
Weight
85g
Thickness
5.8mm
Plies
7-ply
Head Size
157x150
Handles
FL
Material
Hybrid
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Alnade
Yasaka Alnade is a hybrid-carbon offensive blade crafted for power loopers seeking a balance of speed and control. Developed through Japanese-Swedish collaboration, its PA CARBON construction delivers a fast yet manageable playing experience with a large sweet spot. Ideal for close-to-table attacks and mid-distance rallies, it generates significant spin and power while maintaining excellent consistency. Though discontinued, it remains a sought-after weapon for players who value a competitive edge with good feel and trajectory.
The 7-ply construction alternates wood and carbon layers, with outer Koto plies providing direct feel and spin potential, while inner PA Carbon layers enhance speed and sweet spot size. This symmetrical design aims for fast yet controlled offensive performance.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Alnade delivers very fast performance thanks to its PA CARBON layers and hybrid construction. It provides ample power for aggressive loops and drives, making it suitable for players who attack from various distances. This speed allows for effective offensive play without sacrificing too much touch.
Despite its high speed, Alnade offers exceptional control due to its well-balanced construction and large sweet spot. The PA CARBON material provides good ball feedback, allowing players to execute precise shots, blocks, and serves with confidence. This makes it surprisingly manageable for a blade in its speed class.
Alnade delivers a medium-hard feel with a higher pitch sound compared to some carbon blades. While some perceive it as stiffer, others notice good flex for looping. The PA CARBON provides distinct feedback that's neither too numb nor overly stiff, creating a balanced tactile experience.
Alnade produces a medium-high throw angle that benefits aggressive topspin shots. This trajectory helps clear the net with power while maintaining good arc during looping sequences.
For a composite blade, Alnade offers decent dwell time that allows for good spin generation on serves and topspins. You get enough time to feel the ball before release, which contributes to its control during extended rallies.
Flexibility sits in the medium range—stiff enough to deliver power for aggressive shots but with enough give to enable good spin generation and some ball-pocketing during loops.
Vibration levels are moderate—enough to provide tactile feedback without feeling harsh or numb. The combination of PA CARBON and wood layers transmits speed effectively while minimizing hand jarring, enhancing overall control.
Alnade is consistently praised for its high-quality construction and finish, with manufacturing standards that rival premium Japanese blades. The materials and craftsmanship result in a durable, aesthetically pleasing product that feels solid and reliable in hand.
Technology
Alnade features a 7-ply construction with 5 wood veneers and 2 layers of PA CARBON. This specialized carbon material contributes to high speed while keeping weight relatively low. The wood-carbon combination creates a large sweet spot and excellent consistency, balancing offensive power with control. Japanese manufacturing ensures high standards of quality and precision in every blade.
Pro Players Using This Blade
Liang Jingkun
Liang Jingkun, a top Chinese professional known for his aggressive, loop-oriented style, has been associated with Alnade. His usage demonstrates the blade's capability to meet high-level professional demands, particularly for players who rely on powerful topspin attacks and need both speed and control.
Similar Blades
Butterfly Viscaria
Alnade is frequently compared to Viscaria as a direct competitor, with many players finding it offers similar speed and spin with potentially better control or feel. Some users note it feels slightly stiffer and faster, making it an appealing alternative for those seeking a nuanced offensive blade.
Butterfly Timo Boll ALC
Alnade also draws comparisons to Timo Boll ALC, with players suggesting it performs on par or perhaps with slightly more stiffness and speed. This positions it among high-performance ALC blades while offering its own distinct playing characteristics.