Donic Waldner Offensive 2016

I bought this blade when it was initially re-introduced by Donic few years ago. I remember that I used it for 1 session only (just to check the characteristics of this blade)) and then stored it in my drawer. It has the same construction with my Donic Dicon, Avalox BT555, OC, Infinity vps, etc. Basically it is a classic limba - spruce - ayous - spruce - limba blade.

Lately, I have been re-testing all my 5-ply allwood blades: BTY Korbel, Samsonov Alpha, Donic Dicon, etc. but I did not test this blade as the head shape is unique, so it is hard to transfer rubbers from other blades to this blade.

But last week, I transferred rubbers from my Korbel (158 x 152 mm) to this blade, and they do not fit perfectly, but still OK.

To my delight, this is actually the better blades compared to other allwood blades that I re-tested recently. The head shape is unique but I did not find it affect my play at all. In fact, I did not feel that the head shape is different during play. I can use it instantly without any adjustments. The positive aspect is the straight handle which fits perfectly in my hand. It is a bit longer and what I like the most is the wings are very nice. I can grip the blade better, without any obstructions.

Speed is in the Off- range, which is perfect for me. Control is excellent. I usually find that 5-ply allwood blade is good for looping but not that excellent for blocking (compared to my 7-ply allwood blades) but Waldner Offensive 2016 is quite good for blocking. But for flat hit / smashing, there are better blades. It shines in serving, serve receive, short game, and especially looping. As I have stated above, the control is excellent.

I am thinking of using this blade as my main blade now and therefore I will test this blade further / longer before deciding to do so.

Oh, my copy is 80.4 grams only, but I bought another one last year, and it was 90 grams. I think it is the exception, as I remember people reported only 78 - 82 grams in various forums.

In conclusion, this is an excellent blade, which is still relevant in the 40+ plastic ball era, especially for intermediate players. Pros will find this blade not fast enough.

I picked up the blade for an amazing 26€ which was a real steal. The finish is excellent and I didn't have to sand the wings (which I almost always do). I've got Tibhar Hybrid K1 on my forehand and Stiga Mantra S on my backhand.

The blade plays quite similar to the Butterfly Korbel but is a touch slower. Excellent dwell time during loops but takes some getting used to in the short game. Extremely easy to block with.

The head/blade shape and the wings are a bit unusual (quite similar to the Banda blades of the early 90ies) and takes some getting used to. The handle is quite thin and longer than most other ST blades that I have tried. The handle is really compatible with my backhand but the forehand grip took some adjust compared to the normal Stiga FL handles that I'm used to.

Waldner Offensive 2016 is a balanced offensive blade with an amazing feeling and heavy spin support on topspins. It has a medium hardness and solid feel without disturbing vibrations. Its form is called JO-shape and is designed after the preference of Jan-Ove Waldner.
The quality of the blade is amazing. It can be compared to the expensive premium products of other brands.
A true successor of the old Banda Waldner with the same feeling.
If you like to read my complete review (german), then visit also my blog.
Donic Waldner Offensive 2016 complete review (german)