String properties – What your stringing determines about your game

Why the string is more than just an accessory

The string is the soul of your racket.
It influences your playing feel more than the frame itself – whether it’s power, control, comfort or spin.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand the characteristics of your string and how to choose it.

The 7 most important properties of tennis strings

durability

How long does the string last before it breaks or becomes unplayable?

• Thicker diameters & hard materials (e.g. Co-Poly) are more robust
• Natural gut and thin multifilament strings last shorter
• For frequent players and spin-strong players, abrasion-resistant co-polyester or aramid strings are ideal
• Example: MSV Focus Hex Plus 38, MSV Technora 100 (Hybrid)

Feeling (Touch)

How sensitive is your feedback at ball contact?

• The more elastic the string, the more sensitive the playing
• Natural gut, nylon and soft multifilaments create a particularly high touch
• Example: MSV Soft Touch, MSV Multi Q10

Power / Acceleration

How much does the string support ball acceleration?

• Soft strings with low tension give the ball more energy with
• Material + construction = crucial (e.g. multifilament > monofilament)
• Power boost: also possible with softer stringing (-1 to -2 kg)

control

How precisely can you place the ball?

• Tighter, harder strings offer more control
• Especially for advanced players with long swings
• The more feedback the string bed gives, the better the precision
• Example: MSV Co Focus, MSV Focus Hex

Spin

How much does the string support your topspin or slice shots?

• Profile shape & snapback effect crucial
• Square or twisted strings + good glide = more spin
• Example: MSV Hepta Twist, MSV Focus Hex Soft
• Scientific bonus: Round strings like MSV Co Focus have particularly good snapback!

Comfort / arm protection

How comfortable is the gaming experience for your arm, shoulder and wrist?

• Soft materials, lower tension and elastic construction reduce vibration
• Ideal for tennis elbow or for older players
• Example: MSV Soft Touch, MSV Focus Hex Plus 38

Voltage stability

How long does the string retain its playing characteristics after stringing?

• All strings lose tension – but at different speeds
• Co-polyester faster than nylon or gut
• Most stable models: MSV Hepta Twist, MSV Spin Plus, strong diameters

Conclusion