Table Tennis Thailand
DHS W968 Ma Long Olympic Set - Gold Collection Box "Limited Edition"
DHS W968 Ma Long Olympic Set - Gold Collection Box "Limited Edition"
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Premium Ping Pong Set - Ma Long Olympic
The DHS W968 Ma Long Olympic "Gold Collection Box" represents the pinnacle of offensive blade technology. It's a near-perfect blade that's hard to pick out flaws, offering a comprehensive performance that's both good at offense and defense
- Elite Manufacturing Quality: Components were selected, stored, and produced with precision worthy of a World Champion, with each production step checked extensively by the team manufacturing blades for Chinese national team members
- Exclusive Authenticity: Originally reserved for Chinese national team players only
- Verifiable Authenticity: Each blade includes a unique serial number registered in DHS's database
- Unmatched Versatility: Unique ability to simultaneously deliver ALL+ and OFF++ characteristics
- Professional Pedigree: Used by multiple Olympic and World Champions
CONTROL - 9.5/10 (Exceptional)
The W968 blade feels softer with more flex initially, with vibrations felt more in the head than the handle, providing superior tactile feedback.
Control Characteristics:
Dwell Time & Feel:
- Extended ball contact time for precise placement
- Clear, responsive feedback on every stroke
- "Alive" sensation in hand
- The blade simultaneously provides ALL+ and OFF++ characteristics, allowing you to overspin opponents while blocking with ease
Versatility:
- Soft touch on short balls (push, flip)
- Exceptional control in defense and net zone ball handling, particularly impressive in forehand blocks
- Massive spin generation with maintained control
- Seamless transitions between defense and attack
Stability:
- More stable and refined than standard commercial blades, offering enhanced consistency and vibration feedback
- High accuracy in ball placement
- Effective management of heavily loaded incoming balls
Recommended Rubber Combinations
Ma Long's Current Setup (2024-2025):
- Forehand: DHS Hurricane 3 National (Blue sponge, 42°, 2.15mm)
- Backhand: DHS Hurricane 3 (Orange sponge, 37-39°, 2.15mm)
Popular Tested Alternatives:
- Butterfly Tenergy 05 / 05 FX (backhand)
- Butterfly Dignics 09C (backhand)
- DHS Hurricane 8-80 (37-38°)
- Tibhar Evolution MX-P
- Victas Sticky Extra
Important Note: The blade won't perform well with overly soft rubbers. Pair with medium to hard rubbers featuring good grip for optimal results.
SPEED - OFF++ (Offensive Plus Plus)
The W968 features approximately 30 progressive speed gears compared to the commercial Hurricane Long 5's 20 gears, providing exceptional control at lower speeds while delivering explosive power at maximum engagement.
Progressive Speed System:
- Gears 1-5: Maximum control, delicate touch, short game mastery
- Gears 10-20: Versatile mid-distance play, secure looping
- Gears 25-30: Explosive power, devastating counter-attacks
Speed Performance:
- When activating gears 25-30, the blade becomes faster and more powerful than the commercial Hurricane Long 5.
- Rapid acceleration on topspin loops
- Designed for close-to-mid distance play with incredible acceleration on loops, perfect for fast-paced, high-spin rallies.
- Exceptional performance in offensive exchanges
Technical Composition
Structure: 5+2 Architecture (7-ply construction)
The blade features 5 layers of wood combined with 2 layers of composite fibers. Specifically:
- Outer layer: Limba (playing surface)
- Force layer: Ayous
- Inner composite layer: Arylate-Carbon (ALC) - Yellow and black woven fiber
- Core: Ayous (slightly thicker for enhanced support)
- Inner composite layer: Arylate-Carbon (ALC) - Yellow and black woven fiber
- Force layer: Ayous
- Outer layer: Limba (playing surface)
Arylate-Carbon Technology: The blade incorporates inner-layer Arylate-Carbon technology, enhancing stability and dwell time while maintaining a crisp feel. This unique fiber arrangement provides exceptional elasticity with a softer sensation compared to traditional carbon constructions.
