Know Your String - Multifilament

 

Know Your String - Multifilament

This post is an extension of the original "Know Your Strings" post, focusing solely on multifilament.

Overview

Multifilament strings are a soft string that will provide good comfort and playability. Multifilament strings are made up of many small fibers of nylon bound together. Because of this, multifilament strings will move and stretch more than many other strings, resulting in holding their tension well and being forgiving on the arm.

Options

Most string companies have two main price options for multifilament strings. While all multifilament strings play similarly, the main differences are how long the strings maintain their tension and how soft the strings feel. The more expensive options will typically consist of more and thinner fibers. The cheaper options will have fewer fibers, and as a result will not stretch as much as those with more. With so many options out there, check some out for yourself and experiment to find what works best for you.

Stringing

Putting multifilament strings in a racket is significantly easier than natural gut. It's important to still go slowly, even though it can be quick to string and easy to go faster than you should. Burning the string or getting kinks during the stringing process will drastically compromise the quality of the string. Take your time to really make the most of this string option. Most pro shops or stringers will be familiar with stringing multifilament, but I would still recommend making sure the strings are not burned or "notched" prior to taking your new strings on court.

Tension 

Following the recommended tension range on a racket is a great starting spot. Since multifilament is soft, you can experiment with the middle- to high-end of the range and still avoid a stiff feeling. Overall, the preferred tension will depend on what feels best for you.

Setup

If you do choose to try multifilament, I would hesitate going thinner than 16 gauge (1.30 mm). 15L (1.35 mm) or 16 (1.30 mm) will be a little more durable and still be playable. I would recommend the following setups:
  • hybrid with poly for anyone at or above 6.0 UTR. The polyester string will provide added durability for harder hitters, and the multifilament will provide forgiveness to the arm. As far as mains/crosses go, it comes down to your personal preference. The most common is utilizing the softer multifilament in the crosses, but there are some significant benefits to putting it in the mains. It all comes down to experimenting and your personal preference.
  • full multifilament for anyone at or below 6.0 UTR. This would be better for players who typically don't break strings often. Players with slightly slower swing speeds and/or less access to spin could benefit from a full multifilament setup.

Who needs multifilament?

Anyone who is looking for a soft string and is willing to have their racket restrung relatively often. Whether it's in a hybrid setup or the full string bed, multifilament strings will be a relatively large step down in comfort and playability from natural gut, but also a huge drop in price. That being said, they are still a great, high-quality string if you need something soft and forgiving. My personal recommendation would be giving it a shot if you:
  • hit relatively flat; significant spin production will shed through gut in a hurry.
  • have had wrist, elbow, or shoulder injuries or pain
  • cannot justify the cost of a natural gut option


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