A Guide to Multifilament Strings
Overview
Picking tennis strings can be overwhelming, in this blog I will break down the reason why you should be considering multifilament strings by explaining what multifilament strings are and the benefits that you could get from using them. Secondly, I'll talk about the options for hybrid stringing, and lastly, I will lay out 5 great multifilament string options.
What are Multifilament strings?
Most multifilament strings will be comprised of thousands of high quality filaments/nylon fibers that weave together forming a strand that gives a comfortable and powerful string. Multifilament strings will fall in between Natural Gut and Synthetic Strings. To give reference Natural Gut is made mainly from cow gut, hence the name natural, making them the softest string. Synthetic is made from low end quality nylon/filaments making them firmer and relatively inexpensive. Multifilament strings will offer high elasticity and feel from the type of polyurethane that is used to encase the string. With high elasticity, you will get that awesome ball pocketing effect and blast the ball effortlessly while not sacrificing your arm.
Why use a Multifilament over a Polyester (Monofilament) String?
Most people currently use polyester strings, when in fact they should likely be using a multifilament string. Though polyester strings offer great spin potential and control, they offer little power and are known for their firmness leading to arm issues for some. Multifilament on the other hand forces the user to learn how to control the ball through technique and not rely on the texture of the string to grip the ball creating spin for control. If everyone started on multifilament strings they would see an increase in power, less arm injuries, and less tension loss over time.
If you are a recreational player I recommend using multifilament strings as the benefits you would get from a poly would not outweigh the benefits of multifilament strings.
If you are a Junior playing at a high level and don't like the lack of control that you are getting from a multifilament string try using a Hybrid String set up.
Hybrid Strings
The great options don't have to end with one single string in your racquet. Hybrid stringing is done when you take two different strings and use one in the main string bed and one in the cross of your string bed. The most traditional setup would be a polyester string in the mains and multifilament or natural gut in the crosses. The most cost effective way and what is right for most people will be a Poly/Multi setup.
Tennis-Point sells hybrid packages where brands have selected great options and combined some of your favorite strings to get excellent blends of Power, Control, Spin and Comfort. My current string bed in my Technifibre Tfight ISO 305 hosts Yonex Poly Tour Pro 125 16L in the Mains and Yonex Rexis Speed 125 16L in the crosses.
Chances are if you have a favorite brand they make a multifilament string that you could pair with your current favorite polyester string. Below are my top choices for multifilament strings.
Top 5 Choices for Multifilament Strings
Overall
Power
Best for control
Best Value
Best for feel
If you are ready for this game-changer shop Tennis-Point where we know strings!