String Types
First of all not all string types are for every player, as each player has different preferences and needs. Not to mention string tensions. Below are a few characteristics from each type of string, some good some bad, some expensive, some cheap...
- Natural Gut String
- Multifilament String
- Synthetic Gut String
- Polyester String
Natural Gut String
This is a tennis string made from cow intestines. It loses very little elasticity of time like all the other types of string. It produces the most power out of all the different types of string and is the best string for people who have arm / shoulder problems, as it's the easiest on the body. Unfortunately this consistency and power has a slight downside as it lasts the least amount of time before breaking. Further more it's by far the most expensive string to buy at around £38 per restring. The choice of Roger Federer in his hybrid setup.
Multifilament String
This is quite similar to the natural gut string. It also last longer than natural gut string and it's more than an acceptable substitute for natural gut string. It it made up of tiny strands of usually nylon string wrapped together making one long piece of string. This is very popular for both tennis and squash rackets.
Synthetic Gut String
This type of string is great choice if you're not sure what you want. It has a good mixture durability and power and it is inexpensive to restring. Prince synthetic gut is probably the most popular of this type. It is made up of a single filament usually nylon.
Polyester String
The choice of the pros. If you regularly break strings ie. every other week, then a full polyester or a hybrid could help. However with the increase in durability comes a decrease in playability. This slight decrease in playability can be offset with a hybrid setup, where the mains are strung with a polyester string and then a softer string in the crosses. A multifilament or synthetic gut string would be a great choice for this kind of string setup. This string can also feel quite hard and can cause a few arm problems if your technique isn't great.