FAQs
Many tennis players are unaware of the importance of tennis strings for their success on the court. When they do recognise this, they often find the vast range of options overwhelming and confusing.
We want to change that. Here, you’ll find answers to the most important questions about tennis strings and our StringFinder.
If you have any questions that aren’t addressed here, please feel free to reach out to us using our contact form.
Everything you need to know about tennis strings:
Tennis strings can be divided into 4 categories:
1. Monofilament Strings
Description: The most commonly used strings today, made from a core and various materials like aramid, polymers, and polyurethanes.
Characteristics: Hardness depends on the material. They are a development of nylon strings, offering superior playing properties.
2. Natural Gut Strings
Description: Considered the high-end option.
Characteristics: Known for high power and excellent feel. However, they are expensive and have a shorter lifespan compared to other strings.
3. Multifilament Strings
Description: Composed of many individual fibres, similar to natural gut strings.
Characteristics: While they offer good power and feel, they don’t quite match natural gut but are more affordable and durable.
4. Hybrid Strings
Description: A combination of monofilament and gut or multifilament strings.
Characteristics: Typically, monofilament is used for the length and gut/multifilament for the cross, which is popular among professional players.
Additional Considerations:
Coatings: Some strings have coatings that enhance durability and spin potential.
Shapes: Strings come in various shapes; round shapes are traditional, while angular shapes can increase spin potential. Using square strings in hybrid setups may reduce the lifespan of the cross strings.
The ideal stringing hardness for your tennis racket depends on several factors, including your playing style, personal preferences, and the size of your racket.
Generally, lower string hardness provides more power, touch, comfort (which protects your arm), spin, and durability. However, it may also result in slightly less control over your strokes. Our recommendation is to string your racket as softly as possible while still maintaining full control.
If you haven’t yet determined your optimal stringing hardness, here are some starting points:
– For a midsize racket: start with 21/20 KG
– For an oversize racket: start with 22/21 KG.
If you notice a lack of control (such as balls flying out of bounds or the need to slow down your natural swing), consider increasing the stringing hardness by 1 KG each time you restring. Conversely, if you find that your shots are consistently falling short or you have to hit too hard, reduce the stringing hardness by 1 KG.
Additionally, when stringing your racket, take into account external conditions like court surface, ball type, and weather, as these can significantly affect your game. For players who are not professional, we generally recommend stringing about 1 KG less in spring and fall compared to midsummer and winter.
First of all, you should choose your racket independently of the strings. It’s essential to find a tennis racket that feels right for you in terms of design, grip, and overall characteristics. Ideally, you should test your racket in direct comparison with your old racket or other new options. Typically, test rackets come strung with a monofilament string at medium tension.
However, the tennis string is just as crucial to your game as the racket itself (see our article: “How to Find the Right String for Your Game”). Once you’ve found your ideal racket, it’s time to select the right string for it.
We firmly believe that your criteria for selecting a racket will guide you to the appropriate string. If you’re looking for power and comfort, choose a string that embodies those characteristics.
That’s exactly why we developed StringFinder: in just seconds, you can discover the perfect string for you from a selection of over 400 options based on your preferences.
Your string. Your game.
Depending on how often you play, you should consider restringing your tennis racket every 2 to 8 weeks. Please keep in mind that these are average guidelines; both the frequency of play and the characteristics of the player influence string wear. For example, a 25-year-old player with a powerful stroke will need to change strings more frequently than a 60-year-old player who primarily plays doubles. Players who play daily may need to restring even more often to ensure optimal performance.
In general, the following applies:
When your strings show signs of wear, such as cracks or frayed ends, it’s time to change them. However, you should restring at least every three months, regardless of wear, because the string tension and properties can degrade significantly over time, even if the strings have not been played.
The StringFinder provides you with a string recommendation based on the information in your player profile or in expert mode.
