— WHAT IS RESTRINGING?
Why your strings matter more than you think.
Your racquet strings are the only point of contact between you and the ball. Yet most club players restring far less often than they should — and many have never had a stringer explain what their strings are actually doing for them.
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Strings lose tension from the moment they leave the machine. Within 10–20 hours of play, most strings will have dropped noticeably from their original tension, affecting feel, power, and control. By the time strings break, they've already been playing dead for a while.
At Racquet Lab UK, every restring is done with care and precision on a calibrated electronic constant-pull machine — the same type used by professional stringers on tour. Your strings land exactly where you ask for them, every time.
The golden rule of restringing
Restring as many times per year as you play per week. Play three times a week? Aim for three restrings a year — regardless of whether your strings have broken.
— BY SPORT
Stringing for your game specifically.
Tennis, squash, and badminton each have very different stringing requirements - different string types, gauge ranges, tension ranges, and playing characteristics. Here's what we do differently for each.
Tennis
Tennis strings come in several types — polyester (poly), multifilament, natural gut, and hybrid setups. Each plays very differently and suits different players.
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Poly strings are used by most club players because of their durability and spin potential. Multifilament strings offer a softer, more arm-friendly feel with more power. Natural gut remains the premium option for feel and tension retention. Hybrid setups combine a poly main with a softer cross to balance the two.
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Tennis racquets are typically strung anywhere between 45–65 lbs depending on the player, string type, and racquet. We'll always recommend a starting point based on your frame and the strings you're using.
Badminton
Badminton strings are typically thinner and more responsive than other racquet sports, with gauge playing a major role in performance. Most players choose between durability-focused strings and thinner, high-repulsion options designed for feel and power.
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Thicker strings offer better durability and are ideal for regular club play, while thinner strings provide more repulsion, sharper feedback, and improved touch — often preferred by more advanced players. String choice can noticeably affect control, shuttle speed, and overall feel.
Badminton racquets are usually strung at higher tensions, typically between 20–30 lbs, depending on the player and string type. Higher tensions offer more control and precision, while lower tensions provide more power and forgiveness. We'll guide you towards the right range based on your level and playing style
Squash
Squash strings are designed to balance durability with feel, with most setups built around multifilament constructions. Compared to tennis, squash strings are generally softer and more elastic to suit the pace and touch of the game.
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Multifilament strings are the most common choice, offering a blend of power, control, and comfort. Some players prefer slightly firmer options for added control, while others prioritise a softer feel for better touch and reduced vibration. The right string can make a noticeable difference to consistency and shot confidence.
Squash racquets are typically strung between 20–30 lbs, depending on the player and string preference. Lower tensions can offer more power and forgiveness, while higher tensions provide greater control and precision. We’ll recommend a starting point based on your racquet and how you play.
— FAQs
Common questions about restringing.
Everything you need to know before booking.
​How often should I restring?
Restring as many times per year as you play per week. If you play three times a week, that's three restrings a year — regardless of whether your strings have broken. Even intact strings lose tension and responsiveness over time.
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Do I need to bring my own strings?
No — we stock strings from Babolat, Luxilon, Tecnifibre, Yonex, Wilson and more. We can recommend the right one for your game. That said, you're welcome to supply your own string and we'll string it with the same care.
What tension should I use?
This depends on your sport, playing style, and physical comfort. Your racquet frame will have a recommended range printed on it — that's a good starting point. Our free consultation goes further, helping you find a tension that suits your actual game. You can also read our tension guide in the Learning Hub.
How long does a restring take?
Standard turnaround is 24–48 hours from drop-off. If you need it sooner, same-day stringing is often available — just mention it when you book and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Will you check my frame while you have it?
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Every racquet that comes through us gets a basic frame and grommet inspection as standard. If we notice anything that needs attention — cracked grommets, frame damage, worn bumper guard — we'll let you know before we start stringing.