Gear Q&A: Loosen Up

I used to string my racquets close to 60 pounds. Then I read about how many touring pros use extreme low tensions with polys to increase spin. I've been steadily lowering the tension and now am playing with 27 pounds on the mains and 24 pounds on the crosses. I am really enjoying it and haven’t lost the touch for drop shots or drop volleys. What are your thoughts on low tension polys?—David T.

David,

You should be commended—it’s not just anyone who can play tennis with a lacrosse stick. Actually, all kidding aside, there’s nothing wrong with playing with extremely low tensions, especially when it comes to polyester strings. In fact, it is becoming increasingly popular. Conventional wisdom dictated that playing with very loose strings meant significantly compromised control. But many players have discovered in the case of polyesters it actually increases the playability.

For one thing, a lower tension provides more flex and naturally softens the string bed, offsetting some of the inherent stiffness of many polys. This raises the comfort level, which can be a real negative of some models. It also lessens some of the harsh feedback outside the sweet spot, making it more arm-friendly. This is especially true when using thicker gauges and/or a stiff, powerful frame.

A softer pocket can also make it easier to hit with depth. The ball will sink into the strings a fraction longer which helps promote a higher launch angle. Swings don’t have to be quite as fast to achieve a deep shot. The downside can be a drop in precision. However, for many players it’s a worthwhile tradeoff.

A lower tension gives more flex and naturally softens the string bed, offsetting some of the inherent stiffness of many polys. This raises the comfort level, which can be a real negative of some models.

Looser strings also shift more easily. When the strings move at contact and then snapback—a noted trait of polyester strings—it can enhance spin production. The added spin not only promotes a heavier ball that’s more difficult for an opponent to handle, but provides added safety on shots for improved consistency.

As you noted, the practice has gained traction on the pro tours over the past decade. Italian Filippo Volandri famously used an unusually low tension around 23 pounds, Lleyton Hewitt played with a poly/gut hybrid in the 30-pound range, and Jack Sock currently hits his massive forehand with strings in the upper 30s. In a recent video promoting their new Solinco racquets, even the recently retired Bryan Bros said they’ve both dropped their string tensions into the low 40s.

Doing likewise takes trial-and-error. Some players balk at the idea of stringing at such low tensions, but it’s only a number; the results are all that matter. Racquet technicians typically advise to gradually drop tension for as long as you like the feel at contact and it keeps benefiting your strokes. Once there’s a dip in performance, stop reducing tension.

Keep in mind that polyester strings often have poor tension maintenance. Pros get acclimated to a particular tension, low as it may be, and constantly restring their racquets to stay in that neighborhood. If you typically string a little tight and take some time to work in the string bed, starting at a low tension may necessitate more frequent trips to the stinger. Otherwise the string bed can become too soft and loose too quickly and take your game downhill with it.

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