Tension and Gauge

Tension

Tension refers to how tight a racquet is strung. All racquets have a recommended tension range which is normally printed in the throat of the racquet. Stringing below this range will probably result in wild, uncontrollable shots. Stringing above this range could break the frame, and will void the manufacturer's warranty.

Generally speaking lower tensions produce more power. Strings deflect upon impact with the ball. When the string snaps back the energy is transferred to the ball. Lower tensioned strings will deflect more, and transfer more energy to the ball. Higher tensions tend to produce more control. Strings will deflect less at high tensions and will transfer less energy to the ball. Lower tension strings vibrate less and are usually more comfortable to play with.

Gauge

Gauge refers to the thickness of a string. Most tennis strings fall between 15 and 19 gauge with 16 being the most popular. The smaller the number the thicker the string is. For example, a 16 gauge string is thicker than a 17 gauge string. Some strings gauge is noted with an L standing for light. For example, a 16L string is thinner than a 16, but thicker than a 17. The following are general characteristics of strings relative to gauge.

These characteristics will hold true for strings of a similar composition:

• Thicker strings are more durable
• Thinner strings tend to produce more spin
• Thinner strings are more elastic (More Power)
• Thinner strings offer more comfort and feel