Butterfly Table Tennis Question and Answer

Question:  I’m looking to choose between the butterfly innerforce zlc and and the harimoto alc. I rely on spinny loops mid distance from the table. I want a blade that will give good dwell time without compromising speed and spin. please compare the two paddles in detail.

Answer: 

Your Ask the Experts question was answered by Louis Levene. He is a Content Creator on YouTube (channel: Looeelooee) focused on helping viewers improve their table tennis. Coach Levene’s response is as follows:

Hi Rajesh,  

The Innerforce ZLC and Harimoto ALC have a very similar composition. They are inner-layer blades, in which the layer of composite material is close to the core. That creates a softer, more wood-like feeling, while still allowing for great power and spin.  

The main difference between the Innerforce ZLC and Harimoto ALC is the composite material used. The Harimoto ALC is stiffer, but creates a softer and springier feeling at contact. In comparison, Innerforce ZLC is more flexible, and has a harder, duller feel to it. When you make contact using the Harimoto ALC, the ball will have a more direct trajectory in comparison to the Innerforce ZLC. However, the Innerforce ZLC may feel like it has more gears than the Harimoto blade.   

In my opinion, if you like to play far away from the table, the Innerforce ZLC is the better option, but if you like to stay close, the Harimoto ALC will be better. As you play mid distance, either blade will be a great choice, with the decision coming down to your preference of how you want your blade to feel.   

Thanks for reaching out!   

– Louis