Once you have decided to purchase one of our string recommendations and are now holding it in your hands, please proceed as follows:
Test Procedure with one Racket (if you do not have two identical rackets):
We recommend stringing your midsize racket with 21/20 KG or your oversize racket with 22/21 KG. Play with it at least three times before evaluating the string.
Test Procedure in Comparison (with two identical rackets):
Have one of your rackets strung with the recommended new string at exactly the same tension as the old string on the other racket. If you don’t know the values, consult your stringer; he should know.
Then, play with the racket with the “old” string for about 10 minutes to get a feel for the game. After that, switch rackets and play for at least 40 minutes with the racket that has the new string. Finally, switch back again and compare how the new string feels in relation to the old one. Repeat the test at least three times before making your evaluation.
Evaluation of the Test:
At the end of the test, take a step back and assess how comfortable you feel with the new string. If you feel that your shots are flying too short, reduce the string tension by 1 KG. If your shots are going out and you have too little control, increase the string tension by 1 KG for the next stringing.
If you are generally not comfortable with the string, enter the recommended string in Expert Mode and use the sliders to adjust which properties you want more or less of, and how much priority you want to give to individual properties (spin, speed, control, durability, etc.). This way, you can continue to explore options until you find the perfect string for you.
StringFinder – Your Constant Companion
We recommend that you check whether you are still completely convinced you have found the right string for you before restringing your racket. Please keep in mind that your game can change over time, and with it, your string requirements.
The constant development of string materials also means that there are always new strings available on the market. StringFinder will find the best string for you from the latest selection at any time and in a matter of seconds—whenever you want, wherever you want, and as often as you want.
The enormous influence of tennis strings on your game is underestimated by many—unfortunately, this includes some experienced players and even a few coaches. The complexity of the subject, combined with the vast range of strings available, often makes players reluctant to engage with it.
In recreational sports, players typically use a string recommended by a coach or trusted stringer without question, often overlooking factors like individual playing style, age, physical complaints, or price.
The right string has just as much influence on your game as your racket does. Among other things, it affects:
-Your performance (power, spin, and control based on the selected string)
-Your health (comfort to protect your back and arms)
-Your expenses (stringing frequency of the selected string)
And we are not alone in this opinion.
This is exactly why we created StringZone. We aim to enable motivated and interested players to find the optimal string for their needs quickly and easily, without relying on chance.
Everyone tests their racket before buying it, but hardly anyone tests strings—and thus misses the chance to get the best out of their game.
Our StringFinder offers an innovative solution that caters to individual needs and playing styles, finding the perfect string for every tennis player in seconds.
The thickness of the strings is usually specified in millimetres (ranging from 1.0 to 1.41) or in gauge (15-19), and it significantly influences the durability, feel, and power of the string. Thinner strings offer more spin potential, comfort, and touch, while thicker strings increase durability.
We recommend using thinner strings for narrow string patterns (20/18). For wider string patterns (18/16), you can also use thicker strings if durability is a top priority.
Questions about our Stringfinder:
If you’re new to the topic of tennis strings or unsure of your current string, you can easily find the best option for you with just a few clicks through your player profile (beginner mode).
Customising your profile takes only four clicks. Once that’s done, our matching algorithm will immediately provide you with three top tennis string recommendations tailored to you.
If you wish to purchase one of the recommended strings, you’ll find a drop-down menu next to each option that links directly to a web-shop where you can buy the string (Buy button).
Additionally, a price slider located below the displayed recommendations allows you to set your maximum budget for the string properties. Simply enter your desired price using the slider and press “Apply changes.” This will give you three recommendations that align with both your profile and budget.
Have you already dealt with the subject of “strings” and are you playing a string that you know or that you have chosen after deliberate testing? Great, then you’re already an expert in our community.
But StringZone.Tennis also offers experts exciting and useful added value:
Our StringFinder allows you to visualise the specific properties of your string.
In just a few clicks, you can see which characteristics your string stands for in the various string properties such as power, touch, control and more.
