Casual Players (1-2x/week): Aim for once every 3-4 months, or roughly twice a year. 

Regular Players (3-4x/week): Restring every 4-6 weeks. 

Frequent/Competitive Players (5+x/week): Every 1-2 months, or even every few weeks for poly strings. 

Neither poly nor multifilament strings are inherently "better"; they serve different players: Polyester (Poly) offers superior durability, control, and spin for advanced players with strong arms, while Multifilament (Multi) provides exceptional comfort, power, and feel, ideal for beginners or players with arm issues. Poly strings are stiff, maintain tension better (though they "go dead"), and suit big hitters, whereas multis are soft but lose tension and durability faster, requiring more frequent replacement.

Yes, even without breaking, strings lose tension and properties over time (3-6 months minimum restringing).

Yes, it means you're hitting with spin and power. If you break strings often, try a thicker gauge or a different material.

String gauge refers to the thickness of the string. Most tennis strings range from 15 gauge to 20 gauge, or approximately 1.35 mm to 1.05 mm. In general, a higher gauge number means a thinner string, while a lower gauge number indicates a thicker string. For example, a 17 gauge string is typically about 1.25 mm, while a 16 gauge string measures closer to 1.30 mm.

Thinner strings tend to offer more power, improved feel, and increased spin potential. Thicker strings provide greater durability and added control. Because gauge measurements can vary slightly between manufacturers, it’s important to review the specifications on the packaging before purchasing.

Multifilament strings are constructed from many fine fibers that are bundled and bonded together to form a single string. During play, the strings slide and rub against each other, causing friction that gradually wears down the outer fibers first. As these top layers break, the inner filaments remain intact until continued use wears them down as well. The more movement and friction created between the strings, the faster multifilament strings will fray and eventually break.