Weight
75g
Thickness
5.6mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Custom
Balance
Balanced
Rutis J
Nittaku Rutis J is a hybrid Japanese penhold blade crafted for offensive players who value versatility. It merges Japanese and Chinese penhold styles with a unique cork-extended grip, enhancing backhand control and enabling reverse penhold backhand techniques. Built with three wood plies and two G-carbon layers, it delivers a balanced mix of speed and control, favoring quick attacks and precise placement near the table. Renowned for its excellent Japanese craftsmanship, this lightweight blade suits players seeking power without sacrificing feel.
Rutis J uses a 5-ply construction with three wood layers and two G-carbon layers. The carbon is sandwiched between wood plies, contributing to a stiffer feel and enhanced speed while maintaining a balance of elasticity and direct hitting sensation for control.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Rutis J is rated as a fast blade, falling into the Mid-Fast to OFF category. Players report that while it contains carbon, it doesn't launch the ball uncontrollably, offering a controlled speed ideal for quick attacks and offensive rallies. This makes it excellent for dictating the pace of a game without sacrificing predictability.
Control is a standout feature for Rutis J, with many players highlighting its precision for accurate ball placement and strategic shots. Despite its speed, the blade maintains a good level of control, making it suitable for offensive players who need reliability in their aggressive play.
Rutis J delivers a medium-hard feel upon impact. While the carbon adds stiffness, it doesn't feel dead, allowing for a decent tactile connection that aids in spin generation and control during offensive strokes.
The blade tends to produce a medium-high throw angle, especially with certain rubbers. This helps in lifting the ball with topspin and clearing the net effectively, supporting aggressive topspin-oriented play.
Dwell time is moderate on Rutis J. The carbon layers promote a faster ball exit, but the wood plies provide enough contact time to impart spin, enabling offensive players to generate good rotation while keeping shots controlled.
Rutis J offers moderate flexibility. It's not as bendy as all-wood blades but provides enough give to aid spin generation and deliver a nuanced feel compared to stiffer carbon options, adding versatility to offensive play.
Vibration is low to medium, offering a direct feel without harshness. The wood and carbon combination is engineered to dampen excessive vibrations, helping players sense ball contact clearly for better control.
Nittaku blades are celebrated for their high manufacturing standards, and Rutis J is no exception. Its excellent build, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship reflect its Japanese origin, resulting in a durable and finely finished product that players trust.
Technology
Nittaku Rutis J integrates G-Carbon plies within a 3-wood layer construction. This technology aims to boost ball exit speed and stiffness compared to all-wood blades while preserving a good feel and control. The design allows for a controlled flex or 'bending' effect, balancing speed with spin capability. Additionally, its hybrid grip blends Japanese and Chinese penhold characteristics, offering enhanced versatility for modern penhold techniques.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Ma Long
Ma Long reportedly used a Nittaku Rutis blade around 2008 during the transition after speed glue bans. While he is more famously linked to other equipment, historical accounts suggest the Rutis was considered for its balanced speed and control, which suited his adaptable playing style during that era of adjustment.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Rutis C
Nittaku Rutis C is the Chinese penhold version of the Rutis series, sharing the same core construction and materials. Players who prefer a traditional Chinese penhold grip over the Rutis J's hybrid Japanese style may find the Rutis C offers a more familiar feel and performance.
Nittaku Rutis Revo J
Nittaku Rutis Revo J is an updated version featuring a slightly thicker build and FE Carbon. It aims to refine the balance of speed, feel, and control, making it a natural upgrade for players who enjoyed the original Rutis J but seek modern enhancements.