Through its exclusive lightweight structure, Shimano's patented Spiral X construction enhances catching power for anglers. Spiral X construction consists of three layers: a middle layer of vertical fibers as well as inner and outer layers, both comprised of carbon tape that tightly winds the blank diagonally in opposite directions. By using this carbon tape in place of a conventional horizontal fiber sheet, Spiral X achieves enhanced compression rigidity and increased torsional rigidity without adding extra weight. This in turn facilitates instant power transmission for precise casting and fish fighting.

The X guide was born from the viewpoint to bring out the potential of blanks to the full. Supporting the guide rings of the tip part is a one-piece structure frame molded with the latest material by 3D technology. Its beautiful shape combines strength with the calculated inclination angle and three-dimensional structure to suppress line entanglement. The tip guides are light and small. In the butt part we have the Aero Titanium X guide which contributes to casting feeling and casting distance. X guide is Shimano's original high performance guide which fused lightness, trouble less, casting performance to higher dimensions.

Hi-Power X construction uses diagonally-wrapped carbon tape to form an array of "X" shapes on the rod blank's outermost layer. The width of the tape, its winding angle and the part of the rod being wrapped are fine-tuned according to the target fish species. This manufacturing process allows Shimano to adjust these wraps during construction for precise actions, enhanced overall strength and added twist resistance. In short, Hi-Power X construction delivers sharp and crisp rod control for the angler.

SHIMANO’s TAFTEC α is a unique solid tip that realizes flexibility and delicate bending without reducing the diameter of the tip or its strength. The TAFTEC α tip is used throughout the Shimano rod range where sensitivity is an important requirement of the rods.

*S68L-S, S511ML-S, S68ML-S, S511M-S, S68M-S

HIGH RESPONSE SOLID is a high modulus solid tip construction with a good balance between strength and sensitivity.

*S68MH-S

CI4 is a Shimano original material reinforced with carbon fiber that is lighter and has a higher strength than conventional resin material. CI4+ is an advanced version of the original CI4 material and is 2.5x more rigid than its predecessor. While improving lightness and rigidity, reel bodies, rotors and reel seats built with CI4+ are further reduced in size and weight.