The Best String Types for You

Key Points

• Three Main String Types
  Natural Gut: Made from cow intestine (3 cows per 12m string); softest and most powerful string; expensive and sensitive to humidity.
  Multifilament: Made of hundreds of woven synthetic fibers; very arm-friendly and soft; best for recreational players; low durability.
  Polyester (Monofilament): Most common on tour (~85–90% of players); stiff, low-powered, and durable; provides excellent control and spin.
• String Stiffness vs Durability
  Polyester: High stiffness, high durability → ideal for control and spin.
  Multifilament: Low stiffness and low durability → comfortable but less control.
  Natural Gut: Balanced stiffness and durability, but vulnerable to moisture.
• String Type Performance Characteristics
  Natural Gut: High in power, comfort, spin, and tension maintenance; lower in control.
  Polyester: Low power and comfort, but very high control and spin; poor tension maintenance.
  Multifilament: Moderate power, comfort, and tension maintenance; less control and spin.
• String Gauge (Thickness)
  Most common: 1.25mm (ideal for performance players).
  Thinner strings (1.10–1.20mm): More playable, more spin, better feel, but less durable.
  Thicker strings (1.30mm): More durable, more control, but less feel and comfort.
  Players who rarely break strings should use thinner gauges (1.10–1.20mm) for better experience and less injury risk.
• String Color & Performance
  Darker colors (black, dark grey): Play stiffer, offer more control.
  Lighter colors (yellow, white): Feel livelier and softer.
• Why Strings Matter
  Strings are like the engine or tires of your game — directly affect feel, performance, and injury risk.
  Performance Players: Need control → usually use full polyester.
  Recreational/Tournament Players: May use polyester or hybrid setups.
  Beginners/Occasional Players: Should prioritize comfort and injury prevention → multifilament is best.