Review: Timo Boll ZLC vs ZLF

How about the flex and feel (hard/soft)?

Can you explain why you ruled out the ZLC? I'm between ZLC and ZLF. My experience with Photino (ZLF) and Mizutani (ZLC) was quite positive however  I can't say I like the arylate-carbon feel that much.

speaquinox wrote: Can you explain why you ruled out the ZLC? I'm between ZLC and ZLF.

The reason for ruling out ZLC was not because it was a bad blade. It is pretty darn good, I would say. But ZLC with Tenergy-05 required the paddle angle to be closed down for counter looping while ZLF behaved very similar to what I used to do with Bryce FX speed glued on Schlager Carbon. It was just a matter of familiarity thing.

I could've easily gone with ZLC and adjusted my game. But since ZLF was giving me what I was looking for, I didn't go that route.

speaquinox wrote: BTW, is ALC faster or slower than ZLF? Actually it doesn't mayyer much if the speed differences between those are tiny.

ALC and ZLF appear to me to exhibit same speed characteristics. ZLC is definitely faster than both of them but not super fast like Schlager Carbon.

Anymore feedback on these? or even ALC?

wttp > You should try Joola Energ, it's an improvement  of Joola Tango, more speed, more spin.

Off topic question, howz joola energy for backhand?

vttp wrote: i got a question about the rubbers, if anyone here can give me some ideas. Right now i have ZLF with joola tango on my forehand and yasaka mark v on my backhand, but i don't feel it's fast enough. Is there any rubbers that match well with my ZLF besides those Tenergiesss???? Thanks

Hi vttp,

May I suggest giving Roxon 450 a try? I use it on my ALC and it works absolutely wonders.

Or another good one would be Xiom Zeta. Both are very controllable and quite fast, faster than the MarkV for sure.

vttp wrote: thx Vivant. but, i 've never heard of Roxon. is it one of the tt brand?

It is made by Andro.

vttp wrote: where can u get Xiom Zeta. i guess it would be more than 30 bucks, isn't it?

Yes, it costs around $30 - $32. Available at many online stores. Simply do a Google search on "XIOM ZETA" My understanding (though I am not 100% sure), it comes in two different sponge types. Don't know if one is common and the other rare with a higher price tag.

Takadigi wrote: Yes, it costs around $30 - $32. Available at many online stores. Simply do a Google search on "XIOM ZETA" My understanding (though I am not 100% sure), it comes in two different sponge types. Don't know if one is common and the other rare with a higher price tag.

Yes, the Zeta does come in two versions. The Asian version is harder and more powerful than the European version, which is softer for more control. The Asian version is designed for those who like the characteristics of a chinese rubber, but it is of great quality and consistency, unlike some chinese ones that may lack this.

Vttp, note that Andor Roxon comes in 450 and 500 Pro. The 450 is softer and more forgiving, whilst the 500 Pro is the faster rubber, by experience it is quite hard to fully utilise its potential unless you're a top notch and confident player. Looping is much an effort, but the 450 has the glued 'click' sound great control.

zlf is good with fast or soft rubber

jackass22 wrote: can you compare zlf and zlc with nittaku acoustic in softness and in fast? thanks

IMO, I think the Acoustic is slightly softer but faster.  However, ZLF has more power in the mid distance and third zone attack.

I never played ZLC so I don't know.

I will buy all of the blades in Timo Boll series to try:D. Thanks super_tt for a great review

I have started using the Timo Boll ZLF now.. with Tenergy 64 on forehand (for good mid-distance looping) and Sriver EL on backhand.. for the best possible control.. I must say this is a deadly combination..

bozbrisvegas wrote: Even though I said I would give the ZLF a 5 week season - I have given up on it after 3 weeks. Reason:   1.  Too hard (difficult) to hit through a higer ball (this should be simple) 2. Bit too slow at the table 3. Very slow away from the table   if anyone wants mine in Australia let me know - its in perfect condition.

Hey bozbrisvegas!
I like your videos and your style of play!
However, the ZLF is not a slow blade at all! It may be slow in comparison to the blade you are used to, but it is still fast and for sure to fast for most people around here (like the TBS and the ALC, and all the hinoki outer carbon blades)!
Most of the top rated (top 20) players both in Denmark and in Switzerland still use all wood blades! And they do not lack power (the shots of the players)!