Yonex Exbolt Series Showdown: Exbolt 68, Exbolt 65, and Exbolt 63 debunked
Strings play a pivotal role in the performance of a badminton racket, as they have a significant impact on playability and durability. Yonex, a leading brand in badminton equipment, has introduced the Exbolt 68 (March 2024) strings which cater to diverse playing needs. In this blog post, we delve deep into the comparison of the Exbolt 68, Exbolt 65, and Exbolt 63, highlighting their features, performance, and suitability for different types of players.
Understanding Badminton Strings and Durability Myths
Before comparing the Exbolt series, it's crucial to address common misconceptions about string durability. Many players believe that a string snapping early indicates a fault in the product. However, strings are more prone to breaking when freshly strung as they’re at maximum tension, especially under the stress of miss-hits or aggressive recovery shots. Moreover, improper handling, like scraping the strings on the ground to pick up shuttles, can significantly reduce their lifespan.
There is no guarantee on strings, it can depend on temperature, how dirty your hall is, how your rackets are kept etc. Be sure to keep your rackets in a proper thermal bag to regulate the temperature of the strings in storage as much as possible.
The Exbolt Series: A Leap in Durability and Performance
Yonex's Exbolt series exhibits the brand's commitment to innovation and quality. The Exbolt 68, the latest addition, has been recommended for its exceptional durability. Launched after the successful introduction of the Exbolt 63 in 2021 and the Exbolt 65 in 2022, the Exbolt 68 sets a new benchmark for durable badminton strings. Available in three colours—white, yellow, and black—the Exbolt 68 caters to aesthetic preferences while promising unparalleled performance.
Comparing Characteristics: Repulsion, Control, and Durability
The key metrics of ranking badminton strings are repulsion, control, and durability. Thinner strings, often used for their high capacity for repulsion, tend to lack in durability. Control-oriented strings provide a better grip on the shuttle but do not always offer the best durability. Thicker strings, like the Exbolt 68, are engineered for durability but tend to compromise on repulsion and feel.
Historically, strings such as the Yonex BG65, BG65Ti, and Nanogy 95 have been the go-to options for durability. However, the Exbolt series will now be considered alongside these as they offer blend of durability with improved feel and control, meeting the evolving demands of modern badminton play.
The Exbolt 68: A New Era of Durable Strings
The Exbolt 68 distinguishes itself with excellent texture and stiffness, enhancing durability without compromising on feel and control. Its design facilitates a faster stringing process, appreciated by stringers for its ease of handling. The Exbolt 65 and 63 offer smoother surfaces and more flexibility but fail to match the Exbolt 68's durability.
Performance on Court: A Detailed Analysis
When transitioning from thinner strings, players might find the Exbolt 68 less immediate in repulsion. However, its robustness can help prevent mis-hits and miscues. The Exbolt 68 delivers a crisp feel, akin to the Aerobite, with a satisfying bite on the shuttle.
Interestingly, while the Exbolt 68 may not match the immediate repulsion of its thinner counterparts, its control and feel on impact are excellent. It has the ability to hold the shuttle slightly longer than the Exbolt 65 and 63, allowing for this enhanced control.
The Technological Marvel: FORGED FIBER
The Exbolt series stands out in the badminton world, thanks to its use of FORGED FIBER, a proprietary material that marks a significant leap in string technology. Designed to address the age-old compromise between repulsion and durability, Yonex has enhanced the intermolecular bonds, significantly improving the strings' longevity and performance under duress.
The Evolution of FORGED FIBER: From Circular to Oval
The Exbolt 68 introduces a groundbreaking change in the structure of FORGED FIBER by transitioning from a circular to an oval pattern. This novel shape minimises fiber deformation upon impact, thereby increasing smash power without damaging the strings. This adjustment allows the Exbolt 68 to offer an improved repulsion feel while maintaining the durability typically associated with thicker gauges. It's a remarkable balance that was once considered impossible to achieve.
Enhancing Control with Elasticity Outer
To complement the structural advancements of the FORGED FIBER, the Exbolt series strings are coated with an Elasticity Outer. This innovative coating incorporates NANOALLOY technology into nylon, resulting in a string that offers flexibility and an increased shuttle hold.
A String for Every Playstyle
With the introduction of the Exbolt 63, Yonex set a new standard for speed in badminton strings. The subsequent release of the Exbolt 65 shifted the focus slightly towards control, catering to players who prioritise precision and finesse in their game. The Exbolt 68, however, brings a new dimension to the series with its emphasis on power. Despite its 0.68mm gauge, it stands as the most durable string in Yonex's lineup, presenting a solution for players seeking robustness without compromising on performance.
Conclusion: The Exbolt Series—A New Era of Badminton Strings
The Exbolt series, spearheaded by the technological marvel of FORGED FIBER and complemented by innovations like the Oval FORGED FIBER and Elasticity Outer, represents a significant leap forward in badminton string technology. Yonex's commitment to innovation is evident in the development of a string lineup that caters to diverse playing styles without the traditional trade-offs. Whether you're a speed demon, a control aficionado, or a power player, the Exbolt series offers a string that not only meets but exceeds your demands, redefining what players can expect from their equipment. With the Exbolt 68, players now have access to a string that offers an unbeatable combination of durability, repulsion, and control, setting a new standard for performance on the court.
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