Expert Guide to ReString Sync and Grapplesnake Tour M8

ReString and Grapplesnake both launched in the direct-to-consumer era, emerging as alternatives to traditional tennis string manufacturers.

Sync and Grapplesnake Tour M8 are next-generation polyester strings built for the modern game.

Sync uses a round profile combined with our signature snapback coating to deliver control, feel and lasting performance. Tour M8 uses an octagonal shape to provide bite with balanced all-around characteristics.

This article breaks down the performance characteristics of these two strings and helps you choose the right one for your game.

Performance Comparison Table

ReString Sync Overview

Sync is a round co-poly designed for control and feel. It serves as the control option in our lineup.

The signature snapback coating is integrated throughout the entire string rather than just applied to the surface. This engineering reduces friction between the mains and crosses, which helps with spin generation and extends how long the string maintains its fresh performance.

The round profile provides a traditional connection to the ball. You get that familiar feel where the ball pockets into the stringbed and gives you clear feedback on contact for redirecting shots with precision.

Round strings naturally hold up better than shaped profiles because they don't have edges that catch and wear down quickly. This means you get superior durability and less notching over time.

Sync sits in the middle of the firmness spectrum, leaning slightly toward the forgiving side. It's not too soft and not too stiff, giving you a comfortable response without sacrificing control.

The string is available in 18G (1.20mm), 17G (1.25mm) and 16G (1.30mm) gauges to suit different player preferences. Thinner gauges offer more feel and spin potential, while thicker gauges provide extra durability for frequent string breakers.

Sync is sustainably packaged in FSC-certified recycled paper. This reflects our commitment to reducing environmental impact across all our products.

Grapplesnake Tour M8 Overview

Released in 2021 in the US, Tour M8 is an octagonal co-poly.

The octagonal shape provides bite on the ball for spin generation. This eight-sided profile offers more grip than a round string without being too aggressive.

Tour M8 is marketed as a versatile all-around string with stability and control characteristics.

It aims to deliver balanced performance across different shot types while maintaining a softer, plusher feel compared to many modern polyesters.

Which String Should You Choose?

Choose Sync if you want control and feel with snapback that maintains its performance throughout the string's life. The round profile gives you predictable shot placement and durability.

In fact, Tenncom called Sync "the best round string in the world right now" and is in his "top 3 strings of all time."

Choose Tour M8 if you want balanced performance with a little bite from the octagonal shape and a softer feel. You'll get versatility across different shot types with stability and control.

However, if you really want to optimize for control and spin generation from bite, Vivo is a six-sided control string that could be an excellent fit.

About the Author: Juan is the co-founder of ReString. He was born in Argentina, raised in Japan, and moved to the US to pursue college tennis. He now plays as an ATP & WTA hitting partner.