If we compare a tennis match to a car race, the racket is the vehicle and the strings are the engine. The stringbed of a racket can dramatically change your performance on court, which is why choosing the right strings should be done carefully and according to your playing style. String tension, thickness, and material all affect feel, control, and power.
Choosing the right strings for your tennis racket
1. Types of strings
Polyester strings
They are durable and offer increased control and spin. However, they are stiffer and less arm-friendly compared to multifilament strings or natural gut.
Multifilament strings
They provide comfort and extra power and are ideal for players with arm injuries, those looking for a softer feel, or beginner players.
Natural gut
Natural gut offers everything: spin, power, excellent feel, and great arm comfort. It holds tension very well, providing consistent control, but it is significantly more expensive and wears out more easily.
Synthetic gut
One of the most affordable string categories. Made from nylon, it offers durability and flexibility. Beginners and players new to tennis will find synthetic gut strings easy to use and forgiving.
There are also hybrid string setups, which combine two different types of strings in the same racket.
2. String thickness (Gauge)
The numbers on tennis strings refer to their thickness, known as gauge, and usually range from 15 to 20. Gauge 15 is thicker, while gauge 20 is thinner. Thickness affects feel, durability, and overall performance.
How to choose the right gauge for you:
Durability
If you break strings frequently, choose a thicker gauge, such as 16.
Feel and spin
If you want better feel and more spin, choose a thinner gauge like 17 or 18.
Playing style
More experienced and powerful players who hit hard and break strings often tend to choose thicker strings, usually around gauge 15 to 16. Players who focus on spin and feel usually prefer thinner strings, sometimes going as thin as gauge 19 or 20.
Often, next to the gauge number, the thickness will also be listed in millimeters for a more precise measurement.
3. String tension
String tension refers to how tightly the racket is strung and is measured in kilograms. A racket strung at 20 kg will play very differently compared to one strung at 24 kg. The basic rule to remember is:
Higher tension equals more control
Lower tension equals more power
4. Playing style
Power
If you are looking for more power, choose multifilament strings or elastic polyester strings and string your racket at lower tension.
Control
Players who prioritize control usually choose polyester strings strung at higher tension.
Spin
Polyester strings and textured strings can increase spin, although textured strings may reduce control.
Advanced and powerful players who break strings often prefer thicker polyester strings.
Choosing the right strings is highly individual and should always match your playing style and needs.
Learn more about tennis racket strings.