Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC vs DHS Hurricane Long 5: Which Should You Buy?
| Butterfly Innerforce Layer ZLC | DHS Hurricane Long 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| feel | Soft ZLC feel, woody touch, excellent dwell time | hard, powerful |
| handle | FL / ST / AN / CS | FL/ST |
| plies | 7-ply, 5 wood + 2 ZL carbon (inner) | 5W+2 Arylate-Carbon |
| speed | OFF+ | OFF+ |
| thickness_mm | 5.7 | 5.9 |
| weight_g | 85-94 | 89 |
We may earn a commission from links on this page. Learn more.
Both are OFF+ blades, but the Long 5’s inner arylate-carbon construction and large sweet spot give it a forgiving nature that the ZLC cannot match, while maintaining comparable offensive speed. The Long 5 becomes elite when paired with tacky Chinese rubber, delivering exceptional looping and counter-looping with a high, safe arc. The ZLC’s low throw angle favors European tensor setups and close-to-mid-distance aggressive play.
The Long 5’s woody, natural feel masks its carbon engine until you hit hard, making it easier for intermediate attackers to transition from all-wood. The ZLC demands advanced technique but rewards it with superior consistency and placement precision. For players loving tacky Chinese rubber and seeking a controllable high-arc game, the Long 5 is purpose-built. For advanced players preferring tensor rubbers and precise mid-distance attacks, the ZLC delivers with less effort.
FAQ
Which is faster?
They match (both OFF+), but ZLC feels faster due to softer touch. Long 5 doesn’t always play as fast as its OFF+ rating suggests.
Which has a bigger sweet spot?
Long 5 by a large margin. It offers deep, consistent catapult; ZLC has a smaller sweet spot for its speed class.
Which works better with tacky Chinese rubber?
Long 5. It comes alive with Chinese rubber, delivering elite looping and counter-looping. ZLC’s low throw angle can clash.
Which is easier for intermediate players?
Long 5. Its large sweet spot and forgiving catapult suit improving attackers; ZLC demands more developed technique.