Why it matters what frame and string combination you use

…and how Withers can help you choose!

1. Your game

As your game progresses from a beginner through to a Pro the style of racket you will benefit most from will change. Big hitters need a different style of racket from touch players.

2. Your well-being

If you use a racket which isn’t suited to your physique and style of play your hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder could all suffer.

How Withers can help you pick the appropriate frame and string

If we know you on a tennis court it is easier to help you choose. If we don’t then the conversation and process of choosing might take a little longer. But whether we have played against you, watched you play or met you for the first time in the shop we help you pick the right racket and strings by talking to you. We will discuss:

  • your game
  • your practice / training regime (if you have one)
  • your  aches and pains (if you suffer from them).
  • your targets, whether you are looking to improve your game or one part of it or to maintain your current standard

Often we might ask to see you hit a ball or two against our practice wall to get an idea of your stroke. We sometimes suggest that you take a demo racket for a couple of days to get an idea for how it feels and plays.

The number of steps in the process vary for the individual but the process is the same. Identify the style of your game, your fitness and physical strengths and weaknesses and your preferences and recommend a couple of rackets for you to try.

The following are the basics of frame & string facts which the racket manufacturers combine to achieve their intended ‘feel’ of a racket. Unless you spend considerable time researching rackets you are unlikely to be able to identify from this list alone what will best suit you. Our experts do spend the time and can help you to pick the racket best suited to you and your game.

Racket Facts

  • A heavier frame generates more power.
  • A heavier frame vibrates less.
  • A heavier frame has a larger sweet spot.
  • A stiffer frame generates more power.
  • A stiffer frame has a larger sweet spot.
  • A stiffer frame transmits more of the shock load to the arm than a more flexible frame.
  • A stiffer frame provides a more uniform ball response across the entire string plane.
  • A larger frame generates more power.
  • A larger frame is more resistant to twisting.
  • A larger frame has a larger sweet spot.
  • A longer frame generates more velocity and therefore more power.
  • The string bed in a longer frame generates more spin due to increased velocity.

String Facts

  • Lower string tensions generate more power (providing string movement does not occur).
  • Higher string tensions generate more ball control (for experienced players).
  • A longer string (or string plane area) produces more power.
  • Decreased string density (fewer strings) generates more power.
  • Softer strings, or strings with a softer coating, tend to vibrate less.
  • Thinner strings tend to produce more spin.
  • Increased string density (more strings) generates more control.
  • The more elastic the string, the more tension loss in the racquet after the string job. Unless you pre-stretch the string first, then tension loss is minimised.