Weight
85g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157.5x150.5
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Handle-Heavy
Adelie
Nittaku Adelie is a meticulously crafted 7-ply all-wood blade from Japan, celebrated for its exceptional balance of speed, control, and feel. It offers a lighter weight and softer, more flexible touch compared to classic 7-ply blades, providing enhanced dwell time for significant spin generation and precise shot execution. Positioned as an offensive blade, its manageable speed and large sweet spot make it suitable for a wide range of playing styles, from all-around to aggressive, spin-oriented strategies. The Adelie delivers consistent performance, blending power with finesse for players seeking a premium, responsive instrument.
The blade uses a classic 7-ply all-wood construction with Limba outer plies and five Ayous inner plies. This combination is known for providing a good balance of speed, control, and feel, with the Limba contributing to spin potential and the Ayous core offering a solid feel and controlled flex.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Adelie is considered an offensive blade with a controlled speed profile. It provides enough power for strong attacks but excels in allowing players to execute controlled topspins and drives due to its dwell time. This balance makes it suitable for players who want offensive capability without sacrificing touch, offering a speed that supports player-controlled acceleration rather than raw power.
Control is a standout feature of the Adelie. Its design promotes significant dwell time, giving players ample opportunity to guide the ball's trajectory and spin with precision. This makes it forgiving and highly effective for players who value accuracy in their game, even during fast, aggressive exchanges, allowing for consistent placement and spin manipulation.
Adelie offers a feel that is softer and more flexible than many traditional 7-ply blades, providing good feedback and a noticeable dwell time. This soft touch contributes to enhanced spin and control, giving players a layered, connected sensation during ball contact.
The combination of controlled speed and good dwell time typically results in a medium-high throw angle. This is ideal for modern attacking play, especially for generating powerful topspin loops over the net with good clearance.
The 7-ply all-wood construction with Limba outer and Ayous inner plies provides a longer ball dwell time. This extended contact allows for greater spin potential and improved control over shot placement, making it highly effective for looping and spin-oriented play.
Adelie is noted for its flex, which contributes to its spin-friendly nature and ability to generate powerful, looping shots. This flexibility is a key element of its feel and performance, particularly noticeable on the backhand side for creating whip and acceleration.
The blade exhibits moderate vibration levels, characteristic of well-constructed all-wood designs that absorb some shock. This contributes to a comfortable playing experience with clear feedback without being overly harsh or numb.
The Adelie showcases Nittaku's commitment to high-quality manufacturing. It is praised for its precise lamination, smooth finish, and overall durability, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship associated with Japanese table tennis equipment. The build quality is consistently noted as excellent, contributing to a reliable and premium feel.
Technology
Nittaku Adelie utilizes advanced 'String Instrument' series lamination technology, emphasizing extreme craftsmanship through precise plywood bonding. This process aims to achieve exceptional vibration absorption, resulting in a unique feel and performance. The specific selection of Limba for outer plies and Ayous for inner plies is central to its construction, contributing to balanced offensive capabilities, refined touch, and the blade's characteristic dwell time and control.
Pro Players Using This Blade
LEE I-Chen
Professional player LEE I-Chen has been associated with the Nittaku Adelie. His usage indicates the blade's capability for high-level performance, aligning with its design for skilled, offensive players who demand precision and feel.
Similar Blades
Stiga Clipper Wood
Adelie is frequently compared to the Stiga Clipper Wood, as both are 7-ply all-wood offensive blades with similar constructions. However, Adelie is generally considered lighter, thinner, and slightly softer, offering more dwell time and a different, perhaps more controlled, feel compared to the Clipper's direct power.
Nittaku Acoustic
Nittaku Acoustic is another high-quality all-wood blade from the same brand. Some players find Adelie offers a better feeling and is only slightly slower, suggesting a similar performance profile but with potentially enhanced touch and feedback for certain styles.