Physical Specifications:
- Thickness: 5.93mm (±0.1mm)
- Weight: 88-93 grams (average ~90.5g)
- Handle type: FL (Flared) - noticeably thicker than commercial versions
- Playing style: Loop plus quick-attack
Gold Collection Box content
Complete package includes:
- 1x DHS W968 Blade (Ma Long specification, FL handle)
- 2x DHS Ma Long signature rubbers (special editions)
- 2x DHS Ma Long signature balls
- 6x DHS standard training balls
- Gold collector's edition box featuring Ma Long
- Certificate of authenticity with unique serial number
- Database registration of ownership
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the DHS W968 Ma Long Olympic Gold Collection
Authenticity & Product Details
Every authentic DHS W968 Ma Long blade comes with a unique serial number that can be verified through the official DHS database. Here's how to verify:
- Locate the serial number on your blade (usually engraved on the handle or printed on the certificate)
- Visit the official DHS verification website
- Enter your serial number in the verification portal
- The system will confirm if your blade is registered as authentic
The W968 Ma Long specification differs significantly from the commercial Hurricane Long 5 in several key areas:
| Speed Gears | 30 progressive gears (vs 20 in commercial HL5) |
| Material Selection | Hand-selected premium wood and ALC fibers |
| Handle Thickness | Noticeably thicker FL handle for better grip |
| Quality Control | Checked by Chinese National Team manufacturing team |
| Feel & Touch | Softer with superior tactile feedback |
| Production | Limited production vs mass-market commercial version |
The W968 provides both ALL+ and OFF++ characteristics simultaneously, giving you exceptional control at lower speeds and explosive power when fully engaged - something the commercial version cannot match.
The "Olympic Gold Collection" refers to a special limited edition package commemorating Ma Long's Olympic achievements. This exclusive set includes:
- Premium gold collector's box featuring Ma Long's image
- W968 blade (Ma Long's exact professional specification)
- 2x DHS Ma Long signature rubbers (special edition)
- 2x Ma Long signature table tennis balls
- 6x DHS professional training balls
- Certificate of Authenticity with unique serial number
- Collector's documentation and packaging
This is not a regular retail product but a commemorative edition with very limited worldwide availability.
Yes, the W968 in this Gold Collection is manufactured to Ma Long's exact professional specifications - the same grade used by Chinese National Team players.
However, it's important to note that:
- Professional players often have multiple blades in rotation
- Ma Long may make minor personal adjustments to his equipment
- The rubber setup and assembly are critical to achieving his exact playing characteristics
This blade represents the highest civilian-available grade that matches what Ma Long uses, manufactured with the same materials, construction, and quality control standards.
Technical Specifications
The 5+2 construction means 5 layers of wood plus 2 layers of composite fiber (7 total plies). The structure from top to bottom is:
- Limba (0.6mm) - Outer playing surface
- Ayous (1.0mm) - Force transfer layer
- Arylate-Carbon (0.3mm) - Yellow-black ALC fiber
- Ayous Core (2.4mm) - Thicker central stability layer
- Arylate-Carbon (0.3mm) - Yellow-black ALC fiber
- Ayous (1.0mm) - Force transfer layer
- Limba (0.6mm) - Outer playing surface
Total thickness: 5.93mm
The Arylate-Carbon (ALC) layers are positioned internally rather than near the surface, providing a unique combination of power, elasticity, and feel. This "inner ALC" configuration gives superior dwell time and tactile feedback compared to outer carbon constructions.
OFF++ (Offensive Plus Plus) is the highest speed classification for table tennis blades, indicating:
- Speed: 10/10 - Maximum velocity potential
- Attack-oriented - Designed for aggressive offensive play
- Fast ball projection - Quick exit speed off the blade
- Distance capability - Effective from close to mid-distance
However, the W968's unique characteristic is its 30-gear progressive speed system, meaning:
- Gears 1-10: Controllable, delicate touch (ALL+ characteristics)
- Gears 11-20: Versatile all-around play
- Gears 21-30: Explosive OFF++ power
This dual nature (ALL+ AND OFF++) makes it far more versatile than typical OFF++ blades.
