Weight
85g
Thickness
6.5mm
Plies
9-ply
Head Size
158x151
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Ikarus ALX
Tibhar Ikarus ALX is a distinctive 9-ply hybrid blade that masterfully integrates seven wood layers with two aluminum plies. This construction, utilizing soft woods like Ayous and Kiri, delivers a fantastic, soft feel and exceptional control, particularly in passive play. It provides significant security while unlocking high tempo potential for aggressive topspin and counter-topspin strokes. Designed for modern strategies, the Ikarus ALX is ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking a versatile blade that balances a forgiving sweet spot with controlled offensive power. Its unique blend of materials creates a playing experience that remains highly sought after.
The blade consists of 7 wood layers (Ayous, Kiri) interspersed with 2 aluminum layers. This construction aims to provide a soft feel with enhanced speed and a large sweet spot. The aluminum layers contribute to increased stiffness and speed while maintaining a degree of dwell time due to the softer wood composition.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Ikarus ALX delivers notable speed, typically rated around 8.5. The integrated aluminum layers provide a significant boost compared to all-wood blades, enabling powerful topspin shots and high-tempo play. This makes it a strong choice for attacking styles, yet it manages to retain a good degree of control, preventing it from feeling uncontrollably fast.
Control is the standout feature of this blade, with ratings consistently in the high 9s. The soft feel and generous dwell time allow for excellent ball placement and a secure, forgiving touch during passive play and precise strokes. This high level of control is a cornerstone for players who rely on consistency and tactical placement in their game.
Ikarus ALX offers a consistently soft feel. This is achieved through the use of soft wood plies like Ayous and Kiri within its composite structure, enhancing ball contact, dwell time, and overall comfort during play, which directly contributes to its excellent control.
The combination of soft wood and aluminum produces a medium-high throw angle. This is ideal for generating powerful topspin shots with a good arc, aiding offensive players in attacking with varied spin and speed.
The soft feel and unique wood-aluminum construction promote a good amount of dwell time. This allows players to effectively generate spin and provides a secure, connected sensation on the ball, which is particularly beneficial for topspin and counter-topspin rallies.
The blade has a relatively stiff character due to the aluminum layers, which supports its offensive power. The soft wood plies introduce a slight degree of flex, preventing it from feeling overly rigid. This balance facilitates both powerful shots and maintained control.
The aluminum layers help dampen vibrations, resulting in a more solid and less harsh feel upon impact. However, some residual feedback is present, which is typical for a blade with its speed-oriented design.
While craftsmanship is often praised, our community notes recurring concerns about durability, specifically regarding the layers surrounding the aluminum. Some users have reported issues with delamination or separation, which may have contributed to the blade's discontinuation. This mixed feedback on long-term reliability is reflected in the quality rating.
Technology
Tibhar Ikarus ALX employs a unique 9-ply hybrid design featuring two aluminum layers integrated between seven wood plies of Ayous and Kiri. This innovative construction aims to merge the natural feel and dwell time of wood with the enhanced speed and structural stiffness provided by aluminum. The metal layers improve responsiveness and power transfer, while the selected soft woods ensure a comfortable touch and superior control. This technology was crafted to support modern table tennis, offering a balanced blend of offensive capability and defensive security in one platform.
Similar Blades
Stiga Tube Aluminium WRB
Stiga Tube Aluminium WRB is another blade that incorporates aluminum layers into its construction. Both represent a similar design philosophy of combining wood with metal to alter performance characteristics, though the specific ply structure and playing properties will differ.