TODAY’S MULTIFILAMENT STRINGS, Part II {2005}
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo
A reader asked for my answer to the following question: “What is the best synthetic multifilament string?” This is a continuation of my previous column. Although there are many multifilament synthetic strings on the market not covered by these two articles, most are very similar in quality, construction and materials.
A very good budget priced multifilament is Alpha Claycourt 16. With good feel and durability, it doesn't hold tension as well as many of the other strings discussed previously. Priced in the mid $20s, it is better than most of the strings not mentioned.
Another string that most people wouldn't think of in the multifilament category is IsoSpeed. It is made of polyolefin filaments, and although its playability is somewhat lacking, it is probably the most durable multifilament on the market.
I would have to go out on a limb and say that, in my opinion, Babolat Xcel (in 16 and 17), is probably the least desirable of the multifilaments out there that I have tried or stock. It is the lowest when it comes to durability, and does not hold tension well. To add insult to injury, it is priced around $40, making it one of the most expensive synthetic strings on the market.
Placed somewhere in between the best and worst, are many strings from different manufacturers. Gamma makes some good multifilament strings, but in my opinion, all Gamma strings are overpriced for what you get. They DO have a guarantee on their Live Wire Professional, however. Gamma has done a great job with advertising and marketing, and their sales force is better trained than any other in the business, which makes them popular with most of the tennis and specialty shops. Most of the string, however doesn't really quite live up to the hype, for my money.
Prince and Wilson change their string lines as fast or faster than their racquet lines, changing manufacturers as well, so a good string today may be gone tomorrow. They also, as do most of the racquet companies, "push" string on shops as part of deals on racquets, which force many sellers to "puff" the string to get rid of it.
Just to reiterate; "best" is in the eyes of the beholder. What's best for any of us is based on our experience in life, and biases created by that experience. Brand loyalty can override even the most obvious advantages and disadvantages. It's part of being human. Try many strings and make your own judgments. Be wary of any endorsement, even if it's from your best friend, because you are not he or she.
COPYRIGHT 2005
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT, Stringer for ATP & WTA Tournaments, & Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo, FL
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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.
