Andro Treiber CI OFF Review: Inner Carbon Blade with Unique Kick

By UltraSpin · 2026-06-10 · blade

The Andro Treiber CI OFF belongs to Andro’s 2018 Treiber series, part of the brand’s High Line range. The name decodes as: Treiber (driver), C (carbon), I (inner fiber placement), OFF (offensive speed rating). It uses KVL carbon, a Kevlar-based carbon hybrid similar in nature to Butterfly’s ALC, but positioned between the middle and center wood plies rather than adjacent to the top layer. This inner placement is the defining choice: it preserves a natural woody feel while providing a notable power boost when the player commits to a full swing. The blade targets modern all-round offensive players who rely on consistent topspin rallies from both wings.

Performance

In objective lab testing by TTGearLab, the Treiber CI OFF measured an average weight of 84.0g and a thickness of around 5.9mm. Its Primary Elasticity Index (Ep = 1.59) is moderate for an inner-carbon blade, meaning soft-touch exchanges feel controlled and comfortable. Where it distinguishes itself is in Central Elasticity (Ec = 1.73), yielding an Ec/Ep ratio of 1.09 that places it in the rare Kick range rather than the Hold range occupied by virtually every other inner ALC blade on the market. In practical terms, this means the harder you swing, the more the blade rewards you with additional pace and pop rather than absorbing energy into the wood.

Reviewers across Revspin and BladeRubber confirm this behavior. One player noted that fantastic spin comes with a lot of dwell and control, and you can add huge speed as the inner carbon kicks in. Another described everything clearing the net and dropping in, then kicking, a pattern consistent with the blade’s documented elasticity profile.

Vibration measurements also reveal a unique characteristic: the primary vibration felt in the palm (Vp = 1.28) is unusually high for an inner blade, approaching outer-carbon territory, yet the lateral vibration at the finger (Vl = 1.21) stays firmly in inner-blade range. This produces a firm, confident feel in the hand without the sharp buzz that outer-carbon blades transmit to the fingertip. Multiple reviewers singled this out in comparisons with Butterfly ALC blades, noting less vibration on ball contact and clearer ball feel.

For looping, the blade excels. Forehand and backhand topspins generate impressive rotation due to the extended dwell time, and the ball consistently clears the net and dips. Blocking and chopping are manageable but not the blade’s specialty. Flat hitting works well at close range. The blade pairs best with medium-hard to hard tensor rubbers in the 42-50 degree range, such as Andro Rasanter R47 or R48, Tibhar Evolution MX-P, or Yasaka Rakza 9.

What Reviewers Agree (and Disagree) On

Across Revspin, BladeRubber, and TTGearLab, there is strong consensus that the Treiber CI OFF delivers exceptional spin, extended dwell time, and a comfortable woody feel enhanced by carbon power. Reviewers broadly agree it competes most closely with the Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC but offers a different elasticity profile: less speed on passive strokes, more kick on hard ones. Where opinions diverge is on the handle size — some players find it slightly large, while others describe it as comfortable. A small number of players felt the default speed was insufficient for their attacking style and wished the KVL carbon were replaced with standard ALC for more uniform speed. TTGearLab’s data confirms this: the blade is not the fastest inner-carbon option, and players who prioritize raw pace over feel may prefer alternatives like the Andro Synteliac VCI OFF.

Who Should Buy It

This blade suits intermediate to advanced offensive players, particularly two-winged loopers who want a carbon blade that still feels connected and woody. It is an excellent step up from a pure wood offensive blade for players who want more power without sacrificing the tactile feedback they are used to. It also fits players who found inner ALC blades like the Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC too fast or too bouncy on softer shots. Players who primarily flat-hit or push, or those who need OFF+ speed, should look elsewhere.

FAQ

What is the difference between the Treiber CI OFF and the Treiber CO OFF/S?

CI means inner fiber and CO means outer fiber. The CI OFF has KVL carbon placed between the middle and center wood layers, giving a softer, more controlled feel with a kick on hard hits. The CO OFF/S has KVL carbon placed just under the outer wood layers, making it faster and more direct but with less dwell and a harder feel.

Is the Andro Treiber CI OFF suitable for beginners?

It is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced players. Beginners can use it, but the carbon kick on strong hits may make control more challenging at early stages. A pure wood blade is usually a better starting point.

What rubbers pair well with the Treiber CI OFF?

Medium-hard to hard tensor rubbers in the 42-50 degree range work best. Popular pairings include Andro Rasanter R47 or R48, Tibhar Evolution MX-P, Yasaka Rakza 9, and Butterfly Dignics 09C. Soft rubbers can work but may underutilize the blade’s carbon kick.

How does the Treiber CI OFF compare to the Butterfly InnerForce Layer ALC?

The Treiber CI OFF has lower primary speed than the InnerForce Layer ALC but delivers more kick on hard hits due to its higher central elasticity. It also has less vibration at the fingertip and a slightly firmer palm feel. Players often find it more forgiving on controlled shots while rewarding aggressive strokes similarly.

What handle styles are available for the Treiber CI OFF?

It is available in FL (flared), AN (anatomic), and ST (straight) handle shapes. The AN handle has been praised for its ergonomic shape and appropriate bulge placement, though some players note the overall grip dimensions run slightly wide.