Weight
87.5g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
159x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Kirin K1
Loki Kirin K1 is a 7-ply hybrid blade crafted for offensive players, especially those in the beginner to intermediate range. Its 5 wood and 2 Nano Carbon layer construction delivers a balanced blend of speed, control, and spin, making it an excellent training tool. The blade offers a forgiving sweet spot, a medium-fast pace, and a stable feel that supports developing offensive techniques from close to mid-distance. It's recognized for providing solid performance and a good touch at its accessible price point, helping players grow their attacking game with confidence.
The 7-ply structure alternates wood and carbon in a symmetrical layout: Ayous and Poplar outer layers for feel, Nano Carbon for power and stiffness, and a lightweight Kiri core for balance. This design aims to deliver a blend of speed, control, and a responsive sweet spot.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Kirin K1 delivers a medium-fast to fast speed, fitting well into the OFF+ category for offensive play. The carbon layers contribute to a quick rebound and solid power, enabling effective drives and loops. However, its speed isn't overwhelming; it maintains a manageable pace that allows players to focus on technique and consistency as they develop their attacking style.
Control is a standout feature, with the blade offering a soft touch and forgiving nature that enhances precision. This allows for accurate ball placement and steady play, even during faster exchanges. The balanced design ensures that offensive capabilities don't come at the cost of consistency, making it easier for players to build confidence and control in their shots.
Kirin K1 provides a solid yet soft feel on contact, offering good feedback and a comfortable touch. This characteristic aids in spin generation and allows players to develop finer control and finesse in their strokes, which is particularly beneficial for learning and improvement.
Kirin K1 produces a medium-high throw angle, helping to create good arc on loops and drives. This trait assists offensive players in generating spin and depth, making it easier to apply pressure and place shots effectively.
The combination of wood plies and a soft feel grants a moderate dwell time, giving players enough contact to impart spin and control the ball effectively on serves, loops, and touch shots.
Flexibility sits in a medium range, blending the inherent stiffness from carbon with some give from the wood plies and Kiri core. This balance supports both powerful smashes and controlled, softer shots, adding versatility to an offensive setup.
Vibration levels are moderate, with the carbon layers adding some feedback while the wood composition helps dampen excessive harshness. This results in a balanced sensation that provides information without being distracting or uncomfortable.
Build quality is considered satisfactory for its budget-oriented price point. The construction is durable enough for regular training and intermediate play, offering good value. While some players note questions about the carbon layer's specifics, the overall blade holds up well and performs reliably, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing performance per dollar.
Technology
Loki Kirin K1 utilizes a 5 wood + 2 Nano Carbon hybrid construction, designed to merge the natural feedback and control of wood with the power and stiffness boost from carbon fibers. The Nano Carbon layers aim to accelerate ball speed and rebound, while the Ayous, Poplar, and Kiri wood plies work together to provide touch, spin potential, and stability. Developed with insights from high-level play, this technology targets an accessible yet effective offensive tool that supports skill development in modern table tennis.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Wang Hao
As a former world champion and collaborator in Loki's founding, Wang Hao contributed to the brand's research and development philosophy. While his direct use of the Kirin K1 model isn't confirmed, his involvement ensures the blade series is designed with professional insights to meet modern playing demands.
Zhou Yu
Zhou Yu, a notable player and brand ambassador for Loki, is associated with the brand's high-performance ethos. His connection indicates that Loki integrates feedback from elite players into their development process, aiming to create equipment that appeals to competitive standards.
Similar Blades
Loki Kirin K2 / K3
Within the Loki Kirin series, the K2 and K3 models serve as direct alternatives. Many players find the K1 offers more control and a slightly easier playing feel, while the K2 and K3 are often described as harder and more direct. Those seeking varied offensive characteristics within the same family might explore these options for a different balance of power and touch.