Taiwan Apollo 3-Ply Hinoki

With a speed rating of 9.4, this blade is built for aggressive offensive play. The thick, stiff Hinoki plies create a very fast response, allowing players to generate powerful shots with minimal effort. This high speed makes it ideal for players who rely on fast attacks and explosive loops to pressure opponents.

Scoring an 8.7 in control, the Apollo 3-Ply Hinoki offers remarkable precision for such a fast blade. The responsive Hinoki wood provides clear feedback on ball contact, enabling fine adjustments for placement. Our testing shows that pairing it with softer rubbers can further maximize its control potential, especially for spin-oriented play.

Players describe the feel as stiff and hard, delivering a direct, crisp sensation on contact. This characteristic provides excellent feedback and enables fast, powerful shots. Some find its stiffness comparable to certain composite blades, offering a firm, responsive touch that excels in offensive play.

Throw angle is low, characteristic of stiff, fast blades. This helps players keep shots flat and fast over the net, ideal for driving through the ball with powerful topspin. The low trajectory makes it easier to maintain attacking pressure while keeping the ball close to the net.

Dwell time sits in the medium range, offering a balanced interaction where the ball can sink into the wood for spin generation before releasing quickly for fast attacks. The blade's stiffness slightly shortens dwell compared to more flexible options, but it maintains enough pocketing for effective topspin play.

With a flexibility rating of 3.0, this blade is quite stiff. This rigidity helps generate powerful, consistent shots with minimal flex, making it excellent for driving through the ball. Players seeking significant blade flex for catapult effect might find it too firm, but it excels in direct power transmission.

Vibration levels are moderate, rated around 5.0. While the blade feels stiff, the soft outer Hinoki layers help absorb shock, preventing harsh or jarring feedback. This creates a more comfortable hitting experience with clear ball sensation rather than excessive vibration.

Crafted with hand-selected materials and master craftsmanship, this blade earns a quality rating of 8.5. The attention to detail in its hand-made construction enhances durability and performance consistency. TTSensei experts note the multi-ply design specifically addresses potential cracking issues found in some single-ply Hinoki blades, resulting in a reliable, high-quality product.