How to choose tennis strings

Choosing the right tennis strings can make a big difference in your game. Learn about the types of tennis strings available, their characteristics, and which one best suits your playing style.

Why choosing the right strings is crucial

Tennis racket strings are the point of direct contact between you and the ball. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, choosing the right string can significantly impact your performance in terms of power, control, comfort and durability. Each string has its own specific characteristics that adapt to different playing styles.

Types of Tennis Strings

There are different types of strings, each with unique characteristics. The main categories of tennis strings include:

Monofilament: Usually made of polyester or synthetic materials. They offer great control and durability, but are less comfortable on the arm.
Multifilament: Made of multiple woven fibers, they offer good comfort and power, ideal for preventing injuries such as tennis elbow.
Natural Gut: Made of natural materials (usually animal intestines), they guarantee excellent elasticity and comfort. Ideal for advanced players looking for sensitivity and control.
Hybrid: Combine two different types of strings, usually a monofilament for durability and control, and a multifilament for power and comfort.

Importance of string tension

In addition to the type of string, the tension at which the strings are mounted greatly affects the performance of the racket. In general:

Low Tension (50-55 lbs): Increased power and comfort, ideal for players who want more depth and spin on their shots.
High Tension (55-65 lbs): Greater control and precision, suitable for experienced players looking for more accurate shots.

How to Manage String Tension

String tension is one of the most important things to consider when customizing your tennis racket. Tension refers to how tight the strings of your racket are after they are strung. Higher or lower tension can greatly affect how your racket responds to your shots.

Low Tension (45-50 lbs / 20-23 kg): A lower tension provides more power and a greater "snap" on shots. This means that the ball will bounce off the strings more easily, generating more speed without the need for extra force from the player. It is ideal for those who want to maximize the depth of their shots and have a softer and more comfortable racket. In addition, a low tension facilitates topspin , as the strings move more and hold the ball for a slightly longer time.
High Tension (55-65 lbs / 25-29 kg): Higher tension provides more control and accuracy, as the strings deform less when they hit the ball, reducing string “bounce.” This setup is perfect for advanced players who want to maximize their accuracy on shots, especially on flat, powerful shots. However, high tension makes the racket stiffer, which can reduce comfort and increase the risk of injuries like “tennis elbow.”
Finding the Right Balance: If you’re not sure what tension to choose, a good place to start is to try a medium tension around 52-55 lbs (23-25 kg). From there, you can adjust the tension on subsequent stringings based on how you feel on the course: lower the tension if you want more power and comfort, or increase the tension if you want more control.
String Life and Wear: Over time, strings lose tension, which can negatively affect the accuracy of your shots. For frequent players, it is recommended to re-string your racket at least every 3 months, or more often if you notice any changes in the performance of your racket.

Tennis String Characteristics Table

Consult the table below to find the most suitable rope for you based on the technical characteristics and advantages offered.

Type of string	Thickness (mm)	Thickness (inches)	Main features	Ideal for
Monofilament	1.20-1.35 mm	0.047-0.053"	High control, durability, less elasticity	Experienced players looking for precision
Multifilament	1.25-1.40 mm	0.049-0.055"	Comfort, power, less duration	Players who want more power and comfort
Natural casing	1.30-1.35 mm	0.051-0.053"	Excellent elasticity, sensitivity, comfort	Advanced players looking for sensitivity and feel
Hybrids	Various combinations	N/A	Combination of durability and comfort	Players who want a balance between control and comfort

Final tips for choosing strings

If you are a beginner, opt for a multifilament string for greater comfort and power.
For advanced or professional players who want more control and durability, monofilament or hybrid strings are an excellent choice.
Don't forget to consider string tension as well. Lower tension will provide more power, while higher tension will provide more control.
Strings should be changed regularly, especially if you play frequently. A good guideline is to change your strings every 3-4 months, or more often if you play a lot.

Need more advice on choosing the right strings? Contact us and an expert will help you find the ideal solution for you.

How to choose tennis strings