String Density

Decreased tennis string density (fewer strings) generates more power.

High Tension Not as Sweet

Basically, higher tensions decrease the size of the sweetspot and reduce the power (thus increasing control a bit). The higher the tension, the more boardlike the feel. Some people like this. Desired tension is pretty much a matter of personal taste, and as you improve the level of your game, you are apt to notice small fluctuations in tennis string racquet tensions.

Restringing

Restringing throughout the year should occur as frequently as you play tennis each week, or at least once a year; for example, if you play tennis three times a week, you should restring your racket three times a year. If it's not every week pay a bit more for high quality tennis string for yor racquet. It will last longer.

Textured Strings

Textured tennis strings tend to produce more spin.

Strings For Widebody Frames

It is recommended by the USRSA to have the tennis string machine, string widebody frames at lower tension for better playability and to help keep tennis strings from breaking too soon.

What Type of String?

If you're new to tennis, start with basic nylon tennis string, with a thicker gauge, like 15. As you improve, try out different brands of string, and thinner gauges, until you find the right type of string for you. Determining string tension is a little trickier. If you want control, tennis string it as tight as the manufacturer recommends. If you're looking for power, string it at the lowest end of the recommended tension.

Longer String Length

A longer tennis racket string length (or string plane area) produces more power.

Shock Absorbers

You can take some of the shock out of your racket. To avoid vibrations try using a shock absorber on the tennis strings.

Fewer Strings

Decreased tennis string density (fewer strings) generates more spin.

The Tension of Your Racquet String

If you are a player with a full and powerful swing, make sure that you have your racquet tension strung as tight as the manufacturer's recommendations suggest. Conversely, if you have a medium to short swing, without a lot of racquet speed, then you may wish to have the racquet strung with less tension. Tighter tennis racket string tension = control / Looser tension=power

What Are String Gauges?

Tennis string gauges are simply the thickness of the string. There are many different brands, but generally 3 gauges, 15, 16, and 17. 15 gauge string is great for beginners, and is thicker and more durable. 17 gauge is a great performance string, is less durable, but allows for a better feel.

Basic Facts

It is recommended by the USRSA that widebody frames use multifilament tennis strings (i.e. "soft" tennis strings) or gut to compensate for some of the stiff attributes hence better playability.

Lower String Tensions

Lower tennis string tensions generate more power (providing string movement does not occur).

More Spin

Thinner tennis strings tend to produce more spin by biting the ball more.

Higher String Tensions

Higher tennis racket string tensions generate more ball control (for experienced players).

Solid Core Strings

Solid core tennis racket strings are more durable than multifilament strings with kevlar string technology being the most durable.

String Gauges (String Thicknesses)

Tennis racquet strings come in various thicknesses, called "gauges." You have 15, 15L, 16, 16L, and 17. Larger numbers mean thinner strings. "L" means light and can be thought of as half as size (so 15L can be considered 15 1/2). Thick strings have less resilience and feel than thin strings but last longer.

What can I do to help reduce vibration?

Ask for tennis strings that are softer and more flexible and/or reduce your string tension or use vibration dampeners.

Elastic Strings

More elastic tennis racket strings generate more power (generally, what will produce more power will also absorb more shock load at impact).

Softer Strings

Softer tennis strings, or strings with a softer coating, tend to vibrate less.