Plies
3-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Balanced
Willtria
Nittaku Willtria is a 3-ply all-wood defensive blade crafted entirely from willow wood. Designed for choppers and defensive players, it offers exceptional ball absorption and a stable, controlled feel. The slightly oversized head provides a larger sweet spot and enhanced maneuverability, making it ideal for precise chops and blocks. While its primary strength is defensive stability, the blade possesses enough responsiveness for effective counter-loops and tactical offensive shots, creating a versatile platform for players who blend defense with attack.
The blade features a simple and effective 3-ply construction using only willow wood. This uniform material choice contributes directly to its excellent ball absorption, predictable response, and the long dwell time characteristic of top defensive blades.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Willtria delivers moderate speed, positioning itself as faster than some dedicated defensive blades but not approaching offensive levels. This balanced pace allows for controlled offensive actions like counter-loops while maintaining the stable, forgiving platform essential for defensive play, making it a versatile choice for all-around defenders.
Control is the standout feature of this blade. Its design prioritizes ball feedback and stability, enabling players to place defensive chops and blocks with remarkable accuracy. This high level of control is fundamental for executing a precise, tactical game and building consistent rallies from the back of the table.
Willtria offers a good, communicative feel for the ball, allowing players to sense contact and spin effectively. It provides ample dwell time for control, with a character that is neither extremely soft nor overly stiff, striking a balance that supports both defensive absorption and controlled offensive shots.
Willtria produces a high throw angle, meaning the ball arcs significantly on offensive shots. This characteristic is advantageous for looping over the net with safety and for generating heavy topspin, adding an offensive dimension to a defensive setup.
The 3-ply willow construction contributes to a notably long dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the blade surface. This extended contact is crucial for generating spin on chops and having superior control during extended defensive rallies.
Willtria sits in the average flexibility range. This balance between stiffness and flex aids in absorbing the impact of incoming shots while providing enough stability for controlled counter-attacks, making it responsive without being unpredictable.
The blade provides a moderate level of vibration. Players can feel sufficient ball feedback without excessive jarring, contributing to a sense of stability and comfort that aids in control during defensive play.
Willtria is regarded as a well-constructed blade with good manufacturing standards. Players often note its attractive wood grain and durable build. Its enduring presence in the market and positive community feedback point towards reliable craftsmanship and good overall durability for long-term use.
Technology
Nittaku Willtria exemplifies traditional blade craftsmanship, focusing on the inherent qualities of a single wood type. It uses a 3-ply construction made entirely from willow, a material known for its balanced stiffness, flexibility, and natural vibration-dampening properties. Nittaku's long heritage in quality manufacturing is evident here, as the blade relies solely on the natural characteristics of wood to achieve exceptional ball feel and control, offering a pure, tactile experience for players who value precise placement and feedback over composite-enhanced speed.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Defense II
Butterfly Defense II is a frequent point of comparison. Our testing shows the Defense II often provides a slightly softer feel and more dwell time, while the Willtria is generally considered faster and offers a different, more medium feel. It's a solid alternative for defenders seeking a bit more offensive capability within a controlled framework.
TSP Yanagi
TSP Yanagi shares the primary material of willow wood. Players report differences in wood coloration and potentially playing characteristics between the two. The Yanagi is worth considering for players who enjoy the fundamental feel of willow but are exploring different performance nuances in a defensive blade.