If your arm hurts after playing, your string tension might be the problem.
Most players focus on string type — but ignore one of the biggest comfort factors:
👉 tension
Even the softest string can feel harsh if it’s strung too tight.
And even polyester can feel playable at the right tension.
So what is the best string tension for comfort?
👉 In this guide, you’ll learn:
- the ideal tension range for comfort
- how tension affects your arm and feel
- how to adjust based on your string type
- and how to avoid common mistakes
🧠 What Does String Tension Do?
String tension controls how the stringbed responds at impact.
Higher tension:
- firmer feel
- less power
- more shock
Lower tension:
- softer feel
- more power
- less stress on the arm
👉 Comfort is directly linked to lower tension.
🎯 Best String Tension Range for Comfort
For most players, the ideal comfort range is:
👉 20–24 kg (44–53 lbs)
This range provides:
- softer impact
- better shock absorption
- more forgiving response
General guideline:
- 20–22 kg → maximum comfort
- 22–24 kg → balance of comfort and control
👉 The lower you go, the more comfortable it feels.
⚖️ Best Tension by String Type
🧵 Multifilament (most comfortable setup)
👉 22–25 kg
- naturally soft
- excellent shock absorption
- ideal for arm protection
🎾 Co-Poly (polyester strings)
👉 20–23 kg
- must be strung lower to reduce stiffness
- high tension makes poly harsh
👉 Lower tension is critical with polyester.
🎯 Natural Gut
👉 23–26 kg
- very elastic and arm-friendly
- holds comfort even at higher tensions
👉 Check our tennis string tension guide
🧠 Why Lower Tension Improves Comfort
Lower tension increases:
🌀 1. Dwell time
The ball stays on the strings longer → softer feel.
💥 2. Shock absorption
Less vibration travels to your arm.
🎾 3. Energy return
The stringbed does more work → less strain on your body.
👉 This reduces fatigue and injury risk.
❌ Common Mistakes That Reduce Comfort
❌ Stringing too tight
The #1 cause of arm discomfort.
❌ Using poly at high tension
This creates a stiff and unforgiving setup.
❌ Ignoring restringing
Dead strings feel harsher, even at low tension.
❌ Copying pro setups
Pros use high tension because of elite technique — not for comfort.
🧵 How to Find Your Ideal Comfort Tension
🎯 Step 1: Start in the middle
Try around 22–23 kg
🔄 Step 2: Adjust gradually
Change by 1 kg at a time.
🧠 Step 3: Listen to your body
Comfort > control when dealing with pain or fatigue.
⚙️ Extra Tips for Maximum Comfort
- use softer strings (multifilament or soft co-poly)
- avoid old/dead strings
- consider hybrid setups
- pair tension with the right racket
👉 Tension alone helps, but the full setup matters.
🔗 Related Guides
👉 Best tennis strings for arm pain
👉 Best tennis strings for tennis elbow
🏁 Conclusion
The best string tension for comfort is simple:
👉 lower tension = more comfort
For most players:
- 20–24 kg is the optimal range
- polyester must be strung lower
- softer strings enhance the effect
If your goal is to reduce arm pain and play longer without discomfort:
👉 Start lowering your tension — it’s the fastest improvement you can make.