Ben Shelton's String Setup: What Does He Use?

Let's dive into the fascinating world of tennis equipment, specifically focusing on what strings and tension rising star Ben Shelton prefers. Knowing a pro player's setup can give us insights into optimizing our own game. It's crucial to remember that what works for a top-level athlete like Shelton might not be the perfect fit for everyone, but it's definitely worth exploring and understanding the nuances behind his choices. Let's break down each aspect of his string setup, so you can level up your game!

What Strings Does Ben Shelton Use?

When it comes to strings, Ben Shelton is known to use a combination setup, often referred to as a hybrid. This means he uses two different types of strings for the mains (vertical strings) and the crosses (horizontal strings). This approach allows players to harness the unique characteristics of each string type, creating a blend of power, control, and feel that a single string setup might not offer.

Specifically, Shelton uses Luxilon Alu Power in the mains. Luxilon Alu Power is an incredibly popular choice among professional tennis players due to its exceptional power and control. This monofilament string is known for its ability to enhance ball bite, allowing players to generate significant spin. The stiffness of Alu Power provides excellent feedback and precision, enabling players like Shelton to hit with confidence and accuracy. For players who prioritize aggressive baseline play and heavy spin, Luxilon Alu Power is often a go-to option. Its reputation for durability also makes it a practical choice for the rigors of professional tennis.

For the crosses, Shelton complements Luxilon Alu Power with Wilson Natural Gut. Natural gut strings are made from cow intestines and are renowned for their unparalleled feel, comfort, and tension maintenance. Unlike synthetic strings, natural gut offers a softer, more responsive feel upon ball impact, reducing vibrations and providing a more connected sensation. This can translate to enhanced control and a reduced risk of arm injuries. Wilson Natural Gut is considered one of the highest quality options available, known for its consistent performance and durability. The combination of Alu Power in the mains and Natural Gut in the crosses provides Shelton with a balance of power, spin, and comfort, tailored to his aggressive playing style. This hybrid setup is designed to maximize the strengths of each string, giving him an edge on the court.

Many players find that a hybrid setup of a durable, control-oriented string in the mains combined with a softer, more responsive string in the crosses provides an optimal balance of performance and comfort. This is what makes Ben Shelton's string choices particularly interesting and effective for his game.

What Tension Does Ben Shelton Use?

Tension is a crucial element in a tennis string setup because it significantly impacts how the ball interacts with the racquet. Different tensions can influence power, control, comfort, and even the lifespan of the strings themselves. Finding the right tension is a highly personal process, often involving experimentation and adjustment based on a player’s individual preferences and playing style. In general, lower tensions provide more power and a larger sweet spot, while higher tensions offer more control and precision. Pros often fine-tune their tensions based on the court surface, weather conditions, and even their opponent.

Ben Shelton typically strings his racquets around 53 lbs (pounds). However, it's essential to note that tension can vary slightly depending on the specific conditions and his personal preferences at the time. A tension of 53 lbs is generally considered to be in the mid-range, providing a balanced combination of power and control. This tension allows Shelton to generate ample power on his serves and groundstrokes while maintaining enough control to keep the ball within the lines. The key is finding a tension that complements his string choice and playing style, allowing him to maximize his performance on the court.

Using a tension of 53 lbs with a hybrid setup like Luxilon Alu Power and Wilson Natural Gut suggests that Shelton is looking for a blend of power, spin, and feel. The Alu Power in the mains provides the power and spin potential, while the Natural Gut in the crosses enhances comfort and feel. This combination, at a mid-range tension, likely allows Shelton to hit with both aggression and precision, catering to his dynamic and attacking style of play. It's a testament to the importance of carefully considering all elements of the string setup to achieve optimal results.

Why This Combination Works for Him

Ben Shelton's choice of Luxilon Alu Power in the mains and Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses, strung at around 53 lbs, is a strategic decision that complements his aggressive, powerful playing style. Luxilon Alu Power is renowned for its stiffness and ability to enhance spin, allowing Shelton to generate heavy topspin on his groundstrokes and serves. This is crucial for controlling the ball and dictating play from the baseline. The Alu Power also provides excellent feedback and precision, enabling him to hit with confidence and accuracy.

Complementing the Alu Power with Wilson Natural Gut in the crosses adds a layer of comfort and feel to his setup. Natural gut is known for its soft, responsive nature, which reduces vibrations and provides a more connected feel upon ball impact. This can enhance control and minimize the risk of arm injuries, particularly important for a player who hits with as much power as Shelton. The Natural Gut also maintains tension well, ensuring consistent performance over time. The combination of these two strings creates a balance of power, spin, control, and comfort that suits Shelton’s game.

The mid-range tension of 53 lbs further fine-tunes the performance of his string setup. This tension allows him to generate ample power while maintaining sufficient control. It also helps to maximize the benefits of both the Alu Power and the Natural Gut. The Alu Power can provide the necessary power and spin at this tension, while the Natural Gut can offer the added comfort and feel without sacrificing control. This combination is designed to optimize Shelton’s performance on the court, giving him an edge over his opponents. It’s a testament to the importance of carefully considering all aspects of the string setup to achieve the desired results.

Ultimately, a player's string choice and tension are incredibly personal. However, understanding the choices of top players like Ben Shelton can provide valuable insights into optimizing your own game. Consider experimenting with different strings and tensions to find what works best for you. Pay attention to how the ball feels coming off the racquet, and adjust accordingly. You might be surprised at the difference it can make!