Which tennis string is the right one for me?
Finding the right racket isn't easy. But the variety of strings is eaven higher. How to choose the right one? Here are the most important basics regarding the different string types:Type 1: Polyester strings
Structure:
Usually refered to as "polys", although the more fitting name would be "monofile strings" as most of these strings aren't strictly made of polyester anymore, but are composed of more than a dozen of so called "additives". What all those strings have in common is the single fibre construction.
Propreties:
Monofile strings are considerably more rigid and less elastic than all other string types. They offer a very high durability, tension stability and ball control. Usually they don't go easy on your arm as the dampening isn't a strong point of these strings. They also lose their elasticity fairly quickly.
Suitability:
"Polys" are best suited for good and very good players who have a high consumption and emphasize ball control. If you have problems with tennis arm or elbow this type of string isn't for you. A comfort racket with a poly string doesn't make sense. It would be like driving a Ferrari with a pulled hand brake, afraid of losing control.
These are our product suggestions:
Type 2: Synthetic strings
Structure:
Also called "solid core" strings. They have a thicker core with a coiled layer of one, sometimes two thin filaments. The higher the quality of the material and the number of filaments used for the outer layer, the higher the price for the string.
Propreties:
Solid core strings usually are simple nylon strings, which offer a balanced mix of playability, comfort and durability at an affordable price. That's the reason why most factory-provided stringings on beginner rackets are solid core ones. That doesn't mean that there are no high quality solid core strings, offering excellent comfort, but naturally they are considerably higher priced.
Suitability:
This is the right category for everyone looking for an affordable string with allround characteristics.
These are our product suggestions:
Type 3: Multifilament strings
Structure:
The Multifilament strings, also known as "multis", don't have a solid core, but are completely made up of over 1000 finely spun filaments. The finer the construction, the higher the elasticity, power and comfort of the string.
Propreties:
Multis are the Rolls Royce of synthetic tennis strings. They offer the best touch and comfort, as well as the highest power. Due to their construction they are rather expensive and not very durable.
Suitability:
This is the right choice for everyone who rates power and touch higher than durability. Unless they prefer natural gut strings, players with arm and elbow problems should pick a multifilament string.
These are our product suggestions:
Type 4: Natural gut strings
Structure:
These strings are made from cow intestines in a complex process. As a result their price segment starts where the the segment of the most expensive synthetic strings ends.
Propreties:
According to many players, in the matter of power, comfort and vitality natural gut strings are still unmatched. However they are also very sensitive, particularly to atmospheric and weather conditions. Also, the stringing with natural gut takes a lot of experience.
Suitability:
If only the best is good enough for you and you're able to affort the luxury, the natural gut string is second to none. Even if the best multis gained ground during the last 20 years, the playability of natural gut is still unrivalled.
These are our product suggestions:
Type 5: Hybrid strings
Structure:
Hybrid strings are a mixture of two different string types for lenghtwise and crosswise stringing. Usually a monofile string is combined with a multifile or natural gut string. There are also players who like it in the opposite way around.
Propreties:
The basic idea behind the hybrid strings is that usually only lenghtwise strings break. If you combine a durable string with a softer and more comfortable string you achieve a mixture of durability and comfort. You can get the touch and power of a lenghtwise multi or natural gut string and improve the control by using a monofile string crosswise. (E.g. that's the way Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic do it.)
Suitability:
Basically for everyone who wants to combine the propreties of two different string types. There are endless variation possibilities, but not all work well. Because of that you should only try to use hybrid strings if you're experienced enough or if you have an expert consulting you.
These are our product suggestions:
Diameter
Most strings are available in different diameters. Generally the thinner strings are faster, more elastic and provide more spin. Thicker strings are more durable. The right string diameter also depends on what racket you use. A smaller head size and narrow string pattern demand a thinner string.
String tension
Most rackets with factory-provided stringings have a string tension of approximately 23 to 25 kilograms. If you absolutely don't know how strong the tension should be you can't do much wrong by sticking to this range. The ideal tension depends on a variety of factors. Here the first factor would be the player himself. A higher tension results in higher control, lower tension affords you more power and comfort. Another important factor is the racket. The bigger the head size and frame width, the higher the string tension should be, but be sure to not overdo it. Players who choose an oversize racket, usually does that because of the superior power they provide. If you raise the tension too high you lose that advantage. Not to forget the string itself. The elastic multifilament and natural gut strings provide more power, but have a higher surface hardness at the same string tension. If you boost the tension to get better control you lose the benefit of power and comfort those type of strings provide. Some monofile strings are designed for high control, so you should keep the string tension low, so you won't lose the power completely. Here too, either you have a certain experience or you should consult an expert when choosing the string tension.