Butterfly Zhang Jike ZLC Blade Review
The Zhang Jike ZLC uses ZL-Carbon fiber in a 7-ply build at 87g, reaching 9.5/10 speed and 7.0/10 control for $270 as a step up from the ALC version.
· UpdatedSpecifications
| Composition | 5W + 2 ZL-Carbon |
| Plies | 7 |
| Weight | 87g |
| handleType | FL |
| bladeThickness | 5.7mm |
| speedClass | OFF+ |
ZL-Carbon Adds Flexibility and Speed
The Butterfly Zhang Jike ZLC replaces the Arylate-Carbon layers in the Zhang Jike ALC ($185) with ZL-Carbon fiber, a lighter composite that flexes more under load. This flex-and-release creates a catapult effect: the blade bends slightly during the loop stroke and springs back, launching the ball with added spin and pace. Speed jumps from 9.0/10 to 9.5/10, while control drops from 7.5/10 to 7.0/10.
ZL-Carbon’s defining trait is the way it handles heavy topspin strokes. Full-arm loops from mid-distance feel assisted by the blade’s flex, as if the blade adds 5-10% extra speed beyond what the player’s stroke generates. On flat hits and drives, the difference from ALC is less pronounced because the contact time is too short for the blade to flex meaningfully. Players who primarily smash and counter-drive will notice less benefit from the ZLC upgrade.
At $270, the Zhang Jike ZLC matches the Viscaria Super ALC in price. Both reach 9.5/10 speed, but the Super ALC achieves this through a denser fiber weave at 90g, producing a rigid, high-bounce response. The ZLC at 87g feels more dynamic and alive in the hand, rewarding technique-dependent players who generate spin through brushing contact.
Placement in the Zhang Jike Series
The ZLC occupies the middle of the Zhang Jike lineup. Below it, the ALC at $185 provides 9.0/10 speed with better control for developing advanced players. Above it, the Zhang Jike Super ZLC ($400) intensifies the catapult effect with Super ZL-Carbon fiber, reaching 9.5/10 speed at 90g with 6.5/10 control.
Players moving from the ALC to the ZLC should expect a 2-3 session adjustment period. Short game strokes require lighter touch because the blade’s higher bounce pushes returns long. Blocking against fast drives demands more active racket angle adjustment. Once calibrated, the ZLC rewards aggressive play with extra pace that opponents struggle to match. Pairing with medium-hardness rubbers (47.5 degrees) helps tame the extra speed while preserving spin production.
Related Blades
How does ZLC feel compared to ALC?
ZL-Carbon is lighter and more flexible than Arylate-Carbon. The ZLC version produces a noticeable catapult effect on loops, with the blade flexing under load and releasing stored energy. ALC feels stiffer and more direct.
Is $270 justified over the $185 Zhang Jike ALC?
For players rated 1800+ USATT who consistently generate heavy spin, the ZLC's 9.5/10 speed and catapult effect provide a real advantage. Below that level, the ALC's 9.0/10 speed and better control offer more consistency.