Butterfly Marcos Freitas ALC is an Offensive (OFF)-class blade constructed of 5-ply wood plus 2 Arylate-Carbon (ALC), offering a medium-crisp, spin-oriented feel with notable dwell time and a softer outer touch. It’s particularly well-suited for euro-style loopers and versatile spin-based attackers who value controlled arc and feedback, along with strong vibration damping typical of ALC blades enhanced by softer outer veneers.
Specs
Type: Offensive (OFF)
Plies: 5-ply wood + 2 ALC
Composite Layer: Arylate-Carbon
Outer Ply: Limba
Thickness: 6.0 mm
Weight: 86g
Speed (Factory): N/A
Control (Factory): N/A
Handle Type: FL, ST, AN
Made In: Japan
Pros
Excellent vibration damping and feel from ALC plus soft limba veneer.
Strong control and consistency, even under high pace
Generous dwell time supports powerful looping and spin generation.
Refined craftsmanship, smooth finish and comfortable handle design.
Cons
Higher price point than some comparable blades
Lower throw trajectory, which may be challenging for players lacking technique on backspin loops
Pushes and flips can feel labored due to lower arc in short game
Scoring Breakdown
Aspect
Rating
Explanation
Speed
4.5
Strong offensive speed, slightly softer-carb feel than other ALC blades (e.g., Timo Boll ALC)
Control
5.0
High placement precision and forgiveness; praised for stability and consistency
Stiffness
3.5
Medium stiffness, softer outer limba creates some flex, unlike harder ALC blades
Vibration Feel
4.0
Delivers clear, tactile feedback (“ALC-touch”) with a softer, damped feel
High craftsmanship, smooth handle and wings, refined finishes
Core Performance Aspects
Looping & Topspin Play:Butterfly Marcos Freitas ALC offers substantial dwell due to its soft limba surfaces, enhancing spin generation. It’s a stable arc and controllable looping, with especially strong mid-range performance, excellent for euro-loopers.
Driving & Flat Hitting: When drivers or smashes are executed, the blade accelerates with clarity and power, feeling direct yet controlled. The “ALC-touch” gives crisp feedback without sacrificing feel.
Blocking & Passive Control: Blocking feels reliable and secure, thanks to the blade’s stability and consistent bounce properties. The softer outer ply offers sufficient dwell for redirecting spin.
Serve & Short Game: Serve returns and short pushes feel accurate, although shorter-range strokes may require more forward technique due to the lower trajectory.
Mid-to-Far Distance Play: Excellent performance in mid-distance rallies, consistent energy return, and spin. It’s a predictable performance and ease in generating looping offense.
Strategic Considerations
Comparison to Similar Blades: Compared to the Viscaria ALC, the Freitas ALC offers a noticeably different playing identity. While both are built with Arylate-Carbon layers, the Freitas ALC is slightly thicker at 6.0 mm versus the Viscaria’s ~5.8 mm, giving it a touch more speed and a firmer rebound. The Freitas ALC has a softer carbon feel with greater dwell time, making it highly effective for spin-based looping. In contrast, the Viscaria provides a stiffer sensation with a higher throw angle, which can make it more forgiving on opening loops against backspin. As a result, the Freitas ALC caters more to advanced loopers who value controlled spin with a lower arc, while the Viscaria remains a more balanced all-round offensive option. Compared to the Timo Boll ALC, this blade delivers more dwell and a softer feel thanks to limba outer plies versus koto.
Rubber Pairing Recommendations: Pairs well with medium to medium-hard springy tensor rubbers like Tenergy 05 or Tenergy 80. Its structure rewards brushes and spin, making a balanced rubber choice optimal.
Ideal Playstyle Fit: Best suited for advanced aggressive attackers or euro-loopers who value spin, control, and medium trajectory, and who have strong technique to manage the demanding short game and backspin variations.
Butterfly Marcos Freitas ALC blade offers a refined blend of speed, spin, and control, wrapped in a responsive yet refined ALC feel. It’s ideal for advanced loopers seeking a medium-trajectory blade with excellent dwell and tactile feedback, but less suited for beginners or those struggling with low throw on short strokes.
If you’re seeking a balanced yet offensive ALC blade that excels in looping and offers solid control and feel, the Butterfly Marcos Freitas ALC is a compelling option worth exploring. Check for the latest availability and pricing from trusted retailers.
