One of the most common questions I get asked is “what strings should I use?” After 18 years of professional stringing, I’ve learned that understanding the different string types is the first step to finding your perfect setup.
Let me break down the four main categories of tennis strings and help you understand which might work best for your game.
Natural Gut Strings
Natural gut strings, made from cow intestine, are widely regarded as the highest-quality strings available. In my experience stringing for professionals at Wimbledon and Queens Club, many top players still swear by natural gut for its unmatched feel.
Benefits:
- Exceptional power and comfort
- Excellent tension maintenance
- Ideal for players with arm issues (e.g., tennis elbow)
Drawbacks:
- Expensive
- Less durable than synthetic options
- Sensitive to weather conditions
Best For: Players seeking maximum feel and playability, those who prioritise comfort over durability.
Polyester Strings
Polyester strings are firm and durable, making them a popular choice for advanced players who generate a lot of spin. When I strung for players like Nick Kyrgios and Stan Wawrinka, polyester was often their go-to choice for the control it provides.
Benefits:
- High durability and control
- Excellent spin potential
- Ideal for aggressive baseline players
Drawbacks:
- Less comfort compared to natural gut
- Can be harsh on the arm
- Loses tension faster than natural gut
Best For: Advanced players who hit with a lot of topspin, those who break strings frequently and need durability.
Synthetic Gut Strings
Made from nylon or multifilament materials, synthetic gut strings offer a balanced combination of playability, comfort, and affordability. I often recommend these to club players and juniors who want good performance without breaking the bank.
Benefits:
- Good all-around performance
- Affordable compared to natural gut
- Comfortable and arm-friendly
Drawbacks:
- Not as durable as polyester
- Lacks the premium feel of natural gut
Best For: Recreational players looking for an affordable and versatile option, beginners and intermediate players who want a mix of power and control.
Hybrid Strings
Hybrid stringing combines two different types of strings (e.g., natural gut and polyester) to maximise benefits like durability, spin, and comfort. This is where I can really help customise a setup to your specific needs.
Benefits:
- Customisable to individual preferences
- Allows for a mix of power, spin, and control
- Can extend the lifespan of premium strings
Drawbacks:
- Finding the right combination requires experimentation
- Still costly if using premium strings like natural gut
Best For: Players looking for a balance of durability and feel, those who want to fine-tune their string setup for specific needs.
My Recommendation
If you’re unsure where to start, I’m always happy to chat about your game and recommend a string that suits your playing style and budget. Every player is different, and what works for a professional might not be the best choice for you.
Related Articles
- How String Tension Affects Your Game - Learn how tension impacts power, control, and comfort
- Choosing the Right Strings for Your Playing Style - Match your string choice to how you play
- When Should You Restring Your Racket? - Know when it’s time for fresh strings