Weight
75g
Thickness
13.3mm
Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Handle-Heavy
R\*1
Joola R*1 delivers a unique offensive experience by combining high speed with remarkable feel. Its defining feature is an exceptionally thick Balsa core, which creates a longer ball contact time, allowing the ball to 'bury' into the blade for enhanced spin and control. This makes it a powerful tool for attacking players who rely on consistent topspins and a great option for those using long pimples to execute disruptive shots. It's a versatile blade that offers surprising control alongside its power, suiting various aggressive playing styles.
The construction is centered around an extremely thick Balsa wood core. The exact composition of the outer and inner plies is not detailed, but the emphasis on Balsa suggests a softer, more flexible core designed to maximize dwell time and ball feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Players report the R*1 as a very fast blade, enabling powerful shots and quick offensive plays. This speed stems from its construction, making it well-suited for aggressive attacking styles where pace is a priority.
Despite its high speed, the R*1 offers a respectable level of control. Its unique Balsa core extends dwell time, allowing players to feel the ball better and execute controlled shots, including blocks and disruptive long-pimple plays.
The exceptionally thick Balsa core provides a distinct, somewhat soft feel. Users describe the ball 'burying' into the blade, leading to longer dwell times and excellent feedback—a key feature for spin generation and ball control.
Given its high speed and offensive orientation, the R*1 facilitates a medium-high throw angle. This characteristic supports powerful attacking shots and spin-oriented loops, helping the ball clear the net with ease.
Extended dwell time is a hallmark of the R*1, primarily due to its thick Balsa core. This allows for greater interaction with the ball, facilitating high levels of spin and a more cushioned feel on impact, beneficial for both offensive loops and defensive chops.
The blade exhibits a medium to medium-flexible characteristic. This flexibility is crucial for absorbing the ball's impact, increasing dwell time, and enabling players to impart more spin on their shots, particularly during topspin rallies.
The soft Balsa core likely results in a moderate level of vibration. This isn't unusually high for an offensive blade and contributes to the overall feel, allowing players to sense the ball without excessive harshness.
Based on user feedback, the build quality appears good. While specific objective ratings are limited, consistent positive mentions of its performance and unique feel indicate solid construction for its intended role as a specialized offensive blade.
Technology
Joola R*1 is defined by its innovative use of an exceptionally thick Balsa wood core. Balsa is known for being lightweight and providing a unique tactile feel with extended dwell time, allowing for greater ball 'burial' and spin generation. This core material, combined with its wood plies, creates a blade that balances high speed with a soft, controlled playing sensation. The design maximizes ball contact duration, which is crucial for spin-based attacks and for players using unconventional rubbers like long pimples.
Similar Blades
Joola Kool
The Joola Kool is noted in discussions as a comparable blade, also featuring a thick construction. Some players have preferred the feel of the Kool, noting it incorporates different technologies. Both blades share a reputation for substantial thickness.
Joola Aruna OFF+
While not a direct alternative, the Aruna OFF+ is another offensive blade with a high speed rating. It targets a similar player profile seeking power, though its construction and specific playing feel would differ from the unique Balsa core of the R*1.