The short version

The three main string families, what each is good at, and which one fits your game.

Polyester — spin and control

The workhorse of competitive tennis. Polyester is stiff and rough, so it grips the ball and generates huge spin, and it holds tension well. The trade-off is comfort — it’s the least forgiving on the arm. If you play aggressively and live in the baseline, poly is probably your string. Popular options: Babolat RPM Blast, Luxilon Big Banger, Yonex Poly Tour Pro, Solinco Hyper-G.

Natural gut — the premium feel

Natural gut is still the benchmark for feel, comfort, and power. It’s the most expensive option and the least durable, but if you want the racquet to feel like it was designed to, this is it. It’s the string of choice for many tour players and for anyone with arm sensitivity.

Multifilament — comfort and feel

Multifilament strings are made of many thin filaments, which makes them softer and more comfortable than poly while still giving good feel. They’re a great middle ground for club players who want comfort without giving up too much performance. Head Lynx and Wilson Sensation are the classics.

Not sure which fits your game? Tell us how you play and we’ll recommend the right one — and have it on your racquet the next day.

Have a question about your racquet or your strings? Get in touch — we pick up, we string, and we return it the next day.