Should poly-based strings be prestretched?

Today’s blog topic comes from a frequently asked question received via email and telephone from our customers.  We are often asked about prestretching poly-based strings.  While there are varying opinions on the topic, our position is resoundingly firm.  “Poly-based strings should NOT be prestretched.”

Because poly-based strings offer excellent durability from friction wear, the perception is that they are a macho product.

Impervious to beatings…
Strong like a bull…
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound…
(You get the picture)

In reality, poly-based strings are more delicate and fragile than most strngers and players realize.  They need to be handled very carefully during the installation process…Especially many of today’s new poly-based strings that include chemicals and additives designed to make them softer. Poly-based strings should be treated as carefully, or moreso, than natural gut during the stringing process.  Failure to treat them properly can result in premature breakage and cause the string not to perform  to its potential.

For poly-based strings elasticity, (the ability to stretch out and return to original form), is supremely important.  Stringing at too high of a tension sucks much of the elasticity out of poly-based strings and prestretching has the same effect.

Proponents argue that tension loss can be reduced by prestretching.  They argue that the 13% – 20% initial tension loss can be reduced/better managed with a prestretch.  This may be true.  However, there is a HUGE FALSE ASSUMPTION lingering around the stringing universe that loss of tension = loss of playability.  In some cases, this can be true, but in most cases it is not.  I believe the perceived relationship between loss of tension and loss of playability is overblown and misunderstood.  In fact, Cross and Lindsey in The Physics and Technology of Tennis found that strings maintained their energy, resiliency and elasticity even after experiencing tension loss.  “We found that the energy loss was not zero, but close enough to zero to make no significant difference in the calculations.” (Chapter 30)

Tension loss can easily be measured with many of today’s tools.  It is perceived to be evil.  While there is no denying that it is a factor that can alter playability of a racquet, we would argue in the world of poly-based strings that tension loss is not as critical of a factor as loss of elasticity.  It is the ELASTICITY of poly-based strings that allow them to offer the desired performance.  PRESTRETCHING can damage/reduce this elasticity which is the main reason we do not advocate prestretching poly-based strings.

As our blog readers know, we could ramble onward ad nauseum.  Our goal was to keep this entry short while providing some context/support for our response.

“No, poly-based strings should not be prestretched.”

Please feel free to leave your thoughts and comments in the designated section below.

Jaw-Dropping new string AMAZES users…

September 28  is a milestone in the life of the new WeissCANNON TurboTwist.  Today marks the 4th month that this product has been available in the USA and we continue to have trouble keeping it in stock due to high customer demand.

For all the strings we have playtested and introduced through the years, none offers the unique playing characteristics of the TurboTwist.  It is truly exceptional, extraordinary and without any peer in the world of string products.  Our customers agree and refuse to stop raving about this fantastic product.

What makes it unique?  Well it is constructed out of a poly-based blend of elements and chemicals that are coaxially twisted.  It is heated, cooled, reheated through a complex and patented manufacturing process.  It uses a special blend of chemical additives unique to only WeissCANNON, meaning knock-offs will be hard pressed to ever replicate the performance.  And what a performance it is.    While it is not unusual to receive email messages from customers who have been delighted to discover some of the string products we offer, none has generated as much insanely positive feedback, as quickly as the TurboTwist.

So, we ask again in a rhetorical kind of way, what are the characteristics that make it so unique?  It is in the poly-based family, but it is a rebel.  The level of comfort, the power level and the feel will make the user swear s/he is hitting with a crisp synthetic.  In fact, because of the high level of elasticity, the manufacturer suggests stringing at the same tension as multis.  No need to drop tension like you do with firmer poly-based strings.  These strings, like natural gut, need a bit higher tension in order to tame the inherent power.

Even though the feedback you receive will make you think you are hitting with a synthetic, properly strung you are going to realize the control you get with a poly-based string.  It truly is remarkable.  The spin potential with this string, in a full stringbed setup, is as good or better than any.  You will be hard-pressed to find a more spin friendly setup.

As an added bonus, over the past 4 months we have found the longevity of the string, (the amount of time it holds playing properties), has exceeded reasonable expectations.  In fact we pulled out a racquet orginally strung with it in mid April (5 months ago) and won a league tennis match last week.  The racquet played great.  When we got back to the shop and measured the stringbed stiffness, we were shocked to see it was still locked in at a DT reading of 38.  A representive loss of 12 – 13% which has locked in after approx. 3 hours of play.  This string does experience an initial tension loss on par with most synthetics, but after the initial loss, it locks in and holds properties for a prolonged period of time. In terms of durability, it is poly-based string like performance all the way.