You are probably very happy with your string and have therefore been playing it for a while.
Nevertheless, you can use our StringFinder to quickly see in which area your string may have small weaknesses, such as low power or low comfort.
With StringFinder, you can customise individual properties according to your wishes and requirements and receive three string recommendations in just a few seconds that suit your playing even better than the previous one.
Thanks to our sophisticated matching algorithm, you can save an enormous amount of time when searching for a better string.
Are you generally familiar with strings and want to compare different strings directly and specifically?
No problem with the StringFinder:
Simply select the strings you want to compare with from the top three results in the drop-down menu.
The differences between the strings, their properties and the price of each individual string are displayed immediately and at a glance with the help of a graphic.
After entering your string, select the strings you want to compare from the top three results displayed in the drop-down menu. You can quickly see the differences between the strings in terms of their properties on the displayed graph.
To make the direct comparison between just two strings clearer, you can easily hide or show individual strings in the drop-down menu with a single click.
Determining your playing style is straightforward and can be easily answered, even by beginners.
Start by asking yourself this question: Do I enjoy coming to the net during a game, or do I tend to avoid it?
– If your answer is “yes,” you are a “serve and volley” player, which means you are an attacking player.
– If your answer is “no,” you fall into the category of baseline players.
Baseline players can be further distinguished between aggressive and defensive styles. Consider this: Do I mostly dictate the rallies and impose my game on my opponent, or do I feel more comfortable when my opponent takes the lead, forcing me to react?
– The former describes an aggressive baseline player.
– The latter describes a defensive baseline player.
If you don’t identify strongly with either category, you are likely an all-rounder.
Yes! Simply use the “Share” button on your mobile device, and you can send the top three recommendations, along with the graphic displaying the different characteristics of each string, via SMS, WhatsApp, or email.
From now on, our StringFinder will be your permanent tennis companion. You can use it repeatedly to compare your strings and even use it for your entire family.
StringFinder is available to you wherever you go — today, tomorrow, and for many years to come. As your game evolves, so do your string requirements—whether you need a new “comfort” string to prevent tennis elbow, seek more control in your game, or desire a more durable option.
With StringFinder, you can quickly find a new string that perfectly matches your specific needs from a selection of over 400 strings — based on your current string — without the hassle of time-consuming research.
Behind each of the individual top three recommendations in StringFinder, there is a dropdown menu where you can click the buy button to go directly to a web-shop to purchase the string.
Are you generally well-versed in strings and want to compare different options directly and specifically? That’s no problem with StringFinder! Simply select the strings you want to compare from the top three results in the dropdown menu.
The differences between the strings, their properties, and the price of each individual string are displayed immediately and clearly with the help of a graphic.
To make the direct comparison of two strings in the graph clearer, you can easily hide and show individual strings in the dropdown menu of the top three results with just one click.
The perfect string should also fit your budget. The price range for tennis strings is wide, and not everyone can or wants to spend a lot on their hobby. That’s why we have integrated a price filter into our StringFinder. You can find this below the graphic that displays your top three results according to your desired criteria.
Simply enter your maximum desired price and click “Apply Changes.” Now, you will see three recommendations that match both your profile and your budget.
Questions from players:
Why is choosing the right tennis string so important? Because the tennis string directly influences your performance on the court.
Tennis strings are as unique as your game. Selecting the right tennis string is just as crucial as choosing the right racket, regardless of your age or skill level. Tennis strings vary not only in material but also in composition, hardness, price, and many other factors.
The characteristics of your tennis string—such as power, spin, control, and touch—have a significant impact on your performance. The material and hardness of the string can be pivotal in alleviating strain on your arms, shoulders, and back during play, thus protecting your health.
Durability and stability also determine how often you should replace your strings. Therefore, your choice of string not only affects the price of the individual string but also your overall expenses.
