Which string type is right for you? Part 2

The next type of string to talk about is multifilaments. Multifilaments are constructed of many thin filaments, unlike poly and synthetic gut strings, which have a sold core. This gives them benefits sold core strings don’t have.

Because multifilaments are more elastic, they give more at impact. This gives them a larger sweet spot and less shock to your arm at impact. Players with arm issues like tennis elbow often find some measure of relief from multifilaments and the reduced amount of vibration and shock.

The other benefit to the elasticity is the potential for more spin and depth on your shots. The extra give in the stings at impact keep the ball on the stings a fraction of a second longer, which creates more time to impart spin. In addition, the trampoline-like effect of the elasticity can add some depth to your shots and additional power.

Multifilament strings may be a good choice for some, but hard hitters and spin players could face reduced control and durability..

For players who want better feel, some extra pop and spin potential, it would be worth it to give a multifilament string a try. Stop by the store and we’d be happy to answer your questions and help you find the best string for your game.

Which string type is right for you? Part1

When trying to decide on which tennis string is right for your game, a good place to start is knowing there are four basic types of strings. You can also combine two of the types into a hybrid stringing, but we’ll get to those in another post. In the next several posts, we’ll give some pros and cons to each of these types. We’ll do so from our many, many years of stringing rackets for countless people, and the feedback they have given.

We’ll start with the most basic of the types, synthetic gut. Technically, all stings that are not natural gut are synthetic. What we’re talking about is strings made of nylon with a solid core, wrapped by smaller filaments.

Synthetic gut is a sting that does everything ok. Not great. Not horrible. For someone just getting into the game, it’s a great option because those players rarely have a clear idea of what their needs and preferences are. This makes it a very good springboard into other types of strings, as their needs become more specific.

For power, control and feel, it comes in between the other strings, but can play great for someone who wants a combination of those traits. As for durability, again, it comes in the middle among the strings.

Synthetic Gut is a great option for its price, which is less than the other types. Some frequent string breakers like it for having more pop than the more durable options, while not breaking the bank for each stringing.

Don’t overlook synthetic gut as an option worth trying. If you’re looking for more control than a softer, multifilament string, and more pop and better feel than a poly, they’re worth a try.

Replacement grip or over grip?

 

Replacement grip or over grip?

We get asked that question often and there isn’t a one size fits all answer.

The main grip on your racket or pickleball paddle can be replaced with a, you guessed it, a replacement grip. Even if you’re using an over grip, over time, the main grip will lose its cushioning and tackiness. If you feel your grip feels hard or noticeably thinner in your hand, it’s time to get a new grip on there. The added cushioning will improve the feel and if you’re not using an over grip, will reduce slipping on impact.

An over grip, as the name implies, goes over the main grip. Many players like over grips for their ability to absorb sweat and their feel. They’re easy to replace, so for someone with really sweaty hands, over grips can be a tremendous help in providing a more stable hold of the racket or paddle. Over grips will make the handle feel larger, so players with small hands or ones with grips too large for their hands may not like the increased grip size.

Stop by the store and we’d be happy to show you the options and help find the best grip solution for your needs. Best of all, we’ll put them on while you wait.

Are you wearing the wrong shoes?

 

Tennis or pickleball, you need the right shoes. 

A mistake many make is using running shoes in place of a good court shoe. This decision can have some nasty results. 

Running shoes (and walking shoes) are made to go in one direction, straight ahead. For sports like tennis and pickleball, this is a problem with so much of the movement being side to side. A running shoe’s lack of lateral support can lead to rolled and sprained ankles. If you want to see for yourself, grab a pair of running shoes and see for yourself how much the bend and twist with just your hands. A court shoe for tennis and/or pickleball will be much sturdier, with less flexibility, but way more support for the needs of the court. 

The other issue with running shoes is the soles. Again, they are designed for running straight ahead, not for sudden starts and stops. Court shoes have a firmer sole with a tread pattern designed to grip the court for better stopping and acceleration. 

If comfort or weight is your reason for not getting a court shoe, try on some of the newest shoes. While some are a little heavy, many are very light without sacrificing support and performance, and they even look a little like running shoes. Oh… and they look amazing! 

Stop in and we’d be glad to help you pick the right shoe for your feet, your game and your needs. 

Are you getting enough depth control?

 

Power is great, but without control, it’s meaningless.

Are you getting enough control? Not the left/right kind, I mean depth. Are you hitting too many balls long?

One cure for this problem is more topspin. If you hit more flat, or struggle with getting enough spin, there are ways to add depth control through your equipment.

The best way is with your strings. Stringing tighter with your current string will reduce the trampoline effect while reducing depth. You can also switch to a stiffer string. One warning with both options. While adding some depth control, you will also lose some power and add more shock at impact. If going a little tighter or stiffer is not helping, you may need to find a pro to help you add topspin to your shots.

One other possible equipment setup that can cause shots to go long is having a racket with an oversize head. If you’re a hard hitter, you might not need a large head, and going smaller could add some control without sacrificing power or feel.

Stop in and we can help you with some options to improve your control.

Are you getting enough depth on your shots?

 

Are you hitting your shots deep enough?

If not, you’re probably giving your opponent short balls that they turn into winners. Hitting the ball deep forces your opponent to cover more ground and keeps them at the baseline where, for most amateurs, it’s tougher to hit clean winners. Hitting deep balls also gives you more time to set up for the return shot.

But how to get more depth?

We see several things that can rob you of depth. Strings can be that cause in several ways. One is stringing your racket too tight. This reduces the trampoline effect at impact, taking away depth and even spin potential. Lower tensions can also reduce shock at impact, reducing stress on your arm.

Another potential cause is using to stiff of a string. While poly strings are great for durability, they are stiff and not very elastic. This again reduces the trampoline effect, making you swing harder without getting the depth you need.

One other equipment related reason you’re not getting the depth you want is your racket. A racket with a small head reduces the trampoline effect, and while good for big hitters, could rob you of more depth and power.

Stop in and we’d be glad to help you pick the right string and tension for your game, and with our Racket Demo Program, a racket better suited to your game.

Are You Using the Right String?

 Are you using the right string? 

Are you getting a good combination of power and control? Are your strings causing discomfort in your arm?

Picking the right string is a matter of finding a balance that works for you from several factors.

Power vs control

Comfort vs durability

Less shock vs tight feel

Weighing these factors and knowing what you want/need will help you find a combination that will help you play better. Once you know what the best string is, you can further customize through tension.

We have a vast selection of strings. Stop by and let us know what is most important in the above questions and we can help you pick a string and tension that best fits your needs.