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Polyester tennis strings: All you need to know

These tennis string models have gained in popularity, particularly among professional players , thanks to their unique characteristics. This equipment is prized for its durability, control and ability to generate spin. However, it also has a few drawbacks, particularly in terms of comfort. These technical aspects are often explored in depth in the tennis courses offered by the Mouratoglou Academy. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of these strings, compare the different options available on the market, and answer some common questions about this type of product.

The different types of rope

There are several types of tennis string , each offering distinct advantages. The main types are :
 

  • Natural gut: This type of string is appreciated for its comfort and flexibility, but it is fragile and expensive.
  • Multifilament: Softer and more comfortable, it is ideal for tennis players suffering from pain such as tendonitis.
  • Polyester string: More resistant, it is often used by professional players for its control and ability to generate spin.
     

Polyester strings, sometimes called monofilament, come in a range of thicknesses and shapes, so their characteristics can be tailored to suit the player’s preferences. This level of customisation is also studied as part of the tennis-study programmes at the prestigious Mouratoglou Academy, where every detail of the equipment is taken into account to optimise the students’ performance.

The advantages of polyester ropes

They offer three major advantages for tennis players : durability, spin generation and control.

  • 1. Durability

    Unlike natural gut or nylon ropes, these strings are much stronger and more resistant. Their rigid structure means they can withstand wear better, even when there is a lot of friction between the strings. This makes them an excellent choice for heavy hitters or those who play regularly and need a string that lasts.

  • 2. Spin

    Another major advantage of polyester strings is their ability to generate spin. Thanks to their rigidity, these strings offer a better grip on the ball, allowing tennis players to generate greater spin, particularly on top spin shots. What’s more, as these strings are easy to replace after impact with the ball, they facilitate greater racquet acceleration, thus increasing the ball’s spin speed.

  • 3. Control

    Polyester strings also offer excellent control. Their rigidity allows for better control of the ball‘s trajectory, which is essential for players looking to hit with precision. What’s more, because of their low elasticity, these strings allow the ball to bounce quickly, reducing the randomness of each shot.

The disadvantages of polyester ropes

Although they have many advantages, they also have a few disadvantages. The main disadvantage is their limited comfort , particularly for tennis players who suffer from arm, wrist or shoulder pain.

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    Discomfort and injuries

    Because of their rigidity, these models can be harder on the arm, particularly for amateur players or those who don’t have the best hitting technique. The vibrations generated by contact with the ball are less well absorbed, which can lead to pain and even injuries such as tennis elbow. If you have a history of injuries, it is advisable to choose a softer string , such as a multifilament, or opt for thinner polyester (e.g. 1.25 mm gauge ).

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    Loss of voltage

    Another disadvantage is that polyester models lose their tension more quickly than other rope models. Because of their low elasticity, these products gradually lose their responsiveness after several hours of play. This is why top players , especially those who use brands such as Babolat and Luxilon, regularly replace their strings to maintain optimum tension .

What is a co-polyester rope?

This is an evolution of classic polyester . It is designed by adding other components, such as resins or polymers, to improve certain aspects such as flexibility or durability. This type of rope is often more comfortable than pure polyester monofilaments , while retaining excellent strength and control.

What's the best brand of polyester rope?

Several major brands produce quality products . Among the most popular are :
 

  • Babolat : The RPM Blast range is famous for its ability to generate spin, particularly used by Rafael Nadal.
  • Luxilon : The Alu Power model is a popular choice with pro players like Roger Federer. It is one of the most widely used models on the circuit.
  • Wilson : Offers a varied polyester range, combining durability and control.
     

What is the most powerful tennis string?

Natural gut strings are still the most powerful on the market, thanks to their flexibility and ability to generate elasticity when struck. However, among polyester strings, Babolat ‘s RPM Blast and Luxilon Alu Power are known for offering an excellent compromise between power and control.

Which rope for tendonitis?

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Tennis players suffering from tendonitis should avoid polyester products because of their stiffness. A multifilament, such as Wilson NXT or Tecnifibre X-One Biphase, is a better option. They are more flexible and absorb vibrations better, reducing the risk of injury.

Polyester strings are an excellent choice for players looking for durability, control and spin. Although these strings have their drawbacks, particularly in terms of comfort, they are ideal for competitive tennis players or heavy hitters. For those looking for more flexibility or who suffer from arm pain, a multifilament or a hybrid with natural gut may offer an interesting compromise. If you’d like to find out more about the different types of string available, you can consult the experts at the Mouratoglou Shop for a personalised commentary and advice on the products best suited to your needs.
 

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