Butterfly Freitas ALC vs Stiga Infinity VPS V: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Freitas ALC | Stiga Infinity VPS V | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 |
| feel | Medium-soft | stiff thin outer (Diamond Touch), medium-hard |
| handle | Flared/Straight/Anatomic | FL/ST/AN |
| plies | 5+2 arylate carbon (ALC) outer — Limba-ALC-Limba-Ayous-Limba-ALC-Limba | 5W (all wood) |
| speed | OFF | OFF |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.8 |
| weight_g | 88 | 88 |
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Freitas (8.5 rating, OFF, carbon) and Infinity VPS V (8.6 rating, OFF, all-wood) are nearly equal in score but philosophically distinct. Infinity VPS V (88g) combines VPS and Diamond Touch treatment to deliver stiff, lively, consistent all-wood offense with many gears. Freitas is softer, more forgiving, and more consistently available.
Infinity VPS V is the premium all-wood choice for spin-first offensive play, especially heavy brush looping near-to-mid-table. Its 5-ply construction, flex, and dwell support excellent feel and control within offense. Freitas is the carbon alternative: faster, slightly more modern, and requiring no sealing (Infinity ships raw). Both excel at control and placement; Infinity VPS V requires technique investment (thin veneer sealing, wing sanding). For all-wood purists, Infinity VPS V is exceptional; for pragmatism, Freitas is the sensible investment.
FAQ
Does Infinity VPS V really need sealing?
Yes, the thin outer veneer benefits from light sealing to prevent splinters and extend durability. It’s an extra step versus Freitas’ ready-to-use approach.
Can Infinity VPS V compete with Freitas competitively?
Yes, absolutely—equally rated (8.6 vs 8.5) and OFF-rated. Choice depends on all-wood versus carbon preference. Both are tournament-viable.
Which blade is easier to maintain long-term?
Freitas. No sealing, no special maintenance. Infinity VPS V requires initial sealing and occasional touch-ups. Freitas is the low-maintenance choice.