Weight
77.5g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
156x167
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Oversized
Balance
Handle-Heavy
Balsa Def 25
Tibhar Balsa Def 25 is engineered for defensive players who prioritize superior control and precision. Its lightweight construction features a distinctive 2.5mm balsa core and an enlarged head size, creating a forgiving sweet spot ideal for blocking and chopping. This blade delivers exceptional feel and stability, allowing for precise defensive maneuvers while still providing enough speed for controlled counter-attacks. It's a versatile platform that supports a defensive game with smooth offensive transitions.
The blade features a 5-ply all-wood construction with a prominent 2.5mm balsa core. The balsa core is known for its extremely low weight and excellent vibration-dampening properties, contributing significantly to the blade's control and feel. The specific outer and inner wood plies are integral to the blade's overall structure and performance.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Tibhar Balsa Def 25 is primarily a defensive blade with a moderate speed rating. It provides enough pace for controlled counter-attacks and active defensive play without being overly fast. The balsa core contributes to lightness and control rather than high speed, making it a reliable tool for defensive strategies that occasionally engage in offensive exchanges.
Control is the standout feature of this blade. Its lightweight build, balsa core, and enlarged head size create a forgiving and stable platform that maximizes precision in all defensive situations. Players find exceptional accuracy for blocking, chopping, and returning serves, ideal for those who prioritize placement and strategy over raw power.
The balsa core provides a unique feel with significant vibration dampening and a softer touch compared to traditional all-wood blades. This results in a very controlled and forgiving sensation, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue during long rallies while allowing precise defensive strokes.
While primarily defensive, the blade's lighter weight and flexible nature tend to produce a medium-high throw angle. This can be beneficial for lifting chops and creating spin on loops, allowing for greater arc and placement possibilities compared to stiffer, low-throw blades.
The combination of the balsa core's flexibility and the blade's control characteristics suggests a medium-to-long dwell time. This extended contact allows players to impart more spin, particularly when chopping or executing controlled loops, and provides a comfortable feel for returning powerful shots.
Tibhar Balsa Def 25 exhibits a high degree of flexibility, crucial for defensive play. This allows the blade to bend and absorb incoming energy, facilitating controlled blocks, chops, and absorption of powerful shots, giving players more time to react and reset.
The balsa core is chosen for its ability to absorb vibrations, resulting in very low vibration. This is highly desirable for defensive players seeking a comfortable and controlled playing experience, minimizing hand shock on impact.
Tibhar Balsa Def 25 is generally regarded as a quality blade for its price point. Its construction focuses on lightness and control, executed well to provide a durable and reliable tool for defensive players. The materials, especially the balsa core, align with higher-end defensive blades, offering good value and performance.
Technology
Tibhar Balsa Def 25 utilizes a 5-ply all-wood construction centered around a significant 2.5mm balsa wood core. Balsa is one of the lightest woods available, contributing to the blade's exceptionally low weight and enhancing its vibration-dampening qualities. This core is complemented by carefully selected outer and inner wood veneers that, along with an enlarged head size, create an increased sweet spot. This combination is engineered to provide maximum control for defensive strategies, while the lightweight nature allows for agility and precision in executing various strokes, from precise chops to controlled counter-attacks.
Similar Blades
JOOLA Chen Weixing
JOOLA Chen Weixing is frequently mentioned as a comparison for defensive blades. While Tibhar Balsa Def 25 is often recommended as an alternative for players who find the Chen Weixing too fast, both share control-oriented defensive characteristics with good counter-attacking capabilities. They provide stable platforms for defensive play while allowing for offensive transitions.