Head Rip Control question

M

mela

New User
I really like Head RIP Control string (I like 16 gauge) mounted on a Head Microgel Instinct.
Rip Control gives me great comfort and control.
Now I have to buy new strings on TW.
In your experience which string is similar to Rip control?
I would like a string comfortable, durable and will not move.
In this features only the ISOSPEED Control is better than RIP Control?
Thank you.
 
There is really nothing like isospeed/head rip control... You should try the isospeed classic line and for less string movement you can put in string savers or hybrid with a poly
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
Why don't you just buy more RIP Control then?
Click to expand...
+1 . When I played I did not like Head RIP control because it had too much of a muted feel for me. If you like it that much stay with the string. If you want to try another string with some similarities (construction of string) I would recommend Isospeed energetic (17g is what I used). I loved that string, it had much more feel and control compared to Head RIP Control IMO.
 
In my opinion, there's no other string that plays similar to RIP Control. It's a unique string. Soft as a pillow with borderline polyester durability.

And it's cheap, and they still make them.
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
In my opinion, there's no other string that plays similar to RIP Control. It's a unique string. Soft as a pillow with borderline polyester durability.

And it's cheap, and they still make them.
Click to expand...


There are much softer multis out there but the spin potential of RIP Control approaches that of some polys.
 
I kinda like Rip Control, but because of its muted feel, I think I'll stick with Mantis Comfort and Tecnifibre MultiFeel. All 3 are great multi strings.
 
mikeler said:
There are much softer multis out there but the spin potential of RIP Control approaches that of some polys.
Click to expand...

Spin potential? I call marketing bs. All the little ripples and uneven surfaces on the strings never stay on long enough to make any contribution.

Want spin? Then work on the technique.
 
Hello See Mike's Multi PlayTest Thread...

You two new here???... Mike tested like 100 multis... and I know he tested the Rip Control.
 
On a Wilson Pro Staff Classic 6.0 95 I did not like it that much... I thought strings were moving much... strung @ 56 lbs...
 
Mikeler- Is the 16g rip control much more durable than the 17? I have been using the 17 for a while and absolutely love everything about the string but the durability(17g rip lasts me about 3-4 hours). I have a stringer though so I thought the extra spin from the 17 was worth the durability trade off so I never tried the 16.
 
clutch21 said:
Mikeler- Is the 16g rip control much more durable than the 17? I have been using the 17 for a while and absolutely love everything about the string but the durability(17g rip lasts me about 3-4 hours). I have a stringer though so I thought the extra spin from the 17 was worth the durability trade off so I never tried the 16.
Click to expand...

In experience, 16g lasts longer like any other 16g would over 17g. Although some people report a drastic difference between the 16g and 17g. :confused:
 
mela said:
I really like Head RIP Control string (I like 16 gauge) mounted on a Head Microgel Instinct.
Rip Control gives me great comfort and control.
Now I have to buy new strings on TW.
In your experience which string is similar to Rip control?
I would like a string comfortable, durable and will not move.
In this features only the ISOSPEED Control is better than RIP Control?
Thank you.
Click to expand...

Try Dunlop's multi called Dunlop Sport comfort synthetic. RIP had some nice qualities, but didn't have it all. String the Dunlop at 3-5 lbs lighter than you would RIP. There's just so much control in these strings and their performance life is above average.

bigmalik76 said:
+1 . When I played I did not like Head RIP control because it had too much of a muted feel for me. If you like it that much stay with the string. If you want to try another string with some similarities (construction of string) I would recommend Isospeed energetic (17g is what I used). I loved that string, it had much more feel and control compared to Head RIP Control IMO.
Click to expand...

Couldn't agree more.
 
If you like Rip Control, buy Rip Control and stick with it. No need to get used to another string. Having a racquet that always plays consistently is a good way to focus on what really matters: technique. Changing strings everytime is just about the same as changing racquets everytime. Makes getting consistent results that much more difficult.
 
clutch21 said:
Mikeler- Is the 16g rip control much more durable than the 17? I have been using the 17 for a while and absolutely love everything about the string but the durability(17g rip lasts me about 3-4 hours). I have a stringer though so I thought the extra spin from the 17 was worth the durability trade off so I never tried the 16.
Click to expand...


I only tested 16g multis with the exception of Maxim Touch 17.
 
there really is nothing like Head RIP. i love it, my wife loves it, people that we play with loves it. me and the wifey plays with 17g and a set will last me about 2 weeks, 2-3 hours every other day of playing. it really depends on how you hit, which will determine string longevity. i don't hit with heavy topspin.

for the price, you can't beat it. like everyone is saying, if you like it, stick with it and just buy more of it. if money's no issue, then i would like to suggest trying Tecnifibre NRG2, another 1 of my favorite. i only play with 17g or thinner strings, so i can't comment on 16g's.

just my .02 cents.
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
Not saying you don't. I just don't like to hear people say they want strings to give them more spin when it's the technique.
Click to expand...


