Definition & Meaning of "Zarrow shuffle"

What is the "Zarrow shuffle"?

The Zarrow Shuffle is a card shuffling technique used by magicians to create the illusion of a thorough shuffle while secretly keeping the deck in a specific order. It is a type of false shuffle, where the magician appears to mix the cards, but in reality, the desired arrangement is maintained. In a Zarrow Shuffle, the magician splits the deck into two halves and then performs what looks like a regular riffle shuffle, where the cards are interwoven. However, through precise manipulation and timing, the cards are subtly returned to their original order or a prearranged sequence. This shuffle is widely used in card magic routines to control cards without the audience's awareness.