Weight
85g
Thickness
6.1mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
S-Series S-CZ
Nittaku S-Series S-CZ is a premium table tennis blade that masterfully blends traditional wood craftsmanship with modern composite technology. Made in Germany, it features European spruce outer layers for a rich, resonant feel and incorporates Zylon Carbon Fleece to expand the sweet spot and boost power while maintaining impressive control and flexibility. This OFF- rated blade delivers a versatile offensive experience, excelling in spin generation and precision for both close-table attacks and dynamic mid-distance rallies. Its refined aesthetics and comfortable handle reflect a commitment to high-quality construction.
The blade features a 5+2 construction with outer spruce veneers providing natural feel and flexibility. Sandwiched between these are two layers of Carbon Fleece Zylon that offer a larger sweet spot and increased power without making the blade too stiff. Inner layers of Ayous and Kiri create a stable core that balances the composite elements.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
S-CZ is one of the faster blades in the Nittaku S-Series, designed to complement the plastic ball. While not the absolute fastest carbon blade available, its speed is fully sufficient for aggressive play, especially when combined with fast rubbers. Players find it offers an excellent balance between speed and control, making it effective for offensive strategies without becoming unpredictable.
Despite its offensive capabilities, S-CZ maintains a high level of control. The Zylon Carbon Fleece layers help create a larger sweet spot and provide clear feedback, making it easy to manage in the short game and for delicate strokes. This controllability is a key strength, allowing players to execute precise placements and consistent attacks with confidence.
Players describe a unique 'woody' feel reminiscent of all-wood blades, with minimal harsh vibrations despite the composite layers. The impact is soft and forgiving, with good dwell time that enhances touch and spin generation, creating a comfortable and responsive playing experience.
The throw angle sits in the mid-high range, providing a good trajectory for offensive shots. This helps create effective loops and attacks that clear the net comfortably while maintaining enough control for precise placement.
The blade offers significant dwell time, allowing for excellent ball-holding characteristics and high spin generation. This extended contact is particularly beneficial for looping and creating heavy topspin, giving players more time to impart their desired spin on the ball.
The blade shows good flex, which aids in spin generation and provides a softer feel compared to stiffer composite blades. This flexibility helps create a catapult effect while maintaining control, making it responsive to different stroke techniques.
Despite incorporating composite layers, S-CZ is noted for its low vibration, a characteristic often missing in many carbon blades. This contributes to its comfortable feel and enhances control by providing clean, undistorted feedback through the handle.
The blade is consistently praised for its exceptional build quality, smooth finish, and meticulous attention to detail. Manufactured in Germany, it features comfortable handles and excellent wood finishing that reflects premium standards. The craftsmanship is evident in every aspect, from the elegant aesthetics to the consistent performance, living up to Nittaku's reputation for quality.
Technology
Nittaku S-Series S-CZ utilizes a sophisticated 5+2 ply construction that combines natural wood veneers with advanced composite materials. European spruce forms the outer layers, chosen for its resonant qualities and acoustic properties that provide natural feel and excellent vibration feedback. Embedded within are two layers of 'Carbon Fleece Zylon' designed to enhance the sweet spot and power without introducing excessive stiffness. This specific construction allows the blade to remain flexible and controllable, offering a unique blend of modern technology and traditional feel optimized for the plastic ball era.
Similar Blades
Donic Appelgren WC 89 / Donic Waldner WC89
Many players find similarities between S-CZ and the Donic Appelgren WC 89 or Waldner WC89 blades. Our testing shows S-CZ tends to be slightly faster with a more premium feel, while retaining comparable qualities in control and spin generation, making it a modern alternative with similar playing characteristics.
Andro Treiber Z
TTSensei experts note a comparable composition to the Andro Treiber Z, suggesting a similar playing experience focused on high-quality composite construction for all-round offensive play. Both blades emphasize control and feel alongside modern performance enhancements.