The blade alone weighs 88-93 grams (average ~90.5g). When assembled with rubbers, the total weight depends on your rubber setup:
| Blade only | 88-93g |
| + Hurricane 3 (2.15mm) x2 | +95-105g |
| Total assembled weight | 183-198g (typical: ~190g) |
| With max thickness rubbers | Can reach 205-210g |
This is considered a medium-heavy setup, which provides excellent stability and power generation for advanced players.
The "30-gear speed system" refers to the blade's ability to deliver 30 distinct speed levels depending on how you engage it - compared to only 20 gears in the commercial Hurricane Long 5.
How it works:
- Soft contact (gears 1-10): The blade flexes more, providing exceptional control for short game, blocks, and delicate touches
- Medium engagement (gears 11-20): Versatile looping and driving with balanced speed and control
- Full engagement (gears 21-30): The ALC fibers fully activate, delivering explosive power for maximum attack
This progressive system gives you more granular control over ball speed, allowing you to:
- Place balls with surgical precision in the short game
- Generate controlled loops with heavy spin
- Unleash devastating counter-attacks when needed
The extra 10 gears (vs commercial HL5) provide smoother transitions and more playing options.
Skill Level & Playing Style
The W968 is designed for advanced to professional players. Recommended minimum levels:
- USATT: 2000+ (USA rating)
- ITTF: 1800+ (International rating)
- FFT: 1600+ (French rating)
- Experience: 5+ years of serious competitive play
If you're an intermediate player (USATT 1500-1900), consider starting with a commercial Hurricane Long 5 or similar ALL+/OFF- blade, then upgrading to the W968 as your technique develops.
The W968 excels with these playing styles:
✓ IDEAL FOR:
- Offensive loopers - Players who emphasize topspin-heavy attacks on both wings
- Close-to-mid distance players - Most effective 0.5-2 meters from table
- Modern Chinese style - Powerful forehand loops with quick backhand
- All-around attackers - Players who mix attack and defense fluidly
- Counter-attacking specialists - Players who excel at explosive counters
✗ NOT RECOMMENDED FOR:
- Pure defenders - Too fast for consistent defensive play
- Flat hitters - Blade is optimized for looping, not flat drives
- Pips-out players - Designed specifically for inverted rubbers
- Long-distance players - Best performance is close to mid-range
The blade's 30-gear system means it can adapt to various situations, but it truly shines when used for aggressive, spin-oriented offensive play.
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Here's why:
Challenges for intermediate players:
- The OFF++ speed requires precise timing and stroke mechanics
- The blade is very sensitive to technique errors
- Without proper fundamentals, you'll struggle with control
- The price point doesn't justify it if you can't utilize its full potential
- You may develop bad habits trying to compensate for the speed
Exception: If you're a high-intermediate player (USATT 1800-1999) with solid technique and you're specifically working on transitioning to advanced play, the W968 could work - but be prepared for an adjustment period.
Better alternatives for intermediates:
- DHS Hurricane Long 5 (commercial)
- Butterfly Viscaria
- Stiga Clipper Wood
- Yasaka Ma Lin Extra Offensive
No, this blade is not suitable for defensive play.
The W968 is specifically engineered for offensive players. Here's why it won't work for defense:
- Too fast - OFF++ speed makes controlled blocking and chopping difficult
- ALC construction - Inner carbon reduces dwell time needed for defensive spin variation
- Optimized for attack - The 30-gear system is designed for progressive offense, not defense
- Weight distribution - Head-heavy balance favors attacking strokes
If you're a defensive player or defensive all-rounder, consider these alternatives:
- Stiga Defensive Classic
- Butterfly Hadraw Shield
- Yasaka Original (DEF/ALL-)
- Dr. Neubauer Matador
Rubber Setup & Assembly
Ma Long's current setup (2024-2025):
| Forehand | DHS Hurricane 3 National (Blue sponge) Hardness: 42° Thickness: 2.15mm |
| Backhand | DHS Hurricane 3 National (Orange sponge) Hardness: 37-39° Thickness: 2.15mm |
Note: Ma Long uses "National Blue" and "National Orange" versions - these are provincial/national team grades, not the commercial versions. The blue sponge is harder (42°) than standard Hurricane 3.