The TurboTwist is an entirely new breed of string animal.  It does not fit into the poly-based string kingdom, nor does it fit into the world of synthetics.  Rather it is a class of it’s own.  In a word, it is INIMITABLE.

A new gauge, 1.24mm will soon be available to compliment the current 1.18mm version.  If the characteristics of this string sound appealing to you, we encourage you to give it a playtest and experience the completely unique sensation for yourself.

Buy It and Try It!™

We would not have trademarked the name or created a fun logo if this new offer was not something special for our customers.

Over the course of the past several months we have been introducing several exciting new string offerings.  We have also had a significant increase in the number of private, club and school coaches contacting us with an interest in trying our string products.  We have found the conversion rate of those trying our products and then deciding to carry them for team or personal use to be incredibly high.  (Stratospheric, Baybee!) Because the MSV and WeissCANNON products are so universally appealing we want to make them easy and convenient for our customers to get first-hand experiences.  Thus, our “Buy It and Try It!”TM  program was born.

We have created a “Buy It and Try It!”TM web page where you can order a limited number of the strings we import and distribute from Germany at reasonable prices for the purpose of playtesting and comparing.  We are able to offer samples of our MSV and WeissCANNON string sets at 50% off the retail pricing, in essence splitting the costs with you.  Because we often field phone calls with customers curious about how they compare to other string offerings we carry, we are also offering these at a discounted one-time only sample price for our customers to playtest and compare.  Ultimately we are confident you will find our offerings SUPERIOR to all other poly-based string offerings.  We also have a growing catalog of high quality synthetics for you to test,  including some of the top performing multis on the market.

While we enjoy speaking with our customers and sharing our experience and observations of our string products, we must keep in mind that the context in which strings are used often determine the end-user experience.  We are very well versed in how our strings have performed in our playtests and for our local customers and we are also able to discuss most competing products from direct experiences as well.  Still, the context in which you choose to use the strings may be different than our experiences.  Because of this we are often asked to speculate when engaging customers in personal conversations.  Rather than speculate, we believe our new “Buy It and Try It!”TM program will allow customers to purchase our strings at amazing prices for the purpose of personal playtests.

We do have to place some limits on the program.  Each customer is allowed to make a ONE TIME purchase through this program and can purchase up to 4 different sets of strings in order to compare string types and/or gauges.  If you feel you have a special circumstance where more than 4 sets are needed, please contact us via email and we will see what we can do to assist with your request.

We are excited to bring this new and innovative program to you and hope you will take advantage of it!

A new “Twist” on tennis string technology

For years the lightbulb has been the universal symbol for a bright and new ideas.  Several years ago, the image of the traditional light bulb was set on its ear as a newer, more efficient light bulb began to emerge.  A bulb with a twisting appearance.  A bulb that would transform the lighting industry.

This year a new construction of poly-based strings emerged.  This latest innovation also relies on twist technology and it could very well be on the precipice of transforming the way we think about tennis strings.  We believe the Gamma Zo Twist was first to the US market, followed closely by our own WeissCANNON Turbotwist, the first book of the bible people (who are barely worth a mention), and most recently the Signum Pro Tornado.

Users take note…not all twist strings are created equal.  While the twisting technology may be similar, the actual properties of the string will determine the quality and overall playability.  For instance, we have playtested the WeissCANNON Turbotwist and found it to be an outstanding product.  It is a string that is hard to classify, but it is very, very good.  It offers a much different experience than all poly-based strings to this point in time.  The feel is comfortable, the string is very lively and the spin potential is exactly what you would expect of a textured poly-based string.  It has earned rave reviews thus far and it sold out faster world-wide than anyone expected.

Meanwhile, Tennis Magazine in Germany conducted a playtest (note Turbotwist was not included in the test) and concluded that the new Signum Pro Tornado was the top string of the group.  What amazed me of the reviews is the tension holding ability of the Tornado.  It was outstanding.  Based on what I have read, it would appear to play a bit stiffer than the Turbotwist, while offering slightly less power.  Tension maintenance appears to surpass all poly-based strings to this point in time.  The results are impressive.

We know the materials in the WeissCANNON Turbotwist, as consistent with the entire line of products, are of the highest quality.  We are also impressed with the early feedback on the Tornado.  These strings are both made of quality materials and it is this base that matters most when the string is twisted.  Due to the wild early success of the new twisted strings we project we will see a flood of poly-based offerings that are twisted fill the marketplace.  Some will offer more or less power, others will offer longer playability,  and we will begin to see the twisted strings begin filling various niches, just as the poly-based strings have done.

