Browsing: Cybershape

At Paddle Palace, we celebrate not only the skills and victories of top players like Tom Jarvis, but also the sportsmanship that defines true champions. Tom recently received the prestigious Richard Bergmann Fair Play Award at the ITTF World Championships in Doha, recognized for his integrity during a challenging match against world No. 5 Liang Jingkun.

Fair Play on the World Stage

Despite fierce competition and tough conditions, Tom showed remarkable fairness by granting lets when his opponent requested, believing the ball was wet during serves. This act of sportsmanship embodies the spirit of table tennis and earned him this distinguished award from the Swaythling Club International — a community of former international players committed to friendship and respect in our sport.

Tom reflects on the moment:

“It was a tough match against Liang with some really hot conditions and I think the fairness in that match was recognised. Fair play is a big part of the sport and Iâ€m very happy to be recognised by the SCI.â€

Introducing the Tom Jarvis Pro Special — Built for Champions

Weâ€re proud to feature Tomâ€s very own Champion Pro Special Paddle, designed around the latest technology and equipment Tom trusts at the highest level.

The Blade — Stiga Cybershape Carbon CWT (Flared Handle)

This blade breaks new ground as the worldâ€s first carbon blade with Custom Weight Technology (CWT), allowing you to adjust the bladeâ€s balance and weight with small magnetic weights (3g, 6g, 9g) attached inside the handle.

Why does this matter? Because controlling blade mass changes kinetic energy and power generation during your stroke. Add weight for more power, or dial it back for speed and control — perfect for fine-tuning before a match or evolving your game without buying a new blade.

Key features include:

• 11% larger hitting area optimized for the shakehand grip — giving you a bigger sweet spot to control serves and returns better.
• Closer hitting area to the table — up to 6.5cm closer than traditional round blades, improving reaction time and accuracy.
• Balanced design that reduces bottom weight by 2% to avoid blade imbalance.

The Rubbers — Stiga DNA Platinum XH (Red & Black, Max Sponge)

Tomâ€s paddle comes equipped with premium German-engineered Stiga DNA Platinum rubbers that deliver outstanding grip and explosive speed thanks to a thin top sheet and short pimples.

The Power Sponge Cell (PSC) technology provides:

• Longer ball trajectories with aggressive looping arcs.
• A crisp, sharp sound on contact for that satisfying feedback.
• Extra-hard sponge designed for players craving maximum speed and power.

Ready to Play Like Tom Jarvis?

Whether youâ€re training, competing, or just pushing your limits, the Tom Jarvis GBR Champion Pro Special paddle is built to help you play with precision, power, and style. Itâ€s everything Tom relies on — now available for you.

Check it out here: Tom Jarvis GBR Champion Pro Special Paddle

At Paddle Palace, weâ€re inspired by players like Tom who embody both top-tier skill and true sportsmanship. Gear up with his pro paddle and honor the game with every point you play.

Source link

Courtesy of Sean O’Neill, 2x US Olympian & 5 x US Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Champion

As someone who’s spent decades immersed in table tennis—both at the table and now virtually—Iâ€ve tested countless blades over the years. When STIGA launched the Cybershape series, I was immediately intrigued. The bold hexagonal design isnâ€t just cosmetic; it genuinely changes how the blade feels and performs.

Iâ€ve now used every Cybershape variant and currently play with the Cybershape Clipper in real life. I also replicate my setup in Eleven Table Tennis VR, where I use a virtual STIGA Cybershape with settings that closely mirror its real-world characteristics. Here’s a full breakdown of my experience with each blade.

The Cybershape Carbon was the first I tested and it delivered power in spades. With inner-fiber carbon layers, it produces fast, crisp shots and a satisfying rebound. Itâ€s not the most forgiving blade, but for advanced players with good touch, itâ€s a monster on offense.

This 5-ply all-wood blade is ideal for players working on control and placement. Itâ€s a great fit for developing players or those who prioritize spin variation and touch. The Cybershape head improves sweet spot size, giving you a bit more confidence on off-center hits.