This setup prioritizes:
- Maximum spin generation
- Consistent loop quality
- Controlled power
- Chinese-style tacky feel
If you can't access National Blue/Orange Hurricane 3, here are proven alternatives:
FOREHAND OPTIONS:
- DHS Hurricane 3 (Provincial) - 40-42°, closest to National grade
- DHS Hurricane 8-80 - 37-38°, similar feel with better speed
- Butterfly Dignics 05 - Max thickness, modern tensor alternative
- Tibhar Evolution MX-P - Max thickness, great for loops
BACKHAND OPTIONS:
- Butterfly Tenergy 05 - Max thickness, classic choice
- Butterfly Tenergy 05 FX - Softer version for more control
- Butterfly Dignics 09C - Counter-focused modern rubber
- DHS Hurricane 3 National Orange - 37-39°, if accessible
- Victas Sticky Extra - Chinese-style alternative
Popular combinations:
- FH: Hurricane 3 (42°) / BH: Tenergy 05
- FH: Dignics 05 / BH: Dignics 09C
- FH: Hurricane 8-80 / BH: Tenergy 05 FX
Why avoid soft rubbers:
- The blade's inner ALC construction requires rubbers with sufficient hardness to activate properly
- Soft rubbers (< 35°) will feel sluggish and won't engage the blade's speed
- You'll lose the characteristic "crisp" feel and responsive feedback
- The 30-gear system won't function optimally
Recommended rubber hardness:
- Minimum: 37° (Chinese hardness scale)
- Optimal FH: 39-42°
- Optimal BH: 37-40°
Avoid:
- Hurricane 3 < 37°
- Very soft European rubbers (< 35° equivalent)
- Control-oriented soft rubbers
Pair the W968 with medium to hard rubbers that have good grip characteristics for optimal performance.
The Gold Collection Box includes 2x DHS Ma Long signature rubbers. Here's what to consider:
Included rubbers are good for:
- Initial testing and getting familiar with the blade
- Collectors who want the complete original package
- Backup rubbers for practice sessions
Consider buying separately if:
- You want specific hardness levels (e.g., National Blue 42°)
- You prefer non-Chinese rubbers (Tenergy, Dignics, etc.)
- You have a proven setup that works for your game
- You're very particular about sponge thickness
Many competitive players buy the Gold Collection for the blade and certificate, then assemble with their preferred rubber combination.
Recommended gluing method:
- Use water-based glues only - DHS glue, Butterfly Free Chack II, or similar
- Apply thin layers - 1-2 thin coats maximum
- Let dry completely - Wait 10-15 minutes before assembly
- Press firmly but gently - Use a roller to ensure even adhesion
- Trim carefully - Use sharp scissors/cutter to avoid blade damage
Removal tips:
- Apply heat gently with hairdryer (low setting)
- Peel SLOWLY starting from the edge
- Never force or rip the rubber off
- Use remover/cleaner sparingly
Avoid:
- Speed glues or boosters (illegal and damages blade)
- VOC-based glues (too strong adhesion)
- Excessive glue layers
- Forceful removal techniques
Purchase, Shipping & Returns
The W968 Olympic Gold Collection is priced at $800-1,200 USD. Here's what justifies the premium:
Manufacturing quality:
- Hand-selected premium materials (wood and ALC fibers)
- Manufacturing overseen by Chinese National Team equipment staff
- Each blade individually inspected and quality-checked
- Materials stored and aged under controlled conditions
Limited availability:
- Originally reserved for national team players only
- Very restricted civilian production
- Gold Collection is a limited commemorative edition
- Each unit individually numbered and registered
Complete package:
- Professional-grade blade (value: $500-700)
- 2x Ma Long signature rubbers (value: $100-150)
- 8x Premium balls (value: $30-40)
- Gold collector's box and certificate
Performance difference:
- 30-gear system vs 20-gear in commercial versions
- Measurably superior feel and feedback
- Proven championship-level performance
This is professional-grade equipment and a collector's item, not a mass-market product. For serious competitive players, the performance improvement justifies the investment.
