Choosing the Right Tennis Strings (and why it matters)

We’ve teamed up with our partner Babolat to break down the key equipment choices that can elevate your game, starting with one of the most important (and often overlooked): Your strings.

Most players focus on their racquet, but strings are what you actually hit the ball with. The right setup can improve your control, add spin, and make the game feel easier on your body.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the three most common types, and what we typically recommend at Tennis Life.

Polyester (Poly): Control & Spin

Poly strings are the modern choice for players who like to swing fast and generate their own power.

Strengths: Control, spin, durability

Watch out: Firmer feel—setup is key

👉 Best for: Advanced players, or those developing faster swings

In the Babolat range: RPM Blast—designed for maximum spin and control

💡 Tennis Life Tip

Most players using full polyester will get better results by dropping tension slightly or using a hybrid for improved comfort.

Multifilament: Comfort & Power

Made from hundreds of microfibres, these strings offer a softer, more forgiving feel.

Strengths: Comfort, power, touch

Watch out: Less durable for big hitters

👉 Best for: Players wanting comfort, extra power, or managing arm soreness

In the Babolat range: Xcel—a go-to for comfort without sacrificing playability

💡 Tennis Life Tip

This is a great option for adult group players and younger performance juniors who aren’t breaking strings yet, giving them feel and power without unnecessary stiffness.

Synthetic Gut: The All-Rounder

A reliable option that offers a balanced mix across all areas.

Strengths: Affordable, versatile, consistent

Watch out: Doesn’t specialise in any one area

👉 Best for: Beginners, juniors, and social players

In the Babolat range: Syn Gut—a dependable entry-level setup

💡 Tennis Life Tip

For Tennis Xpress and Super Shots players, this is usually the best starting point before progressing into more specialised setups.

💡 Helpful Things To Know

• Restring regularly

  • A good rule: restring as many times per year as you play per week. Strings tend to lose performance long before they break.

• Get your tension right

  • Lower tension = more power & comfort

  • Higher tension = more control

• Consider a hybrid set up

  • A popular option using Babolat strings where you might use a poly in the mains and multifilament/syn gut in the crosses.

🤔 Did You Know?

Pierre Babolat actually invented the first tennis strings back in 1875, using natural gut which is made from animal intestines. Even today, natural gut remains one of the highest-performing string materials for feel and power, proof that great innovation stands the test of time.

If you’re not sure where to start:

New/Xpress players: Synthetic gut or multifilament

Regular social players: Multifilament or hybrid

Advanced/Competitive players: Polyester or hybrid

🎾You can drop your racquet off at the Player’s Sports Pro Shop at TotalCoach Tennis Centre for expert restringing and personalised advice from the team.