‘STRING SAVER’ ADVANTAGE*

Abrasion is the most common reason for racket string breakage. (See the Common Reasons fro String Breakages page for other reasons!) The constant rubbing of main strings against the crosses on spin serves, slices and excessive topspin can shorten string life dramatically. The main strings wear away a notch or groove with the constant sawing action backwards and forwards.

String savers are available to help reduce friction burn by preventing intersecting mains and crosses touching each other. They also help to ‘lock’ main and cross strings in place.

String savers can extend string life with minimal or no effect on playability, depending on the number of string savers installed. Many users place a string lock only on strings that begin fraying or those that are badly notched. Other players like the slightly stiffer feel offered from installing these plastic pieces throughout the string bed. Whilst it is not generally possible to increase the tension of strings in a racket once it has been strung, string savers can increase tension by 2-3 lbs depending on the number used.

Some chronic string breakers are extending string life up to three times longer with the use of string savers when wear on strings has been noticed early enough.  Although this results in a financial saving, most players use savers to prolong the life of a favourite string bed.

If you are an inveterate string breaker don’t forget to consider string savers as an option for extending string life. Offered under a variety of names, they’re available from most string suppliers and come in a number of guises. The most popular type come with an easy insertion tool that also keeps the tiny plastic pieces tidy. The tool can even be slipped into a pocket for rapid repairs on court.