Weight
85g
Thickness
7.2mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
160x152
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
S-5000 WRB
Stiga S-5000 WRB is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade that masterfully balances speed and control. Its construction is enhanced by Stiga's WRB technology, which hollows the handle to shift the center of gravity forward, boosting hitting power and shot accuracy. This design delivers a responsive feel with a smooth arc, making it ideal for players who favor aggressive topspin attacks and dynamic rallies. It provides a clear connection to the ball and reliable performance, catering to intermediate and advanced players looking to elevate their game with a powerful yet controllable tool.
The blade uses a symmetrical 5-ply all-wood construction. While the specific wood types are not detailed by the manufacturer, this classic layering is known for providing a good balance of speed, control, and tactile feedback.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Stiga S-5000 WRB delivers solid pace for offensive play. The WRB technology actively increases hitting power and accelerates ball return, contributing to its fast character. Our testing shows it provides good speed for attacking shots, allowing players to put pressure on opponents with powerful drives and loops.
Control is moderate, offering a workable balance with the blade's inherent speed. It provides precise ball control for skilled strokes, but players note that maximizing control, especially during high-speed exchanges, requires good technique. It's a blade that rewards confident play rather than offering forgiving, high-dwell softness.
The blade offers a solid, stiff feel that provides a direct and clear connection to the ball. This medium-hard character contributes to its speed and precise feedback, favoring players who like a firm, responsive touch.
The combination of a stiff blade and offensive design typically produces a medium-high throw angle. This facilitates powerful topspin shots with a good trajectory, supporting aggressive play both close to the table and at mid-distance.
While not exceptionally long, the dwell time is sufficient for effective spin generation. Descriptions of its precise control and smooth arc indicate it holds the ball adequately for players to impart spin on loops and topspin attacks.
This is a stiff blade with very low flexibility. This rigidity creates a solid hitting platform that translates energy efficiently for powerful, direct shots, which is a hallmark of offensive-oriented designs.
The stiff construction results in a moderate level of vibration. It's not overly dampened, providing direct feedback that helps players sense ball contact and execute shots with confidence.
Positioned as an affordable offensive option, the S-5000 WRB offers decent build quality for its price. The all-wood construction ensures a good, direct feel, and the integrated WRB technology is a functional performance enhancer. It's a reliable, consistently available blade that represents solid value.
Technology
The Stiga S-5000 WRB features the proprietary WRB (Weight Balance Redisign) technology. This system hollows out the blade's handle, reducing its weight and shifting the center of gravity forward towards the head. This forward shift is engineered to enhance hitting power, improve shot accuracy, and accelerate the racket's ball return speed. Additionally, WRB aims to increase touch sensitivity, giving players better feel and quicker reactions during play.
Similar Blades
Stiga Offensive Classic WRB
The Stiga Offensive Classic WRB is a renowned 5-ply all-wood blade often seen as a benchmark for all-round offensive play. It also features WRB technology. While the S-5000 WRB is generally stiffer and faster, the Offensive Classic is celebrated for its superb balance of speed, control, and dwell time. It's a popular choice for players developing an offensive game who prefer a more traditional and forgiving wood feel.