Donic Li Ping Kitex
Blade description:
This blade is a composite model featuring a 5+2 construction, utilizing a kiri core, ayous/samba middle layers, and premium 200-year-old Kiso-hinoki outer veneers. The composite material used is Texalium, which is positioned next to the core, providing a power boost that remains more controlled and refined than standard carbon fiber. The head size is slightly smaller than the industry standard, which contributes to a highly balanced feel and aids in focused, precise stroke execution.
Playing Characteristics
The blade offers a medium ball arc, making it highly effective for looping, while maintaining enough speed for aggressive flat hitting and smashing. It is characterized by high levels of feedback; the blade resonates upon ball contact, providing the player with predictable and tactile information. This resonance is most prominent during low-tempo shots and becomes more stable during harder, high-speed strikes. The sweet spot is notably large, extending near the edges of the blade face.
Handling and Build
The handle design is compact, described as smaller than common high-end benchmarks, which may appeal to players preferring a minimalist grip. The overall weight distribution is head-heavy, a design choice that complements its offensive nature. Given the soft Kiso-hinoki top layer, the blade pairs effectively with modern hard ESN rubbers, allowing for significant spin generation and a secure, stable feel. It is an ideal choice for players who enjoy the touch of an all-wood blade but require the additional stability and power provided by composite layers.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — November 2016
Rubbers used to test: T64, EL-P, MX-P, M2.
The handle is a Chinese style handle that is small regardless of the type chosen. It is even smaller than the ZJK or Shiwen blade, but it is comfortable for me. The blade is head heavy, which I personally prefer. The composite layers in the blade are dark grey and are located next to the kiri core. The middle layer of the blade consists of ayous/samba/abachi, which is a nice combination. The top veneer is kiso-hinoki (200 years old), which is sanded perfectly with no visible pores or uneven surfaces where glue would stick.
The blade was designed for looping but also has a bit more power. It is rated OFF-/OFF by the manufacturer, which I think is reasonable. The blade resonates, providing optimal feedback from the contact of the ball. It is predictable in every situation. The sweet spot is surprisingly large; I would say that the 1.5 cm margin of the head is not usable. When looping, the arc of the ball is medium. The feeling of the loop is very pleasant, without any resonances. On direct flat hits, the blade resonates on low tempo, but this resonance fades when hitting harder.
It is a very stable and offensive blade with a fine touch. The soft top layer of hinoki makes every loop a spinny threat to the opponent. It is usually spinnier than similar ZLF blades with a limba top veneer. It works well with modern ESN hard rubbers, giving them a fine touch. The arc of the ball is medium, but steady and safe, no matter how the power is varied.
I would recommend this blade to all-wood blade lovers who want speed and control around 80-85 grams. Texalium gives a bit more power, but not as much as carbon. This is a controlled to aggressive looper blade that has the power for smashing. To be honest, it definitely feels like the Jun Mizutani ZLC, with a bit more power and a better feeling in flat contacts. The price is pleasant, and I wonder why it didn’t get more hype. It also works well with the poly ball.
#2 — April 2016
Review: ** Great Blade! It has fantastic control and good speed.
#3 — February 2015
Review:
This is a fantastic blade. It possesses ample speed, superb control, and an exceptional feel. Upon striking the ball, the Li Ping blade effortlessly embraces it, guiding it precisely to your intended destination. An extraordinarily impressive performance.
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