Tibhar Felix Lebrun Hyper Carbon Inner – A Comprehensive Review
When a new blade enters the market, players and coaches alike are keen to know whether it will fit into their game or simply add another option to the shelf. I tested the TIBHAR Felix Lebrun Hyper Carbon blade for you, focusing on its construction, feel, and how it performs in real match situations. Below you’ll find a detailed look at what makes this blade stand out and where it may fall short.
Overview
The Felix Lebrun Hyper Carbon is part of Tibhar’s “Felix” series, a line of all‑round blades designed for players who want a balance of speed, control, and spin. The “Hyper Carbon” designation refers to the use of a high‑grade carbon layer that is engineered to increase stiffness while keeping the blade lightweight. The model is built for the modern table‑tennis player who desires a versatile weapon capable of handling both aggressive topspin attacks and precise placement shots.
Construction and Materials
- Core: The blade’s core is a 4‑layer wood composition that offers a smooth feel and moderate flex. The wood layers are chosen to provide a stable base that complements the carbon layer without making the blade feel overly rigid.
- Carbon Layer: A thin, high‑strength carbon sheet is bonded to the core. This layer enhances the blade’s snap, giving it a quick response to ball impact.
- Back Cover: A protective backing made from a lightweight polymer helps to maintain the blade’s shape while adding a subtle grip for the paddle handle.
- Edge Treatment: The edges are slightly rounded to reduce the risk of accidental cuts during play, which is helpful for beginners and intermediate players.
The combination of wood and carbon results in a blade that is both durable and responsive. The carbon layer is not as thick as that found in some dedicated “speed” blades, which keeps the overall weight under 100 g (excluding rubbers). This weight is comfortable for a wide range of players, from aggressive attackers to defensive players who prefer a more controlled swing.
Performance Characteristics
My testing included a mix of rally drills, placement shots, and spin‑heavy rallies. Here’s what I observed:
- Speed: The Hyper Carbon layer gives a noticeable increase in ball speed compared to a standard all‑wood blade. You’ll feel a quick pop off the racket when you hit topspin or loop shots.
- Control: The moderate core flex keeps the blade from feeling too “twitchy.” This allows players to place shots with a reasonable degree of accuracy, especially when paired with a medium‑stiff rubber.
- Spin Potential: The blade’s surface is relatively smooth, which can limit the maximum spin on a single stroke. However, when combined
