Xiom Aigis
Blade description:
This wooden, all-around to defensive blade is specifically designed for the modern defensive game. It features an oversized head, which enhances consistency and accuracy during defensive strokes, and a notably comfortable straight handle that facilitates easy twiddling. The blade is recognized for its versatility, offering a balance that allows for both high-level chopping and effective, powerful counter-attacking.
Performance Characteristics
- Feel and Control: The blade is widely praised for its exceptional control and feel, enabling players to return difficult balls with high reliability. Users report a significant capacity for generating heavy backspin on chops. While some users describe the blade as having high flexibility and vibration, others highlight its ability to perform well with both long pips and inverted rubbers.
- Speed and Dynamics: It occupies a unique space in the defensive category; it is not a slow, purely passive blade. It possesses sufficient speed to execute forceful smashes and topspin counter-loops, often described as faster than many traditional defensive blades.
- Playability: The blade excels in passive play, particularly in blocking and returning shots under pressure, often resulting in flat, sinking flight curves. It provides ample dwell time when paired with modern, spinny rubbers, making it an effective tool for controlled looping, though players noted that sustained offensive rallies require significant physical effort.
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Recent Reviews
#1 — September 2019
Many references exist, but they are often vague. Direct comparisons between blades are necessary for accuracy. The Aigis blade is fast. When comparing it to the Victas Koji Matsushita Offensive, I found the Aigis to be slightly faster, despite using Tackiness Chop 1.5 on the Aigis and Tackiness Chop 1.7 on the Koji. Both blades were covered with plastic foil to minimize the effects of tackiness. The 1.7 rubber was glued with Revolution 4, while the 1.5 rubber was glued with Cement. I will provide updates after further training.
After two hours of training, I noticed significant improvements in passive returns under pressure. The Aigis allows me to keep the ball on the table more than I could with the Koji. However, the tackiness effect slows the paddle, providing more control. This will likely diminish over time as the tackiness wears off. Blocks were excellent, flat, and easy to execute, surpassing the performance of the Koji. Chops, serves, and service receives were also improved, especially when using Dr. Neubauer Domination 1.5mm. The combination of the Aigis and Domination was particularly impressive, offering great control, strong chops, effective blocks, and surprisingly good attacking capabilities. While attacking, the paddle is less flexible than desired.
After several months, I have found that the Aigis blade offers the best balance of control and speed I have experienced. This is its greatest strength. I can effectively employ a defensive chop style to close out games, waiting for my opponent’s mistake or an opportunity to execute an offensive topspin attack. However, prolonged offensive exchanges require significant physical effort. Blocks, serves, and service returns remain excellent and effortless. The passive returns are a key advantage, as the ball maintains good control and generates effective spin.
#2 — June 2017
I’ll deal with you every day.
#3 — October 2015
Highly flexible blade (more than Donic Defplay). Great control.
Very slow.
Nice thick straight handle.
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