Stiga Evolution Review
Also known as STIGA Evolution Performance-Level Table Tennis Racket
Expert: Kevin James, Last Updated: 7th Mar, 2022
Today we'll be reviewing another very popular pre-made table tennis paddle - The Stiga Evolution. This is the second-fastest paddle in the Stiga line up, next to the Stiga Pro carbon (read review).
The paddle is ideal for beginners to intermediate level players who're looking for a paddle that offers all-round playability. Whether you're developing an offensive or defensive technique, this paddle provides just the right combination of power and spin, helping you a practice-wide range of shots.
In this review, we'll go over the playing characteristics and compare
the Stiga Evolution with other paddles in the same price range. By the end of the review, you'll be in a position to decide whether this paddle is right for you or not.
Paddle Rating
Speed
Contrary to the claimed rating, I found the paddle medium-fast
Spin
You can extract a decent amount of spin from the grippy rubbers
Control
Fantastic Control
Overall rating : 4.4 / 5
Review Summary
{Medium fast, Good Spin & Superior Control}
The gist: If you're working on improving your technique, you don't need the fastest paddle but a paddle which is more controllable, helping you practice various strokes.
And that's exactly what the Stiga Evolution offers. An excellent starter paddle and a perfect paddle for intermediate table tennis players.
However, if you're confident about your technique and are looking for a competitive setup, I suggest you for Stiga Pro Carbon.
The Stiga Evolution paddle is slower compared to its successor the Stiga Pro Carbon, but offers better control and supports all-round gameplay. Suitable for beginners to intermediate who're looking for a paddle which is easy to control and at the same time offers a decent amount of speed and spin. If you're someone who is learning and working on to improve your game, then this paddle is an ideal choice.
The All-wood 6-ply blade offers fantastic ball feedback and feeling, which is essential for developing the right technique. The 2.00mm thick rubber is responsive and provides excellent all-round performance. Whether you like to play a slow and defensive game with a lot of chops or you like to attack when there is a right opportunity, this highly controllable paddle won't let you down. The paddle is very easy to control, and yet you can hit explosive shots when required.
Overall the paddle is recommended for improvers, beginners, and intermediate players who're looking for a medium-fast paddle that offers superior control.
Pros:
+ All+ paddle (medium-fast, medium spin and superior control)
+ Great ball feedback
+ Replaceable rubbers
Cons:
- No complimentary paddle case
Who this is for:
+ Beginners to intermediate level players
Not Suited for:
- Advance players
Stiga Evolution In-Depth Review
Now, let's dig deeper and analyze the different aspects and performance characteristics of the paddle. As already mentioned, this paddle is neither too fast nor too slow, just right in the middle, in terms of performance. And this allows you to experience both offensive and defensive play.
If you've not developed an affinity towards a particular playing style, then this paddle is ideal for you, as it will let you experience different playing styles. And with time as you build and develop your game, you can upgrade to a more appropriate racquet.
Features/Construction Quality
Blade - 6-ply medium-stiff blade offers a nice feeling and feedback of the ball. The nanocrystal coating on the outer-layer, hardens the blade, letting you hit medium-fast strokes when required. The flared handle is ergonomic to hold.
Rubber - The 2.00mm thick medium-hard rubbers imparts good speed and spin characteristics to the paddle.
Technologies worth mentioning:
A hollow tube runs through the handle, which disperses the sound and shocks out of the paddle. Stiga refers to it as SDT technology. This improves the ball feedback and feel of the ball and, at the same time, makes the paddle lighter.
Now, let's move to the main part:
Playing Characteristics
About me: I'm a professional table tennis player (USATT 2200+) with an all-round offensive game. My game generally involves a lot of power loops and backhand flicks. Read more about me here.
After playing a couple of sessions, here is what I think about the setup.
Specification (Change)
Specs | Points |
|---|---|
Type | ALL+ |
Handle | Flared, Shakehand |
Weight | 172gm (light) |
Rubber | 2.0mm thick rubber |
Composition | 6-Ply wood |
Official Rating | Speed: 96, Spin: 94, Control: 90 |
Performance (Change)
Stroke Type | Rating/100 |
|---|---|
Smash | 80 |
Push | 85 |
Drive | 85 |
Loop | 80 |
Chop | 90 |
Block` | 90 |
Speed: Medium-fast with superb control.
Drive: The forehand and backhand drives are very controllable, but you would need to put in the extra effort to speed up the returns. That being said, the drives are quite consistent.
Serves & Returns: For spinny short serves, you need to brush the ball thoroughly, while the returns are easier to pick due to the softer rubber.
Touch Play: Fantastic for touch and soft play. The 6-ply blade offers excellent feedback.
Top/Back Spin: Above Average
Loop: Excellent looping capabilities, but the ball throw angle is on the lower side. The racquet angle has to be adjusted to compensate for the low throw.
Open Ups/Flick/Block: Great for blocking lethal smashes and counter-attacks. The soft rubber, coupled with a flexible blade, absorbs the ball speed quite well. However, I found it challenging to execute open ups and flicks on the setup.
Chop: Great for chops and playing defensive shots.
Conclusion: I feel the Stiga Evolution is currently the best pre-made paddle for beginners and intermediate players alike. The paddle is ideal for beginners to learn various strokes and, at the same time, competitive enough for intermediate players.
User Reviews - What other Owners Are Saying
Across all the e-commerce sites, the paddle has positive reviews.
Here is the breakdown of the reviews:
- Amazon - 3.9/5 (based on 733 reviews)
- Walmart - 4.7/5 (based on 10 reviews)
- Ebay - 4.7/5 (based on 19 reviews)
Some of the users on Amazon complained about receiving the counterfeit version of the product, but the issue seems to have been resolved.
So the Final Question - is Stiga Evolution Right for you?
If you're looking for your first serious paddle or if you're looking to upgrade to a more competitive setup, then the Stiga Evolution may be the right choice for you.
However, if you're an intermediate+ level player or an advanced player, you should look at the Stiga Pro Carbon instead.
Still confused which paddle to go for? Check out our complete guide to choosing the best ping pong paddle.
