Guide To Racket Restringing

Racket strings don’t necessarily have to break to need replacing. If you are playing frequently (three+ times per week) manufacturers recommend that you restring your racket every three months to ensure optimum performance as the strings will lose their elasticity with constant use.

Even if you are playing less frequently, you should ideally still restring your racket twice per year as the strings will still deteriorate over time. Many players neglect their strings, even though proper stringing can make a huge difference to the way a racket performs.

Here’s our guide to squash racket restringing:

1. String tension

Every racket comes with a recommended string tension which is sometimes listed on the racket throat.

There is a common misconception when choosing squash racket strings that a higher string tension gives greater power. In fact the reverse is true. A higher or tighter string tension provides less power but increases control. This is because the string works like a trampoline. When the ball hits the racket it ‘catches’ then shoots the ball back out again with greater power (also known as ‘rebound’)

The recommended tension when restringing squash rackets is 20-35lbs. In general larger racket heads will require higher tension than smaller ones in order to achieve comparable playability levels.

Racket strings will lose tension over time, even if they are not in constant use.

There is always an element of personal preference and it may take some trial and error to find a string tension to suit your game.

2. String gauge

Thin strings are more powerful but do tend to be less durable so can work out more costly to use as more frequent restrings may be required. Thicker strings are more resistant but as they are generally less powerful there is a trade off.

Squash strings range from 1.06mm – 1.30mm thickness. Thicker strings are available but these are really designed for tennis or racketball rackets with larger heads.

3. String construction

There are different types of string:

Natural gut

Natural gut strings have great resilience and offer good control and touch. They do tend to be more commonly used in tennis rackets and can be very costly.

Synthetic strings

Most squash players come pre-strung by the manufacturers with synthetic strings and there are several types available i.e. monofilament (one solid piece), multifilament (many pieces intertwined) or nylon.

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