But buyer beware, while some will deliver the goods, others will be cheap imitations offering lower pricing and ultimately lower performance.  The costs of these strings are greater to produce (at least at this point) and we are likely to see the costs remain higher than traditional poly-based offerings.  The good news is, it is doubtful the pricing will reach the levels of Luxilon who are still selling a 1993 product at outrageous prices.

Get ye ready as a new twist on string construction is definitely emerging.  It’s a very exciting time as technology continues to improve our sport.

The Sultry Allure of our German tennis strings. (Warning PG-13 Blog Entry Ahead)

Playing with new strings, properly strung, should be a delightful experience for all levels of tennis players.  However, playing with our exclusive offerings from MSV and WeissCANNON takes this to an entirely different level.  In fact, our string offerings are so pleasurable there is only one adjective that could possibly come close to accurately describing them.  That’s right fellow tennis players, we’re going to say it…here it comes…we know you want it…enough teasing…enough heavy breathing…enough foreplay…STRING-GASMIC!™

Yes, you heard it right and you heard it here.  We believe the pleasure you will receive from our playing our exclusive lines of MSV and WeissCANNON strings is the most  string-gasmic™ experience in all of tennis.

Our MSV Focus – Hex® and new MSV EVO Hex are textured for increased stimulation.  Friction enhanced for those who like it rough! Available in thick (1.27mm) and extra thin (1.10mm) versions.

Our new WeissCANNON Turbotwist features spirals and twisting action that is so delightful it will leave you breathless, numb and begging for more.

Few strings are as satisfying as the WeissCANNON Silverstring which is the ultimate aphrodisiac of poly-based strings.  This one is as sure of a thing as it gets!  String-gasm™ guaranteed.

MSV’s new Soft Touch and Soft Control are of a gentle nature, but don’t let that fool you, they are more than capable of generating much more than a tingle or two.  The feel offered by these strings is intense and raw.

MSV’s Focus EVO is a great choice when you are feeling naughty.  It’s exceptionally EVO.

Finally the aptly named WeissCANNON Explosiv! (a premium multifiber string) should come with a warning.  It is intense beyond imagination.  In fact this string is well-know by its users as providing the world’s best multi String-gasmic™ experience…bar none. Be careful with this one, there is clearly potential to terrify the kids and wake the entire neighborhood.

Because of the intensity of pleasure and the vast amount of arousal our string users experience, we can only sell online to those of legal age, 18 and over.  Children, teens and tweens wishing to use these products must have parental approval and definitely need to have had that “birds and bees” talk BEFORE using.

WARNING: The use of MSV and WeissCANNON strings in public is not recommended for those who are overly shy or modest.  You will be smiling ear-to-ear, and quite possibly breathing heavily, moaning and shrieking with delight throughout the match.  In all honesty, the added noise and gyrations do have a tendency to draw a bit of extra attention.  Do you think Sharapova, Azarenka, Seles, Hingis, the Williams sisters and Kournikova were actually grunting?  Heck no, “grunting” is just a euphemism used to describe  mild string-gasms™.  Take note, they are nowhere near the same intensity that users of our strings can experience.

Never had a string-gasm™ before?  Nothing to be embarrassed about, really.  You probably just have not used our strings.  There’s an easy way to rectify that and it will change the way you think about your tennis strings forever!

We sincerely want our string buying customers to experience string-gasms™.  Be loud.  Be proud.  Have a really exceptional one during your next match.   Experience for yourself  just how much fun tennis can be with MSV and WeissCANNON string products providing you with that little extra something-something that other strings simply do not provide.

If you are looking to take it to the next level, how about trying a hybrid setup?  (You have to see where this is leading, don’t you?)  By combining 2 different strings into a single stringbed, users are apt to experience multiple string-gasms™.  Give it a try…you know you want to!

Our string products are available online 24/7.  If you haven’t tried them yet, what are you waiting for?  String virginity is not held in high esteem by any known culture, past or present.  String-gasms™ do not violate any of the Ten Commandments.  This being the case, we suggest you simply go for it with a clear and guilt-free conscience. MSV and WeissCANNON strings are brought to you exclusively  from your friends at  Guts and Glory Tennis.

