Thickness
9.7mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
156x152
Handles
ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Balsa Plus Offensive 85
TSP Balsa Plus Offensive 85 is a legendary offensive blade prized for its explosive speed and remarkably lightweight feel. Its signature feature is a thick balsa core cut with the grain parallel to the blade face, creating a uniquely soft and springy sensation. Paired with elastic fiberglass layers, this construction expands the sweet spot, dampens vibration, and delivers precise ball bounce. Optimized for aggressive, spin-oriented play at close-to-medium distances, it's a dynamic weapon for attackers seeking maximum power with responsive feedback.
The blade features a 5-ply construction with a substantial balsa core. Two fiberglass layers are sandwiched between the balsa core and the outer wood plies. This design enhances stiffness, speed, and vibration dampening while creating a wide sweet spot. The balsa core's grain is cut parallel to the blade face, which is key to its unique soft and springy feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
This blade is consistently rated as one of the fastest available. The thick balsa core combined with fiberglass layers generates tremendous power and a high rebound speed, making it ideal for relentless attacking play. Our testing shows its pace sits firmly in the highest tier, perfect for players who want to overwhelm opponents with sheer velocity.
Despite its extreme speed, the Balsa Plus Offensive 85 offers commendable control. The soft balsa core and enlarged sweet spot from the fiberglass allow for precise ball placement and effective spin generation, especially on touch shots and loops. Players report it feels manageable for an offensive blade, providing the accuracy needed to direct its power.
The feel is defined by a distinctive softness and springiness. This comes from the uniquely cut balsa core, which lets the ball 'dig' into the rubber, providing a dampened, cushioned sensation with good dwell time on contact.
The blade produces a medium-high throw angle, ideal for modern attacking play. Its ability to generate both speed and spin allows players to execute powerful loops and drives with a confident arc over the net.
The soft balsa core contributes to noticeable dwell time, particularly on softer strokes and loops, allowing for excellent spin development. Players can feel the ball on the racket for controlled shots. On high-impact drives, the rebound is quicker, shortening dwell for explosive attacks.
While the balsa core provides some flexibility and dwell, the fiberglass layers and overall construction create a stiffer, more direct offensive response. The blade feels springy but not overly flexible, offering a balanced feel that prioritizes power transmission.
Vibration is minimal. The combination of the balsa core and fiberglass layers effectively dampens shock, leading to a very clean and precise feel upon impact. This results in an extremely precise ball bounce free from distracting feedback.
TTSensei experts note the high build quality and durability of this blade. Its unique construction and material selection result in a well-engineered product that withstands aggressive play over time. The craftsmanship ensures consistent performance and longevity, making it a reliable long-term investment for serious players.
Technology
TSP Balsa Plus Offensive 85 utilizes a proprietary 'intelligent' core technology centered on a thick balsa wood middle layer. This balsa core is uniquely cut with its wood grain parallel to the blade face, enhancing its soft and springy characteristics far beyond traditional balsa blades. This core is augmented by elastic fiberglass plies. These layers enlarge the sweet spot, reduce vibration for a cleaner feel, and contribute significantly to the blade's overall speed and power. This construction delivers a potent offensive weapon with distinctive feedback and surprising control.
Similar Blades
Victas Balsa 8.5
The Victas Balsa 8.5 is often considered a successor or related model. Players report that the original TSP version has a distinct feel and performance, with some preferring its manufacturing or design. Our community notes that enthusiasts sometimes seek out the TSP version for its specific playing characteristics.
TSP Balsa 6.5
For players who find the Offensive 85 too bouncy or demanding, the TSP Balsa 6.5 offers a slightly different profile. It remains a very fast offensive blade but may provide more manageable control and a different feel. It's a strong alternative within the same series for attackers seeking high speed with a potentially easier adjustment curve.