6 Best Racquetball Strings: How to Choose Them

As racquetball strings are tiny and look less on your racquet, like many other players, you might usually overlook racquetball racquet strings. And that is not the only reason; racquets also come pre-strung, making stringing less important. Besides, players opt to buy new ones rather than replace them when the strings wear out.

But you should not follow the trends and ignore installing the best strings on your racquet. Well-made racquetball racquets with the best strings will bring out the best result in your racquetball game.

In this article, I will discuss the different types of strings you can use to restart your racquetball. But before we look at the different strings, we define racquetball strings in detail and give tips on how to find the best racquetball strings. And remember that your racquet’s performance depends on the quality of the racquet and string. Plus, how the strings are composed within the racquet also greatly influences it.

So, if you are entering the racquetball world or want to know more about the best racquetball strings and stringing, this post is for you.

What is racquetball string?

The racquetball strings are fibers woven into the racket’s head to form a structure used to hit the ball. These strings come in different varieties but in 16, 17, or 18 gauge. The strings are woven in two directions – the mains run from the throat to the frame tip, while crosses run across the mains/horizontally.

What is racquetball string made of

Most racquets’ strings are made from pure nylon. Nylon is inexpensive, resilient, and responsive. Also, the racket strings can be made from a wide range of synthetic materials, such as:

• Kevlar – Kevlar strings are tough and durable, making them ideal for hard-hitting players. Their braided construction confers additional durability and also gives them spin.
• Synthetic gut – This is typically nylon, with small changes to boost playability, durability, and power. Typically, synthetic gut offers a decent middle ground between co-polyester (stiff) and natural gut (soft).
• Co-polymer – This string combines various polymerized materials. Co-polymer has added materials to improve elasticity, tensile strength, and desired hardness.

It’s worth mentioning that different manufacturers are coming up with proprietary materials to offer unique performance. While this may be unique, most strings feature nylon as a component.

Racquetball string types

Unlike tennis, much technology hasn’t been poured into racquetball. Thus, only a few types of strings are designed specifically for racquetball. These are:

• Monofilament Strings
• Multifilament Strings
• Hybrid Strings

Monofilament Strings

Monofilament strings are single filament fibers designed from a single material such as nylon, polyester, or polyether. Also, a formula of different materials is used, where the materials are mixed and then molten.

The molten mixture is extruded via holes of different thicknesses, creating monofilaments. Previously, all extrusions were circular. However, today, these strings are found in non-circular extrusions to create corners on the strings. The corners help to generate spin.

Multifilament Strings

The multifilament strings are designed from several (thousands or hundreds) of strands twisted/braided together. They also have an outer coating for extra protection. When multifilament strings age, they fray or have a furry look because the outer coat wears and the individual fibers break.

These strings are the closest to the natural gut and offer the best comfort to the arm, especially to players suffering from arm problems. Multifilaments provide better shock absorption qualities and playability. However, they tend to lose tension much faster than monofilament strings. Therefore, while they are pricier than monofilament strings, they are a cheaper alternative to natural gut.

Hybrid Strings

Hybrid strings combine two types of strings—one type for the main strings and the other for the cross strings. You can use any cable to create a hybrid string bed, but you can also purchase hybrids sold as half sets.

The standard hybrid strings are monofilaments (main threads) and multifilaments for the crosses. The mains receive more pounding than crosses; thus, using them as mains makes the racquet string bed more durable.

Remember, the type of racquet stringing significantly impacts playability and general court performance. Therefore, ensure that you get the right stringing pattern besides the string types.

6 Best Racquetball Racquet String Reviews

Python Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String: Top-Rated Racquetball String

Python Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String Set is one of the latest products from the sports accessory manufacturer, Python Racquetball. These strings are designed by seasoned racquetball players, meaning that they factor in all the details to ensure stellar performance on the court.

The strings are termed Deluxe because of their shock absorption qualities, and elasticity is on another level. That translates to a much softer feel without affecting power.

While this multifilament string begins fraying almost instantly, it doesn’t mean it is its end. Still, there is plenty of life ahead of the strings.

