Kevlar tennis string: all you need to know about the advantages and disadvantages

Kevlar is an extremely strong synthetic fibre used in a wide range of applications, including bullet-proof waistcoats, protective equipment and, of course, tennis strings. Its robustness makes it an ideal choice for players who often break their strings:
 

• Exceptional strength : Kevlar is renowned for its ability to withstand powerful strokes and extreme conditions without deteriorating quickly.
• Durability : Compared with other types of string, such as nylon or polyester, Kevlar lasts much longer.

This type of technical choice is also highlighted as part of the intensive courses organised by the Mouratoglou Academy, where players learn how to customise their equipment to suit their needs.

Kevlar tennis strings are mainly chosen for :
 

• Its resistance : It is particularly recommended for players who regularly break their strings because of their aggressive playing style.
• Control: Kevlar offers excellent control over the ball, enabling precise, consistent shots.

One of the main advantages of Kevlar rope is its durability:
 

• Greater resistance: It can withstand powerful strokes for an extended period, making it ideal for players who frequently break their strings.
• Fewer replacements: Unlike softer strings that deteriorate quickly, Kevlar lets you play longer before you need to replace it.

Kevlar is an excellent choice for players looking for control:
 

• Stable tension : This string maintains its tension for longer, resulting in consistent, predictable shots.
• Less string movement: Thanks to its rigidity, the strings move less during exchanges, giving you greater control of the ball.

If you’re a player with a lot of punching power, Kevlar can give you an edge:
 

• Resistance to power : Hard-hitting players benefit from a string that doesn’t break under the pressure of their powerful shots.

One of the main disadvantages of Kevlar tennis strings is their limited comfort:
 

• Stiffness : Kevlar is a very stiff material, which can cause arm pain, especially for players who are not used to this type of string.
• Vibration : Kevlar’s rigidity amplifies vibrations on impact with the ball, increasing the risk of injuries such as tennis elbow.

Because of its rigidity, Kevlar offers less natural power than softer ropes such as polyester or nylon :
 

• Less bounce: Kevlar absorbs less energy from the ball, which means you’ll have to generate more power on your own to get effective shots.
• Not recommended for beginners : Less experienced players may find it difficult to get power from a Kevlar string.

Kevlar strings are particularly suited to players with an aggressive style of play and powerful strokes:
 

• Players with high spin : If you have a style of play that involves a lot of topspin, Kevlar can be a good choice because of its durability and control.
• Players who frequently break their strings: If you often break your strings, Kevlar can reduce the frequency with which you need to replace your strings.

Kevlar‘s rigidity makes it preferable for players with good arms who can withstand string vibrations:
 

Players without arm problems: If you don’t have arm problems, you’ll benefit from the durability and control offered by Kevlar.
 

To reduce some of the disadvantages of Kevlar, you can combine it with a softer string:

• Hybrid with nylon string: To improve comfort without sacrificing durability, many players opt for a hybrid set-up with Kevlar on the uprights and a softer string such as nylon or polyester on the cross strings.
• Adjusted tension : Slightly reducing the tension of the Kevlar string can also help soften impact and reduce vibration.

Because of the stiffness of Kevlar, you may need to adjust your playing style slightly:
 

• Generate more power: If you’re using a Kevlar string, you may need to force your shots a little more to compensate for the string’s lack of bounce.
• Avoid excessively hard strokes: To avoid arm pain, concentrate on a more fluid, controlled game.