String Basics and FAQs

Fastest method would be to text me at 339-645-9951. Alternative methods will be to email me at erikstringing@gmail.com or leave a voicemall at the above number

• Typically 1-3 days. For drop-offs/pickups at Boston Health and Wellness, invoices must be paid in full before racket/s are available for pickup. Invoices will be sent via email or text depending on your preference below. 

• For drop offs/pickups at Boston Health and Wellness, invoices can only be paid via Credit/Debit Card.
• Cash and card payments will be accepted, if pickup is scheduled with Erik after regular business hours

• Strings are crucial for a racket's playability and performance.
• Strings will always lose tension over time, so your balls will feel different compared to a fresh restring.
• Did you know that pro tennis players only play with their strings for a few hours or less at a time before cutting them out?
  • Strings will stretch out and lose tension after a lot of time or just hitting a lot of balls

• Synthetic Gut:
  • All-around playability, value, ideal for beginners.
  • Economically priced with good overall performance.
• Multifilament:
  • Offers comfort, power, and feel.
  • Mimics natural gut but at a more affordable price.
  • Not recommended for string breakers.
• Natural Gut:
  • Maximum comfort, power, feel, and tension maintenance.
  • Made from cow intestines, considered the most storied and iconic.
  • Most expensive but retains optimal playing characteristics longer.
• Polyester:
  • Maximum control, spin, and durability.
  • Suitable for experienced players.
  • Can be harsh on the arm, lower-powered.
• Hybrid:
  • Any combination of two strings (Mains and Crosses)
  • Typically uses a Polyester Main and "Other" Cross to try to have the best of both worlds 

• Thinner strings (higher gauge) provide more power and spin.
• Thicker strings offer more control and durability.
• The range varies from 15 (1.35mm) to 20 (1.05mm)

• Refers to how tightly the strings are strung.
• Higher tension provides more control, lower tension offers more power.
• Polyesters are usually strung lower than the other types of string due to their low power. 
• The general range for most players is 45-58 lbs

• It would be best if you restring not only when strings break, but also based on your play frequency.
• The general rule of thumb is that you should restring as many times in a year as you play in a week.
• However, one exception is that polyester strings are notorious for losing their tension faster than other types of strings, so you may need more frequent restringing.  The common term for this is that the strings are "dead"