Weight
84g
Thickness
5.2mm
Plies
5-ply
Head Size
160.5x156
Handles
FL / ST
Material
AllWood
Head Shape
Standard
Balance
Balanced
Sweden Defensive
Yasaka Sweden Defensive is a 5-ply all-wood blade crafted in Sweden, engineered for defensive players who prioritize control and feel. Its slightly enlarged head size and softer outer veneers enhance stability and security for chops and blocks, offering superior tactile feedback. This blade excels with long pips or thin sponge rubbers, providing precise execution of defensive maneuvers. While focused on defense, it maintains enough power for offensive opportunities close to the table, making it a versatile choice for modern defensive play that balances touch with controlled aggression.
A standard 5-ply all-wood construction featuring softer outer veneers to enhance feel and control, which contributes significantly to its defensive capabilities and tactile feedback.
TT Sensei Ratings
✦Our expert analysis of this blade's performance characteristics
Yasaka Sweden Defensive is designed with control as its primary characteristic, resulting in a moderate-to-low speed rating. It offers enough pace for defensive maneuvers and some controlled attacks, but it is not built for generating significant raw speed. Players looking to drive the ball with heavy pace will need to rely more on their rubbers and technique to compensate.
Control is the hallmark of Yasaka Sweden Defensive. Its construction and design provide exceptional feedback and stability, allowing players to place the ball with great precision. This makes it ideal for defensive players who rely on accuracy for their game, offering a secure platform for chops, blocks, and precise placement.
The blade offers a soft touch and exceptional feeling for the ball, a key characteristic for defensive players. Softer outer veneers contribute significantly to this tactile feedback, allowing players to sense ball contact precisely for controlled strokes.
With its softer wood and good dwell time, Yasaka Sweden Defensive tends to produce a medium to medium-high throw angle. This characteristic can be beneficial for generating spin on both defensive and offensive shots, adding versatility to its defensive profile.
The softer wood composition and 5-ply construction provide good dwell time, allowing the ball to sink into the racket face. This extended contact aids in generating spin and controlling chops and pushes effectively.
The 5-ply all-wood construction provides a degree of flexibility beneficial for defensive shots requiring dwell time and spin. This flexibility allows for a more controlled and forgiving playing experience, especially for chopping and blocking maneuvers.
Yasaka Sweden Defensive offers balanced vibration that provides good feel without being overly harsh or jarring. It delivers tactile feedback that helps players sense ball contact without excessive buzz that could distract from control.
Made in Sweden with known quality craftsmanship, Yasaka Sweden Defensive generally receives positive feedback regarding its build quality and durability. Players report its resilience even under regular use, and the factory lacquer finish provides good protection without needing additional sealing.
Technology
Yasaka Sweden Defensive represents traditional Swedish blade craftsmanship with a time-honored 5-ply all-wood construction. The key technological aspect lies in careful selection of wood veneers, particularly fractionally softer outer plies that provide enhanced feel and superior control. This deliberate design ensures optimal ball contact and dwell time, facilitating precise defensive play. The blade comes factory lacquered, eliminating the need for additional sealing while protecting the wood layers. The slightly enlarged head size contributes to stability without compromising the classic playing characteristics.
Similar Blades
Stiga Allround Classic
Stiga Allround Classic is another highly respected 5-ply all-wood blade known for excellent control and feel. Like Yasaka Sweden Defensive, it's popular for players developing their game, particularly those focusing on defense or allround play. Many players find similarities in feel and performance between these two control-oriented blades.
Yasaka Sweden Classic
Yasaka Sweden Classic shares the same Swedish heritage and 5-ply all-wood construction as the Sweden Defensive. While geared more toward allround play with slightly more offensive capability, it still offers significant control and feel, making it a comparable option for players who want a touch-oriented blade with a bit more speed.