Weight
86g
Thickness
5.5mm
Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Wang Nan (H-WN)
Nittaku Wang Nan (H-WN) is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade crafted for dynamic, close-to-table attackers. It delivers a compelling blend of speed for powerful loop drives and control for precise blocks and pushes, offering a responsive platform for players who generate their own power. With a medium-hard feel and balanced construction, it provides excellent feedback and suits intermediate to advanced players seeking a classic, high-performance wood blade that excels in aggressive rallies.
The 5-ply construction layers Koto, Spruce, Ayous, Spruce, and Koto from outer to core. Outer Koto offers speed and stiffness, inner Spruce improves feel and dampening, and the Ayous core contributes power and stability. This classic stack aims for an optimal balance between offensive capability and controlled feedback.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Nittaku Wang Nan (H-WN) operates in the OFF+ to OFF++ range, providing high speed ideal for aggressive play. This velocity supports powerful loop drives and fast attacks from both close to the table and mid-distance, allowing players to apply consistent pressure during rallies. The blade's construction facilitates quick exchanges, making it a potent weapon for offensive-minded players.
Despite its offensive nature, Wang Nan (H-WN) maintains impressive control. Players report confidence in executing precise blocks, pushes, and placement shots during fast exchanges. The balanced 5-ply wood structure delivers a predictable and consistent ball response, making this blade a versatile choice that doesn't compromise finesse for power.
Wang Nan (H-WN) offers a medium-hard feel characterized by excellent feedback and some noticeable vibration. This tactile response helps players sense ball contact clearly, which is particularly beneficial when paired with spin-oriented Chinese-style rubbers that thrive on a firm, communicative platform.
The blade produces a medium-high throw angle, ideal for offensive looping. This trajectory helps shots clear the net comfortably and arc effectively into the opponent's court, supporting the aggressive, spin-oriented playstyle it's designed for.
The blade provides a generous dwell time, crucial for modern offensive play. This characteristic allows players to effectively brush the ball, imparting heavy spin on loops, serves, and returns while maintaining the feel needed for controlled blocking and pushing.
Wang Nan (H-WN) features a moderate level of flexibility. It possesses enough rigidity for powerful, direct shots but retains a degree of give that aids in ball pocketing and spin generation, striking a balance suited for dynamic offensive play.
A medium level of vibration is present, contributing to the blade's responsive and communicative nature. This feedback provides useful sensory information during play without becoming excessive or uncomfortable, enhancing the connection between player and shot.
Nittaku Wang Nan (H-WN) demonstrates high build quality and durability, earning strong marks from players. The craftsmanship and material selection result in a consistent, reliable performance that meets expectations for a premium offensive blade. Its construction provides an excellent, direct feel that enhances the overall playing experience.
Technology
Nittaku Wang Nan (H-WN) employs a classic 5-ply all-wood construction focused on delivering a natural feel and balanced performance. The outer Koto plies provide stiffness and speed for direct attacks, while the inner Spruce layers dampen vibration and enhance touch. An Ayous core adds power and stability, creating a responsive platform optimized for spin and offensive play. This time-tested design philosophy prioritizes direct ball feedback and a harmonious blend of speed and control, offering a reliable foundation for players who generate their own power.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Wang Nan
As the blade's namesake, legendary Olympic champion Wang Nan used equipment tailored to her iconic style. Known for powerful loop drives and aggressive close-to-table play, she relied on blades that offered excellent feel for placement changes and the solid platform needed for her devastating attacks. The H-WN's offensive characteristics and feedback would have complemented her world-class technique perfectly.
Similar Blades
DHS Hurricane King (various versions)
Older versions of the DHS Hurricane King series share a similar design ethos with the Wang Nan (H-WN), often featuring 5-ply all-wood constructions built for offensive power and a classic feel. Players who appreciate the H-WN's potent, direct response—especially with Chinese rubbers—may find the Hurricane King offers a comparable experience focused on strong loops and consistent performance.
Nittaku Acoustic
Nittaku Acoustic is another premium 5-ply all-wood blade renowned for its exceptional feel, control, and spin potential. While generally considered more controlled and slightly slower than the OFF+ rated H-WN, it shares the core philosophy of a high-quality wood offensive blade. Players who love the wood feel and spin of the H-WN but desire a touch more dwell time and control might find the Acoustic an excellent alternative.