As the fastest paced racket sport in the world, Badminton is immensely hard to get good at and even more challenging to master. It should come as no surprise then that players consistently seek out the newest and best equipment, to give themselves every edge they possibly can.
While a racket is the first item on most people’s mind when it comes to badminton equipment, it is perhaps a part of the racket that has a greater impact than the product as a whole. That’s because while you swing the racket, it’s the strings that actually make contact with the shuttlecock.
Strings vary in everything from thickness to material and composition, and effect things such as power, control and durability. With players of different abilities and styles needing different things from a string, it makes choosing the correct one essential to your success.
Unfortunately, many don’t even realise there are different types of string, let alone know how they affect their game. That’s why today, I want to give you an introduction into exactly what makes a badminton string.
We'll show you the options available, explain how they differ, and tell you who each one is most suitable for. This should hopefully give you everything you need to take your game to the highest level possible.
Types Of Badminton Strings
Monofilament
Monofilament strings are made of a single piece of material, hence the word mono. They are ideal for players looking for more durability from their string.
Multifilament
Multifilament strings are made from thousands of fibres wrapped tightly together. They offer a better level of performance, so are great for more experienced players, while offering greater shock absorbing properties, which makes them equally well suited to players with conditions like tennis elbow.
Hybrid
Hybrid strings can mean one of two things. It can be a string that is essentially a multifilament with a monofilament core, or it can simply mean a player using one type for their vertical strings and the other for their cross strings. Either way, this is the most well-rounded set-up, providing both decent performance and reasonable durability.
Things To Consider
Length
Badminton strings come on a reel that you cut to length. Those who play more frequently will obviously have to change their strings more often, so consider the frequency of your play when deciding on the length of the reel you buy.
Tension
The tension required in a string will depend on both the style of play of the user, as well as their ability level. With various strings having different levels of tension they can be used at, make sure the one you select can be used at your required level.
Gauge
The gauge of a string relates to its thickness. This will have a massive effect on both durability and performance, so is an incredibly important consideration when selecting a string.
Shock absorption
The shock absorption of a string determines how much of the impact is transferred from the string to the racket and then to the player. If you suffer from any issues where you need to avoid sudden impacts, like tennis elbow, then it is a good idea to select a string that absorbs more of the shock.
Control level/Repulsion power?
Some players will rely heavily on control during their games, while others have a style more based on power. Make sure you check the thickness of the string you are looking at, to ensure it lends itself to your personal style of play.
String coating
Some badminton strings will come with different coatings designed to improve durability. However, it can often affect the way a string performs, so be careful if you have something very specific you need from your string.
Player ability
The ability of a player will determine if you have a specific style of play you need your string to match, or if you simply need a durability string that will last as you learn.
Your budget
At the top end, badminton strings get very expensive. Ensure you set a clear budget and check the price at the start, so you don’t waste time looking at an option you aren’t able or willing to pay for.
Badminton String Maintenance
There is no real maintenance that can be done to extend the life of a badminton string, as it is going to wear out due to the nature of its use. That said, it is important to keep them tight or replace them regularly, in order to ensure your racket remains at the correct level of tension.
