String Tension: What It Means and Why It Matters

String tension is the tightness with which the strings are installed in your racket. It’s measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg), and it has a significant effect on how your racket feels and performs.

Common misconceptions: Many players assume that higher tension always means more power or that lower tension always means less control. The truth is more nuanced:

• Lower Tension (23–26 lbs/10.5–12 kg): Provides more power, a softer feel, and a larger sweet spot. It’s ideal for players who want extra pop on their shots or have arm issues.
• Higher Tension (27–30 lbs/12–13.5 kg): Offers greater control and a crisper response but can be less forgiving and may reduce power slightly.

Recommended tension ranges are usually printed on your racket’s frame. Most squash players restring between 25–28 lbs (11.5–12.5 kg), but professional players often tweak tension to suit their style and court conditions. For example, if the courts are very hot and bouncy, a pro might increase tension for extra control.

String Gauge: Thin vs Thick Strings

Gauge refers to the thickness of the string, measured in millimetres (mm). Typical squash string gauges range from 1.10 mm (thin) to 1.30 mm (thick).

• Thinner Strings (1.10–1.20 mm): Provide more bite on the ball, better feel, and increased spin potential. However, they tend to break more quickly.
• Thicker Strings (1.25–1.30 mm): Are more durable and last longer, but may feel slightly stiffer and offer less touch.

Practical tip: If you value touch and finesse, try a thinner gauge. If you’re breaking strings frequently, consider a thicker option.

String Construction: Types and Their Pros and Cons

The construction of a squash string affects how it plays and how long it lasts. The main types are:

• Natural Gut: Made from animal intestine, these offer the best feel and playability, but are expensive and less durable, especially in damp conditions.
• Synthetic Gut: Usually nylon-based, offering a good balance of playability and cost. A reliable choice for many club players.
• Monofilament: Single solid filament, often polyester. Very durable but can feel stiff and harsh on the arm.
• Multifilament: Multiple strands woven together, mimicking natural gut’s softness and feel, while being more affordable and weather-resistant.
• Nylon: The most common squash string, delivering a blend of durability and performance at a moderate price.

Professional preferences: Most top players use high-quality multifilament or synthetic strings for their optimal blend of feel and performance. Natural gut is rare in squash due to its cost and lower durability compared to tennis.

Professional Player Examples

Many professional squash players fine-tune their restringing choices to match their playing style and competition demands. For instance:

• Ali Farag (Egypt): Known for his control, he often uses a multifilament string at higher tension (28–29 lbs) for maximum precision.
• Paul Coll (New Zealand): Prefers a slightly thicker synthetic string at mid-range tension (26–27 lbs) for durability and balanced power/control.
• Nour El Sherbini (Egypt): Uses a thinner gauge string at a moderate tension for enhanced touch and shot-making ability.

These examples show that there’s no “one size fits all”—experimenting is key.

How to Choose a Stringer

Using a professional stringer is vital for consistent results. Here’s what to consider:

• Experience: A good stringer understands squash-specific needs and can advise on tension and string choice.
• Machine Quality: Modern electronic stringing machines provide more consistent tension than older manual machines.
• Recommendations: Ask other players or coaches for trusted local stringers. Many clubs have a preferred provider.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their process, how they calibrate their machines, and what strings they recommend for your level and style.

Budget Considerations

The cost of restringing a squash racket depends on several factors:

• String Type: Premium multifilament or natural gut strings cost more than standard nylon or synthetic options.
• Labour: Professional stringers charge for their expertise. Expect to pay more for experienced stringers with top-end equipment.
• Location: Prices vary by region and club.

As a rough guide, restringing in the UK or Ireland typically costs between £18 and £35 per racket, depending on string choice and service quality. Frequent players may wish to buy strings in bulk or negotiate a package deal with their stringer to save money over time.

Tips for Tracking Your Restringing Preferences

Keeping a record of your restringing details helps you learn what works best. Here’s how:

• After each restring, note the date, string type, gauge, and tension used.
• Record your initial impressions and how the racket feels over time.
• Experiment with small changes—such as increasing or decreasing tension by 1–2 lbs—and observe any differences in play.
• Over time, you’ll develop a personal restringing “profile” that optimises performance and comfort.

Some players use a simple notebook, while others prefer a spreadsheet or a note-taking app.

Conclusion: Key Advice and Final Thoughts

Restringing your squash racket is one of the most effective ways to maintain and enhance your game. Remember to restring regularly—more often if you play frequently or notice a drop in performance. Understand the effects of string tension, gauge, and construction, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced stringers and other players. Track your restringing choices to find your ideal setup and be willing to experiment. With the right approach, you’ll get the most from your racket and enjoy every moment on court.

Happy hitting!