Same string - different main / cross tension

[2handsbothsides]

When I look at Jura's fine post of Pro's racket specs taken at the French Open, 60 of the pro's used the same string in both main and cross rather than a hybrid. Of these not hybriding almost half used different tensions between the main and cross with 42% using a cross 1 kg (2.2 lbs) less tension than the main while only 5% used a cross 1 kg higher than the main.

It is my understanding that generally racket manufactures design the string pattern and spacing between strings to optimize racket performance when strung all at one tension taking into account the actual differences in string lengths.

Can anyone identify the potential benefits of using the same string at different tension between a main and cross vs. both strings at a tension that provides the same overall string bed stiffness?

 

[Valjean]

Dropping the tension of the crosses provides more power, raising it produces less. The former might be particularly preferred by someone playing on clay, the surface which cuts down on ball speed. Reducing the tension of the crosses can also highlight the mains, which is where the spin comes from. And enhanced topspin is quite important on clay. Many pros change whether the cross string tension is above or below that of the mains just on the basis of the surface they play on. Another reason to raise cross string tension is to reduce string movement; this avoids having to raise your overall tension.

Proportional stringing, which can take all the string lengths into account, is another way to allow for personal game requirements.

 

[Clintspin]

I don't think racquets are made to be strung with the same tension in both mains and crosses. Many Head racquets are notorious for egging out if strung with the same tension. Head radicals turn out looking right if the mains are strung lower than the crosses. That's not the case with most racquets. Most should be the opposite, tighter in the mains and lower in the crosses.

 

[2handsbothsides]

Still not clear why such a large number of pros who use same string in main and cross would have a strong preference for a lower cross tension.
Its not for power as you could adjust both string tensions up or down.

So what are the playing differences between both main and cross at 55 lbs vs. a main at 56 and cross at 54?

 

[kiteboard]

The crosses are the tensioners. When they are looser, they allow the mains to slide and "snap" back into place, which grabs the ball for a given period of time, sometimes the ball will leave the bed before the grab occurs, and sometimes it will after the grab occurs, and the timing of the grab is what that is all about. The looser tension also provides more power, and changes the pocketed feel.

 

[Valjean]

Still not clear why such a large number of pros who use same string in main and cross would have a strong preference for a lower cross tension.
Its not for power as you could adjust both string tensions up or down.

So what what are the playing differences between both main and cross at 55 lbs vs. a main at 56 and cross at 54?

What I've given you is the standard explanation. Try the difference yourself. Conduct some research; the last major equipment manufacturer to speak to this, if memory serves, is Volkl. Try the USRSA, though, too.

 

[Torres]

Reasons could/would include:-

1. Equalizing SBS.
2. Allowing the mains to more move (power and spin)
3. Effect of longer mains (majority 16x19 / hoop oval)
4. Personal preference

Pro stringbeds get replaced and restrung constantly so short or reduced performance life isn't a factor. Copying pro setups isn't necessarily a good starting point for rec players who almost certainly won't be using a fresh racquet or restringing their racquet after every hour or two of play.

The effects of M and C tension differences is very easy to determine yourself. Next time you restring, string the crosses 2lbs lower (you'll feel the mains more). Go hit for 10 hours in a stress situation ie matchplay. Then string the crosses 2lbs lower (you'll feel the mains less). Then have another 10 hours is a stress situation. The difference in performance and feel from the stringbed will be obvious. You'll find what you prefer pretty easily.

2lbs higher on the mains -v- same reference tension for M and C is much ado about nothing IMO. How strings perform in hour 1 from original reference tensions isn't how they perform in hour 5 or hour 10. By that time, things have changed alot, given the vast range of strings out which differ tremendously in terms of playing longevity, tension maintenance etc.

I think its all too easy to overanalyse this stuff. String the strings at the tension that suits you best (having experimented with different tensions) and go play some tennis!