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Victas ZX-GEAR IN is a well-rounded table tennis blade with exceptional control and consistency, suitable for players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players. Constructed with a 5-ply composition, it features a hinoki outer ply and two limba inner plies, which contribute to its excellent touch and feel. The blade's stiffness rating of 5.8 provides a good balance between power and control, allowing for precise shot-making and effective spin generation.
The Victas ZX-GEAR IN is particularly appreciated for its remarkable control and consistency, enabling players to execute shots with accuracy and consistency, even during intense rallies. The blade's limba inner plies provide excellent stability and shock absorption, resulting in a solid feel and reduced vibration. Players can expect improved consistency and reduced mishits with this blade.
In terms of speed, the Victas ZX-GEAR IN falls in the range of 7 out of 10, making it a relatively fast blade that offers a good level of power and spin. The combination of the hinoki outer ply and limba inner plies provides a lively bounce that allows for dynamic attacking shots, while maintaining the necessary control for effective blocking and countering. Players can transition seamlessly between attacking and defensive play, adapting to the demands of the game.
Overall, the Victas ZX-GEAR IN stands out as a versatile and high-performance table tennis blade, providing excellent control, consistency, and speed. Its well-balanced construction makes it suitable for a wide range of playing styles, allowing players of all skill levels to enhance their game and achieve their full potential.
Harder than traditional inner carbon fiber, it is more like a long 5 with better backhand and slightly worse forehand. It offers very good backhand control.
I’m a ten-year user of 5-ply blades. The ZX Gear In is the first composite blade I really liked. It has a very nice touch and control similar to a fast 5-ply allwood. After a few sessions, I decided to convert to it. It’s easy to loop with, like my beloved YSE, but has the power for counter-looping from a distance.
This blade is suited for control looping, offering power when desired. While looping, it provides speed and spin, while exhibiting controlled bounce outside of those scenarios. As it requires a swinging motion, it is ideal for loopers.
The flexible composite blade construction features two limba layers, followed by a Zexion layer made of zylon/carbon weave, which gives it the “IN” designation. The finish is of exceptional quality, with even thickness and no asymmetries. The FL handle is slightly larger and more squared than the HL5 and weighs around 90g. The blade produces a muted, woody sound during bounce, contributing to its overall sturdy and reliable feel.
Currently, it is equipped with H3 on FH and Rakza7 on BH and provides a high throw angle, a consistent sweet spot, and a wooden feel. While the bounce is consistent, there is a noticeable difference when the ball lands further from the center. Looping generates significant speed and spin, while smashes are not as fast. The zylon/carbon layer appears to activate primarily parallel to the blade, contributing to the “power only when needed” control.
With proper technique, forceful strokes result in the ball consistently going in, especially when playing away from the table. The blade excels at blocking and counter looping, as it absorbs the perpendicular component of the oncoming ball, akin to smashes. It allows for effective over-the-top strokes without the risk of hitting the net. Underspin attacks are also manageable, making over-the-table shots, including FH, significantly easier. Additionally, it facilitates short, low, and spinny pushes.
One observation from a friend who uses the HL5 is that the ZX-IN has less speed when played from further distances. In comparison to the Yasaka Ma Lin Carbon, another inner carbon blade, the ZX-IN offers more dwell and a higher throw angle, allowing for more effective over-the-top strokes.
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