Strings

How to Hybrid Zero and Vivo Tennis Strings

July 15, 2025 Juan

Most players string their racket with a single string.

However, combining different main (vertical) strings and cross (horizontal) strings in a hybrid setup can make all the difference.

That's because your main strings account for about 70% of your string bed's characteristics, while cross strings contribute about 30%.

This article looks at two hybrid configurations using two ReString strings, Zero and Vivo.

Zero mains with Vivo crosses (Zero x Vivo)

Vivo mains with Zero crosses (Vivo x Zero)

I'll break down what each setup offers and help you pick the right one for your playing style.

Zero in the Mains, Vivo in the Crosses

Combining Zero mains with Vivo crosses creates a string bed that balances aggressive spin potential with crisp feedback.

Zero mains deliver their signature bite and snapback. You get easy access to heavy topspin and the power to drive through your shots.

Vivo crosses add structure to this setup. The firmer cross strings provide direct feedback and help contain Zero's natural liveliness.

This combination works well for players who want Zero's spin characteristics but prefer more predictable ball response.

However, if your main goal is to temper the performance of Zero, we’d recommend trying Zero x Sync instead.

This is because the slick round string of Sync slides effortlessly with Zero, instead of Vivo’s hexagonal shape.

Vivo in the Mains, Zero in the Crosses

Stringing Vivo mains with Zero crosses is a much more logical hybrid setup that puts firm control at the core while adding spin-friendly characteristics.

Vivo mains establish a balanced, direct response. You get clean feedback on every shot with that characteristic firm feel.

Zero crosses inject more bite into the string bed. They grip the ball aggressively and add more snapback to make the setup feel more lively.

This hybrid appeals to players who find pure Vivo setups a bit too dead or unresponsive.

You maintain that crisp, controlled foundation while gaining extra spin potential and ball pocketing.

Zero and Vivo String Bed Spectrum

Understanding these hybrids becomes clearer when you picture them on a performance spectrum.

A full bed of Zero sits at one end, maximizing aggressive spin and power characteristics.

A full bed of Vivo anchors the other end, delivering a balanced feel and crisp feedback.

Zero x Vivo blends roughly 70% of Zero's aggressive traits with 30% of Vivo's firm response characteristics.

Meanwhile, Vivo x Zero combines about 70% of Vivo's balanced feel with 30% of Zero's bite and spin potential.

Conclusion

Hybrid stringing opens up a world of customization that single string setups simply can't match.

Start with your preferred string in the mains and experiment with the other as crosses.

If you currently use Zero, consider adding Vivo crosses for more of a crisp feel. However, we’d recommend Sync in the crosses if you like Zero in the mains for snapback purposes.

If you prefer Vivo, consider Zero crosses to add power and spin potential. I’ve personally played with this and it is a fantastic combination.

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.