This post was created for you by the twisted minds at Guts and Glory Tennis where you will always find the world’s best String-gasms!™

Why we rejected Genesis (abridged version public)

In May 2009, we received a message from a person calling themselves Norman Xiushvilli using a generic Russian email provider, rambler.ru . We were told we were among 3 US companies chosen to possibly serve as distributors for a new string which we later learned was to be called Genesis.  Samples were sent to us for playtesting.  Because I was injured and unable to playtest at the time, I asked a very experienced local playtester (USTA 5.0) to test the string for us.  This guy has played a wide array of poly-based strings and always plays a full poly-based setup.  After his first hit with the Genesis strings he asked to end the playtest because they were simply (in his words) uncontrollable and unplayable.  He also scoffed at the pink color.  They were called Bahama Red which is simply a euphemism for pink.

I reported the initial results to the Genesis rep./contact person.  At that time I went to the web site to see what else I could learn about the product.  The web site was under development and what struck me as most interesting was that the USA dealers section listed the exact same dealers in the exact same format as the Pro Supex USA website (and we all know who runs that site).

Our interpretation is that Genesis is owned by the same group and the contact was merely fishing for free reviews and had no intention of awarding distribution to anyone but themselves.  We project they will make a big distributor announcement soon.   In essence they will name themselves distributors. According to sources, they claim to have a big announcement coming  soon…hmm wonder what it is???

Setting identity issues aside, the bottom line is we were simply not interested in carrying or promoting a product with questionable playing properties available in an objectionable color from a thinly veiled mystery source.  It failed the playtest and when strings fail our playtests, we simply do not make them available to our customers.  In a nutshell that is the story of why we rejected Genesis.

NOTE:  We have a created a longer version of this post that goes into greater detail for those that are interested.  It is currently password protected, but may be opened for full public access in the future if there is enough interest.

Protected: Why we rejected Genesis (full version)…

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Gauges – Our guide (The REAL Story)

There is much confusion about the gauges of tennis strings as well as current conventions. This blog entry seeks to clarify the standards used at Guts and Glory Tennis while providing a general overview of current status.

First off, the gauge of a tennis string refers to the diameter or thickness of the string. There are two main methods that tennis string thickness is communicated in the USA. The first is by a whole number. In tennis terms, the lower the number the thicker the gauge. The most commonly used gauges are 15, 16, 17 and 18 with 15 being the thickest and 18 being the thinnest. Because we Americas like to make things complicated and convoluted, we have added the letter “L” beside many of the gauges. Of course the “L” stands for “Light.” In our world a 15L is thinner or “lighter” than a 15 gauge, but not quite as thin as a 16. Likewise a 16L is thinner than a 16 but not quite as thin as a 17 and so forth.

The second method is what I will describe as “European” primarily because it makes use of the metric system…a system of measurements that has terrorized some Americans from childhood. Using this convention string gauges are given exact measurements using a unit called millimeters, (mm). While I find this method preferable, I do understand and appreciate that non-string geeks unfamiliar with the metric units may become even more confused by these measurements than the whole 15, 15L, 16…thing. Afterall, most Americans have an inkling of what 1/16th of an inch is, but what the heck is 1.23mm?

Many years ago when tennis was a prominent part of the Sports Supershow in the USA, representatives from professional tennis associations such as the USRSA and major manufacturers would gather to share knowledge and resources. In one of the meetings an agenda item existed that seemed to make a lot of sense. It was proposed that a standard be established to make sure all strings labeled a certain gauge would fall within a parameter of millimeters. In other words all 16ga strings fall in the range of say 1.28mm – 1.33mm. Seems to make perfect sense, doesn’t it?

Unfortunately some of the manufacturers would not agree on the parameters. (The big “G” among others, I am told.) At the time they were producing strings that did not fall into the proposed categories where they wanted them to fall. It was believed that the gauge standardization had the potential to harm sales and thus the concept was harshly rebuked. Manufacturers essentially decided to stick with their non-uniform naming conventions even if it was not consistent within their own product lines. Absolute zaniness if you ask us. The lack of ability to come to consensus has created a great deal of confusion when it comes to the average tennis player being able to understand the difference between gauges.

Today it is not uncommon to find strings with just a gauge indicated on the packaging. It may say 17ga, but what does that really mean? Because there is no universally agreed upon standard, it means the manufacturer wants to label it a 17ga. It usually falls into a broad range of diameters that can vary widely. While one company may call a 1.18mm string 18 ga, another may call it 17L while a third may even call it 17. It’s like the wild, wild west..lawless and chaotic.