STIGA Wavy Ultra Fibre Cybershape: A Rocketship on the Table

The Wavy is easily the fastest blade Iâ€ve ever used. With Ultra Fibre technology, it felt like every ball shot off the paddle. The speed was exhilarating, but in my experience, it demanded extremely refined technique in the short game. It’s ideal for high-level attackers who thrive on pace. Coming soon at Paddle Palace.

The Clipper Cybershape felt like a homecoming. It reminded me of the Clipper Wood I used for over a decade after receiving it as a gift it in Tranås, Sweden at the SOJC in 1982. This version retains the 7-ply wood power while offering a more modern balance and sweet spot thanks to the Cybershape head.

The Pureâ€s clean wood finish and eco-conscious construction caught my attention, but it was the feel that sold me. It offers great control and a natural feedback that helped with spin generation and placement. This blade is an excellent choice for control-oriented players who donâ€t need the speed of composites.

The Cybershape Carbon CWT adds Custom Weight Technology, allowing you to fine-tune your blade using magnetic weights (3g, 6g, or 9g). Itâ€s a brilliant option for players who like to tweak their setup. You still get the offensive power of the original Carbon, but now with more personalization.

First introduced in 1967, the Allround Classic became a staple blade for generations. Now reimagined with the Cybershape head, it offers the same legendary feel and control—but with a more forgiving sweet spot and optimized center of gravity. Perfect for beginners and seasoned all-rounders alike.

STIGA Cybershape Comparison Table

BladeSpeedControlFeelBest ForSweet SpotUnique FeatureCybershape Carbon
HighMediumCrisp & PowerfulAdvanced Offensive PlayersLargeInner-fiber carbon constructionCybershape WoodLowHighSoft & ResponsiveDeveloping All-RoundersExtra LargeTraditional 5-ply wood constructionCybershape WavyVery HighMediumExplosive & FastPro-Level AttackersLargeUltra Fibre material & unique soundCybershape ClipperMediumMediumClassic & SolidOffensive PlayersLarge7-ply Clipper heritage + modern designCybershape PureMediumHighNatural & BalancedControl-Oriented PlayersLargeMinimalist, eco-friendly all-woodCybershape Carbon CWTHighHighCustomizable & PowerfulAdvanced PlayersLargeMagnetic weight customizationAllround Classic CybershapeLowVery HighTraditional & SmoothBeginners and All-RoundersLargeClassic 5-ply feel, updated design

STIGA Cybershape in Virtual Reality: Eleven Table Tennis

One of the most exciting aspects of my table tennis journey is the integration of physical and virtual play. I use a STIGA Cybershape setup in Eleven Table Tennis VR, and the feel is remarkably realistic with the right configuration.

Current VR settings:

Please add me as a friend as I would love to hit some with you, especially on Wednesday Nights at 6pm PST in the “paddlepalace” room.

These settings closely mimic the behavior of my real-world Cybershape. Iâ€ve even gathered lab bounce data on my backhand to further refine the feel in-game. Itâ€s a powerful way to train and maintain touch outside of real-world sessions.

Special Offers for Cybershape Owners—Virtual or Real

If youâ€ve purchased a Cybershape paddle in-game within Eleven Table Tennis VR, STIGA and Paddle Palace want to help you bring that experience to life—literally. Youâ€re eligible for 20% off a real STIGA Cybershape blade to match your virtual setup.

On the flip side, if you already own a STIGA Cybershape blade in real life and would like to unlock it for free in Eleven Table Tennis VR, weâ€ve got you covered.

To claim either offer, please contact me directly at: sean@paddlepalace.com and weâ€ll make it happen. Whether you’re training in the physical world or online, we want your experience to be as authentic and rewarding as possible.

Pro Specials from Paddle Palace

If youâ€re looking to pick up a Cybershape blade with professional rubbers already attached, Paddle Palace has some excellent Pro Specials:

Each setup is expertly assembled and ready to compete straight out of the box.

Final Thoughts

Whether youâ€re just starting out or have decades under your belt like I do, thereâ€s a STIGA Cybershape blade that can elevate your game. From nostalgic throwbacks to cutting-edge carbon tech, the Cybershape series offers performance and playability in equal measure.

If youâ€re serious about your game—real or virtual—donâ€t hesitate to explore this lineup. It might just reshape the way you play.

Source link