MORE FAQ'S ABOUT STRINGING {2004}
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo
I'll be stringing at the NASDAQ 100 Open this year. In the meantime, here are answers to more Frequently Asked Questions I get from customers:
What does "playability" mean on string packages?
String manufacturers try to balance "durability" and "playability." Usually the more durable a string is, the stiffer or "harder" it feels when you strike a ball. Some people like that "crisp" feel, but many players now prefer a "softer" or more resilient feel when they hit a ball. In general, the more playable a string is, the easier it is on your arm. The two extremes are natural gut as the most "playable" string and aramid fiber (Kevlar for example) as the most "durable."
What difference does string gauge make?
The thickest tennis string generally available is a full 15 gauge (about 1.40 mm in diameter). The next thickest is 15L (the L is for "light'), at about 1.35 mm. The most common gauge is about 1.30 mm or 16. Thinner gauges of 17 (1.25 mm) and 18 (1.20 mm) are available, too. The thinnest gauges add "playability" but have a 25% to 50% shorter life. The thinnest gauges also open up the space between strings for more bite on the ball, which may be helpful if your racquet has a very tight pattern.
Does the string pattern make any difference?
An "average" frame has 16 main strings (vertical) and 19 crosses (horizontal). Depending on manufacturer, frames can have as many as 20 mains or as few as 14. Cross strings can run from 17 to 21. The most open string pattern--fewest mains and crosses--will give you the greatest "playability" and potential for spin, but will result in earlier string breakage. Some frames have special string patterns to give special effects. For example, Power Angle racquets have all strings on a diagonal to achieve longer string life and more spin potential. Some Wilson, Prince and Dunlop racquets have the outermost main strings "fan" out to raise the sweet spot.
Copyright 2004 (Previously published in FLORIDA TENNIS - April, 2004)
By Vincent Chiarelli, PTR, MRT, Owner of String Along With Vince, Largo, FL
Category:
Editor's note pertaining to all articles presented.
All articles are presented as they were written and published. Some information contained in these articles may have changed over the years. Please be cognizant of this as you read. Additionally, since these articles go back as far as 1994, some of the technology may have changed, and new methods and advancements may have come about. Please contact us if you have any questions.
