Why is string so important ? Racquet string is more important
than the frame. Surprised? Providing the frame is satisfactory it is
the string that will provide a good or bad result. That is not to say
that frames are unimportant but less than most players actually think,
call it marketing.
A good frame with poor string will ruin your game. A good frame with
good string will play great. Once this is achieved you can then look
for the best Racquet for you.
The first "man made" strings were a simple nylon monofilament and played
very poorly, however, research and development have come a long way
since those days and most modern nylon and polyester strings are indeed
superb products. Whilst natural gut (the intestines of cows or sheep)
are still considered to be the best playing string their down side is
durability and susceptibility to moisture retention and of course the
care required in stringing.
Nylons and Polyesters go a long way to resolving these issues and of
course are infinitely more cost effective. Nylons are the most used
strings today but Polyester types (co-polymer etc) have increased their
market share over the last few years has their intense development by
extrusion companies have yeilded some excellent products. Without doubt
the combination of two different strings (Hybrids) is very effective
in increasing durability without sacrificing playability, however, not
all combinations are successful. Without doubt the most effective blend
is a Polyester with a nylon or Natural Gut.
TennisWeb hybrids are fully tested to ensure their compatability and
development is ongoing.
Tensions: Almost impossible to offer advice on this subject because
we are all individuals. A good starting point is to check the suggested
tensions on your Racquet and select the middle tension (note: Polyesters
10% less).
From your performance decide if you need more Power or Control. MORE
POWER - lower the tension. MORE CONTROL - increase the tension. When
changing tension please increase or decrease in small amounts as it
will change your game significantly. Keep a check of the tensions used
and the response you feel for future reference. Only you can decide
if your string and/or racquet are suitable for you but a good Coach
can offer valid advice in the first instance but give yourself time
to adjust to the new "feel" or "power" before you discard either.
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