Highlights

• Brand Name: ‎Python Racquetball
• Color: ‎Black
• String type: Multifilament
• Size: 16g
• Sport Type: Racquetball

Unique Features

• Durability: While the strings will start fraying after a few plays, it still offers many years of service without breaking. This multifilament string is designed from twisted fiber and is bonded with PU resin. These strings hold up well, retaining plenty of energy for a long time.
• Elasticity/Power: The Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String is highly elastic, providing the energy to capture and rebound the ball at higher rates. Typically, this string gives you more power behind each swing you make at the ball.
• Playability: These strings offer above-average playability—the ball will jump off the ropes immediately after you hit them, and you can easily direct the ball where you want. This kind of control is important for advanced players.
• Shock absorption: Since the Atlas Deluxe has a multifilament construction, it creates a comforting feel in the hand, thanks to the cushioning effect. The strings feel soft and comfortable on the arm, making them suitable for players having arm and elbow issues.
• Length: The Atlas Deluxe is 42 feet (12.8 meters). At this length, you can string and pattern any racket style.
• Gauge: Find the Atlas Deluxe in three different gauges – 16, 17, and 18 gauge. You can get the right racquet string regardless of your playing style or experience level.

What Needs Improvement

• The string bruises easily.
• Restring-ability is low as it bends too easily when working through the grommets.

Head MegaBlast Racquetball String

The Head MegaBlast Racquetball String features a unique design to improve play performance. Cleverly adding a co-polymer multifilament wrap to the multifilament string ensures balanced play. Typically, the two generate a highly elastic rebound to deliver maximum power. So, these strings might be the right option if you are seeking power alongside a nice feel.

The carbon co-polymer coating is slightly textured to increase the string’s durability.

Highlights

• Brand Name: ‎HEAD
• Color: Black
• String type: Multifilament
• Size: 16
• Sport Type: Racquetball

Unique Features

• Durability: The strings feature a high-quality carbon polymer coating that meets the pressures of play. Besides, the layer is slightly textured to make the strings more durable than average strings.
• Unmatched Power: The Head Megablast String has a multifilament core center that generates high-level power with every hit. Adding more power to this string is its braided multifilament wraps – with a slight hit, you can send the ball farther.
• Playability: These strings offer decent playability to all-level players. Besides power, sending the ball where you want it to go is easy. This means it has nice control.
• Shock absorption: The multifilament construction in the Head Megablast dampens the shock generated when the ball hits it. This results in a much softer and more comfortable feel while playing.
• Length: A single set of the Head Megablast string is 40 feet (12 meters) long. At this length, you can string and pattern any racket style.
• Gauge: Find the Head Megablast in 16 and 17 Gauge gauges that appeal to players seeking durability and average playability.

What Needs Improvement

• There is too much vibration making it a bit uncomfortable for the arm.

Ashaway Superkill XL Racquetball String

Thanks to the multifilament nylon core construction, Ashaway Superkill XL Racquetball String has excellent resiliency and response. Typically, the nylon core has a high tensile nylon surface, making the strings much more durable than an average racquetball racket string.

Its skillful construction confers an enhanced spin on the string. You can easily control each hit you make and the placement of the ball on the textured surface. Find these lively strings in white with red and blue crosses.

Highlights 

• Brand Name: ‎Ashaway
• Sport: Racquetball
• Color: White/Red/Blue
• String Type: Multifilament nylon core
• Manufacturer: Ashaway

Unique Features

• Durability: At gauge 17, these are not the most durable racquetball racquet strings, but they are well made to withstand to give the best playing experience for a long time. Its double braided polymer coating offers superior wear and tear protection with an added rough texture for durability and ball control. Ideally, the Superkill XL Racquetball String balances playability and durability.
• Playability: The multifilament core construction gives the strings excellent resilience and response, alongside better ball control. The unique textured double-braided nylon polymer surface ensures that the string remains resilient and lively for a long time.
• Power: There is a lot of energy in these strings. You will always get a good response from the strings. So, you play a precision game or touch and power play, and you know how to spin the ball; these could be the right racket strings to try.
• Shock Absorption: The string’s construction dampens any shock generated when you hit the ball. The cushioning gives you a nice feel during playtime.
• Length: Each string set is 40 feet long, a decent length for restringing a racquet.
• Gauge: The Superkill XL Racquetball string is gauge 17 (1.25mm). You get good bounce, playability, and average durability at this thickness.

What Needs Improvement

• The strings are quicker, especially if you do not take clean shots.

Python Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String Reel

The Python Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String Reel is simply one of the best strings you can use to restring your racquetball racket. The Deluxe range boasts a high level of elasticity alongside unmatched shock absorption properties. Thus, when you hit the ball, the feeling is soft, but the power generated is higher.

While the strings fray almost immediately after you start using them, they can still maintain their playability, power, and control for a long time.

