Do Rough Tennis Strings Make a Difference?
The answer to this question is a resounding, “Yes!” Tennis strings play an important role in the performance of a player and the feel of the ball. A player’s string choice can affect the spin, power and ball control of their shots. Rough strings can provide a higher level of ball spin, power and control than smooth strings.
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Tennis strings are made from a variety of materials, including natural gut, nylon, polyester, Kevlar and boron. Each type of string has its own characteristics and benefits. The roughness of the string is one of the most important factors in deciding which type of string is right for a player.
What is Rough Tennis String?
Rough tennis strings are made from materials that are more abrasive than those used in smooth strings. These strings provide a textured surface which increases the amount of friction between the string and the ball. This increased friction leads to more spin, power and control.
The degree of roughness of a string is measured by its “gauge.” The lower the gauge, the rougher the string. For example, a 16-gauge string is rougher than a 17-gauge string.
Types of Rough Tennis Strings
There are a variety of rough strings available on the market. The most popular ones are:
- Polyester Strings – Polyester strings are very popular among players looking for extra power and spin. These strings are extremely durable, but also quite abrasive. They provide a great deal of spin and control, but can be hard on the arm.
- Natural Gut Strings – Natural gut strings are the most expensive type of string, but they are also the most comfortable. They provide great feel and control, with a level of spin that is comparable to polyester strings.
- Kevlar Strings – Kevlar strings are extremely durable, but also quite stiff. They provide a great deal of power, but can be hard on the arm. They are best suited for players who hit with a lot of topspin.
- Boron Strings – Boron strings are the newest type of string on the market. They provide a softer feel than polyester and kevlar strings, but still provide plenty of spin and power.
Benefits of Rough Tennis Strings
Rough strings offer a variety of benefits to players. These benefits include:
- More Spin – The increased friction between the strings and the ball allows for more spin on shots. This can be especially beneficial for players who like to hit with a lot of topspin.
- More Power – The increased friction also allows for more power on shots. This can be beneficial for players who like to hit with a lot of power.
- Better Control – The increased friction provides better control over the ball. This can be beneficial for players who like to hit with a lot of accuracy.
- More Durable – The roughness of the strings makes them more durable than smooth strings. This can be beneficial for players who are looking for a string that will last longer.
Drawbacks of Rough Tennis Strings
Rough strings also have some drawbacks. These drawbacks include:
- More Expensive – Rough strings tend to be more expensive than smooth strings. This can be a barrier for players on a tight budget.
- Less Comfort – The increased friction can be hard on the arm and can lead to pain and injury. This can be a barrier for players who are looking for a comfortable string.
- Less Feel – The increased friction also reduces the feel of the ball. This can be a barrier for players who are looking for a string with a softer feel.
- Less Durable – The increased friction can cause the strings to wear out faster than smooth strings. This can be a barrier for players who are looking for a string that will last longer.
Which Players Should Use Rough Strings?
Rough strings are best suited for players who hit with a lot of spin and power. They are also best suited for players who are looking for a string that will last longer. Players who are looking for a comfortable string should avoid rough strings.
Which Tennis Racquets Should Use Rough Strings?
Rough strings are best suited for racquets with an open string pattern. This allows for more spin and power. Racquets with a tight string pattern are not well suited for rough strings as they can lead to decreased control.
What Tension Should Rough Strings Be Strung At?
Rough strings should be strung at a higher tension than smooth strings. This allows for increased spin, power and control. The exact tension will depend on the player’s preferences and playing style.
Conclusion
Rough strings can provide a higher level of spin, power and control than smooth strings. They are best suited for players who hit with a lot of spin and power, and for racquets with an open string pattern. They should be strung at a higher tension than smooth strings.
However, rough strings can also be hard on the arm and can lead to decreased feel. Players who are looking for a comfortable string should avoid rough strings.