Weight
80g
Thickness
6.2mm
Plies
5-ply
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Clout
Nittaku Clout delivers a harmonious blend of offensive power and exceptional control, making it a versatile choice for players who value both attack and precision. Introduced in 2011, this Japanese-made blade features premium Kiso Hinoki outer plies, known for their distinctive soft feel and excellent spin generation. Its classic all-wood construction provides a balanced playing experience, ideal for developing a well-rounded game. While discontinued, the Clout remains a respected classic for players seeking high-quality craftsmanship and a traditional wood-based feel.
Nittaku Clout features a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction with premium Kiso Hinoki on both outer layers. The specific wood types for the three inner plies are not publicly detailed, but they work in harmony with the Hinoki to create the blade's characteristic balanced performance profile.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Nittaku Clout is rated as an offensive blade, but players report its speed feels closer to OFF- rather than extremely fast. This provides a well-balanced pace that supports strong attacking shots while remaining manageable, allowing for consistent offensive play without overwhelming speed.
Control is where the Clout truly shines. Its soft feel and good dwell time allow for precise ball placement and consistent stroke execution. Players find they can execute finesse shots and blocks with high accuracy, making it a reliable blade for players who prioritize touch and consistency in their game.
The Kiso Hinoki outer plies create a distinctly soft to medium-soft feel upon ball contact. This provides excellent feedback and a comfortable playing sensation, enhancing dwell time and allowing for better spin generation during strokes.
The combination of Hinoki outer plies and softer feel typically produces a medium-high throw angle. This characteristic helps create good arc on looping shots, making it easier to generate topspin and clear the net with consistency.
The soft Hinoki outer plies and all-wood construction create extended dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade surface. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for generating heavy spin and maintaining control during looping and brushing strokes.
Nittaku Clout exhibits medium flexibility typical of 5-ply all-wood offensive blades. This flexibility contributes to a good combination of power transmission and ball feeling, allowing for both solid hits and touch shots.
The all-wood build and softer feel provide a moderate level of vibration feedback. This gives players a good sense of ball contact without being excessive or jarring, offering useful tactile information during play.
Nittaku Clout exemplifies Japanese craftsmanship with exceptional build quality. The finishing is consistently praised for being flawless, and the blade demonstrates excellent durability. This high-quality construction contributes to its reliable performance and lasting value.
Technology
Nittaku Clout's technology centers on traditional craftsmanship and premium material selection. The key innovation is the use of Kiso Hinoki, a premium Japanese cypress wood renowned for its resilience, unique tactile properties, and excellent spin characteristics. Nittaku's meticulous manufacturing process ensures precise layer bonding and finishing, creating a blade that maximizes the natural playing qualities of high-grade wood without synthetic reinforcements.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Septear
Nittaku Septear offers a different take on Hinoki construction with its 7-ply all-Hinoki build. While both blades share Japanese craftsmanship and excellent feel, the Septear's additional plies make it noticeably faster and stiffer. Clout provides a softer feel and more control, making it better suited for players who prioritize touch over raw power.
Nittaku Acoustic
Nittaku Acoustic, from the brand's musical instrument series, is another 5-ply all-wood blade emphasizing exceptional feel. Compared to the Clout, the Acoustic typically offers even more dwell time and a softer, more pronounced ball sensation. It's an excellent alternative for players who want maximum feedback and control from their blade.