It’s essential to remember that every tennis player is unique. A string preferred by a professional may not be the best choice for you, nor is every test winner necessarily ideal. Your stroke technique, playing strength, age, and fitness level all influence your game. The string on your racket is just one of several factors that can enhance your performance.
Of course, other elements, such as string thickness and the impact of string hardness on your game, also play a role, but we cannot account for these at this stage.
You also evolve over time. As you and your game change, so do the characteristics you require from your string. When you’re 20 and in peak training, your equipment needs will differ from those when you’re 50 and playing occasionally.
That’s why we want to provide you with a solution that helps you find the perfect string for your needs effortlessly—not just today, but always.
StringZone – Your String. Your Game.
StringZone is the world’s first provider to help you find the right tennis string in the shortest possible time—uncomplicated, simple, and fast.
Our StringFinder is not only unique in the realm of tennis strings but also incredibly easy to use.
It makes up over 50% of the racket and string set-up.
It is the most underestimated factor in every tennis player’s game.
Yes, it is essential for every player. Beginners, in particular, may find it challenging to follow their coach’s instructions and enjoy the game if they are using the wrong string.
The string accounts for over 50% of your racket and string setup. It is often the most underestimated factor in every tennis player’s game. This complexity is precisely why we developed the StringFinder, allowing you to find the optimal string for your needs with just a few clicks—without having to spend hours researching the subject.
The importance of the tennis string is just as significant as that of your racket, and this applies to players at all levels, from beginners to professionals. The string serves as the interface between you and the ball, regardless of your skill level.
On the contrary, for both young and older players, the choice of tennis string is a crucial factor for playing successfully and without physical discomfort in the long term. The strain on young players during their growth and on older players should not be underestimated. In addition to sensible fitness training, a soft and arm-friendly tennis string is essential for sustainable enjoyment and success in this fantastic sport.
Absolutely! With StringZone, you gain an up-to-date overview of a vast selection of tennis strings. There are always better and more affordable options on the market. If your fitness or health status changes, you can discover new strings that better suit your current condition. Plus, you can use the price slider to see if there are similar, more affordable strings available.
Actually, this is important for every player. Beginners, in particular, may find it unnecessarily difficult to follow their coach’s instructions and enjoy the game if they are using the wrong string.
Questions from trainers and stringers:
As a tennis coach, you are a vital source of inspiration for informing your students about the importance of tennis strings, and you want to maintain that role. With our StringFinder, you can quickly recommend the best string for each of your students in just seconds, enhancing their enjoyment of the game and improving their performance—a win-win for both you and your students.
It’s not uncommon for you, as a coach, to also string the rackets of your students or your club members. Until now, you could only accommodate the individual preferences of players if they had thoroughly researched the topic of strings and expressed specific requests about their string and stringing type. Many players often end up using whatever string the club offers, regardless of their unique characteristics and preferences.
With StringFinder, the interaction between players, you as a coach, and/or the stringer is greatly simplified through a single solution, enhancing the overall playing experience for everyone.
We are convinced that our StringFinder will provide tennis coaches and stringers worldwide with a solution that enables them to introduce their customers to a topic that has been almost criminally neglected due to its complexity—quickly and effortlessly.
The right string can have a decisive influence on every player’s game. However, the confusing market for tennis strings and the complexity of the subject have often prevented people from fully engaging with it. As a result, the potential performance increase from the right string is frequently overlooked in recreational play.
With StringFinder, you now have the opportunity to offer your students not only your expertise but also a tool that enables them to find the optimal string for themselves in just seconds, thus enhancing their playing experience.
As a coach, you are a vital source of inspiration for informing your students about the importance of tennis strings, and this role should continue. With our StringFinder, you can quickly recommend the best string for each student, increasing their enjoyment of the game and improving their performance—a win-win for both you and your students.
It’s common for you, as a coach, to also string the rackets of your students or club members. Until now, you could only accommodate individual preferences if players thoroughly researched strings and expressed specific requests about their choices. Many players often end up using whatever string the club offers, regardless of their unique characteristics and preferences.