Highlights

• Brand Name: Python Racquetball
• Color: Black
• String Type: Multifilament
• Size: 16g
• Sport Type: Racquetball

Unique Features

• Durability: The string frays almost immediately but doesn’t affect playability. Its multifilaments can withstand abuses without losing their form – playability, power, bounce, and control for long.
• Elasticity/Power: The Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String Reel stretches a lot. This elasticity is important in generating more power when taking shots. So, if you are looking for power shots, these strings can offer more power behind each swing.
• Playability: The ball jumps off the string bed with a lot of power as soon as you hit it. Besides, it allows you to control the ball placement, putting you in charge of the game.
• Shock Absorption: The Atlas Deluxe Racquetball String Reel has a multifilament construction, which dampens the impacts of the ball, creating a comforting feel in the hand. This cushioning effect makes the strings feel soft and comfortable on the arm.
• Length: The Atlas Deluxe is 360 feet (110 meters) long. You can string and pattern any racket style at this length on multiple rackets.
• Gauge: Find the Atlas Deluxe in three different gauges – 16, 17, and 18 gauge. Regardless of your playing style or experience level, you can get the right racquet string.

What Needs Improvement

• The string bruises easily 
• The strings stretch too much when restringing

E-Force Oxygen Amber String Set

Anyone who has ever used the E-Force Oxygen Amber String Set will tell you about its excellent playability and resilience. E-Force Oxygen Amber String features 1,200+ composite microfibers fastened with unique wet twist technology. 

This technology enables maximum power alongside an enhanced soft feel, thanks to vibration dampening.

Highlights

• Brand Name: ‎E-Force Racquetball
• Color: ‎Blue
• Material: ‎Nylon, Amber
• String Type: Multifilament
• Sport Type: Racquetball

Unique Features 

• Durability: At gauge 17, these are not the most durable racquetball racquet strings, but they are well made to withstand to give the best playing experience for a long time. Its 1200+ microfibers are affixed using the latest technology to improve the integrity of the string. Besides, the resilient, high-quality nylon sheath enhances durability.
• Playability: The multifilament core construction boasts maximum elasticity, generating high power to send the ball off the string at demon speeds. The strings dampen the ball’s impact, resulting in a softer feel to the arm.
• Power: These strings have a lot of power, thanks to their high elasticity. You will get a good bounce from the strings, making it ideal for touch and power games. Besides, since the ball has better control, it can play the precision game.
• Shock Absorption: The string’s construction dampens the ball’s impact, resulting in a softer feel. The cushioning gives you a nice feel during playtime.
• Length: Each string set is 45 feet long, a decent length for restringing a racquet.
• Gauge: Find the E-Force Oxygen Amber String in gauge 17 (1.25mm). At this thickness, you get good bounce and playability.

What Needs Improvement

• It wears out very quickly.

Ektelon Premier Power 16 Gauge String

Were you looking for unmatched durability and pop? Then, the Ektelon Premier Power 16 Gauge String Set might be your best bet. These multifilament strings boast greater elasticity for superior power courtesy of their unique construction.

The Softflex filaments inject elasticity while the microfiber construction absorbs shock. For durability, the filaments as a whole have a high-quality surface coating. The coating also makes it easy to string your racquets.

Highlights

• Brand Name: ‎Prince/Ektelon Sports, Inc
• Color: Black
• Size: ‎16
• String Type: Multifilaments plus Fiber construction
• Sport Type: Racquetball

Unique Features 

• Durability: At gauge 16, undoubtedly, this is the most durable racquetball string on this list. In addition, to gauge durability, the Premier Power 16 Gauge features a surface coating that enhances its durability.
• Playability: The Premier Power 16 Gauge offers consistent play, courtesy of the well-made multifilaments that perfectly combine elasticity and shock absorption features. With proper stringing, you get high power and a softer feel while playing.
• Power: These strings have a generous amount of power due to their high-level elasticity. The elastic Softflex filaments ensure that every ball you hit leaves the string bed at a higher velocity, even with a simple touch. The 16 gauge strings are known to be stiffer, but the unique Softflex filaments are responsible for elasticity.
• Shock Absorption: The string’s construction dampens the ball’s impact, resulting in a softer feel, which is courtesy of the microfiber construction. The cushioning gives you a nice feel during playtime.
• Length: Each string set is 42 feet long, a decent length for restringing a racquet.
• Gauge: Find the Ektelon Premier Power String in 16 gauge. At this thickness, you get the best durability ever.

What Needs Improvement

• It wears out faster.

Things to know about racquetball string: How to choose the best string

There are several factors you can consider before purchasing racquetball racket strings. In this section, we discuss the most significant features to consider. Take a look.

