String Construction

There are so many different types of strings to choose from and having an idea of the construction of a string will give you an idea how it plays - regardless of the manufacturer. This guide will mainly appeal to those who play tennis; although it may be an interesting read for the other racquet sport enthusiasts.

Monofilament Construction
Originally associated with low cost nylons, now a solid construction blending polyester or polyether which produces a durable string.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour, Luxilon Big Banger and HEAD Ultratour)

Solid Core with Single Wrap
This is the most commonly used construction. The solid core gives durability and reduces tension loss whilst the outer wrap protects the core and improves playability.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Prince Syn Gut and HEAD Syn Gut)

Solid Core with Double Wrap
The extra wrap gives a 'softer' feel and better playability although the thinner core decreases durability.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Babolat Powergy and Babolat Magic Force)

Multicore with Single Wrap
The multifilament core increases elasticity which resulting improved playability. The outer wrap protects the core.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Ashaway Flex 21, Yonex BG65Ti/BG80, Ashaway Supernick XL and HEAD RIP Control)

Multifilament
Very similar to natural gut; coreless string is made up of multifibres then coated for protection. It has excellent playability but tents to lose tension more quickly than strings with a centre core. To overcome this, I usually pre-stretch the string 10% before stringing.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Technifibre 305/NRG2)

Composites
This combination of nylon aramid fibres increases durability whilst not impairing playability.
(Examples from the strings I have:- None)

Hybrids
The construction of a very durable main string (aramid fibre or monofilament) and more elastic cross string (synthetic gut) is ideal for the frequent string breaker. Many players now choose to make up their own hybrids.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Check out Andy Roddicks or Federer's combinations -- but remember you can make your own up)

Natural Gut
The ultimate in playability and still favoured by some of the world's leading tennis players. Either beef or sheep gut is used to make a string with excellent power and feel. The price means it has a restricted market.
(Examples from the strings I have:- Babolat VS Team/VS Touch)