| Tennis Strings | | | | | | | |  |
| | String Gauge The gauge of a tennis string can be more important than many players think. A thinner string normally provides better performance and a larger gauge has better durability. If you select the wrong gauge, you are not getting the performance you need. The gauge of tennis strings is the diameter usually measured in millimetres (mm) or inches. An alternative method uses a series of numbers such as 15L, 16 and 17. Information in both formats is often shown on the string packaging. Most tennis strings are in the range of 1.21 to 1.40 mm and further notes are shown below. Please note - some of the materials used in current strings offer very good durability in a thin gauge. | |
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| String Gauges Compared | Gauge 1 1.21-1.25 mm | Strings in this gauge are the choice of players who want the best performance. They will have the best response, but they are less durable. You should select this gauge if you need performance and be prepared to have more restrings. | Gauge 2 1.26-1.30 mm | This is the gauge that should be most popular. This slightly larger gauge has more durability, but It is also thin enough to provide good performance. This balance between durability and performance should be best for many players. | Gauge 3 1.31-1.35 mm | The strings supplied with many rackets use this gauge of string. This makes this a popular choice for many players. There should be good durability, but the response will not be as good as with a thinner string. | Gauge 4 1.36-1.40 mm | This gauge of string is not as popular with players as it was a few years ago. It should only be used by players who want extra durability. The use of modern materials allows durable strings to be made in a thinner gauge. |
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| May 2005 | | |
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Useful Notes
Some strings are available in more than one gauge. This allows you to select the one that is most suitable for your game.
You could have to experiment to find the best gauge that gives you the correct balance of performance and durability that you need.
