YoYoFactory x SUS YOYO MECHANICS x Shingo Terada - Astral
The Astral is the result of a collaboration between YoYoFactory, SUS YOYO MECHANICS, and 2001 X-Division World Champion Shingo "Terry" Terada.
This model is engineered to serve as a high-performance, low-cost entry point into the 5A (Counterweight) style, successfully balancing precision, durability, and affordability. It is specifically designed to alleviate the common anxieties associated with starting 5A, such as the fear of dinging metal yo-yos or the damage done by deopped yo-yos, allowing players to focus entirely on their practice.
The design is fundamentally rooted in the OneStar, a renowned model for players new to string trick play. By adopting its diameter and shape, which Terada identifies as exceptionally ergonomic for 5A grips, the Astral ensures a natural and controllable feel during complex maneuvers. To address the rigorous nature of 5A, the area surrounding the axle has been significantly thickened. Repeated drop tests from various angles have resulted in a plastic body with remarkable structural integrity, capable of withstanding frequent impacts that would typically compromise other models.
A distinctive feature of the Astral is its compatibility with OneStar caps, facilitated by a through-hole axle design that allows for easy removal. This provides two distinct performance profiles: a nimble 63.9g configuration without caps, and a more stable 67.3g setup with caps installed. This functionality not only allows for weight adjustment but also invites players to personalize their yo-yos with interchangeable side caps. Beyond its 5A optimization, the Astral possesses the rotational stability and playfeel required to perform at a high level in 1A (Single Handed String Trick) play.
* Caps can be removed by taking out the axle and applying air pressure (such as from a dust blower) through the axle hole.
** Please be aware that installing or swapping caps may introduce slight vibrations; customization is at the user's discretion.
Design Comments from SUS YOYO MECHANICS
"A high-performance plastic model built to endure everything."
The Astral was developed as a plastic model based on the OneStar. While maintaining the proven shape and ease of use, we overhauled the internal geometry to provide the rotational power necessary for competitive bind-return play and the durability required for styles beyond 1A. By refining the overall thickness of the material, we achieved high rigidity and a sense of security rarely found in plastic yo-yos. The cross-sectional profile was slightly rounded to ensure the impact on the hand remains soft, making it comfortable for extended practice sessions. The design focuses on practicality to prevent fatigue over long-term use.
The decision to maintain compatibility with OneStar caps allows players to drastically alter the yoyo's feeling and weight distribution. Using your preferred colors or designs for the caps is also possible, and the variation in feeling depending on the presence of the caps is one of the highlights of this model.
We intentionally omitted a finger-spin spot to prioritize fundamental competitive performance over fleeting trends.
Our goal was to create a reliable model that serves as a bridge for those stepping up to bind-response yoyos, offering a platform that remains enjoyable through various settings and long-term use.
