Weight
89g
Thickness
6.2mm
Plies
5-ply
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
A5
Sanwei A5 delivers a compelling blend of offensive speed and reassuring control in an all-wood, 5-ply construction. Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to premium blades, it features an Ayous core with Limba plies for a responsive, medium-hard feel. This combination supports fast attacks and powerful loops while maintaining excellent command over ball placement, making it an ideal choice for intermediate players developing an offensive game or advanced players seeking a reliable, cost-effective option.
The blade uses a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction. It features an Ayous wood core, known for its lightness and soft feel, which is sandwiched between layers of Limba wood. Limba provides a good balance of hardness and elasticity, contributing to the blade's speed, control, and overall responsive character.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Sanwei A5 provides significant offensive speed, rated around 8.0. This level of pace supports powerful loops and fast drives, allowing players to dictate play and finish points aggressively. It's well-suited for an attacking style that relies on generating power from both mid-distance and close to the table.
The A5 offers exceptional command over the ball. Its all-wood construction and balanced feel enable precise placement and consistent stroke execution, even during high-tempo exchanges. This high level of control builds confidence for players who prioritize accuracy and tactical variety in their game.
The combination of an Ayous core and Limba plies creates a medium-hard feel. This provides a satisfying blend of direct feedback and slight cushioning, allowing players to clearly sense ball contact. It's a feel that supports both crisp attacking shots and controlled touch play.
The blade tends to produce a medium-high throw angle, which is excellent for looping and lifting backspin. This trajectory helps the ball clear the net with safety while carrying good pace and spin, making it effective for offensive topspin rallies.
The all-wood construction, particularly the softer Ayous core, provides good dwell time. This allows the ball to sink into the blade slightly, which is beneficial for generating spin on loops and serves while maintaining a responsive connection for quick counter-attacks.
Sanwei A5 offers medium flexibility. This balanced flex profile provides a versatile response, storing energy for powerful strokes while remaining stable enough for controlled blocks and placement. It avoids the extremes of being too stiff or too whippy.
As a 5-ply all-wood blade, the A5 delivers a moderate level of vibration. It provides clear, natural feedback on impact without being overly harsh. The wood layers work together to transmit a comfortable sense of the shot, which many players find helpful for timing and touch.
Sanwei is recognized for delivering solid value, and the A5 reflects this with reliable build quality for its price point. While it may not feature the premium finishes of higher-end blades, its construction is consistent and durable. Players report it offers a trustworthy performance that makes it a practical choice for regular training and match play.
Technology
Sanwei A5's technology focuses on the strategic selection and layering of classic wood types to achieve performance at an accessible price. By pairing a lightweight, soft Ayous core with harder, elastic Limba outer plies, the blade creates a responsive yet controlled hitting surface. This traditional 5-ply construction prioritizes a direct feel and consistent feedback, making advanced playing characteristics available to developing players. Modern manufacturing techniques ensure each blade delivers reliable and repeatable performance, embodying a value-driven approach to equipment design.
Similar Blades
DHS Hurricane King
Sanwei A5 is often considered a value-oriented alternative to the DHS Hurricane King. Both blades are designed for aggressive, looping-oriented play with a focus on combining speed with control. Players attracted to the Hurricane King's performance profile but seeking a more budget-friendly option may find the A5 delivers a comparable feel and capability.