The USRSA has attempted to publish a broad standard, but in reality it is not universally accepted and does little to reign in the lawlessness. (See chart at bottom of page.) The range is simply too broad with overlapping measurements to reflect the current desires of the manufacturers to whom many believe the USRSA caters. In reality it is time for it to be tightened up. It is too loosey-goosey and has no real meaning. Thus we propose a convention that we believe reflects the interests of the TENNIS PLAYER, not the manufacturer who is afraid of having a number associated with the real diameter of the string. Below is our totally awesome gauge naming convention. We hope you use it and enjoy. We believe it should become the standard. No messy overlap here. Just hardcore, label it as it is stuff that is not driven by the special/selfish interests of the major string manufacturers.

The Official Guts and Glory Tennis String Gauge Guide!

1.34mm – 1.40mm – 15L
1.33mm – 1.29mm – 16
1.28mm – 1.26mm – 16L
1.25mm – 1.23mm- 17
1.22mm – 1.19mm – 17L
1.18mm – 1.13mm – 18
1.12mm – 1.08mm – 18L
1.07mm -1.02mm – 19

Note: For those not into “L’s” a 16ga is 1.26mm – 1.33mm, a 17ga is 1.19mm – 1.25mm and an 18ga is 1.08mm – 1.18mm.

USRSA DEFINITIONS (We believe these are simply too broad with too much overlap and need to be refined and brought up to date. There should not be overlap.)

U.S.		Diameter
15		1.41-1.49 mm
15L		1.33-1.41 mm
16		1.26-1.34 mm
16L		1.22-1.30 mm
17		1.16-1.24 mm
18		1.06-1.16 mm

WeissCANNON Turbotwist – Initial review

So who really cares if the coil memory of this product makes the installation process take a couple minutes longer??? It is soooo worth it!!!!

The performance of the new WeissCANNON Turbotwist is shockingly good. It not only exceeded, it SHATTERED all reasonable expectations. This string clearly possesses all of the potential to be brobdingnagian, a literal giant in world of poly-based string products.

First the technical stuff.  In a nutshell WeissCANNON uses chemicals unique to them in the production of highly elastic co-polymer fibers which are twisted approximately200 times around a longitudinal axis. The result of this process is a poly-based string unlike any other we have seen to date. The performance is unbelievably solid.

The new WeissCANNON Turbotwist succeeds at finally reaching the illusive goal that string manufacturers have been aiming for with new poly-based strings over the past several years. It is a string that offers the control and spin of a traditional poly-based string along with the comfort, feel and power of a multi. The Turbotwist could very easily become the holy grail of strings for many of today’s players.

In our playtest we were impressed with the wide array of characteristics the string displayed. In all of our years of playtesting poly-based strings, we had not experienced a string that was as versatile as the Turbotwist. First off, we found plenty of spin. While most of the poly-based strings do a good job of biting the ball, this string is exceptionally good in the area of spin generation. Players who rely on spin are going to appreciate the way this string digs into the ball to produce rapid RPM’s. Perhaps equally or more impressive than the spin, was the overall comfort the string offered. If I did not know it was a poly-based string I would have guessed it was a crisp multi, along the lines of a Bi-Phase or Supreme. The power level impressed as did the control. It is easily the most lively poly-based string I have tested, and best of all, the power was completely controllable.

The test string was installed on April 24. One month plus three days later, May 27, the string had experienced a total tension loss of approx. 13.6% which is more than acceptable for a poly-based string product.

Because our playtest is limited, there are still several questions remaining to be answered. The string is only produced in a 1.18mm version (some would call it a 17L gauge, we call it an 18). We do not know how durable the string will be nor do we know how it will stand up to huge hitters and frequent string breakers. We do not yet know how long the string will hold playability in terms of court hours. While comfortable, we do not know how players with sensitive arms will respond to the string. In other words we do not know if it will be a poly-based option for those with sensitive elbows…early indications, however, are very promising. We do not yet know how the string will behave in hybrid situations.

Turbotwist sets are now available!  Click here to order directly.

We invite our customers to be among the first to discover this exceptional new product that has the potential to alter the string manufacturing landscape. We invite you to help us find answers to the unknowns we posted above.

This string proves it is not possible to judge a book by the cover. It feels extremely stiff and wirey during the installation process. The level of comfort and court performance is a shocking and stark contrast to what is expected based on the installation experience. For more on our installation impressions please see our previous blog entry on this topic.

Please feel free to ask us questions about this string here as well as posting your experiences.

WeissCANNON 6StarString – early rumblings

The WeissCANNON 6StarString has yet to officially hit the US shores and already it is one of the most popular email subjects appearing in the ol’ inbox. Here are some tidbits for the curious.

