Question re: modern string tensions / strings

Bobby Jr · 11-05-2010, 04:19 AM

I have played with the Wilson PS85 since god knows when and used to string them at 62-63 lbs with whatever was the normal shop reel string in the 90s.

Since I started playing again after a very long break I've been getting them strung at 60 lbs using Prince Synthetic Gut Multi 16 (basically because it was about half way in the range of available strings in the shop). I got one strung at 58 and it was clearly too soft almost immediately.

My query is: I keep seeing pro tensions for Federer etc mentioned on the boards and they're always in the mid 50s or even lower. I couldn't even play with my racquets strung that loose... Do they use strings that 'play' fundamentally tighter compared to conventional 'shop reel' strings? Or has the trend been to string looser since the 90s? I just cant see how guys using 100sq/inch heads could play with such low tensions?

Also - Is using different strings for the mains/crosses worth trying for X reason (feel/durability/maintaining tension)?

Also 2 - Any recommendations for strings which might be worth trying? I am not a major string breaker but have a fast swing use quite heavy racquets.

Thanks for any tips/comments on this.

(Ironically, I used to string my own while working at a club for many years - but the last time was in about 1997. It's quite odd letting someone else string my sticks but I made sure at least it's the same person and machine each time so I can get a better picture)

Irvin · 11-05-2010, 04:53 AM

Most of the pros are playing with lower tensions because they are using poly strings. I do not think poly strings are for you though as you are not a string breaker.

If I were you I would try some different strings and see how they feel to you.

Irvin

Bobby Jr · 11-05-2010, 04:58 AM

OK. That's good info... Thanks. So if I strung at 60 with a multi that would be equivalent to using poly at 5lbs less?

Or is the gap more than that (or vary noticeably between brands as well)?

Cheers.

Irvin · 11-05-2010, 05:01 AM

No poly at any tension will be the equivalent of a multi and any tension.

Irvin

joe sch · 11-05-2010, 05:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Irvin

Most of the pros are playing with lower tensions because they are using poly strings. I do not think poly strings are for you though as you are not a string breaker.

If I were you I would try some different strings and see how they feel to you.

Irvin

Players are now playing poly and copoly strings for the unsurpassed control and "hit-ability", not because they were string breakers. They are generally for big hitters, longer swings, players that want to take big cuts and keep the ball in play. They should be played at 5..10% less than the tension one played syn gut, and can also be played at even lower tensions for great control and less arm impact.

Irvin · 11-05-2010, 05:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe sch

Players are now playing poly and copoly strings for the unsurpassed control and "hit-ability", not because they were string breakers...

I don't believe that. Most people play poly because it's the in thing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe sch

...They are generally for big hitters, longer swings, players that want to take big cuts and keep the ball in play...

Those are good reasons to play poly

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe sch

...They should be played at 5..10% less than the tension one played syn gut, and can also be played at even lower tensions for great control and less arm impact.

Lowering the tension will decrease arm impact but not so sure it will improve control. Poly is not going to have less arm impact than multis.

Irvin

airman88 · 11-05-2010, 08:45 AM

I have to agree with Joe Sch to some degree. Most newer polys are not really that great for durability, especially with people playing in thin gauges. Th playing characteristics are very different and unique, as Irvin has said, and some people just can't play without that. I personally only play with the feel of full bed polys.

Yes but to answer the question, the different tensions are due to the type of string. And also some people just play with soft, mushy strings and very short swings, but I don't get how they do it either.

Irvin · 11-05-2010, 11:32 AM

^^ I agree.

Irvin

Bobby Jr · 11-05-2010, 06:46 PM

Thanks Irvin, Joe and airman88.

That makes some more sense to me now.

Quote:

Originally Posted by joe sch

Players are now playing poly and copoly strings for the unsurpassed control and "hit-ability", not because they were string breakers. They are generally for big hitters, longer swings, players that want to take big cuts and keep the ball in play.

Can you just let me know about copoly? I can't find it discussed it in the TT strings guide.

Also - I do take big cuts at the ball and would like to be able to get more spin. Would a copoly be good for that but with the 'penalty' of perhaps lesser feel? (FYI, I don't have arm troubles in case that was a consideration)

I am happy to try stuff which breaks more often if the playing is better - spin especially. OR, would I really be better first off just trying a 17 gauge version of the string I'm already using? (don't want to overcomplicate life just yet

)

Cheers for the comments thus far anyway.

nguyen320 · 11-05-2010, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobby Jr

Thanks Irvin, Joe and airman88.

That makes some more sense to me now.

Can you just let me know about copoly? I can't find it discussed it in the TT strings guide.

Also - I do take big cuts at the ball and would like to be able to get more spin. Would a copoly be good for that but with the 'penalty' of perhaps lesser feel? (FYI, I don't have arm troubles in case that was a consideration)

I am happy to try stuff which breaks more often if the playing is better - spin especially. OR, would I really be better first off just trying a 17 gauge version of the string I'm already using? (don't want to overcomplicate life just yet

)

Cheers for the comments thus far anyway.

