If you are local you can take advantage of my stringing service, UK, North Hampshire.
I string with a genuine understanding of rackets and strings. I have a long history of stringing but I'll save the story for later ;-)
But briefly, as a junior breaking strings every few days became unacceptable. Topspin was the game of the day (thanks Bjorn!). Tensions as high as the Burj Khalifa, what we were thinking!
And on wood frames too.
Coaching money soon bought me my first drop weight machine and I was now self sufficient.
I experimented extensively with strings and tensions so got a massive understanding of what worked and what didn't. I had test rackets that I strung to destruction! In my time I've done all types; wood, ceramic, fibreglass, graphite, metal, composites, etc. You get the idea. So when I string for you, you know your racket is in experienced hands.
I string because I know I can. And offer genuine experience. Nothing more nothing less.
If I was your stringer, you will not be disappointed. We can discuss string methods, string types, string tension variations, infact anything stringy!
SOME STRING INFORMATION
Currently I have my LTA clubspark page with some information, check out my short link, tinyurl.com/stringBOSS
Lets start of with some basics.
Do I need to string my racket based on what the manufacturer has written on the frame?
No. Within reason and what is right for you you can go higher and lower. And use any string of your choice.
When do I need to string my racket ?
When a string is broken. These days when one string breaks the whole racket needs a restring. There will be tension loss, and the grommets around the frame don't allow for repairs, even if you wanted it.
What if the string isn't broken ?
Well, it's interesting. Depending on how you feel with the racket you can consider a restring even when the string is not broken. Strings that remain in a racket will over time lose tension and their elasticity. Sure you can still play with them and some players might even prefer it - but getting some fresh strings can give your racket some zing!
String not broken, how do I know if the racket could play better ?
Tricky one. Chances are if your strings have been in the racket over a year, a fresh set will be better. But if you like the feel as it is, then you can carry on. No rule against it.
String not breaking !
With the emergence of the polyester string, the string (even for very strong players) doesn't break. They will notice it has gone 'dead' and have it replaced. For more recreational and imtermediates, the string might never break. So should you never replace ? your call.
TYPES OF STRING
Natural Gut –
Made from cow intestines, it provides unmatched feel, power, and comfort but is expensive and less durable.
Synthetic Gut –
A budget-friendly, all-around string made of nylon with a solid core and outer wraps, offering decent power, control, and durability.
Multifilament –
Made from multiple strands of nylon or other materials, it mimics natural gut with great comfort, power, and feel but lacks durability.
Polyester (Poly) / Co-Polyester –
A stiff, durable string offering excellent control and spin but can be harsh on the arm, making it ideal for advanced players.
Kevlar –
The most durable and stiffest string, often used in hybrid setups for extreme durability, but very tough on the arm.
Hybrid –
A combination of two different string types (e.g., poly in mains, natural gut in crosses) to balance durability, control, and comfort.
WHAT SHALL GO FOR ?
I'm going to get right to the point; you can use whatever you like in terms of what you find works for and suits your budget.
Gut being the most expensive and a basic synthetic the cheapest option. But for most people who have reasonable rackets I would recommend going hybrid. Because multifilaments are prone to wearing but comfortable, and polys last long but can be hard on the arm. A mix is a nice option for many.
I want to clarify on 'last long'. When a racket is strung the machine tension may be, say 53lbs (approx 24Kg). Due to slippage, friction, knot, technique - then actual tension may be a 1lb or so off. But even without playing, overnight the tension can drop naturally by between 10 or so percent, depending on string.
But you should not be concerned by this, and just request the tension you like. You should try not to get too obsessive about this as it shouldn't be the thing that makes or breaks your tennis performance. In my humble opinion, having the right racket that suits your swing and one you can handle for me is more critical. The strings have to be a quality you are happy with and of a tension that works. Getting 1lb obsessive seems to me verging on the superstitious.
But back to my point about 'last long', with the string under tension and then with some hours of play strings most lose their true playing qualities. And depending on your level of play you may notice a more 'dead' feeling. Many won't and will adapt over the weeks and carry on until the string breaks, or they do actally notice the drop in feeling. Nothing wrong with that. But just be aware.
....
IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE LOCAL, AND NEED A TENNIS RESTRING HERE ARE A LIST OF THE STRINGS I USUALLY HOLD. (AND SOME PRICES AS OF MAY 2025)
I HATED PAYING SHOP PRICES ESPECIALLY WHEN I WAS BREAKING SO MANY STRINGS. SO WITHOUT BEING A SAMARITAN I KEEP MY RATES LOW, I WILL ALWAYS BE AS FAIR AS POSSIBLE !
IF YOU ARE A TOURNAMENT PLAYER OR REGULAR STRING BREAKER SPEAK TO ME AND WE CAN FIND A SOLUTION.
PRICES BELOW (for a full restring - updated 15 July 2025)
I HAVE JUST UPGRADED TO AN IMPORTED PRECISION ELECTRONIC MACHINE FROM GERMANY. I CAN OFFER PRE-STRETCH SETTINGS ACROSS INDIVIDUAL STRINGS TO HELP MAINTAIN RACKET TENSION FOR LONGER. ASK IF YOU NEED THIS.
POLY
babolat rpm blast £23
popular string with tournament players, slightly stiffer feeling
yonex poly tour pro £23
popular string with tournament players, softer than rpm but still decent power
solinco tour bite £23
popular string with tournament players, I would say it's a good all-rounder
qualia torque2 £20
new to the market, good for power and tension longevity. experience so far, for string breakers, it also last well. at a discount price at present.
qualia glide £20
new string, very slick and ideal for players seeking max 'snap-back'. full bed works, but I would suggest use as as a cross. at a discount price at present.
signum poly plasma pro £18
nice string, plays softest but is still a poly, so more durable than traditional synthetics. and at a budget friendly price.
SYN/MULTI
basic synthetic gut (stock can vary) £18
my lowest price offering for someone who just needs strings in a racket.
head velocity mlt £20
good multifiliment at a sensible price. i have found this to be a good cross string for players who want poly mains and want to retain a comfortable feel.
wilson sensation £20
good multifiliment at a sensible price. great as a full bed or as a cross only (but i currently prefer MLT)
gamma live wire xl £23
close to gut feel but keeping a sensible price.
I DO HOLD OTHER STRINGS FROM TIME TO TIME SO WE CAN SELECT SOMETHING THAT SUITS YOUR REQUIREMENTS, SOMETIMES EVEN IF THE REQUIREMENT IS COLOUR. ALL THE PRICES REPRESENT EXCEPTIONAL VALUE, AND I WILL TRY AND KEEP THE PRICES LOW FOR AS LONG AS I AM ABLE.
HYBRID
mix of the above or others (from) £25
BRING YOUR OWN STRING
my restring time £15
SPECIALS
jet or other methods +£6
expedite (needed within 24hr) +£6
(only possible by agreement)
DON'T LET THE LOW PRICE DISTRACT YOU. I HAVE MANY MANY YEARS OF STRINGING EXPERIENCE. SO YOU WILL GET A PROFESSIONAL RESTRING AT A VALUE PRICE.