Weight
87.5g
Thickness
5.75mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL / ST
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Head-Heavy
ICE CREAM AZX
Xiom ICE CREAM AZX is a pioneering hybrid table tennis blade engineered for offensive players seeking dynamic versatility. Its innovative construction features distinct Arylate Carbon (ALC) and Zephylium Carbon (ZLC) layers integrated directly beneath the Koto outer ply, enabling tailored performance on each side. The ALC side offers a springier, controlled feel, while the ZLC side provides a harder, more elastic response. Weighing approximately 87-88g with a 5.7-5.8mm thickness, it delivers a direct and crisp feel ideal for aggressive topspin play close to the table, making it a top-tier choice for advanced players demanding precision, power, and strategic flexibility.
ICE CREAM AZX features a unique 7-layer construction with asymmetrical composite placement. The outer ply on both sides is Koto. Directly beneath the Koto on one side is Arylate Carbon (ALC), and on the other is Zephylium Carbon (ZLC). These are followed by Limba, a Kiri core, another Limba layer, and then the respective carbon layers and Koto outer plies. This placement allows for distinct playing characteristics on each side, with the outer carbon layers contributing to a direct and crisp feel.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Xiom ICE CREAM AZX is a fast blade designed for offensive play. Its hybrid construction with outer carbon layers under the Koto surface contributes to a direct and powerful ball release. While not the absolute fastest on the market, it offers speed that rivals or surpasses popular offensive blades, making it excellent for aggressive topspin and drives. Its speed is linear, performing consistently with varying stroke intensity.
Despite its high speed, ICE CREAM AZX offers excellent control, especially for its offensive classification. The placement of composite layers beneath the Koto allows for good ball feedback and a noticeable feel, aiding in shot placement. Players report the blade's ability to maintain control during aggressive shots and its suitability for precise short-game play. The asymmetrical design also lets players leverage specific control characteristics of each side.
The feel of ICE CREAM AZX is characterized by its directness due to the outer carbon placement. The ALC side is generally described as having a softer, stiffer, and springier feel with more dwell, while the ZLC side is perceived as harder and more elastic, offering a crisper contact. This hybrid feel allows adaptation to different shot requirements.
The ALC side tends to produce a higher throw angle, aiding in clearing the net and generating heavy spin on forehand loops. The ZLC side typically offers a more medium throw angle, suitable for flatter, faster shots and drives. This difference allows players to vary shot trajectories based on the side they are using.
Dwell time on ICE CREAM AZX is considered good, particularly on the ALC side, which allows for better ball wrapping and spin generation. The ZLC side offers slightly less dwell but compensates with speed and a more direct feel. This balanced dwell time across both sides contributes to versatility for both spin-based attacks and fast exchanges.
ICE CREAM AZX is generally considered a stiff to medium-stiff blade. The outer carbon plies contribute to this stiffness, enabling quick ball transition and powerful shots. While it doesn't possess significant flex, this characteristic is beneficial for aggressive, close-to-the-table play where a stiff blade allows for immediate power transfer and less energy loss.
Vibration levels on Xiom ICE CREAM AZX are moderate. The direct feel from the outer carbon layers means some vibration is transmitted, providing clear feedback. However, the composite materials and wood plies work together to absorb excessive harshness, resulting in a controlled vibration level that enhances feel without causing discomfort.
Xiom ICE CREAM AZX is lauded for its exceptional build quality. TTSensei experts note a high level of craftsmanship with meticulous finishing on the fiber layers and overall construction. This attention to detail ensures durability and a premium feel, contributing to the blade's high performance and player satisfaction.
Technology
Xiom ICE CREAM AZX is engineered with a groundbreaking 'Super Hybrid' blade technology, being one of the world's first blades to feature two distinct composite materials—Arylate Carbon (ALC) and Zephylium Carbon (ZLC)—on opposing sides. This asymmetrical construction is strategically placed directly beneath the Koto outer ply. The ALC side is designed for enhanced elasticity and a springier feel, while the ZLC side offers increased hardness and a crisper response. This innovative approach allows players to leverage unique performance characteristics for forehand and backhand strokes, offering unparalleled versatility. Manufactured in Korea, it underscores a commitment to high-quality production for professional-grade equipment.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Jeoung Youngsik
Jeoung Youngsik, a prominent South Korean professional player, is the athlete for whom the Xiom Ice Cream AZX blade was developed. Known for his aggressive playstyle and powerful forehand, he utilizes the unique hybrid nature of the AZX to complement his dynamic game. The distinct characteristics of the ALC and ZLC sides allow him to tailor his shots, generating heavy spin and powerful drives with precision. The blade's construction enables him to switch between offensive strategies effectively, leveraging the higher arc and dwell of the ALC side for forehand attacks and the speed and directness of the ZLC side for backhand exchanges or aggressive blocks.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Butterfly Viscaria is frequently mentioned as a benchmark for comparison. Both are highly regarded offensive blades featuring carbon layers. Our testing shows the AZX is comparable to or slightly faster than the Viscaria, offering a similar speed range but with a potentially more direct feel due to its outer carbon placement. Players who enjoy the Viscaria's offensive capabilities but are looking for a different feel or the unique hybrid properties might consider AZX as an alternative.
Butterfly Zhang Jike ALC
Some reviews compare ICE CREAM AZX to Butterfly Zhang Jike ALC, particularly in terms of control and feel. Players report the AZX often has more control and a softer feeling in certain aspects, especially in the short game and defensive maneuvers, compared to the Zhang Jike ALC. Those seeking a blade with excellent control and a slightly softer touch while maintaining high offensive potential may find AZX a suitable alternative or complement.