Where Does the Super ALC Sit in the Harimoto Lineup?

The Harimoto Innerforce Super ALC bridges the gap between the standard ALC and the top-tier Super ZLC in Harimoto’s signature series. At 9.0/10 speed, it matches the Viscaria while retaining the inner-fiber dwell time that defines the Innerforce platform. The denser Super Arylate-Carbon weave increases energy transfer compared to standard ALC without abandoning the softer contact feel that inner placement provides.

At 88g and 7.5/10 control, this blade demands more precise stroke technique than the Harimoto Innerforce ALC (87g, 8.0/10 control). The half-point control reduction shows up most on passive shots: blocks travel faster off the blade than intended, and short pushes require active deceleration to keep the ball low. Aggressive strokes, particularly mid-distance forehand loops, benefit from the added stiffness. The ball arrives at the opponent’s side with noticeably more pace than the standard ALC generates.

Players rated 1600-2200 USATT who have outgrown the standard Harimoto ALC’s speed ceiling but want to keep the inner-fiber ball arc find this blade fills a narrow performance gap. The $250 price sits $65 above the standard ALC and $150 below the Harimoto Innerforce Super ZLC.

How Does Inner Super ALC Compare to Outer Standard ALC?

This comparison matters because the Viscaria uses outer standard ALC and costs $60-100 less. Both blades reach 9.0/10 speed, but the ball behaves differently. The Super ALC’s inner placement produces a higher, loopier trajectory that clears the net with more margin. The Viscaria’s outer placement drives the ball on a flatter line that lands deeper.

Players who loop with heavy spin prefer the Harimoto’s arc. Players who hit through the ball with flat contact prefer the Viscaria’s directness. Neither approach is superior, but choosing the wrong blade for your stroke mechanics wastes the $250 investment. Testing both before committing is the most reliable way to determine which trajectory matches your game.