Ben Shelton's Tennis Strings: What Does He Use?

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey tennis fans! Ever wondered what tennis strings Ben Shelton, the rising star known for his incredible power and exciting gameplay, uses on the court? Knowing the equipment used by top players can offer insights into their performance and help you make informed decisions about your own gear. Let's dive into the specifics of Ben Shelton's tennis string setup.

Decoding Ben Shelton's String Choice

Ben Shelton is known to use a hybrid string setup. A hybrid string setup means he uses two different types of tennis strings in his racquet: one for the mains (vertical strings) and another for the crosses (horizontal strings). This allows players to customize their string bed for optimal performance, blending the characteristics of different strings to achieve the desired feel, power, control, and durability.

Specifically, Shelton uses Luxilon Alu Power in the mains and Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses. This combination is popular among professional players because it offers a balance of power, control, and feel. Let's break down each of these strings individually:

Luxilon Alu Power

Luxilon Alu Power is an incredibly popular tennis string on the ATP and WTA tours. It's a monofilament string made from a co-polymer material, providing exceptional durability and control. Players love it for its ability to generate immense power and spin. The stiffness of Alu Power allows players to hit the ball harder without losing control, making it a favorite among aggressive baseliners like Shelton. The trade-off, however, is that it can be less comfortable compared to multifilament or natural gut strings, especially for those with sensitive arms.

Wilson Natural Gut

Wilson Natural Gut is a premium tennis string known for its exceptional feel, comfort, and playability. Natural gut strings are made from the serosa layer of a cow's intestine (yes, you read that right!). They provide unparalleled elasticity and resilience, resulting in a softer impact and enhanced ball feel. Natural gut strings also maintain tension better than synthetic strings, offering consistent performance over time. While they are more expensive and less durable than synthetic options, the superior comfort and feel make them a top choice for many professional and recreational players.

Why This Hybrid Combination?

The combination of Luxilon Alu Power in the mains and Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses provides Shelton with a potent blend of characteristics: The Alu Power mains offer the power, control, and spin potential he needs to dictate play from the baseline. Its stiffness allows him to hit with tremendous force and generate sharp angles. The Wilson Natural Gut crosses enhance the overall feel and comfort of the string bed. The natural gut softens the impact and provides a more responsive feel, allowing him to better connect with the ball and maintain control.

By using this hybrid setup, Ben Shelton maximizes his strengths while minimizing potential drawbacks. He harnesses the power and control of Alu Power and supplements it with the feel and comfort of Natural Gut, creating a string bed that complements his aggressive playing style.

Tension Preferences

String tension is another crucial factor that influences the performance of a racquet. While Shelton's exact string tension may vary based on court conditions, opponent, and personal preference, professional players typically string their racquets tighter than recreational players. Higher string tension generally provides more control and lower power, while lower string tension offers more power and less control.

Given Shelton's aggressive playing style and preference for control, it is likely that he strings his racquets on the higher end of the tension spectrum. A common range for professional players using similar string setups is between 50 to 60 pounds (22.5 to 27 kg). However, it's essential to note that these are estimations, and Shelton's specific tension preferences may vary. String tension is a highly personal choice, and players often experiment to find the optimal tension that suits their game.

Alternatives to Ben Shelton's String Setup

While Ben Shelton's tennis string setup works exceptionally well for him, it may not be the perfect choice for everyone. Factors such as playing style, skill level, arm sensitivity, and budget should all be considered when selecting strings. Here are a few alternative string options to consider:

For Players Seeking More Comfort:

If you prioritize comfort and have a sensitive arm, consider using a full bed of multifilament strings. Multifilament strings are made from multiple strands of synthetic fibers twisted together, offering a softer feel and better shock absorption compared to monofilament strings. Popular multifilament options include:

  • Tecnifibre X-One Biphase: Known for its exceptional comfort and playability.
  • Wilson NXT: A popular choice for its all-around performance and comfort.
  • Babolat Xcel: Offers a good balance of comfort, power, and durability.

For Players Seeking More Durability:

If you break strings frequently or prioritize durability, consider using a full bed of polyester strings. Polyester strings are known for their exceptional durability and control but can be less comfortable than multifilament or natural gut strings. Popular polyester options include:

  • Luxilon 4G: Offers excellent tension maintenance and control.
  • Babolat RPM Blast: Known for its spin potential and durability.
  • Solinco Tour Bite: A popular choice for its combination of control, spin, and durability.

For Players Seeking a Balance of Power and Control:

If you want a balance of power and control, consider using a hybrid setup with a softer polyester string in the mains and a multifilament string in the crosses. This combination can provide a good blend of power, control, comfort, and durability. Some popular hybrid combinations include:

  • Luxilon Alu Power Soft / Wilson NXT: A softer version of Shelton's setup, offering more comfort.
  • Babolat RPM Blast / Babolat Xcel: Provides a good balance of spin, power, and comfort.
  • Solinco Tour Bite / Tecnifibre X-One Biphase: Offers excellent control and feel.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tennis Strings

Choosing the right tennis strings can significantly impact your performance and enjoyment of the game. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting strings:

  • Playing Style: Are you an aggressive baseliner, a serve-and-volleyer, or an all-court player? Your playing style will influence the type of strings that best suit your game.
  • Skill Level: Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player? Beginners may benefit from more comfortable strings, while advanced players may prefer strings that offer more control and feel.
  • Arm Sensitivity: Do you have a sensitive arm or a history of tennis elbow? If so, prioritize comfort and choose strings that are known for their shock absorption.
  • Budget: Tennis strings can range in price from affordable to premium. Set a budget and choose strings that offer the best value for your money.
  • String Tension: Experiment with different string tensions to find the optimal tension that suits your game. Higher tension provides more control, while lower tension offers more power.

Final Thoughts

Ben Shelton's tennis string choice reflects his aggressive playing style and preference for power and control. His hybrid setup of Luxilon Alu Power in the mains and Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses provides him with a potent combination of characteristics that complement his game. While his setup may not be the perfect choice for everyone, it offers valuable insights into the importance of string selection and customization.

Ultimately, the best tennis strings for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your playing style, skill level, arm sensitivity, and budget when making your decision. Don't be afraid to experiment with different strings and tensions to find the perfect setup that helps you play your best tennis.

So, next time you watch Ben Shelton unleash a blistering forehand, you'll have a better understanding of the strings that contribute to his power and precision. Happy stringing, and happy playing!