.
This is a 5-ply blade with an asymmetrical construction tailored for dual-sided play. The outer plies are different: one side uses harder wood for a faster, offensive rebound, while the opposite side uses softer wood for a slower, controlled defensive feel. The core layer incorporates ACT (cork) technology. This layered design creates two distinct personalities within a single blade.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Speed is highly side-dependent. The forehand side offers a brisk, offensive pace suitable for loops and drives, rating around 8.0. In contrast, the backhand side is deliberately slow, typically between 3.0-4.0, engineered for maximum control and spin manipulation with defensive rubbers. This dual-speed profile is the Aurora's core identity, allowing players to switch between attack and defense seamlessly.
Control is exceptional, particularly on the defensive backhand side where it approaches a perfect 10. This allows for incredibly precise placement and potent spin reversal. The forehand side also provides remarkably high control for an offensive blade, around 9.8, giving players confidence to attack without sacrificing accuracy. The ACT technology contributes significantly to this stable, predictable feel.
The blade delivers a fundamentally stiff, medium-hard feel that provides a direct response. However, the ACT technology effectively dampens harsh vibrations, resulting in a more comfortable and controlled sensation on impact, especially during powerful forehand strokes. It feels solid yet surprisingly manageable.
Throw angle varies by side. The offensive forehand side produces a medium-high arc, conducive to generating heavy topspin. The defensive backhand side, especially with long pips, creates a low to medium-low trajectory, keeping returns short and disruptive to an opponent's attack.
Dwell time is notably good, particularly on the defensive side. The softer composition and ACT technology allow the ball to sink into the blade slightly longer, which is crucial for generating effective spin reversal on chops and blocks. This characteristic aids in control and spin manipulation.
The Aurora is a stiff blade. This low flexibility contributes to its direct, fast rebound on the forehand side, favoring a crisp attacking style. Any perceived flex or dwell on the backhand side comes predominantly from the defensive rubber used, not from the blade's inherent construction.
Vibration is very low, which is a primary function of the integrated ACT technology. The cork material effectively absorbs and dampens shock, providing a clean, comfortable feel with a well-defined sweet spot and minimal harsh feedback, even on hard impacts.
While performance is praised, our testing shows the build quality has room for improvement. Players report that the inner wood can be somewhat soft and prone to damage from repeated rubber changes or impacts. The finish may not be top-tier, and sealing the blade is often recommended to prevent splintering and extend its lifespan.
Technology
The core technology is Hallmark's ACT (Anti-Vibration Cork Technology). This involves integrating cork material into the blade's construction, likely within the core layers. Cork is an excellent natural vibration damper. Its purpose is to absorb shock and minimize unwanted vibrations transmitted to the hand, thereby enlarging the effective sweet spot, enhancing control, and providing a more comfortable, stable feel during play, particularly on faster offensive shots.
Similar Blades
Hallmark Combination Blade
Players report that the Hallmark Combination Blade serves a similar niche as a dedicated offensive/defensive blade. Some users who have tried both express a preference for the Combination Blade, suggesting it may offer a slightly different balance of characteristics, potentially with a different feel or weight distribution that certain players find more suitable for their style.