StringFinder maximises the simplicity of interaction between players, you as the coach, and/or the stringer, enhancing the overall playing experience with a single solution.
Here’s how the interaction between players and you as a coach/stringer can look with the help of StringFinder:
1. You educate your students about the importance of string selection for their individual play and explain how the StringFinder can facilitate this process.
2. Players can easily use StringFinder to find the best string for themselves, purchase it, and provide it to you.
3. StringFinder helps you keep track of your customers and optimise your service: in your account, you can see which racket was strung with which string and hardness for each customer.
4. As a coach/stringer, you can monitor the impact of the new string on a player’s game and make further adjustments using StringFinder.
5. If circumstances change—such as an arm, shoulder, or back injury—you can quickly adapt the string requirements for that player in just seconds.
The quick and uncomplicated guidance you provide with StringFinder will be seen as an excellent service, enhancing your reputation as a coach or stringer. This added value differentiates your service from the competition and becomes a unique selling proposition (USP).
No. We explicitly do not offer a stringing service; our goal is to support every tennis player in finding the best string for their needs.
Service providers in the stringing business can be divided into three categories:
1. Professional Stringers (e.g., in a tennis store): The StringFinder can be used as a white-label solution, allowing customers to find the best string for themselves in a straightforward and understandable way, with the guidance of an expert, while focusing on the store’s specific offerings. In the future, the stringing service could be optimized based on stored string selections, string hardness, and stringing time. This builds customer trust and keeps them informed, increasing awareness of this important aspect. Proactive reminder emails about when a new string is due can also be arranged, enhancing the overall customer service experience.
2. Coaches Serving Students and Club Members: Coaches can use the StringFinder to fulfill their roles as both trainer and stringer, even without the support of a tennis store. With StringFinder, a coach who strings their own rackets can advise their customers at least at the same level as a professional string salesman. By combining StringFinder with their personal experience, coaches can offer a more comprehensive perspective, making them invaluable to their students and the club.
3. On-the-Road Stringing Services: When at training camps or tennis vacations, a customer’s desired string may not be readily available. StringFinder allows you to quickly identify which of the available strings is closest to the customer’s choice. Additionally, StringFinder’s note function lets you access stored information on string hardness and other relevant data, ensuring you can provide the best possible service to your customers.
With StringFinder, you as a trainer and/or stringer can offer your students not only your expertise but also a powerful tool that enables them to find the optimal string for their needs in just a few seconds, ultimately enhancing their playing experience.
As a coach, you play a vital role in educating your students about the importance of tennis strings. With our StringFinder, you can quickly recommend the best string for each student, increasing their enjoyment of the game and improving their performance—a win-win for both coaches and students.
Often, you are also the stringer for your students or club members. Until now, accommodating individual preferences required players to be well-informed about “strings” and to express specific requests about their choices. Many players default to whatever string the club offers, regardless of their unique characteristics and preferences.
StringFinder simplifies interaction between players and you as the coach/stringer, enhancing the overall playing experience with a single solution.
Here’s how the interaction can unfold with the help of StringFinder:
1. You educate your students on the importance of string selection for their individual play and explain how the StringFinder can facilitate this process.
2. Players can easily use the StringFinder to find the best string for themselves, purchase it, and provide it to you.
3. StringFinder helps you track your customers and optimise your service: in your account, you can see which racket was strung with which string and hardness for each customer.
4. As a coach/stringer, you can monitor the impact of the new string on a player’s game and make adjustments as needed using the StringFinder.
5. If circumstances change—such as an arm, shoulder, or back injury—you can quickly adapt the string requirements for that player in just seconds.
The quick and straightforward guidance you provide with the StringFinder will be viewed as an excellent service, enhancing your reputation as a coach or stringer. This added value differentiates your service from the competition and becomes a unique selling proposition (USP).
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