Strings do make some difference in spin potential. If you don't believe that, I invite you to try out a shaped poly like Black 5 Edge or Black Widow and compare it side by side with NRG2 or Quasi Gut.
 
mikeler said:
Strings do make some difference in spin potential. If you don't believe that, I invite you to try out a shaped poly like Black 5 Edge or Black Widow and compare it side by side with NRG2 or Quasi Gut.
Click to expand...

How significant will it be? Let me just say this. If I hit a cross court shot out, it's not because the strings couldn't put enough topspin on it to bring it down. It's because I didn't put enough topspin based on my previous court position.

To me, I only care about how it feels upon impact and durability. All this power and spin mumble jumble is irrelevant to me, because I don't notice it.
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
How significant will it be? Let me just say this. If I hit a cross court shot out, it's not because the strings couldn't put enough topspin on it to bring it down. It's because I didn't put enough topspin based on my previous court position.

To me, I only care about how it feels upon impact and durability. All this power and spin mumble jumble is irrelevant to me, because I don't notice it.
Click to expand...


Tennis is a game of inches. If the ball comes down only half an inch sooner, that could be the difference between winning or losing a match point. There is a difference in strings but technique is the main factor with spin production.
 
mikeler said:
Tennis is a game of inches. If the ball comes down only half an inch sooner, that could be the difference between winning or losing a match point. There is a difference in strings but technique is the main factor with spin production.
Click to expand...

That is exactly what I'm trying to get across. To me, the minute differences between strings don't matter to me.

I play the same whether I have gut (mostly), $3.00 synthetic gut, RIP, premium multi, and polys. If I lose then I lose, it's not because the strings. Same if I win.
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
That is exactly what I'm trying to get across. To me, the minute differences between strings don't matter to me.

I play the same whether I have gut (mostly), $3.00 synthetic gut, RIP, premium multi, and polys. If I lose then I lose, it's not because the strings. Same if I win.
Click to expand...


It's the Indian not the arrow I agree. I play with guys that all are very close to my level, so I'll take any small advantage I can get. A super string is not going to increase your NTRP level.
 
mela said:
I really like Head RIP Control string (I like 16 gauge) mounted on a Head Microgel Instinct.
Rip Control gives me great comfort and control.
Now I have to buy new strings on TW.
In your experience which string is similar to Rip control?
I would like a string comfortable, durable and will not move.
In this features only the ISOSPEED Control is better than RIP Control?
Thank you.
Click to expand...

clutch21 said:
Mikeler- Is the 16g rip control much more durable than the 17? I have been using the 17 for a while and absolutely love everything about the string but the durability(17g rip lasts me about 3-4 hours). I have a stringer though so I thought the extra spin from the 17 was worth the durability trade off so I never tried the 16.
Click to expand...

Say Chi Sin Lo said:
In experience, 16g lasts longer like any other 16g would over 17g. Although some people report a drastic difference between the 16g and 17g. :confused:
Click to expand...

I've been using RIP for about 2 years now after a journey through a bunch of different synth guts and multis. I've used both 16 and 17 at various tensions and here are some of my observations:

- Both 16 and 17 have been good to my arm. I've had shoulder surgery and need a soft string. No TE present. Also use a flexible frame.

- I do find the 16 lasted a little longer, but I now string my own, I usually cut the 17 out before breaking them.

- As RIP Control loses tension, they tend to launch balls and have less control - this is why I cut them out, avoiding the durability issue

- I find 17 has a bit more feel and I can string a few pounds higher for good control and it tends to be less muted at higher tensions (I like it at 58lbs right now).

- Both tend to get "dry" after a couple weeks. Not brittle, though. Not sure how much, but this tends to effect feel a little. I feel the tension loss more, though.

- I get a little string movement, but not excessive at all. The fresher the strings, the less they move.

- It's cheap. IMO, one of the best deals out there, especially if you string your own.
 
BMC9670 said:
I've been using RIP for about 2 years now after a journey through a bunch of different synth guts and multis. I've used both 16 and 17 at various tensions and here are some of my observations:

- Both 16 and 17 have been good to my arm. I've had shoulder surgery and need a soft string. No TE present. Also use a flexible frame.

- I do find the 16 lasted a little longer, but I now string my own, I usually cut the 17 out before breaking them.

- As RIP Control loses tension, they tend to launch balls and have less control - this is why I cut them out, avoiding the durability issue

- I find 17 has a bit more feel and I can string a few pounds higher for good control and it tends to be less muted at higher tensions (I like it at 58lbs right now).

- Both tend to get "dry" after a couple weeks. Not brittle, though. Not sure how much, but this tends to effect feel a little. I feel the tension loss more, though.

- I get a little string movement, but not excessive at all. The fresher the strings, the less they move.

- It's cheap. IMO, one of the best deals out there, especially if you string your own.
Click to expand...

I completely agree about the value of the string. It's an incredible string for the price. As far as durability goes, I would not recommend the 17g to someone who does not string their own racquets though. I have to string my racquets twice a week playing about 6 hours a week, meaning I break the string very fast. I hit with alot of spin though. Can't speak for the durability of the 16g.
 
clutch21 said:
I completely agree about the value of the string. It's an incredible string for the price. As far as durability goes, I would not recommend the 17g to someone who does not string their own racquets though. I have to string my racquets twice a week playing about 6 hours a week, meaning I break the string very fast. I hit with alot of spin though. Can't speak for the durability of the 16g.
Click to expand...

