Thicker Gauge Strings or Thinner Gauge Strings in Different String Patterns

[mctennis]

There have been a few single posts about using thicker string gauges or thinner gauge strings in different discussion threads. I have heard different theories or reasons as to using a thinner and or thicker gauge strings ( maybe even different gauge mains vs crosses) in more closed pattern racquets. I see more manufacturers are bringing out denser pattern racquets (18X20). What gauge strings are some of you using in your more closed pattern racquets?
Thank you for your input.

 

[High Lama]

18 gauge poly for dense patterns. Thin strings counterbalance the dense pattern by making the racquet livelier. It also makes it more open which helps give a higher launch angle/ more spin. You can use thin strings with a dense pattern without breaking them because there’s less friction on shots compared to open patterns. Lastly, dense patterns typically have heavier hoops since there are more strings in the hoop. The thin strings are lighter than thick strings so this gets counterbalanced as well.

 

[Deleted member 768841]

Just want to ask, how would a 1.35 natural gut be when hybrided with 1.25? I’m planning on getting a blade 18/20 and a pure drive 16/19 with 1.35 and Luxilon 4gL, and I want to know if there would be any problems?

 

[esgee48]

The answer depends on the players' technique. If a player opts to use an 18x20 pattern, that player is normally looking for control. Spin and power are secondary considerations. I almost always start such a player off at mid-point with 16 or 17 Ga. Varying the tension between high and low to determine longevity and any other characteristics the player is looking for. Some will end up with 16 Ga and some will end up using 17 Ga. Players with power generally end up with 16. 17 will generally lose too much tension well below 8 hours, which is 4-6 hitting sessions. Players who do not generate as much power split between 16 and 17. I generally will not recommend anything thinner because such strings are terrible at holding tension over longer periods. If the client provides their own string and ask for a specific tension, I will give it to them. If they come back with complaints, then we may have a long discussion or the client is now an ex-client.

 

[mctennis]

The answer depends on the players' technique. If a player opts to use an 18x20 pattern, that player is normally looking for control. Spin and power are secondary considerations. I almost always start such a player off at mid-point with 16 or 17 Ga. Varying the tension between high and low to determine longevity and any other characteristics the player is looking for. Some will end up with 16 Ga and some will end up using 17 Ga. Players with power generally end up with 16. 17 will generally lose too much tension well below 8 hours, which is 4-6 hitting sessions. Players who do not generate as much power split between 16 and 17. I generally will not recommend anything thinner because such strings are terrible at holding tension over longer periods. If the client provides their own string and ask for a specific tension, I will give it to them. If they come back with complaints, then we may have a long discussion or the client is now an ex-client.

Great info. Thank you for your input of your experiences.

 

[zipplock]

What about tension vs gauge? Can you go lower tension with lighter gauge to increase durability? Higher tension with thicker gauge to increase control?

 

[Chairman3]

Accidental Wrong Thread bump