Nittaku S-Series S-5

The S-5 is a 5-ply all-wood offensive blade constructed entirely of spruce. It is characterized by a medium-soft feel and a moderate level of stiffness, providing a unique “give” that allows the ball to dwell on the surface before being ejected. This construction offers exceptional acoustic feedback and sensory vibration, providing a high level of clarity that avoids the muted response found in some other spruce-core designs.

Performance Characteristics

• Speed and Gears: The blade functions as a solid offensive weapon (ranging from OFF- to OFF). It features a versatile gear system, maintaining composure during slow, controlled loops while delivering significant speed during aggressive, mid-distance topspin rallies.
• Feel and Feedback: It offers high-fidelity feedback and a distinct “cracking” sound when executing high-impact strokes. The surface texture and core density provide a high throw angle, facilitating effective looping.
• Control and Handling: The blade excels in short-game touch, placement precision, and blocking. While it performs reliably in pushes and flicks, it is less suited for flat-hitting techniques compared to its looping capabilities.

Compatibility and Craftsmanship

The blade is noted for its high-quality construction and comfortable handle design, suitable for small to medium-sized hands. Because it is sensitive to pairing, performance is highly dependent on rubber selection; it achieves the best results with medium to firm sponge rubbers, as very soft sponges may cause the feel to become excessively mushy. It is well-regarded for players who prioritize natural wood feel and sensory input over the stiff, dampened sensation of composite materials.