FAQ

STRING PERFECT FAQS

Having your racket strung:

Please leave string choice and tension in the special instructions at checkout. String Perfect will confirm stringing options with every order regardless if special instructions are left or not.

Returns:

String perfect will accept any product in unused, unopened and unstrung condition within 30 days of purchase at the return shipping expense of the customer. String Perfect will NOT accept any returns on strung tennis rackets.

 

 

RACQUET STRINGING FAQS

How often should I string my racket?

The short answer is as frequently as you can afford because this will ensure optimal performance and INJURY PREVENTION. But not everyone is Roger Federer and can have 6 fresh rackets every time they hit the court. It depends on how often you play and what your performance expectations are. If you play at least once a week, it would be wise to restring once a quarter (every 3 months). At the very worst, once a year, but if you call yourself a tennis player you should consider restringing on a consistent interval--your game and arm will thank you. 

Do I need to wait for my strings to break to restring?

Absolutely not! Modern materials do not snap as easily as what was used in the 90s. Typically, a modern polyester string has a playability window of 6-20 hours of court time. The string will lose its elasticity causing two potential sensations: the string will feel loose causing the ball to fly long or feel difficult to generate top spin, or it will feel “dead”/“boardy” like you are hitting with a wooden paddle. This happens subtly over time and can sometimes be difficult to feel, but if you hit the court and something “feels off” it may be time to restring. Because the string is less elastic there are more vibrations transferring to the players wrist and elbow. Also, the drop in performance causes the player to over-hit. These two factors compound and lead to arm injuries. Easy fix: restring often. 

What gauge string should I use?

My rule of thumb is the lightest gauge (higher number) you can play with that lasts for 2 weeks of playing or longer. For most players (beginner-high intermediate) 18 gauge (1.15mm) should be appropriate. I find this to be the sweet spot for performance and durability. Most players use a much higher gauge than necessary. The lighter gauge strings will bite the ball better, are more comfortable, have a larger sweet spot, and create more free depth than a heavier gauge. If you are not snapping strings every time you hit the court, try a lighter gauge. You are leaving untapped performance on the table. 

What tension string should I use?

How low can you go? Modern strings do not need to be strung super tight. Typically 40-54lbs. Start at 48lbs and work your way down until you find it hard to control the ball. Lower tensions allow the string to move more freely resulting in more spin, more depth and more comfort. 

What type of string should I use?

Synthetic gut - Low cost, medium performance, medium+ durability. Gets the job done. Medium comfort. Works better in a hybrid with polyester. Good for anyone starting out. 
Multifilament - Very arm-friendly and soft. Great feel. Higher cost. Low durability. Great for people not ready for polyester but who want improved performance over synthetic gut. Works great in a hybrid with polyester as well. 
Polyester- Very firm and least comfortable. Highest performance. Medium durability. Great for generating spin. Has the most customization options. The most popular option for competitive players. 
Natural gut - Made from natural fibers. Highest comfort. Highest cost. Very high performance in a hybrid. Medium-low durability. Great for people with arm issues or who want the best feel. 
General note: Most players will get the most bang for their buck with a hybrid string job. A combo of polyester and a softer string (synthetic, multi, natural gut) will give the performance of the polyester without sacrificing comfort. 
All children under 14 should use synthetic gut or multifilament for injury prevention unless they are considered high performance players.