One of the biggest decisions when choosing a custom racket is the blade's material composition. The two main camps are all-wood blades and composite blades, which typically incorporate materials like carbon fiber, Arylate, or ZLC.

All-Wood Blades

**Feel & Control:* All-wood blades offer a superior feel and more dwell time, making it easier to control the ball, especially in the short game. They provide excellent feedback to the player's hand.
**Flex:* They tend to be more flexible, which is great for looping and generating spin.
**Good for:* Developing players and those who prioritize control and spin over raw speed. Classics like the Stiga Allround Classic are famous for a reason.

Carbon Composite Blades

**Speed & Power:* The addition of carbon layers makes the blade stiffer and faster. This results in a larger sweet spot and more power for smashes and fast loops.
**Stiffness:* Carbon blades are generally stiffer, providing a more direct and crisp feeling on contact. This can be less forgiving on off-center hits if you're not used to it.
**Good for:* Advanced and aggressive players who have solid technique and want to add an extra gear to their attacking game. The Butterfly Viscaria is a prime example of a successful carbon blade.

Which is right for you?

If you are still developing your strokes, an all-wood blade is almost always the right choice. It will help you develop proper technique and feel for the ball. Once your technique is consistent, you might consider a composite blade to add more power to your game. For more options, check out our full Equipment Hub.