How To Choose Tennis Strings For Your Racket

1) Natural Gut strings

Natural gut, the most legendary and recognizable string kind in the game, is made from the fibrous and flexible serous membrane of cow intestines. Known for its elasticity,  unmatched comfort, power, and feel.

More so than any other string type, natural gut also keeps its tension and ideal playing characteristics for longer. Natural gut is unique in that it can be tightly tensioned for control without sacrificing comfort, making it a popular choice for players with tennis elbow or sensitive joints.

One of the main drawbacks of natural gut strings is that they are more expensive and less durable than other types of strings. They also tend to lose their tension more quickly than other strings, which means they need to be restrung more frequently. Despite these drawbacks, many players still prefer natural gut strings because of their exceptional playability.

2) Multifilament strings

Multifilament strings are made from hundreds of flexible microfibers and are designed for comfort and power. Multifilament strings are the closest synthetic substitute for natural gut. Because the filaments are thin and flexible, multifilament strings have a softer, more forgiving feel than other types of strings. This can help reduce the impact on a player's arm and improve comfort during play.

3) Tournament nylon / Synthetic gut strings

Tournament nylon: Tournament nylon tennis strings are made from a single strand of solid nylon, which is a synthetic polymer material. They are designed to offer a combination of power, durability, and control. Tournament nylon strings have a firm, solid feel that can provide good control and precision for players. The majority of less expensive pre-strung racquets will have this. Being the cheapest string available, it is best suited for absolute novices who play sporadically throughout the year and have no interest in strings or string tension.

Synthetic gut: Synthetic gut is made of nylon but not to be confused with tournament nylon. Nylon strings with many wraps are of higher quality than those with a single wrap. The amount of wraps lessens the tension loss that nylon strings often endure. Synthetic gut tennis strings are designed to mimic the performance characteristics of natural gut strings. They are designed to offer a combination of power, control, and comfort, and are often more affordable and durable than natural gut strings.

They are also generally more affordable, which makes them a good option for players who are looking for a high-performance string that is more budget-friendly. However, some players may find that synthetic gut strings do not offer the same level of comfort and feel as natural gut strings.

4) Durable Polyesters and Kevlars

Polyesters: For seasoned players who demand high levels of control, spin, and longevity, polyester monofilaments are the best choice. Although too stiff and underpowered for beginners, the polyester category offers softer alternatives for players who prefer a more comfortable hitting experience. Polyester tennis strings are made from a synthetic polymer material called polyethylene terephthalate, or PET. They are known for their durability and low stretch, which can provide good control and precision for players.

Polyester strings are often used by advanced players who are looking for a firm, responsive string with promising power and spin potential. They tend to hold their tension well over time and are less prone to fraying or breaking than other types of strings, such as multifilament or natural gut. They are also generally more resistant to weathering and the effects of humidity, which can make them a good choice for outdoor play.

However, one of the main drawbacks of polyester strings is that they can be less comfortable than other types of strings, such as multifilament or natural gut.

Kevlars: Kevlar is a type of synthetic fiber that is known for its strength and durability. It is often used in a variety of applications, including the construction of tennis strings. Kevlar is ultra-durable, but they are also extremely stiff and not recommended for beginners.

Stringing Tensions Guidelines

Tension

The tension of the strings on a tennis racket can have a significant impact on the playability and performance of the racket. High-tension strings are generally tighter and have less Stretch* when the ball comes in contact with the strings, while low-tension strings are generally looser and have more stretch.

High-tension strings can offer more control and precision because they have less give, which can help players place the ball more accurately. They may also be more durable because they are less strained when the ball hits them.

Low-tension strings can generate more power because they have more give, which can help players hit the ball harder. 
Each racket has its own recommended tension range shown in the technical spec of each racket.

String patterns

In a tennis racket, the strings are typically arranged in a pattern of vertical and horizontal strings. The vertical strings run parallel to the racket's handle, while the horizontal strings run perpendicular to the handle.

The specific stringing pattern of a racket can affect its playability and performance characteristics. Different patterns can offer different levels of power, control, and comfort, and can be better suited to different playing styles and levels of play.

Some common stringing patterns include:

• 16x19: This pattern has 16 vertical strings and 19 horizontal strings, and is often used in rackets that are designed for more control and precision.
  
• 18x20: This pattern has 18 vertical strings and 20 horizontal strings, and is a more balanced pattern that can offer a good combination of power and control.
  
• 16x16: This pattern has 16 vertical strings and 16 horizontal strings, and is often used in rackets that are designed for more power and spin.
  
• 18x16: This pattern has 18 vertical strings and 16 horizontal strings, and is a more open pattern that can offer more power and spin potential.