The W968 market is unfortunately flooded with counterfeits. Here's how to protect yourself:
Buy from authorized dealers only:
- Official DHS distributors
- Verified specialty table tennis retailers
- Stores with proven track record (reviews, reputation)
Red flags (avoid these sellers):
- Prices significantly below market ($400-500 for "W968")
- Sellers on general marketplaces (eBay, Amazon) without verification
- No serial number verification offered
- Stock photos only, no actual product images
- Unable to show certificate of authenticity
Authentication checklist upon receipt:
- ✓ Unique serial number present (engraved or printed)
- ✓ Certificate with holographic security features
- ✓ Serial number verifies on official DHS website
- ✓ Gold box quality matches promotional images
- ✓ Weight matches specs (88-93g)
- ✓ Visible ALC yellow-black fibers on blade edge
- ✓ High-quality finishing and construction
When buying from Table Tennis Thailand (this store), every W968 is verified authentic with serial number registered in the DHS database.
Shipping options:
| Thailand domestic | 2-4 business days (free shipping) |
| Asia region | 5-10 business days (free shipping) |
| USA/Europe/Australia | 7-14 business days (free shipping) |
| Express shipping | 3-5 business days (additional cost) |
Packaging:
- Gold Collection Box securely packaged in protective materials
- Insured shipping for full product value
- Tracking number provided for all orders
- Signature required upon delivery
Processing time:
- Orders processed within 1-2 business days
- Authentication verification completed before shipping
- You'll receive tracking information via email
30-Day Return Policy:
We offer a 30-day return window from date of delivery for the W968 Gold Collection, subject to these conditions:
Eligible for full refund:
- Blade is unassembled (no rubbers glued)
- All original packaging intact (Gold Box, certificate, accessories)
- Protective film still on blade surfaces
- No signs of use or handling damage
- Serial number matches purchase record
NOT eligible for return:
- Rubbers have been glued to blade
- Blade shows signs of use (scratches, wear)
- Gold Box or certificate damaged/missing
- Serial number tampered with
- More than 30 days since delivery
Return process:
- Contact customer service within 30 days
- Provide order number and reason for return
- Receive return authorization and shipping label
- Ship product back in original condition
- Refund processed within 5-7 days of receipt
Manufacturer defects warranty:
- 90-day warranty against manufacturing defects
- Covers: delamination, cracking (not from impact), structural flaws
- Does NOT cover: damage from use, improper gluing/removal, accidents
Claim process:
- Document the defect with clear photos
- Contact customer service with order number
- We evaluate if covered under warranty
- If approved: replacement or full refund
What voids warranty:
- Damage from impacts (hitting table edge, dropping)
- Splintering from improper rubber removal
- Use of speed glue or boosters
- Modifications to blade structure
- Normal wear and tear
Important note: The W968 is a professional tool designed for advanced players who know proper equipment care. Most blade damage occurs from user error, not manufacturing defects. Handle with care!
Maintenance & Care
Storage:
- Store in protective case when not in use
- Keep away from extreme temperatures (< 5°C or > 35°C)
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure
- Maintain moderate humidity (40-60%)
- Store flat, never leaning at angles
Cleaning:
- Wipe blade surface with dry microfiber cloth only
- Never use water or cleaning solutions on wood
- Clean rubbers with rubber cleaner after each session
- Dry rubbers with clean sponge or microfiber
During play:
- Avoid hitting table edges (even light contact can crack blade)
- Don't slam racket on table in frustration
- Keep away from water/drinks
- Use edge tape to protect blade perimeter (recommended)
Long-term care:
- Replace rubbers every 3-6 months (competitive play)
- Inspect for cracks or delamination regularly
- If blade feels different, check for humidity damage
- Consider professional resealing if playing in humid climates
Edge tape is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for the W968 due to its premium price and sensitive construction.