1. We have two samples out and being playtested. Both in hybrids. We have identified a full-set playtester, but need the string to arrive in order to install it and conduct the test. Thus far one playtester is very happy with the overall performance. Another, who is a frequent string breaker, broke the TT before an opinion could be formed. Note…this is a player who has used poly mains and broken through them rapidly in the past. The 6StarString for him, was not as durable as a poly-based string.

2. We heard from the Australian distributor that in his playtest, the string got fuzzy rapidly. He noted, “no sign of breakage, just that old wet natural gut look.”

3. We know that this string has been in development for over 2 years and is said to have unique playing properties. The manufacturer describes it as a completely unique string product. A blend of multis and monos into a durable string that is specifically designed to enhance spin.

4. We are expecting a shipment of the 6StarString to arrive very shortly. It could arrive the end of this month or early June. The length of time it is in customs is difficult to calculate. When it does arrive we will announce it via Twitter and Facebook and have it available for purchase from our web site.

5. The manufacturer sent us an email today explaining that the “fluff that appears on the string is intentional.” The purpose is to enhance spin and control. It is an innovation that is unique in the stringing world. (See WeissCANNON web site for further details )

So what exactly is this mysterious string? How will it hold up to US playtesters? Will the “fluff” be embraced by players or will it frighten them away? Will the string be as versatile as we believe? Will it be another home run for WeissCANNON? All of these questions remain unanswered. However, YOU will help to answer them with us. Be watching because the new 6StarString will soon be available. We believe it will be a winner.

Spider Silk – The Future of Tennis Strings?

Here’s an interesting bit we ran across while surfing the web. Recent laboratory innovations have allowed scientists to clone spider silk. Bioengineered spider silk is said to be strong as steel, yet flexible at the same time. The article from a Tufts University journal (see link below) states that possible applications include use in sporting goods.

Hmmmm. This makes us wonder. Is it beyond the realm of imagination to believe that this silk could be utilized and integrated into the construction of a tennis string? Is there potential for a string with incredible durablity along with good elasticity and feel? Dare we suggest there is potential to surpass the playability of natural gut? No one really knows the hidden potential of this finding as it relates to our favorite sport. We encourage string manufacturers to explore the possibilities. Within the next couple of years we would not be surprised to see this new material find its way into the labs of the major string manufacturers. Cool stuff. Remember, you heard it here first!!!

http://tuftsjournal.tufts.edu/archive/2003/october/briefs/index.shtml

WeissCANNON TurboTwist

We are currently conducting local playtests with WeissCANNON’s newest poly-based string, TurboTwist. This 1.18mm string features an innovative construction that has been patented. The manufacturer claims it will take poly-based strings to an entirely different level. We are excited to hit with it.

We are told this poly-based string offers the highest amount of controllable power found in any poly-based string product due in part to a high amount of elasticity. In fact, WeissCANNON suggests stringing it at the same tension as you would string a regular synthetic gut offering. By contrast they recommend an 8% tension drop when using Silverstring (one of the very best and most technologically advanced poly-based strings currently available.)

We will use this blog to review the string once playtest results become available. Until then, it is important to note that the string is expected to be available sometime in the next 4 – 8 weeks.

Our stringing experience was definitely not what we expected. The TurboTwist has more coil memory than most strings we have used. It reminded us of the Head Intellistring, from the coil memory standpoint. We are hoping that the packaged sets and especially the reels will have less coil memory to fight. It was one of the more difficult strings to work with from that perspective.

We also found it offering a more “wire-like” feel to the hand than we expected, given the elasticity ratings and projected comfort. (NOTE: These comments are based only on installation impressions, not actual play). We have found strings in the past that felt stiff to the hand, yet played soft, and vice versa. Heck, Kevlar feels nice and soft to the hand, but offers virtually no elasticity so it plays like a board. The TurboTwist, by contrast, is highly elastic (based on poly-based string standards). We also noted that the first two cross strings, when pulling through, made a distinctly unique sound. It sounded very much like elephants trumpeting. No doubt this was caused by the construction which for lack of a better term is “texture-like” due to the twisting done in the manufacturing of this string. Weaving the crosses was much easier than anticipated. I feared, given the wire-like feel and coil memory that the crosses would become nightmarish to install. This was not the case, though the coil memory did remain strong through 1/2 the crosses.

Will the TurboTwist offer the playability promised? Will it take poly-based strings to an entirely new level? We’ll have to eagerly wait and see, but we definitely would not bet against Siggi Weiss and the WeissCANNON team delivering another high quality product for tennis players throughout the world to enjoy. Stay tuned for more!

