MIZUNO FORTIUS NT-A COMBO [A Grip Designed with Care and the Powerful Impact of a “9-Ply Blade”]

“Table Tennis Gear 2026” Top Pick Gear: Performance & First Trial Hit MIZUNO

[MIZUNO FORTIUS NT-A COMBO ]

SPEC

●7 wood plies + 2 aramid carbon plies
●FFL (Fortius Flare) / SFL (Slim Flare) / ST　
●Size: 156 × 150 mm
●Blade thickness: 6.2 mm±
●Average weight: 90 g

Two types of flare grips and a “combo” blade make it one of a kind

In developing the “Fortius NT-A Combo,” the MIZUNO development team focused first and foremost on the grip design.

“Through our research, we found that when the grip fits the hand well, players are better able to control the ball exactly where they want it. So, in addition to the traditional grip shape used in the ‘Fortius’ series, ‘FFL’ (Fortius Flare), we developed a new shape called ‘SFL’ (Slim Flare),” says Takayuki Otomo, MIZUNO development staff.

Players’ hand sizes and sensations vary widely, so even when they hold the same grip shape, they have all kinds of impressions. MIZUNO prepared two flare grips for this model with a user-friendly goal in mind: to let more players experience greater comfort and improved Control.

Yokoya, an MIZUNO-contracted Player who is also finding success with this racket, mainly uses the “FFL,” but says, “Depending on the Match environment and how I’m feeling, I sometimes switch to a racket with the narrower ‘SFL’ grip.” He points to the way even slight differences in grip shape can affect performance in real Match play.

The other major feature is the ply construction. Normally, blades with special materials are built by sandwiching two sheets of special material between five wood plies. If that material is placed directly under the outer surface ply, it is called an “outer”; if it sits next to the core ply, it is called an “inner.”

But the “Fortius NT-A Combo” uses a dynamic 9-ply blade construction, with two sheets of aramid carbon sandwiched between seven wood plies. The material is also placed in a unique position: counting from the surface ply, it is the third layer; counting from the core ply, it is also the third layer. It is neither outer nor inner. MIZUNO took on the challenge with this original “combo” material placement.

Otomo says, “We developed it with the goal of increasing rebound and power, but we also wanted to achieve delicate feel.” Yokoya likewise comments, “This racket makes up for my weak point in Control, and it has plenty of spring, so I can recommend it even to players who lack power.” It is clear this is an excellent racket in both Control and power.

Weight, which might be a concern given the luxurious 9-ply structure, has been held to a midweight average of 90 g. Because the balance point sits relatively close to the hand, it does not feel especially heavy when you hold it, which is another advantage.

If you want a racket that feels just right in the hand, has a distinct character, and performs at a high level, this is a bat worth buying.

Editor's room

A grip that’s easy to hold and an innovative blade—perfect for players who want to break out of their shell!

★ Every trial hitter gave the grip a ringing endorsement for how easy it is to hold. The blade’s flashy 9-ply construction is innovative, yet delivers a solid hitting feel, balancing ball hold and rebound. It offers the kind of all-around quality that satisfies both players seeking Control and those seeking power. For players looking to upgrade their racket and break out of their shell, it is exactly the right choice.