Wow. Now that's some string breakin'! I string one of my racquets every two weeks, play with the fresh one and use the played one as the backup. I have not had to use the backup since going to this rotation. Don't know if I could find the time to string both every week, much less twice! I'm a pretty slow stringer on a Kilppermate.
 
clutch21 said:
I completely agree about the value of the string. It's an incredible string for the price. As far as durability goes, I would not recommend the 17g to someone who does not string their own racquets though. I have to string my racquets twice a week playing about 6 hours a week, meaning I break the string very fast. I hit with alot of spin though. Can't speak for the durability of the 16g.
Click to expand...

I was breaking the Rip 17G in under 8 hours 16 x 19 pattern. I am guessing in a tighter pattern, you would see less breakage.
 
BMC9670 said:
Wow. Now that's some string breakin'! I string one of my racquets every two weeks, play with the fresh one and use the played one as the backup. I have not had to use the backup since going to this rotation. Don't know if I could find the time to string both every week, much less twice! I'm a pretty slow stringer on a Kilppermate.
Click to expand...

Haha yeah. Im in nursing school so time isn't on my side either. I have a crank with fixed clamps so I have it down to under 20-25 min or else I wouldn't have time to keep up with my string breakage.
 
SteveI said:
I was breaking the Rip 17G in under 8 hours 16 x 19 pattern. I am guessing in a tighter pattern, you would see less breakage.
Click to expand...

I hit with a 18x20 speed mp.. although to me the 18x20 in the speed feels pretty open compared to some other 18x20s.
 
RIP control, does not having anything close to poly durability. For me, it was durable as a multi (but I still broke it in 2 hours or less depending on the training session).

The spin potential is good for a multi (still nothing like BHBR).

The crosses always broke for me.

Is there a reason why you don't want to use it? If you have arm problems stick with it. If you don't, try a hybrid set-up or low tension poly.
 
Magnetite said:
RIP control, does not having anything close to poly durability. For me, it was durable as a multi (but I still broke it in 2 hours or less depending on the training session).

The spin potential is good for a multi (still nothing like BHBR).

The crosses always broke for me.

Is there a reason why you don't want to use it? If you have arm problems stick with it. If you don't, try a hybrid set-up or low tension poly.
Click to expand...

That happens to me when i go with a full bed. This is the only string that snaps on the crosses. Cant ever figure out why.
 
Magnetite said:
RIP control, does not having anything close to poly durability. For me, it was durable as a multi (but I still broke it in 2 hours or less depending on the training session).

The spin potential is good for a multi (still nothing like BHBR).

The crosses always broke for me.

Is there a reason why you don't want to use it? If you have arm problems stick with it. If you don't, try a hybrid set-up or low tension poly.
Click to expand...


But wait, I thought spin was ALL technique? :)
 
Head is well aware of the potential difficulties of using RIP Control in a full bed... hence the Intellitour hybrid.
Too bad RIPfeel isn't available by itself. Unless there is an Isospeed version.
Using a better 'feeling' cross like Dunlop Comfort or Mantis Comfort or even a 17g Syngut can help liven up the muted feel.
 
To me its very stiff. I used it for 6 months in the crosses with gut mains. I replaced it with MSV Hex poly. Seems to give me more spin and more comfort.
 
SteveI said:
I was breaking the Rip 17G in under 8 hours 16 x 19 pattern. I am guessing in a tighter pattern, you would see less breakage.
Click to expand...

I used to use 17g Rip Control in my iPrestige mid & it would last 20-30 hours. Intellitour 17 would last 30-40 hours.
 
clutch21 said:
Mikeler- Is the 16g rip control much more durable than the 17? I have been using the 17 for a while and absolutely love everything about the string but the durability(17g rip lasts me about 3-4 hours). I have a stringer though so I thought the extra spin from the 17 was worth the durability trade off so I never tried the 16.
Click to expand...

From my own experience you lose spin and gain power when going from RIP 17 to RIP 16, which is just the opposite of what I would expect.
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
That's a very common complaint/compliment for the RIP :).
Click to expand...

Well put. This string seems to be of the love it or hate it variety, so what one sees as a complaint another sees as a compliment. Like most things, I think this can be chalked up to different playing styles, mechanics, and preferences. Just gotta try it. Personally, I love it.
 
i'm currently using msv focus hex 17 in mains and og micro sheep 17 in the crosses at around 56 lbs in a stock rdis 100 mp but wanted to try out a softer set up. any suggestions on tension for a full bed of rip control?
 
eleventeenth street said:
i'm currently using msv focus hex 17 in mains and og micro sheep 17 in the crosses at around 56 lbs in a stock rdis 100 mp but wanted to try out a softer set up. any suggestions on tension for a full bed of rip control?
Click to expand...

String it however you want to. RIP Control is one of the better tension holder though. You'll always have that initial drop off, but after that, it's pretty stable.
 
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