Benefits:
- Protects blade edge from impacts
- Prevents chipping and cracking
- Extends blade lifespan significantly
- Seals blade from moisture
- Minimal weight addition (< 2g)
Performance impact:
- Weight increase: negligible (1-2g)
- Feel: virtually no difference
- Play characteristics: unchanged
Application tips:
- Apply to CLEAN, unassembled blade
- Use quality tape (1-2mm thickness)
- Stretch slightly while applying for snug fit
- Trim excess carefully with sharp blade
- Press firmly to ensure adhesion
Many professional players use edge tape on their equipment. It's a small investment ($5-10) that protects your $800+ blade.
With proper care, the W968 can last 5-10+ years of regular competitive play.
Factors affecting lifespan:
| Playing frequency | More play = more wear, but blade itself is durable |
| Care and maintenance | Critical - proper storage and handling essential |
| Climate conditions | Humidity and temperature extremes affect wood |
| Rubber changes | Careful gluing/removal extends blade life |
| Accidental damage | Most blades "die" from impacts, not age |
Signs it's time to replace:
- Visible cracks in wood layers
- Delamination between plies
- Significant change in feel/sound
- Warping or bending
- Handle damage affecting grip
Realistic expectations:
- Tournament players (daily use): 3-5 years typical
- Club players (3-4x/week): 5-8 years typical
- Recreational players (1-2x/week): 10+ years possible
- Collectors (minimal use): Indefinite
Many players keep their W968 as their "main" blade for years, treating it as a long-term investment in their game.
Comparisons & Alternatives
W968 vs Butterfly Viscaria:
| Speed | W968: OFF++ (faster) Viscaria: OFF (slightly slower) |
| Control | W968: 9.5/10 (30 gears) Viscaria: 8.5/10 |
| Feel | W968: Softer, more feedback Viscaria: Harder, crisper |
| Construction | W968: Inner ALC Viscaria: Inner ZLC (faster carbon) |
| Weight | W968: ~90g Viscaria: ~85g |
| Price | W968: $800-1200 Viscaria: $200-300 |
Choose W968 if you want:
- More gradual speed control (30 gears)
- Softer feel with better feedback
- Chinese-style play characteristics
- Professional national team grade
Choose Viscaria if you want:
- Lighter weight
- More affordable option
- Proven tournament blade (many pros use it)
- European-style play characteristics
Both are excellent Chinese national team grade blades. Key differences:
W968 (Ma Long):
- Better for: Controlled power, looping
- Speed: Slightly slower
- Control: Higher (30-gear system)
- Feel: Softer, more dwell time
- Style: Traditional Chinese looping game
- Player type: Close-to-mid distance attackers
Fan Zhendong ALC/ZLC:
- Better for: Explosive power, speed
- Speed: Faster (especially ZLC)
- Control: Good but less gradual
- Feel: Harder, more direct
- Style: Modern aggressive Chinese style
- Player type: Fast topspin and counter players
Recommendation:
- If you emphasize CONTROL and versatility → W968
- If you emphasize SPEED and aggression → FZD ALC/ZLC
Unfortunately, there's no perfect substitute for the W968's national team grade, but these are good alternatives at lower price points:
DHS Hurricane Long 5 (Commercial) - $150-250
- Same basic construction concept (5+2, inner ALC)
- 20 speed gears vs W968's 30
- Mass-produced quality vs hand-selected
- 80-85% of W968's performance at 20% of the cost
- Best budget alternative
Butterfly Viscaria - $200-300
- Different fiber (ZLC vs ALC) but similar concept
- Proven professional blade
- Excellent quality and consistency
- Different feel but comparable performance tier
Stiga Clipper Wood - $80-120
- All-wood (no carbon), very different feel
- Legendary control and touch
- Slower but highly playable
- Good for developing technique
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