Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLF
Blade description:
This blade utilizes a 3+2 construction featuring Zylon Fiber (ZLF) integrated into a wooden core. It is characterized by a thin profile that prioritizes dwell time and tactile feedback, offering a distinct wood-like feel with notable vibration. While it provides an enlarged sweet spot compared to all-wood blades, it maintains a flexible nature that emphasizes spin generation and control over raw speed.
Performance Characteristics
- Speed and Power: Generally perceived as a slower, control-oriented blade (All+/Off- range). It performs best in spin-oriented, close-to-the-table offensive play. It lacks the explosive pace required for high-velocity smashing or flat hitting, though it does feature an unconventional “upper gear” that can provide extra power when engaged with aggressive strokes.
- Spin and Control: Highly regarded for its ability to produce heavy topspin and manage underspin. The flexible composition enhances dwell time, allowing for precision in touch shots, serves, and looping. The blade is often described as predictable for building technique, though some users note that the ZLF can occasionally introduce slight inconsistencies in shot response.
- Feel and Handling: Offers high levels of feedback, which is beneficial for players who rely on touch. It features a comfortable flared (FL) handle and is noted for its high-quality construction. Because of its flexibility and vibration profile, it is particularly well-suited for spin-oriented attackers who prefer a softer, more communicative blade over the crisp, rigid feel of ALC or Carbon-heavy alternatives.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — June 2025
It is thin and slow, offering a distinct wood feel with considerable vibration. I paired it with Dignics 80 on the forehand (FH) and Tenergy 05 on the backhand (BH) side.
Even when I hit the ball very hard, my opponent could still easily return it. It’s good for controlled blocking but poor for smashing. However, it excels at spinning and looping underspin balls. I’m planning to replace my BH rubber with long pips (LP).
#2 — March 2024
The speed rating here is far too low, as this blade is nearly as fast as my TBS. It just feels very different with limba and zylon and without carbon (I also know TBS is ALC). This blade has nice control but it definitely has an upper gear range that is not linear with lower input shots. It’s not unmanageable but it’s there and surprised me at times. 7.7 is a speed rating appropriate for Primorac, this should be 8.5. This blade with Tenergy 80 on both sides would be a lovely, balanced blade for an intermediate looking to move up while still being confident in shots or a controlled oriented vet with a not overly aggressive looping game. With Sriver/MarkV type linear rubbers, this blade would be fantastic all-rounders and newer players. Despite some pace and some non-linear gears, control, and touch are very nice for a composite blade. In sum very versatile, even though I prefer the relative crispness of IF ZLC (despite some people being afraid of ZLC pace, IF ZLC also has great control and the right amount of pace for OFF-/OFF playing).
Just checked the Butterfly website and the ZLF has the lowest of reaction rating for composite blades (except for, say, a defensive blade like innershield); however, they also classify it as “mid-fast,” same as TBS, Viscaria, Boll ZLC, etc. This is correct IMO as it’s not as far off the speed of ALC/ZLC blades as some other reviews seem to indicate.
#3 — March 2024
This is really one of the best blades I’ve used. It offers a perfect balance of power, control, and spin. The throw is direct and low, making it very dangerous for opponents. The blade is well-crafted and durable, and it provides excellent feedback. I would highly recommend this blade to any player looking for a top-quality blade.
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