Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC is a 5+2 composite offensive blade featuring Zylon Carbon (ZLC) layers placed near the outer ply. This configuration combines explosive power, increased dwell time, and refined feedback, resulting in a blade that is both stiff and responsive, yet easier to handle than its Super ZLC sibling. With a medium-stiff feel and a slightly higher arc than ultra-stiff blades, it offers a more forgiving yet still high-performance playing experience.
Designed for advanced loopers and power all-rounders, the Fan Zhendong ZLC excels in controlled topspin rallies, fast counters, and mid-distance play. It provides a solid sweet spot, good vibration clarity, and enough dwell to generate heavy spin without compromising pace.
Specs
Type: Offensive
Plies: 5 wood + 2 Zylon Carbon (Outer Ply: Koto)
Composite Layer: ZLC (Zylon Carbon)
Thickness: 5.5mm
Weight: 86g
Speed (Manufacturer): N/A
Control (Manufacturer): N/A
Handle Type: FL / ST
Made In: Japan
Pros
Balanced speed with improved dwell for spin play
Clean, responsive vibration feedback for controlled play
Large sweet spot from ZLC construction
Suitable for both close-to-table and mid-distance topspin
Cons
Not as powerful or stiff as SZLC for pure hitters
Still a bit too fast for developing control players
Slightly less forgiving on touch shots compared to all-wood blades
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.5
Fast and punchy, especially on full strokes. Slightly slower than SZLC but still highly capable for attacking.
Control
4.0
Excellent directional control and precision. A bit bouncier than all-wood blades, but predictable and consistent.
Stiffness
4.0
Medium-stiff feel that balances power and feedback. Suitable for loop-based players who value both impact and touch.
Vibration Feel
4.0
Offers clean hand feedback without excessive harshness. Feels responsive during passive shots.
Dwell Time
4.0
Allows sufficient brushing for spin-heavy loops. Softer than Super ZLC, easier to engage on medium strokes.
Sweet Spot
4.5
Expanded sweet spot thanks to ZLC, though not as broad as SZLC. Offers consistency on most of the blade face.
Build Quality
5.0
Premium Butterfly craftsmanship with flawless finish, balanced weight, and fine wood layering.
Core Performance Aspects
Looping & Topspin Play
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC handles looping with elegance and control. The blade’s dwell time is enough to grab the ball on brush loops, making it easy to generate heavy topspin, especially when paired with grippy rubbers. Its medium arc offers better net clearance while still maintaining a direct trajectory. Transition loops (slow to fast) are smooth and spin-rich.
Driving & Flat Hitting
Flat hits and counters benefit from the ZLC’s stability and rebound. While not as stiff or instant as the SZLC variant, the blade still provides a crisp punch with ample acceleration. The slightly softer construction helps absorb some of the incoming speed, which improves consistency in driving exchanges.
Blocking & Passive Control
Passive blocks and redirects are stable and well-supported by the enlarged sweet spot. The vibration feel is enough to read ball impact, but not jarring. Punch blocks are effective with minimal adjustment. It’s not as dead-feeling as an all-wood blade, so timing is still important, but it remains very reliable under pressure.
Serve & Short Game
In the short game, the Fan Zhendong ZLC is above average for a carbon blade. While it has some inherent bounce, it remains predictable once accustomed. Pushes can be kept short with a soft grip, and flicks come off with good pop. Serve control is enhanced by the Koto outer ply, which provides grip and feel during contact.
Mid-to-Far Distance Play
From mid-distance, the blade excels in topspin rallies, offering a blend of spin and power with enough safety. Even at a far distance, the rebound energy from the ZLC layer ensures penetrating loop drives without too much effort. It doesn’t quite have the pure boom of SZLC, but it is more controllable for most advanced players.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Blades
Compared to Viscaria, this blade is stiffer with a lower throw and a crisper feel. Against the Fan Zhendong Super ZLC, it is less stiff, more controllable, and slightly better in touch play. It also offers a more loop-friendly balance than Zhang Jike ZLC, while maintaining similar punch on attacks.
Rubber Pairing Recommendations
Due to its blend of speed and dwell, it pairs well with:
Avoid overly soft rubbers unless for short game emphasis, as the blade already softens touch slightly compared to stiffer carbon types.
Ideal Playstyle Fit
This blade suits modern loopers and two-winged attackers who demand power without sacrificing control. It’s also a great fit for advanced all-rounders evolving toward an offensive style, especially those seeking a balance of stability, touch, and spin. Less suited for pure hitters or passive blockers.
Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC delivers a potent mix of spin, power, and stability in a balanced, loop-friendly package. It stands out by offering controllable offensive capabilities while retaining enough stiffness for sharp counters and fast drives. Ideal for offensive loopers looking for a versatile yet high-performance carbon blade.
If you’re seeking a powerful yet balanced OFF blade for looping and counter-attacking, the Butterfly Fan Zhendong ZLC is a top contender. Check the latest deals and availability from trusted retailers below.
