Weight
85.6g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x151
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Cedric Nuytinck
Tibhar Cedric Nuytinck Hybrid ZC is a meticulously crafted offensive blade developed in collaboration with Belgian professional Cedric Nuytinck. This 7-ply construction features innovative Zylon Carbon (ZC) fibers for a dynamic balance of speed, catapult effect, and control. Limba outer plies provide a pleasant feel and excellent ball-holding capability, making it ideal for spin-oriented attacks and controlled offensive play. With a high-quality finish, it represents a premium choice for serious players seeking modern composite performance.
This 5+2 outer fiber construction places Zylon Carbon layers just beneath the outer Limba plies. This arrangement provides the speed and stiffness of carbon while retaining control and feel through the wood layers. The Kiri core offers lightness and contributes to the blade's specific flex characteristics.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
This blade delivers significant offensive speed thanks to its Zylon Carbon layers, rating as a solid OFF blade. It provides substantial power for aggressive topspins and drives, particularly when combined with fast rubbers. While not an extreme OFF+ monster, it offers ample pace that players report is comparable to many high-end ZLC offerings, making it a powerful weapon for attacking play.
Despite its offensive nature and composite construction, this blade maintains a surprisingly good level of control. The Limba outer plies and specific ZC fiber placement create a more nuanced, forgiving feel that shines in the short game. This makes it manageable for players transitioning to composite blades or offensive players who still prioritize precision and touch in their rallies.
Limba outer plies contribute to a medium feel that offers good ball feedback without being overly stiff. The ZC fibers add responsiveness, creating a sensation that's neither too soft nor harsh, providing clear touch for various strokes.
The ZC construction typically produces a medium-low throw angle, beneficial for controlled offensive play and attacking close to the table. This allows for precise shot placement and makes blocking more manageable compared to blades with very high trajectories.
This blade offers moderate dwell time, allowing for effective spin generation on loops. The combination of Limba and ZC fibers holds the ball sufficiently for powerful spin variations while maintaining the speed needed for offensive play.
The blade has a medium-stiff to stiff flex profile. Zylon Carbon layers impart noticeable rigidity for efficient power transfer, while the wood plies offer just enough flexibility to support effective looping and spin generation.
Vibration levels are low to medium-low, providing a crisp yet comfortable feel during impact. The composite layers are integrated to minimize harshness, offering clean feedback that many players find pleasant and not overly buzzy.
Cedric Nuytinck Hybrid ZC features excellent construction and finish, reflecting Tibhar's commitment to premium equipment. The materials feel high-grade and assembly is precise, contributing to both durability and a consistent playing sensation. Players consistently note the blade's solid build quality and refined appearance.
Technology
Tibhar Cedric Nuytinck Hybrid ZC features 'Hybrid ZC' technology with Zylon Carbon fibers integrated into its 7-ply construction. This advanced material offers enhanced elasticity, speed, and stability compared to traditional carbon. The ZC layers are placed on the outer side of the Kiri core beneath Limba outer plies, optimizing energy transfer for a strong catapult effect while maintaining precision and a pleasant playing sensation. This construction creates a dynamic response across a wide range of strokes, from powerful drives to delicate touches.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Cedric Nuytinck
Cedric Nuytinck collaborated closely with Tibhar in developing this blade that bears his name. As a Belgian national team player known for his offensive style, he required equipment offering both speed for attacking shots and control for precise gameplay. This blade's construction supports his preference for a dynamic yet controllable 7-ply setup that facilitates his offensive strategy, particularly in close-to-the-table and mid-distance play.
Vladimir Samsonov
While no longer his primary setup, Vladimir Samsonov used this blade significantly during a period of his legendary career. The blade's balanced speed, control, and feel suited his powerful yet refined all-round offensive game and exceptional technique. His adoption indicates the blade's high performance and suitability for elite-level competition, where consistency and touch are paramount.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Mizutani Jun ZLC
This blade is frequently compared to Butterfly Mizutani Jun ZLC, as both feature 5+2 ply construction with Zylon Carbon fibers and Limba outer plies. Players report similar hardness and comparable playing sensations, with the Nuytinck blade often seen as a more affordable alternative offering similar controlled offensive performance and spin generation capabilities.
Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC
Another common comparison is to Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC. The key difference lies in fiber placement: Cedric Nuytinck has outer ZC layers while Innerforce ZLC features inner fiber construction. The Nuytinck Hybrid ZC is generally faster and stiffer with a more direct feel, whereas the Innerforce ZLC may offer slightly more dwell time and a softer touch, particularly in short game situations.