Weight
54g
Thickness
8.2mm
Plies
3-ply
Head Size
153x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Handle-Heavy
Tsunami DEF Light
Nimatsu Tsunami DEF Light is an ultra-lightweight defensive blade built for players who demand maximum control and precise ball placement. Its unique construction centers on a thick balsa core, delivering a comfortable, vibrating feel with a mid-low catapult effect. This design provides excellent feedback, making it ideal for chopping and blocking, while still offering surprising offensive potential when paired with modern tension rubbers for sharp counter-attacks. It represents a thoughtful blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials tailored for the defensive specialist.
The blade features a 3-ply construction with a thick balsa wood core. This structure is fundamental to achieving its exceptionally light weight and characteristic feel, providing a unique blend of control and a subtle catapult effect. The specific species of the outer wood plies are not detailed in available specifications.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Speed for the Nimatsu Tsunami DEF Light sits at the lower end for offensive play, reflecting its defensive focus. Our testing shows it offers enough pace for controlled attacks when combined with modern rubbers, but it's not designed for raw power. This moderate speed makes it effective for players who prioritize placement and consistency over sheer velocity.
Control is the defining strength of this blade, rated at the maximum or near-maximum by TTSensei experts. This exceptional level allows for pinpoint placement, delicate chops, and incredibly consistent blocking. Defensive players who rely on precision and tactical ball placement will find this level of control to be its greatest asset.
Players report a comfortable and vibrating feel. The thick balsa core contributes to a softer, more cushioned sensation upon impact, providing excellent feedback without being overly stiff. This sensitive touch is crucial for executing precise defensive maneuvers and feeling the ball.
The blade produces a mid-low catapult effect, resulting in a medium-low throw angle. This characteristic is ideal for defensive play, enabling players to keep the ball low and short over the net, making it challenging for opponents to launch effective attacks.
Thanks to its balsa core and defensive orientation, the blade provides a long dwell time. This allows players to effectively impart spin and control shots, which is particularly beneficial for defensive strokes, serves, and returns where spin generation is key.
Flexibility is rated as medium. The combination of the balsa core and outer plies provides enough flex to feel the ball during powerful strokes while maintaining sufficient stability for controlled blocks and defensive play, offering a good balance for its intended use.
The blade exhibits a pleasant, moderate level of vibration. This controlled feedback helps players feel the ball at impact, aiding in the execution of precise defensive shots without being excessively jarring or creating a numb sensation.
Build quality is generally regarded as good, with players noting excellent processing and finish. However, some reports indicate the blade can be susceptible to damage from impacts, which is a consideration given its price point. Overall, it is considered a well-made product for its specialized purpose.
Technology
Nimatsu Tsunami DEF Light utilizes the 'Tsunami-System,' based on principles of vibration mechanics in flat surfaces. This technology aims to allow clean outrunning and dissipation of impact vibrations towards the blade's edge. The core is a thick layer of balsa wood, known for its lightweight and shock-absorbing qualities. This balsa core, combined with the specific 3-ply construction, is engineered to provide maximum control, a comfortable feel, and precise ball placement, empowering defensive players with superior feedback and touch.
Similar Blades
Nimatsu Tsunami Combi Safe
Nimatsu Tsunami Combi Safe is another blade from the Tsunami series that shares the balsa core technology. As a 5-ply blade designed for a combination game (ALL+/DEF), it offers a different feel and playstyle compared to the purely defensive 3-ply Tsunami DEF Light. The Combi Safe features differentiated speed and control values on each side for greater versatility. Players interested in a Nimatsu balsa blade might consider the Combi Safe if they desire more allround capabilities alongside defensive control.