String Basics
Author: Aiden Liebenberg Date Posted:11 June 2023
String Basics
Why are strings so important?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions from tennis newbies globally, and one that we get very often here at Tennis Direct. Strings are often overlooked, but in reality are just as, if not more important than the frame itself to maximize performance. There are a plethora of strings that can help to increase control, power, spin and feel. This Blog Post will unpack the basics of tennis strings, to help you make better informed decisions when getting your next racquet strung.
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String Types
Tennis strings have four different construction materials, including polyester, synthetic gut, multifilament and natural gut. Each string type has its strengths and weaknesses, which we’ll break down now.
Polyester
Polyester strings are the most widely used and readily available string type globally. First introduced in the 1990s, the polyester string has had a major influence on tennis, from recreational players, all the way to the modern greats. The now well-known manufacturer Luxilon released the first renditions of poly strings, with Big Banger in 1991, closely followed by Alu Power in 1994, a string which remains ever-popular to this day. Guga Kuerten’s 1997 French open win put polyester strings on the map. Players realized that the string type allowed him to swing faster at the ball, while generating more spin than was possible with natural or synthetic gut. Polyester strings are generally considered low powered, and are therefore more suitable for intermediate to advanced players, who value spin, control and durability above all else.
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Synthetic Gut
The most cost-friendly string type of the four, synthetic gut offers good feel and power for those just starting out in the game. While marketed as an inexpensive option for beginners, the string type can be useful in a hybrid setup, providing extra power and feel in combination with a firmer polyester string.
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Natural Gut
Widely regarded as the ultimate in feel and power, natural gut continues to stand the test of time. First introduced in the late 1800s by Babolat, the string, made of cow’s intestine, is still used by many of the modern day greats, including Federer, Djokovic and Barty. Natural gut simply performs unlike any other string on the market today, providing feel, comfort and tension maintenance that polyester strings could only dream of. Natural gut is best utilized in a hybrid string setup with a modern polyester string, which provides topspin and control. The characteristics of natural gut are not replicable in other alternatives, hence the premium price-point.
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Multifilament
An increasingly popular alternative, multifilament strings seek to mimic the best qualities of natural gut at a fraction of the price. The string is made of flexible microfibers, which allow for good levels of feel, and power, in a comfortable, arm-friendly package.
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