Tennis strings to serve as the life racquet. But do you know, the importance of tennis strings is often ignored? It is these strings that decide whether you will survive in the game or not. If you want to stand out and make a name for yourself in the world of tennis then you must pick the best strings for your tennis racket.
Every player has their own personal preference as well as need. In the same way, some strings may be useful to some players but can cause havoc for others. Also, check the Tennis String Gauge.
So, if you are wanting to give your best performance, then we suggest you choose your strings rather carefully. To help you out with this matter, we have narrowed down some essential aspects of this article. From picking up the best tennis strings, to which string will be best for you. We have answered every query of yours, so stay put and read til the very end to get all the answers.
How to Pick Tennis Strings?
They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It’s factually true, you desire to get yourself the possible thing out there that makes you stand out in a crowd. Choosing strings for a tennis racquet can be difficult and the same phenomenon applies to picking the best string for your racquet to make a name for yourself in the world of tennis. Players spend quite extensive time researching and experimenting with various strings until they settle on the one that suits their rackets best.
However, strings don’t get as much consideration and attention as racquets do. Players tend to leave strings in racquet frames and use mixtures that don’t link with their style of playing. Also, check the Tennis Court Dimensions.
Natural gut, multi-filament synthetics (nylon), and polyester are the materials that are used to make extensive string varieties. It’s from a playing point your gut provides comfort and ease. Polyester provides terrific durability as well as control whereas nylon is normally a proportion between these two. Choose your strings based on your preference and your playing style. Picking the wrong strings can weaken your game.
Types of Tennis Strings
Different types of tennis strings are available in the markets, the major ones are discussed below:
Natural Gut Tennis Strings
These are known to be one of the finest tennis strings in terms of playability. These strings offer great power as well as comfort due to their elastic properties. Also, the tension factor tends to last for an extended period. Nevertheless, the manufacturers of gut strings have made subtle upgrades to boost their durability. Natural gut strings are quite expensive and are usually preferred by professional and experienced players. Players like to have these strings to make themselves stand strong on the court. Natural Gut is a greatly loved string among the players.
Multifilament Tennis Strings
Multifilament tennis strings are produced through tiny microfibers that are knitted together to create a single string. These strings are comparable to natural gut strings in many ways. Just like gut strings, the multifilament purpose is to offer playability as well. These strings also provide comfort and lessen the possibilities of injuries, most commonly tennis elbow. These are low on budget and are inexpensive with much durability and power. More players are preferring multifilament strings these days. Best for beginners as well as advanced players.
Monofilament Tennis Strings
Monofilament Tennis Strings are one of the most famous and highly recommended tennis strings. These are also called Poly Strings. These strings are created with single core filament stuff that offers durability as well as quality spin and much power. These are good for advanced and intermediate players. However, with so many advantages, there are some disadvantages of monofilament strings and that are, its stiffness and less maintenance of tension.
Synthetic gut
Synthetic gut strings are rather more economical than most tennis strings. These are nylon-based strings and are generally confined by numerous layers of tiny filaments. This structure of strings delivers all-around performance. A lot of nylon strings have a considerably large core that is solidly constructed with small outer wraps. Nylon quality, construction, coatings, and bonding mechanisms, are the characteristics that result in a vast range of prices. The performance of synthetic gut strings has enhanced over the years and offers durability. Also, read the Types of Tennis Courts.
Hybrid Strings
Hybrid Strings are a great option for players who prefer power, comfort and spin. These strings deliver playability as well as durability. Hybrid strings are a blend of two distinct kinds of strings/gauges in a racquet. With the increasing popularity of poly strings among players, hybrid strings boost string durability and provide extra comfort with the mixture of two strings.
Materials used to make tennis string
Strings are much more complicated than players would anticipate. Materials like natural gut fibers, Kevlar, polyamide, nylon, and polyester, together with detailed layering changes feel and touch. These are normal in recent manufacturing cycles. These materials have enhanced and made better the playability of varieties of old strings.
Which string offers what?
Just as players have different desires and needs, strings have different purposes as well. Not every string will deliver what you really prefer.
Durability
Durability relies on different elements. One such element is gauge. The thicker the gauge the longer your strings will last. Another element is the type of string itself and the material used to make strings. Kevlar strings are known to be the best in terms of durability.
Power
Power depends on the gauge as well as string tension. Soft strings will help you in hitting hard shots. Whereas, a thinner gauge will provide you with more power that will help in hitting powerful strokes. Multifilament varieties of strings normally deliver great power.
Spin
The shift in the ball’s movement in the court is spin. Every string generates a different intensity of spin. Polyester strings offer better spin as compared to nylon strings. Besides strings, the strategy and techniques of players also determine spin.
Tennis Strings Gauge
Gauge | Millimeter (minimum) | Millimeter (maximum) |
---|---|---|
15 | 1.41mm | 1.49mm |
15L | 1.34mm | 1.40mm |
16 | 1.29mm | 1.33mm |
16L | 1.26mm | 1.28mm |
17 | 1.23mm | 1.25mm |
17L | 1.19mm | 1.22mm |
18 | 1.13mm | 1.18mm |
18L | 1.08mm | 1.12mm |
19 | 1.02mm | 1.07mm |
Two factors should be considered before deciding on the string gauge that is; playability and durability. Generally, thicker strings are more durable but provide less spin. While thinner strings are less durable but offer more spin. Strings are available at 15 (thickest) to 19 (thinnest) gauge. 15 is a thicker gauge and 15L is thinner but not as thin as 16 or 16L and so forth. Here, ‘L’ denotes lightness. We advise players to go for the strings they personally prefer if they want durability then go for thicker ones, if playability then thinner ones should be your sole option.
Determining the tension
Selecting appropriate string tension is as crucial as choosing your racquet. Low tension might make you hit the back fence. Too tight and you might end up with a tennis elbow.
When it comes to tension, many manufacturers suggest stringing flexible materials, for instance, nylon or natural gut, approximately 50-60 lbs. If utilizing a stiffer string such as polyester, lower the tension to stay on the safe side and any kind of arm injuries. Also, read How to Choose a Tennis Racket?
Generally, beginners prefer more power from their strings, whereas advanced players want more control. Lower string tensions manage to boost power, while higher tensions improve control.
Moreover, it is your skill level and personal preferences that also determine your string tension.
Conclusion:
Just as the tennis racquet makes a difference in your game, tennis strings reinforce your game as well. Before opting for the best string for your tennis racquet you must need to understand your gameplay, your skill level and whether you want control or power. Not every string is
suitable for everyone and there is a wide range of strings available in markets that will help you polish your skills.
FAQs
Is it true, the tighter the string the more the control?
Yes, tighter strings give more control to your shorts, whereas looser strings will provide you with power.
Which is the most used string type?
Polyester strings are widely preferred by players for their gameplay.
How long can your tennis string last?
It depends on the type of strings you are buying for your racquet. Expensive strings may last longer than the cheaper ones and are more durable. Though, strings break a lot when you play and must be replaced as many times as you play.
Does gauge influence power in your racquet?
Strings are made in distinct thicknesses known as gauges. Thick gauge and diameter are more durable and provide control. While thinner gauges provide power and comfort.