When most players get their racquet restrung, they ask one question: "What tension should I use?"

The answer?  It depends on your game.

The right tension can make a good string feel great—and the wrong tension can make even the best string feel disappointing.

Let's make it simple.

String tension is simply how tightly your strings are installed in your racquet.

Most racquets recommend a range, such as:  50–60 lbs

That doesn't mean one tension is "right" and another is "wrong." It gives you room to fine-tune your racquet to match your playing style.

Lower tensions allow the strings to flex more when the ball makes contact.

The result?

• More power
• Larger sweet spot
• Better comfort
• Less shock to your arm

Great for:

• Beginners
• Players with slower swing speeds
• Players with tennis elbow
• Anyone looking for easier depth and a softer feel

Higher tensions create a firmer string bed.

That means:

• More control
• More precision
• A firmer feel
• Less trampoline effect

Great for:

• Advanced players
• Big hitters
• Players who generate plenty of their own power
• Players who want maximum accuracy

That's actually a great place to start.  If your racquet recommends 50–60 lbs, try 55 lbs first.

From there, small adjustments can make a noticeable difference.

• Need more power? Go down 2–3 pounds.
• Need more control? Go up 2–3 pounds.

It really is that simple.

Different strings perform best at different tensions.

Multifilament Strings: These are softer and more powerful, so they're often strung in the middle to upper half of the recommended range for added control.

Polyester Strings: Poly strings are naturally firmer and lower powered, so they're commonly strung 5-10 pounds lower than multifilament to improve comfort and ball pocketing.

For example:

• Wilson NXT Comfort: 54–57 lbs
• Solinco Hyper-G: 46–50 lbs
• Babolat RPM Soft: 48–52 lbs

One player's perfect tension might feel terrible to another.

That's why we ask questions like:

• How hard do you hit?
• Do you want more power or more control?
• Have you had arm pain?
• What strings have you liked in the past?

Those answers help us find your ideal setup.

If your racquet doesn't feel quite right, don't rush out and buy a new one.  A simple tension adjustment can completely change how your racquet performs.

Sometimes, moving just 2 pounds can give you:

• More power
• Better control
• Increased comfort
• Greater confidence on every shot

The Racquet Doctor, doesn't just restring racquets—I customize them to your game.

Whether you're looking for more power, pinpoint control, extra comfort, or a little more spin, I'll help you find the perfect combination of string and tension so you can get the most out of every match.

The right string gets you close. The right tension makes it perfect. 🎾