Basically the same thing.. My thoughts on poly is that it is GREAT for the first few hours then it loses tension. that is why you see them switching racquets so often because if they didnt they would lose control. I have switched from poly to a synthetic guy b/c I cant afford to switch strings every 7 hours. My thought on the low tensions is because (for me and some others will support this thought too, however it has not been "proven") polys seem to have more spin potential with lower tensions which is important at the pro level. I don't view polys as a "control" string because of its tension loss over the long run but when fresh off the stringer it feels great, great spin, great control, and good power. So my sugguestion is don't use a poly unless you can afford to pay for a new stringjob every week or two or you don't really care about the tension.. Although most polys are very durable (they will last up to months for some people), they don't seem to play as well after a week or so.

rufusbgood · 11-05-2010, 08:16 PM

Bobby,

Here's what I suggest. Next time you need new strings forget PSG Multi. Get your racquet strung with a full bed of Luxilon Alu Fluoro and drop the tension to somewhere between 45-50 lbs on a constant pull machine.

There are several reasons why Luxilon is as popular as it is. Other posters have mentioned control, durability, etc. What they haven't mentioned is this: You don't have to string it tight to keep the strings from moving around. This is critical in my opinion. This has allowed tour level players to drop tensions into the 30 and 40 lbs region. Because when the strings are staying in position you get consistent shot placement. And I think you will find that your shots feel more "solid" when you hit with Luxilon.

airman88 · 11-05-2010, 08:49 PM

Or try Signum pro or Genesis and it'll last and not lose tension.

11-05-2010, 04:19 AM	#1
Bobby Jr Hall Of Fame Join Date: Jul 2010 Posts: 4,543	Question re: modern string tensions / strings I have played with the Wilson PS85 since god knows when and used to string them at 62-63 lbs with whatever was the normal shop reel string in the 90s. Since I started playing again after a very long break I've been getting them strung at 60 lbs using Prince Synthetic Gut Multi 16 (basically because it was about half way in the range of available strings in the shop). I got one strung at 58 and it was clearly too soft almost immediately. My query is: I keep seeing pro tensions for Federer etc mentioned on the boards and they're always in the mid 50s or even lower. I couldn't even play with my racquets strung that loose... Do they use strings that 'play' fundamentally tighter compared to conventional 'shop reel' strings? Or has the trend been to string looser since the 90s? I just cant see how guys using 100sq/inch heads could play with such low tensions? Also - Is using different strings for the mains/crosses worth trying for X reason (feel/durability/maintaining tension)? Also 2 - Any recommendations for strings which might be worth trying? I am not a major string breaker but have a fast swing use quite heavy racquets. Thanks for any tips/comments on this. (Ironically, I used to string my own while working at a club for many years - but the last time was in about 1997. It's quite odd letting someone else string my sticks but I made sure at least it's the same person and machine each time so I can get a better picture) __________________ Original Pro Staff 85, leaded to 370g, hybrid poly/syn gut set-up, 48-52-ish lbs. Last edited by Bobby Jr : 11-05-2010 at 04:40 AM.

11-05-2010, 04:53 AM	#2
Irvin Legend Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Marietta, Ga Posts: 6,974	Most of the pros are playing with lower tensions because they are using poly strings. I do not think poly strings are for you though as you are not a string breaker. If I were you I would try some different strings and see how they feel to you. Irvin __________________ Irvin - I wish Facebook would notify me when people delete me so I can 'Like it'

11-05-2010, 04:58 AM	#3
Bobby Jr Hall Of Fame Join Date: Jul 2010 Posts: 4,543	OK. That's good info... Thanks. So if I strung at 60 with a multi that would be equivalent to using poly at 5lbs less? Or is the gap more than that (or vary noticeably between brands as well)? Cheers. __________________ Original Pro Staff 85, leaded to 370g, hybrid poly/syn gut set-up, 48-52-ish lbs.

11-05-2010, 05:01 AM	#4
Irvin Legend Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Marietta, Ga Posts: 6,974	No poly at any tension will be the equivalent of a multi and any tension. Irvin __________________ Irvin - I wish Facebook would notify me when people delete me so I can 'Like it'

11-05-2010, 08:45 AM	#7
airman88 Semi-Pro Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 557	I have to agree with Joe Sch to some degree. Most newer polys are not really that great for durability, especially with people playing in thin gauges. Th playing characteristics are very different and unique, as Irvin has said, and some people just can't play without that. I personally only play with the feel of full bed polys. Yes but to answer the question, the different tensions are due to the type of string. And also some people just play with soft, mushy strings and very short swings, but I don't get how they do it either. __________________ (2) Dunlop Aerogel 200 (~345 g)- Genesis Typhoon (Gray) Full Bed (55/56.5)