You can select your blade according to your playing style and speed/spin and control parameters. We have additionally listed down few more considerations for choosing a blade. Generally attacking players should choose high-speed blades, all-round players should choose an all-round wood and defensive players should pick a slow blade for good control.
(I) Different types of grip and a suitable handle shape
A variety of blades handle types are available to suit player preferences. Choose according to your own preference of grip and type of play. At Prime Sports, you have an option to select the blades as per your preference of grip type.
- Flared or ‘Concave’: This is the most commonly used bat handle, and particularly good for Forehand players. It offers a firm grip on the blade without compromising on the flexibility.
- Anatomic: This shape is similar to flared handle, except with a bump in the centre to fit the shape of the hand for a firmer grip. This is the second most popular blade handle and ideal for people with large hands.
- Straight: Good for Backhand players and Defensive players who ‘twiddle’ or flip the blades often. You can hold the handle loose so that it’s easy to flip the bat and is ideal for players who actively use the wrist in their game.
- Penhold: This is a short-style handle (Chinese penhold) for powerful attacking play. The bat is held between the thumb and index finder, similar to holding a pen, with other fingers behind the bat. The other option in this type is the Japanese penhold.
Various types of Blade Handle Shapes for different Grips
Search Table Tennis Blades in www.sportsisprime.com and select your preferred ‘Blade Handle’ shape that are available as options in the blade.
(II) Weight preferences
Most blades weigh between 70 and 100 gram. Light blades (70-76 gm) allow hitting the ball quicker, whereas heavier blades (90-100 gm), once accelerated to top speed are great for powerful games. If you are a learner or average skilled player, choose a blade with medium weight i.e. between 77-89 gm for a good balance of speed and spin.
Go to Table Tennis Blades page and use the Compare feature to check the individual Blade weights to help in selection of blade. Please note that the weights given are only indicative of the approximate weight range of the blades (without rubber).
(III) Speed rating
A rating system has been developed by us (Super Fast, Fast, Medium, Slow) to help you compare across different brands. Generally, attacking players choose high speed blades which are characterised by OFF, OFF+ ratings. Note that the Blade Speed and control ratings are only a basic tool for selecting a blade. Your skill level, rubber, play style all have an impact on the actual performance of the blade.
- Blades with High Speed rating i.e. OFF+ to ALL+ are preferred by Offensive style players.
- For All Round players who mix consistent play with attacking shots, choose All-round Rating i.e. OFF- to ALL-
- If you are a Defensive player or learner, you may choose slower blades with more Control rating ie. ALL to DEF-
Go to Table Tennis Blades page and select your desired Speed and Control rating from the options available on the left menu (Super Fast, Fast, Medium, Slow) & choose from the wide selection of blades available. You may also compare between blades or check individual blade features to get information regarding blade rating.
IV) The importance of number of Ply Layers and material composition of the blade
The number of ply in a blade usually range between 1 – 7, most common being the 5-ply blade. The ITTF rules require that at least 85% of the blade material should be wood. While most players use all-wood blade for ‘maximum speed’, some prefer to use a composite blade with added layers of carbon, fiberglass , titanium or other material which increase the sweet spot and ’feel’ of the blade.
Use Compare feature for Table Tennis Blades and check the Blade Layers and Composition to make an informed buying decision.
It is important to develop your skill in the game and select a blade according to your playing style and personal choice. While all the factors above can be a general guidance for selection, it is your preference and feel for a blade that will take your game to a greater level.