When it comes to rackets, most players focus on the frame, but the strings are just as important. Whether you're looking for more spin, better control, or a softer feel, the type of string you choose can make a major difference to your performance.
In this guide, we break down the main types of racket strings, their pros and cons, and who they're best suited for.
🎾 1. Synthetic Gut
Overview:
A great all-rounder made from nylon, synthetic gut offers a balanced combination of power, comfort, and durability. It’s the most affordable option and widely used by casual and intermediate players.
Best For:
- Beginners to intermediate players
- All-round play
-
Budget-conscious stringing
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅Affordable ✅ Balanced power and control ✅ Decent feel for the price |
❌ Lower durability than polyester ❌ Less spin and performance at high levels |
🎾 2. Multifilament
Overview:
Made of thousands of microfibers twisted together, multifilament strings are designed to mimic the comfort and power of natural gut. They’re soft, arm-friendly, and great for players with elbow or shoulder issues.
Best For:
- Players seeking comfort
- Those recovering from injury
-
Intermediate players needing power and feel
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅ Excellent comfort and power ✅ Gentle on the arm ✅ Good tension maintenance |
❌ More expensive than synthetic gut ❌ Less durability (especially for string breakers) |
🎾 3. Polyester (Monofilament)
Overview:
A favourite among competitive players, polyester strings are stiff, durable, and spin-friendly. They're designed for control and hard hitters, but they can be tough on the arm if tension is too high.
Best For:
- Advanced players
- Heavy hitters who break strings often
-
Players who rely on spin and control
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅ Excellent durability ✅ High spin potential ✅ Great control and precision |
❌ Low power ❌ Can feel stiff or harsh on the arm ❌ Loses tension quicker than multifilament |
🎾 4. Co-Polyester
Overview:
A softer version of traditional polyester, co-poly blends offer a bit more comfort while retaining durability and control. Many modern poly strings fall into this category.
Best For:
- Intermediate to advanced players
-
Those looking for a middle ground between control and comfort
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅ Better feel than standard polyester ✅ Still durable and spin-friendly ✅ Popular among club players |
❌ Not as soft as multifilament ❌ Still may be harsh for some arms |
🎾 5. Natural Gut
Overview:
The gold standard for feel and power, natural gut is made from cow intestine and offers unmatched tension maintenance and comfort. It’s the most expensive option and sensitive to moisture.
Best For:
- Players prioritising touch, feel, and comfort
- Injury-prone players
-
High-level players mixing with poly in hybrids
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅ Unmatched feel and tension stability ✅ Powerful and arm-friendly ✅ Great for hybrid setups |
❌ Expensive ❌ Sensitive to weather (moisture/humidity) ❌ Less durable on its own |
🎾 6. Hybrid Stringing (Mixing Two Types)
Overview:
Hybrid stringing uses one type of string for the mains and another for the crosses—often combining polyester and natural gut or multifilament. This setup allows players to balance control, comfort, and durability.
Best For:
- Players who want the best of both worlds
-
Customising performance without sacrificing too much in one area
| Pros: | Cons: |
|
✅ Tailored performance ✅ Reduced string breakage ✅ Balances spin, control, and comfort |
❌ Slightly more expensive than single-string setups ❌ More complex to string |
🎾 Need Help Choosing?
At Racket Academy, we can help you choose the perfect string setup based on your level, style, and injury history. Whether you want a soft stringbed or maximum spin, we’ve got you covered.
📍 Visit us in-store or book a stringing session online and let our experts guide you.