String Construction Types

String construction determines playability, durability, and the string bed’s general feel. The common construction types are monofilament, multifilament, and Kevlar. 

• Multifilament: It is the most common string type in racquetball. It is typically a bundle of microfibers braided together. Thanks to the cushioning effect, these strings are more comfortable than solid-core strings. They are soft and comfortable, making them ideal for a player with arm problems. However, those without an outer wrap often fray with time.
• Monofilament: This is a single filament made through the extrusion process. Traditionally, it provides impressive durability and control. This modern-day string can withstand ball impact better than multifilament string, and that’s why polyester monofilament strand is great for players taking big swings at the ball.
• Kevlar: This is the most durable racquetball string on the market. You can use this string alone or alongside others, i.e., in hybrid construction. In hybrid construction, use Kevlar as the main string. Remember that this string is usually recommended for stronger players who frequently break racquet cords.

String Gauge (Thickness)

You’ll find racquetball racket strings in three thickness levels – 16, 17, and 18. For instance, gauge 18 is the thinnest, measuring about 1.2 millimeters in diameter. By contrast, gauge 17 is about 1.25 millimeters, while gauge 16 is the thickest, measuring 1.35 millimeters.

The racquetball string gauge determines the durability of the strings. Thicker (gauge 16) strands offer better durability and control. Besides, they can hold tension longer than their thinner counterparts, but one major disadvantage is their stiffness. 

Thinner racquetball strings are less durable but offer a decent bounce. They stretch back further with the ball on impact, generating more power. Most racquets come in gauge 17, which is decently long-lasting and has admirable playability.

String Length

Racquets vary in size and shape – oversized, average, and small. The length of the string depends on the specific model of the racquet. Also, the pattern of stringing plays a critical role. You will need longer yarns and less dense string patterns for power shots. Mostly, you will be choosing control and accuracy over power.

Tension Difference

Low tension in a racquetball racquet translates to more power, but higher pressure gives you more control. Lower racquetball string tension allows you to create hard serves and shorts across the court, providing no string movement. The hard hits generate more speed behind the ball and swings.

However, high string tension could work well if you intend to have more control or ball placement. In addition, high tension is an excellent property for advanced players who like to hit the ball from the center of the racquet, as they have more control. So, ensure you get the right racquetball string tension based on your skills.

Vibration Level

Tighter and harder strings vibrate more than softer strings. Vibration affects the general feel and comfort while using the racket. When you are new to the game, it is quite difficult to determine which level of vibrations you can tolerate. So, you will have to play for a while before deciding on an acceptable vibration level.

Elasticity

String elasticity determines the power behind a swing. Therefore, you get more power from more elastic strings. Typically, more elastic strings provide the energy required to capture and rebound, thus sending the ball off the string bed at a high-speed rate.

On the contrary, less elastic strings absorb the ball’s energy, dampening it. The remaining small energy causes the ball to bounce off the racket weakly. Therefore, choose more elastic strings to get more power behind your play.

Durability

The string gauge determines durability. You’ll get less durable strings at the top of the string gauge. Gauge 16 is the most durable string but is stiff, thus offering less playability than the less durable gauge 18. If you often break your racquet strings, I recommend going with gauge 16 strings.

String Color

The choice of string colors is completely subjective. Manufacturers offer strings in various colors that appeal to different players. You can choose brightly colored yarns to match your racquets. Find the colors in bright and punchy tints to complement your style.

On the other hand, you’ve got a whole selection to choose from if you like less bright colors. The basic thing is to get strings whose colors do not easily fade away.

Hybrid Stringing

A hybrid setup uses two different strings, one for the mains and the other for crosses. The strings can have two different gauges of similar or completely different materials.

If you are a string breaker like me, you should choose racquets whose mains are strung with more durable heavy-gauge (gauge 16) strings or polyester monofilament strings. On the other hand, crosses are strung with a standard 17 gauge multifilament to inject playability.

You can use Kevlar strings for the mains for durability, but they are tough and have poor playability. If you have to use Kevlar for your racquet’s stringing, you should lower the tension by 10 to 15 % while retaining the normal pressures in the crosses.

Frequently asked questions

Final thoughts

Before settling on any string, it is worth reading racquetball string reviews. The firsthand user writes racquetball string reviews. From what they write, you can make a sound decision. In this article, we have reviewed the best six strings you can use to restring your racquetball rackets. We’ve described their properties in detail to let you get the correct picture. This information should help you choose the best racquetball string, i.e., the one offering better control, decent power, durability, and minimal vibration.