Weight
89g
Thickness
5.7mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
36.5 ALXi
Xiom 36.5 ALXi is a modern hybrid-carbon blade built for offensive players who demand a perfect balance of speed, control, and exceptional feel. Its 5+2 ply construction strategically places Axylium fibers as inner layers, working in tandem with Limba outer plies to create a spin-oriented powerhouse. Crafted in Korea with a unique Cold Press manufacturing process, this blade enhances ball dwell time and delivers a sensitive, responsive touch, making it an ideal choice for players advancing to composite equipment for greater power and spin.
The blade uses a 5+2 construction where two layers of Axylium fiber are placed directly on either side of the Ayous core. Limba wood plies form the inner and outer layers. This inner-carbon placement is designed to increase dwell time and provide a softer feel compared to blades with carbon in the outer layers.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Xiom 36.5 ALXi operates in the offensive to OFF+ range, delivering high speed for powerful attacks and smashes. The inner Axylium carbon layers, combined with Limba outer plies and the Cold Press build, generate significant power. Our testing shows it maintains a commendable degree of control within its speed profile, making it fast yet manageable for offensive play.
Control is a standout strength of the 36.5 ALXi. The inner carbon placement and forgiving Limba outer plies create excellent ball feedback and a precise, consistent feel. This design allows for accurate placement and safer play, making the blade suitable for players who prioritize accuracy and all-round consistency in their game.
Xiom 36.5 ALXi offers a softer, clearer touch thanks to its inner Axylium fibers and Cold Press technology, which preserves a natural wood sensation. Players report excellent ball feedback, allowing them to sense contact effectively. Many describe it as having a distinct woody feel that is noticeably softer than typical outer-carbon blades.
The synergy of inner carbon and wood plies, particularly the Limba outer layers, tends to produce a medium-to-high throw angle. This is beneficial for generating powerful topspin shots with a good, arcing trajectory over the net.
The inner Axylium carbon placement and Limba outer plies are engineered to promote increased ball dwell time. This allows players to impart more spin during strokes and provides a controlled, grabbing sensation on serves and in short game exchanges.
While delivering good speed and power, the 36.5 ALXi is not overly stiff. The combination of wood and inner carbon layers provides a medium level of flexibility, enabling solid power generation while retaining enough flex for effective spin creation and a forgiving playing character.
Axylium fiber is known for its vibration-damping properties, leading to a clean, direct feel without harshness. The 36.5 ALXi has a low vibration profile, which enhances comfort and control during powerful shots, reducing unwanted feedback.
Xiom 36.5 ALXi showcases excellent craftsmanship and a premium build. The Cold Press manufacturing process contributes to a durable, well-finished blade that feels solid and high-quality in hand. Attention to detail in its construction results in a product that meets high-level performance standards.
Technology
Xiom 36.5 ALXi leverages two core technologies: Axylium Carbon and the Cold Press manufacturing process. Axylium is Xiom's proprietary blend of Arylate and carbon fiber, engineered to provide high stability, reduced vibration, a clear feel, and significant power. Its placement as an inner layer in this blade aims to deliver a more controlled and sensitive experience than outer-fiber constructions. The Cold Press process involves low-temperature drying of wood veneers, which Xiom states preserves the wood's natural feel and enhances glue bond durability. This results in a more forgiving blade with improved ball feedback and a responsive touch.
Similar Blades
Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC
Xiom 36.5 ALXi is frequently compared to the Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC due to their similar inner-carbon constructions and playing characteristics. Both blades place Arylate Carbon (or Axylium in Xiom's case) between wood plies to enhance feel, control, and dwell time. TTSensei experts note the 36.5 ALXi offers a comparable, and in some aspects refined, playing experience, making it a strong alternative for players seeking that modern, controlled composite feel.
Butterfly Viscaria
Often mentioned alongside the benchmark Butterfly Viscaria, the Xiom 36.5 ALXi presents a different approach. While the Viscaria is renowned for its direct power and speed from outer carbon, the 36.5 ALXi offers a softer feel and more dwell time through its inner carbon design. Players looking for greater control and a different tactile experience while maintaining high offensive capabilities often consider the 36.5 ALXi as a compelling alternative.