Weight
89g
Thickness
5.2mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
158x153
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Genshu L
Tibhar Genshu L is a 7-ply all-wood defensive blade crafted for players who rely on long pimple rubbers. Its construction delivers a soft, flexible feel with significant dwell time, prioritizing control and stability for precise blocks and chops. The larger head size provides a generous hitting surface, while the balanced weight and comfortable handle offer a secure platform for modern defensive strategies. This blade maintains enough speed for aggressive blocking and counter-attacks, making it a unique and specialized tool primarily found in the Japanese market.
This symmetrical 7-ply all-wood construction features red-dyed Fineline outer plies and multiple layers of black-dyed Ayous wood in the core. This specific layup is designed to produce the blade's signature soft feel, flexibility, and enhanced dwell time for defensive play.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Genshu L is not a slow defensive blade. While optimized for control, it provides enough pace for effective blocking and controlled attacks from close to mid-distance. Our testing shows its speed is above average for a defensive-oriented blade, allowing for more dynamic and proactive play when needed.
Control is the standout feature of this blade. The soft feel, flexibility, and substantial dwell time let players execute precise blocks, defensive maneuvers, and placements with great confidence. This high level of control makes it an excellent choice for players who prioritize consistency and tactical shot-making.
The blade delivers a distinctly soft feel on contact. This characteristic is central to its design, contributing directly to the enhanced control, dwell time, and comfortable feedback that benefit defensive play and long pimple rubbers.
The soft wood and flexible construction typically produce a medium-high throw angle. This is advantageous for defense, making it easier to clear the net and maintain a good, deep trajectory on chops and blocks, especially with long pimples.
Dwell time is a key strength. The soft, flexible wood construction allows the ball to sink into the blade, enhancing spin generation on serves and returns while providing superior control for chops and blocks—a critical advantage when using long pimples.
Genshu L offers significant flexibility. This elastic response helps defensive players absorb incoming pace, generate heavy spin on chops, and produce deep, controlled shots. It provides a distinctly different sensation from stiffer, more rigid offensive blades.
The soft and flexible nature suggests a medium to low level of vibration. This dampened feel is typical for defensive blades, as it absorbs impact for better control and comfort during extended rallies, though specific measurements are limited.
The Genshu L is recognized as a rare blade with a unique design and good craftsmanship. It carries the J.T.T.A.A. mark, certifying it for use in all official matches in Japan. As a specialized tool likely produced in smaller batches, it offers good build quality tailored to its defensive purpose.
Technology
Tibhar Genshu L is engineered to optimize long pimple performance. Its 7-ply all-wood construction uses dyed Fineline outer plies and Ayous inner plies to create a soft touch, increased dwell time, and significant flexibility. This combination enhances control for blocking and chopping while retaining capability for close-to-table attacks. The larger head size benefits long pimple users by offering a broader defensive surface. Its unique design is marked by J.T.T.A.A. approval for official matches in Japan.
Similar Blades
Stiga Defensive Classic
Players report the Stiga Defensive Classic offers a very similar soft touch and overall stability, with comparable speed. The main difference noted is that the Stiga blade tends to be slightly stiffer, making it a solid alternative for those seeking a similar defensive performance profile with a marginally different feel.