Tennis Stringing Guide for Filipino Players

String Types Explained

Natural Gut

The gold standard. Made from cow intestine, natural gut offers unmatched feel, power, and comfort. It holds tension better than any synthetic and is gentlest on the arm. The downside: it's expensive (₱2,500–4,000 per set) and degrades faster in humidity — a real factor in the Philippines.

Best for: Advanced players who prioritize feel. Often used as a hybrid (gut mains + poly crosses).

Polyester

The most popular string type on the pro tour. Polyester (poly) is durable, generates heavy spin, and gives precise control. It's stiff, so it's harder on the arm — not ideal for beginners or players with elbow issues. ₱600–1,500 per set.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced players who hit with topspin. The default choice for competitive players.

Multifilament

Hundreds of tiny fibers woven together to mimic natural gut's feel at a fraction of the price. Multifilament strings offer excellent comfort and power, with decent durability. ₱500–1,200 per set.

Best for: Beginners and intermediate players. Great arm-friendly option for regular play.

Synthetic Gut

The budget all-rounder. A single nylon core with outer wraps. Decent power, okay control, good enough durability. Nothing exceptional, nothing terrible. ₱200–500 per set.

Best for: Beginners and casual players. The best value for recreational tennis.

Hybrid

Two different strings — one for mains (vertical), one for crosses (horizontal). The most common setup: polyester mains for spin and control, multifilament or gut crosses for comfort and feel. Gives you the best of both worlds.

Best for: Intermediate to advanced players looking to fine-tune their string bed.

String Gauge (Thickness)

String gauge ranges from 15 (thickest, ~1.40mm) to 19 (thinnest, ~1.10mm). The tradeoffs are straightforward:

• Thicker (15–16): More durable, slightly less feel and spin
• Thinner (17–19): More spin, more feel, breaks faster

Start with 16 gauge — it's the most popular and offers a good balance. Move to 17 if you want more spin, or 15L if you break strings frequently.

Tension Guide

String tension is measured in pounds (lbs). Most rackets have a recommended range (typically 50–60 lbs). The general rule:

• Lower tension (48–52 lbs): More power, larger sweet spot, less control
• Higher tension (54–60 lbs): More control, more feel, less power

Start in the middle of your racket's recommended range and adjust from there. Drop 2 lbs if you want more power, add 2 lbs for more control.

When to Restring

The classic rule: Restring as many times per year as you play per week. Play 3 times a week? Restring 3 times a year (every 4 months).

In the Philippine climate, cut that interval shorter. Signs you need to restring:

• Strings have visible notching (dents where they cross)
• The ball feels "dead" — less pop and power than usual
• You're losing control on shots you normally make
• It's been more than 3 months (for regular players)

Recommended Strings (Available in PH)

Budget (₱200–500)

• Artengo TA 500 Comfort (Decathlon): Best value multifilament. Comfortable, good for beginners. ₱350.
• HEAD Velocity MLT: Solid synthetic gut. Widely available at Toby's. ₱300–400.

Mid-Range (₱600–900)

• Babolat RPM Blast: The most popular poly string in the world. Great spin, firm feel. ₱800.
• Wilson NXT: Premium multifilament. Exceptional comfort. ₱850.

Premium (₱1,000–1,500)

• Luxilon ALU Power: Tour-level poly. The string of choice for many WTA/ATP players. ₱1,100–1,200.
• Tecnifibre X-One Biphase: Top-tier multifilament. Closest to natural gut feel. ₱1,200.

Where to Get Your Racket Strung in the Philippines 🇵🇭

Metro Manila

Online String Orders

What to Expect

• Cost: ₱200–500 for labor (plus string cost). Decathlon is typically ₱200–300. Court stringers vary.
• Turnaround: Same day to 2 days. Decathlon often offers while-you-wait service.
• Tip: Bring your own strings if you have a preference. Most shops charge labor only if you supply the string.