How to Tell If Your Tennis Racket Is Strung to the Right Tension

If your shots are flying long or landing short, the problem might not be your technique — it could be your string tension. Understanding how your racket feels and performs after stringing can make a huge difference in your control, power, and overall comfort on the court.

1. Pay Attention to Ball Control

If your balls are sailing long, your strings might be too loose. Loose strings create a trampoline effect, giving you extra power but less control. On the other hand, if your shots are dropping short or feel dead off the strings, your tension might be too tight — reducing the sweet spot and absorbing too much energy.

2. Listen to the Sound

A freshly strung racket produces a crisp, high-pitched “ping.” As tension drops over time, that sound becomes duller. Many players use this subtle cue as a quick test before a match.

3. Feel the Feedback

Comfort and feel are huge indicators. Tight strings often feel stiff or jarring, especially on off-center hits, while loose strings can feel too bouncy or unstable. Ideally, your racket should feel solid yet responsive.

4. Watch for Visual Clues

If your strings are moving excessively after every shot or not snapping back into place, your tension has likely dropped. Frayed or notched strings are another sign it’s time for a restring.

Simplify Your Restringing Routine

Maintaining the right string tension doesn’t have to be complicated. With Racket Express, you can ship your racket directly to your trusted stringer with discounted UPS Ground labels and convenient custom boxes — no need to race to the pro shop before it closes.

Stay in rhythm, play your best, and keep your strings dialed in — the easy way with Racket Express.

👉 Visit RacketExpress.com to get started today.

Categories: Tips