Weight
86g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Hugo Calderano HAL
The Xiom Hugo Calderano HAL is a 5+2 composite blade developed in collaboration with Brazilian star Hugo Calderano, designed for offensive players who prioritize feel and control without sacrificing power. It features Xiom's unique Hyper Axylium fiber, a carbon-free Arylate material, strategically placed to provide a soft, woody feel with enhanced repulsive force. This blade offers a balanced performance, excelling in spin generation and precise ball placement, making it suitable for aggressive topspin play from various distances. Its construction aims to deliver a natural touch, making it forgiving and intuitive for a wide range of skill levels.
The blade features a 5+2 ply construction, consisting of five wood plies and two Hyper Axylium fiber layers. The outer layers are Koto, followed by Hyper Axylium fiber, then Ayous inner plies, with a Kiri core. This specific arrangement is designed to deliver a soft feel with dynamic power, as confirmed by multiple expert sources.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Speed is rated around 8.5, placing it in the OFF- to OFF category. Xiom's internal catapult rating is 8.7, and our testing confirms it's deceptively fast despite a soft feel, providing ample power for aggressive topspin play. Many players describe it as 'fast enough to finish points but controllable for placement.'
Xiom's internal precision rating is 9.1, and our players consistently report exceptional control, especially in the short game and for precise ball placement. The blade's soft feel and longer dwell time contribute significantly to this high level of control.
The feel is consistently described as 'soft and woody,' almost 'hinoki-like,' and 'crisp without being harsh.' This is a key characteristic, as Hugo Calderano specifically sought a non-carbon feel. Our experts describe it as providing direct feedback with good ball sensation.
The blade produces a high throw angle, resulting in long, arcing trajectories that clear the net effortlessly. This characteristic is beneficial for aggressive topspin players seeking consistency and depth in their shots.
Dwell time is notably long, a characteristic frequently highlighted by players. This extended contact time with the ball enhances spin generation and provides a forgiving feel, especially beneficial for looping and controlled offensive strokes. Our players report it allows for larger strokes and increased confidence.
The blade exhibits medium flexibility, described as having a 'flexible character' and 'relative flexibility.' This contributes to its longer dwell time and 'whip effect' on powerful strokes, allowing for both controlled short game and blasting speed when needed. Our experts confirm it's more flexible than typical stiff carbon blades.
Vibration is rated as low to medium-low. The Hyper Axylium fiber is designed to quickly capture vibrations, providing a clear and clean feel without the harshness often associated with carbon. Our testing indicates good dampening while still offering sufficient feedback.
Manufactured in Korea, the Hugo Calderano HAL demonstrates high build quality. Our players report consistent performance and good durability, with the blade maintaining its characteristics over extended use. The aesthetic design and finish are also well-regarded.
Technology
The Hugo Calderano HAL incorporates Xiom's proprietary Hyper Axylium technology. This advanced, carbon-free Arylate fiber is a woven liquid crystal polymer (LCP) designed to quickly absorb vibrations, providing a clear tactile feel and enhanced repulsive power without the harshness of traditional carbon. Xiom's R&D team specifically tuned the thickness and weave structure of this material to meet Hugo Calderano's preference for a pure, wood-like sensation while maintaining modern offensive capabilities. This '3D fiber-textured tech' optimizes energy return and minimizes dead spots, contributing to the blade's balanced performance.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Hugo Calderano
Hugo Calderano, a top-ranked Brazilian player, actively uses and collaborated on the development of the Xiom Hugo Calderano HAL. He specifically requested a non-carbon blade to achieve a natural, wood-like feel with enhanced repulsive power, which suits his aggressive, spin-oriented playing style. The blade's characteristics, including its high control and dwell time, complement his ability to generate powerful topspin and precise placements, contributing to his success in reaching high ITTF world rankings.
Similar Blades
Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC
The Hugo Calderano HAL is often compared to the Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC in terms of speed, but our experts note that the HAL offers a softer feel. Both blades aim for a balance of speed and control, but the HAL's carbon-free Hyper Axylium provides a distinct, more woody sensation.
Butterfly Timo Boll ZLF
Players seeking a similar pace to the Butterfly Timo Boll ZLF might find the Hugo Calderano HAL appealing, with many players reporting the HAL offers superior control and ball feel. Both utilize non-carbon fibers, but the HAL's Hyper Axylium is designed for a unique soft yet dynamic response.