Donic Crest AR+

The Donic Crest AR+ is a premium table tennis blade that expertly balances speed and control for players seeking both power and precision. Crafted with a unique nine-ply composition, it features an outer veneer of limba wood, providing a classic ‘grab’ feel on the ball, combined with multiple layers of carbon to enhance speed and stability. Specifically, the Crest AR+ utilizes two limba plies and two carbon layers with an inner ayous veneer that fosters impressive feedback and solid ball contact. This blade is particularly noted for its impressive craftsmanship, rivaling that of established brands like Butterfly, and has garnered an average rating of 9.5 from users.

With a weight of approximately 85 grams, the Crest AR+ finds itself in the medium range, although some users report their blades weighing slightly more. Its dimensions, measuring 158x152 mm, contribute to a larger sweet spot which enhances consistency during play. However, its construction leans towards being slightly head-heavy due to the larger head size, which may affect balance when paired with heavier rubbers. In terms of flexibility, the blade exhibits moderate stiffness (rated at 5.6), making it less suitable for players who prefer flexible, loopy shots, while still allowing effective play from a distance.

The Crest AR+ is categorized in the OFF speed class and is praised for its ability to maintain control, making it an excellent choice for players ranging from intermediate to advanced levels. If you’re considering alternatives, the Donic Crest OFF blade offers a similar construction with slightly faster playability, but the AR+ is preferred for those seeking a balanced approach. With its combination of speed, control, and comfortable handling, the Donic Crest AR+ stands out as a versatile choice for competitive play.