What do terms “poly” and “copoly” really mean?

For those who have been following us for years, you may have made use of our “Racquety-Yak” Message Board.  With the advent of the “Racquety-Yak” Blog, we have found discussion board participation declining, even though views have increased.  In a decision designed to better serve the needs of our users by consolidating information and also to reduce our costs we have decided to close the message board and use the blog and our Facebook Fan Page (opening soon) to respond to customer questions.

We will begin answering questions with one posed yesterday. 

Q: I’ve been looking around the web but haven’t found the answer to this: what exactly is a co-poly and how does it differ from a poly? I’ve been experimenting with polys (wilson enduro 16 and 17 and pro hurricane 15L) in my roddick+ and they’re bothering my arm a bit. I’m giving good consideration to switching to a hybrid, but I’m overseas and string selection isn’t great, though at times I can get people to bring me strings from US.

I’m trying to make it affordable and convenient. My first choice is finding a poly (or co-poly) I can use without arm problems, but I’m feeling like that’s unlikely. My second choice is a reel of poly/co-poly and a reel of something else for the crosses. Any recommendations on decent affordable options available in reels or non-pricey packages? Possible to keep the string costs below $10 per job?

A: Thank you for your excellent question!  There is a great deal of confusion with the terms “poly” and “co-poly.”  We will do our best to untangle some of this for you.

Many years ago string manufacturers found that POLYESTER was a material that offered a great deal of durability and control in tennis strings.  Early POLYESTER strings were extremely stiff, lost tension rapidly and did not really develop much of a following.  These strings were referred to as “POLY” strings.  In the 1990’s manufactures began reducing the amount of actual polyester used in the string and began blending them with different chemicals and elements.  The result was more comfortable playing strings that held playing properties longer.  When the percentage of actual polyester decreased many, myself included, began referring to these strings as “Co-Polys.”  The thought was to designate it as having more elements than just polyester so the customers would recognize that it was not the same as the old “Poly” strings.

While the thought made sense, it failed to take into account that synthetic gut string manufacturers sometimes used the term “co-poly” to describe the core and other parts of their strings.  When used in the context of synthetic gut strings the term “co-poly” does not refer to polyester, but rather polymers which are generally not the same and may not consist of polyester.  The use of the term “co-poly” in two entirely different contexts began to get confusing.  Afterall when a synthetic gut string with copoly core was being described, what would consumers think?  Would they believe the core was polyester based and thus stiffer and more durable, or would they know it was a term used to blanket the use of multiple polymers?  Add to this confusion of manufacturers actually adding polyester blends into the synthetic and welcome to “Camp Confusion!”

To put and end to this confusion we have changed our terminology.  We were the first to do so and are hoping our naming convention makes sense and catches on.  We have noticed some in the tennis world using our terminology and we are proud to have made this contribution to clearing up some of the confusion.

The term we now use for strings that are composed of polyester blended with other elements is “POLY-BASED.” This serves to let the consumer know that the string does have a polyester base.  We think it makes sense for these strings to have their own reference name, rather than sharing the term “co-poly” with polymers…that’s just too confusing.

Now, as far as your situation, the poly-based strings you are using in your Pure Drive Roddick are problematic.  The racquet itself is not very arm friendly, being so stiff and light.  Couple that with POLY-BASED strings with a high % of polyester and the arm pain is no surprise.  Some of the new poly-based strings use a lower percentage of polyester and are indeed much more comfortable.  There are a number of great options out there.  Our favorites are described on our web site.  The poly-based strings we carry are ALL softer and better playing than the ones you have been using.

You can try a softer poly-based string in a full set-up and see how your arm does.  While they are softer than what you have used, they may not be soft enough in the context of Pure Drive Roddick.  In that case we would strongly suggest a hybrid.  Use one of the newer and more technologically advanced strings in your mains at a low tension and cross it with a soft synthetic gut (something like Forten Sweet or WeissCANNON SuperString) and you will likely find a combination that offers much better playability and performance at a cost of well under $10.00 per stringing.

Good luck!

The wonders of natural gut

Playing with natural gut is for many, the ultimate tennis experience. The power, feel, ball pocketing, liveliness are the properties that many synthetics (excepting poly-based strings) attempt to emulate. Natural gut is extremely resilient and there is probably nothing better at absorbing shock which makes it ideal for those with a tendency toward tennis elbow.

