Andro Treiber Z vs Butterfly Innerforce ZLC: Which Should You Buy?
| Andro Treiber Z | Butterfly Innerforce ZLC | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| feel | mild, crispy, low vibration, large sweet spot | Soft-medium; woody feel with ZLC carbon layers near the core |
| handle | FL, ST, AN, Chinese pen | AN / FL / ST |
| plies | 7-ply: kiso hinoki outer + ZLC (Z-fiber composite) inner layers + wood core | 5 wood + 2 ZLC carbon (inner ZLC construction) |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | 6.6-6.8 | 5.7 |
| weight_g | 87-90 | 84 |
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Both OFF-class blades are discontinued, adding sourcing challenges. The Treiber Z remains the safer investment with its outstanding speed-to-control ratio, huge sweet spot, and excellent short-game consistency.
Innerforce ZLC is rare and rewarding: inner ZLC construction gives a distinctive woody feel rare in carbon blades, balancing speed, spin, and control exceptionally well. It works across all ranges from short-game touch to mid-distance looping, with a large sweet spot improving consistency. However, as a discontinued blade, prices remain elevated, and its moderate speed may underpower players in fast baseline exchanges. It suits advanced attackers who loop with heavy topspin and value feel and control over raw speed.
FAQ
What does inner ZLC construction mean?
Inner ZLC places Z-fiber carbon layers near the core under wood plies, creating a distinctive woody feel with carbon power—rare in most carbon blades.
How does the feel compare between these two discontinued blades?
Treiber Z is mild and crispy with low vibration. Innerforce ZLC is soft-medium with woody feel and ZLC carbon layers, offering more dwell and tactile feedback.
Which has better spin and dwell?
Innerforce ZLC excels at spin generation and dwell with its ZLC construction. Treiber Z offers solid spin but with a crisper, faster release.
Are both truly discontinued?
Yes, both are discontinued, making them difficult to source at fair prices. Secondary market availability and pricing are inconsistent.
Which suits a close-to-mid-distance looping style?
Innerforce ZLC with its high dwell and spin is ideal for this style. Treiber Z is more versatile across multiple distances.