Butterfly Innerforce ZLC vs DHS Hurricane Long 5: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Innerforce ZLC | DHS Hurricane Long 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 |
| feel | Soft-medium; woody feel with ZLC carbon layers near the core | hard, powerful |
| handle | AN / FL / ST | FL/ST |
| plies | 5 wood + 2 ZLC carbon (inner ZLC construction) | 5W+2 Arylate-Carbon |
| speed | OFF | OFF+ |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.9 |
| weight_g | 84 | 89 |
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The Butterfly Innerforce ZLC and DHS Hurricane Long 5 represent two philosophies of carbon-blade design. The ZLC prioritizes the wood-like dwell and all-range versatility of inner-carbon, making it ideal for players transitioning from premium all-wood blades who want speed without losing touch. The Hurricane Long 5, conversely, peaks at close-table control with tacky Chinese rubber and delivers a naturally high arc on nearly every stroke.
For offensive play, the ZLC offers more consistent power at mid-distance, while the Hurricane favors tight baseline exchanges and spin-heavy loops. The Hurricane feels heavier and slower in isolation but rewards specific rubber pairings and technical development. Choose the ZLC for all-round topspin play; choose the Hurricane if you exclusively play close-table Chinese-rubber loops.
FAQ
Which blade is faster?
The DHS Hurricane Long 5 rates OFF+, slightly faster on paper, but feels slower away from the table. The Innerforce ZLC delivers more consistent mid-distance power and better long-range game.
Do I need tacky rubber for the Hurricane?
Yes. The Hurricane’s control and catapult shine with Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3. Standard European rubbers do not unlock its potential.
Which has a larger sweet spot?
The DHS Hurricane Long 5 has a deeper, more forgiving catapult and feels more planted at close range, while the ZLC offers consistency across all distances.
Can I use fast rubbers on either blade?
Yes, but the ZLC pairs better with fast inverted rubbers like Tenergy. The Hurricane softens fast rubbers and may feel slow.
Which is better for advanced players?
The Innerforce ZLC suits advanced players who loop from close-to-mid distance. The Hurricane suits advanced players with specialized Chinese-rubber looping techniques.