So, why then, don’t more people play with it? First off, gut tends to be expensive compared to synthetic string products. Secondly it can be temperamental. It does require some extra care. However, properly taken care of, it will outlast synthetics in terms of overall playability many times over. Thus the added cost may be justified, except for when it is finicky.

While friction durability is pretty solid, and the newer sealed coatings have reduced moisture issues, natural gut is still more prone to snapping while sitting in ones tennis bag. The main reason, as I perceive it, is because of temperature variations. Natural gut does not like and will not tolerate extreme heat or extreme changes in temperature. Thus during the summer months those using it must not leave it in the car, (even if just running to pick up a few groceries), or even leave it in your tennis bag that is sitting in the sun. These are no-no’s.

Amazing that I have already babbled as much as I have without even getting close to the original point of today’s blog entry. I started this entry to share a tip/observation. I have noted through the years that natural gut users tend to experience breaks at the knot. This pattern occurs much more frequently with natural gut than other strings. The main reason, I suspect, is because the knot is really nothing more than a controlled kink. Kinks are weak spots and natural gut is more prone to break at this weak spot than man-made string products. That said, I am wondering about another possibility. While I observe many breaks at the knot area, just had a racquet yesterday with this exact issue, I have noted that very few of my customers ever have a break at this point. Why is that? My knots are not much different than others…just a basic Parnell knot. BUT, I do take one extra step. Does it make a difference? I am not at all sure, but will describe and look for input.

After the string job is complete I always take a drop of “hard as nails” clear polish and dab it on each cut end of natural gut. I started this for cosmetic reasons. I did not like how the cut ends would expand, unwrap and fan out over time. This step prevented that from occurring. But the question is, has it made the knot less prone to breakage? I suppose without the polish there is no active sealant and moisture could attack the knot area further weakening it. As the moisture attacks and the fibers get looser, it is possible the knot area weakens and becomes more susceptible to breakage. While I do not have any research to support this theory, I have not that disputes it either. I wonder of this little cosmetic touch actually protects the knot area? And that, my friends, is the point of today’s entry. Please let me know what you think. Does the dab of “hard as nails” polish decrease chances of premature breakage at the knot area? I wonder???

First again!

Guts and Glory Tennis is thrilled to unveil a new string product that will absolutely revolutionize the entire industry.

For the past 5 years, Dr. Lars Lufferington, a Swedish chemist and engineer, has dedicated his life and family fortune to the pursuit and development of what he proudly calls “the greatest tennis string in the history of the world.” After nearly 3 years of rigorous playtesting and product development, his new company, LUF (pronounced LOOF), is officially launching this revolutionary product through Guts and Glory Tennis who will be the exclusive worldwide distributor for this and all future LUF tennis products.

The string, named APRILIA, is made with a revolutionary process where the finest natural gut fibers are essentially freeze-dried into a powder-like substance. This substance is then incorporated into a highly sophisticated polymer and extruded into ultra fine twisted threads. Over 1080 threads are then bound with a PATENTED thermal conductive molandoscope and coated with a new anthromacite coating which locks in playability allowing ZERO tension loss.

The APRILIA offers the feel, touch and power of natural gut along with the control and awesome spin production of the poly-based strings. In short, Dr. Lufferington, has created a string that offers all the properties of a natural gut/poly-based hybrid in a single string product. Best of all the string does not lose any tension or playability throughout the life of the string.

But wait…there’s more!!! The durability is off-the-charts excellent. In fact it is unconditionally guaranteed to last at least 40 hours of court time for even the biggest hitters. If it fails to perform for at least 40 hours or loses any playability for the life of the string, you can request a 2x your money back as part of the 200% satisfaction guarantee.

The new LUF APRILIA comes in three gauges, 1.29mm, 1.22mm and 1.13mm and will be imaged and available exclusively from the Guts and Glory website in the next 24 hours. We do have a limited supply on hand that we will sell to the first customers who contact us via email today. The product will feature introductory pricing of just $4.10 per 40′ set. Mini – reels will eventually be available and are projected to have an introductory cost of $41.09. We will be taking pre-orders for the mini reels starting today.

Join us in welcoming LUF to tennis and the USA! Be watching this blog and our twitter page for more information.

GOTCHA!!! We had a lot of fun with this posting.  Note it appeared on APRILIA FOOLS day.  Unfortunately the product described is imaginary, but it would indeed be wonderful if such a string did exist.  We hope you had as much fun with this as we did.  Sorry if you truly believed.  We were not sure many would buy the “freeze-dried natural gut powder” bit, but apparently they did.  Too funny.