Weight
90g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
160x148
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Tenaly Original
Nittaku Tenaly Original is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade distinguished by its unique ergonomic handle. Designed as an extension of the hand, its bent shape promotes a natural wrist angle for improved power transfer and comfort. This JTTAA-approved blade, crafted in Japan, offers a blend of speed and control suitable for aggressive all-round and offensive play. While the specialized grip requires an adjustment period, many players find it unlocks a more connected and effective playing experience once mastered.
It uses a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood build. While the specific wood types are proprietary, this traditional layup—outer, inner, core, inner, outer—is engineered to provide a balanced blend of speed, control, and a natural tactile feel for the player.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Tenaly Original is firmly in the OFF (Offensive) category, offering very good pace for attacking play. Our testing shows it provides strong offensive capabilities without being overly extreme, maintaining a useful balance that supports controlled aggression. This makes it a solid choice for players who want speed but also value consistency in their rallies.
Despite its offensive rating, this blade provides commendable control. Players report it allows for precise shot placement and confident defensive maneuvers. The ergonomic handle and all-wood construction contribute to a connected feel that aids in tactical play, making it easier to execute controlled loops and blocks.
Tenaly Original delivers a medium feel that provides a solid connection to the ball. The unique ergonomic handle adds a distinct sensation—some players find it immediately comfortable and natural, while others note a brief period of adjustment is needed to fully appreciate the grip and its effect on stroke mechanics.
Designed for offensive play, it facilitates a medium-high throw angle. This makes it well-suited for aggressive topspin rallies, allowing players to easily generate arc and clearance over the net for consistent, attacking loops.
The all-wood build promotes good dwell time, allowing the ball to stay on the racket face longer. This is ideal for generating heavy spin on loops and provides a forgiving window for controlled shots, making spin-oriented play more effective.
As an offensive all-wood blade, it possesses a moderate level of flexibility. This characteristic aids in generating dwell time and catapult effect, helping players create spin and arc on their shots without the blade feeling too stiff or unresponsive.
Feedback suggests a medium level of vibration, which is typical for an all-wood blade of this type. The sensation is enough to provide good tactile feedback on shots without being harsh or overly dampened, contributing to its natural playing feel.
Crafted in Japan and bearing JTTAA approval, Tenaly Original exemplifies high manufacturing standards. The fit and finish are excellent, with a consistent build quality that players can rely on. This level of craftsmanship ensures durability and a premium feel that matches its performance.
Technology
The core innovation is the 'Tenaly' grip, an ergonomically bent handle designed to align naturally with the player's wrist and forearm. The name itself means 'it becomes the hand,' reflecting its goal of being a seamless extension of the arm. This design aims to optimize the angle between arm and blade for more efficient power transfer and control, potentially reducing strain. The playing foundation is a classic 5-ply all-wood construction, manufactured to high standards in Japan and approved by the JTTAA.
Similar Blades
Nittaku Tenaly Acoustic
For players intrigued by the Tenaly handle concept, the Tenaly Acoustic from the same series is a notable alternative. It shares the distinctive ergonomic grip but may feature different material compositions or tuning. Players report that the Acoustic model sometimes offers a preferred feel or performance profile, making it a worthwhile comparison for anyone committed to the unique Tenaly design philosophy.