ReString Mailbag April 2026

We're back for another mailbag, where we answer real questions from customers.

This month, we will cover the feel of ReString Slap, how Slap plays compared to Zero and Sync hybrid, Vivo and Sync hybrid questions, how ReString Slap plays in Yonex VCORE 98 and Yonex PERCEPT 97H, the best way to combine ReString Sync with a multifilament, and ReString Zero gauge options for Yonex EZONE 100.

Question 1 - Feel of ReString Slap

I have a question about the feel of Slap. Is it muted like Zero or does it have more crispiness and connection so I can feel the shot like Sync?

I do not really like a muted feel, such as Hyper-G. But I do like the feel of strings such as Sync and RPM Blast.

ReString Response

That is a great question!

In terms of feel, Slap plays closer to Zero, although Zero is our most muted string. Slap will give you more feedback than Zero, but not quite to the extent of Sync.

If you enjoy the feel of Sync, the Zero and Sync hybrid offers a great balance. Alternatively, you could try a Slap and Sync hybrid, which will provide a more control-oriented experience while still offering great access to spin.

Followup Question

Would you recommend 17G or 16G Sync crosses when combined with Slap 16G in the mains?

Followup Response

If you are going with 16G mains, I would recommend matching it with 16G crosses to get a more consistent stringbed feeling and extra durability from the cross.

Typically, when players mix and match gauges in polyester hybrids, they opt for 17G in the mains and 16G in the crosses. Using 17G in the mains allows for more access to spin since it opens up the stringbed a bit more, while the 16G cross provides dependable durability.

In your case, it sounds like you might be a string breaker since you opted for the 16G mains. If that's the case, a 16G cross is the perfect choice!

Question 2 - Slap vs Zero and Sync Hybrid

I was wondering if Slap is a full set equivalent to a Zero Mains and Sync Crosses hybrid?

Is that a fair assessment? I'm a 3.0 that’s only been playing since October so I lack the knowledge or experience with strings. I've only played with ALU Power, RPM Blast and recently tried a full set of Solinco Mach 10's, which I cut off my racket the next day.

I like RPM blast from a playing perspective, I understand they do not last as long. I do wish I could get a bit more control than what I get out of RPM blast in the 52-54 lbs tension range.

Would you say Slap would achieve that? Would I get more control from Slap than RPM Blast?

Would the Zero and Sync hybrid be a better option? I've heard many say Zero is a bit too powerful for their game, does Sync hybrid really dial that down significantly? Is Slap option a bit eased up on the power as well ?

ReString Response

Short answer: Slap is not exactly the same as a Zero and Sync hybrid.

It’s closer to Zero, but a bit softer and more controlled. The hybrid gives you more contrast (spin + control), while Slap is more of a one-piece balanced version.

Based on what you said, liking RPM Blast but wanting more control and better feel, I think Slap in a full bed could be a good choice!

If your preference is on full beds, I would definitely say that one is the way to go - Zero would be too powerful and Sync in a full bed won't give you the same shape on the ball that you seem to enjoy from RPM.

A hybrid is also a good choice if you are feeling a bit more experimental. Sync in the cross is always the way to go since it's best to have a slick round string in the cross and a more shaped string in the mains.

Zero mains and Sync crosses (~52/50 lbs) would give you the best of both worlds - the power and pop from Zero with the control and feel from Sync.

Ultimately, it might just come down to your personal preference to test out!

Question 3 - Vivo and Sync Hybrid Setup

Just bought the VCORE 98 2026. Using Grapplesnake Soldier with Toroline Wasabi X.

I want a little more pop/spin from the mains and was thinking Vivo would pair well? I do want to maintain a crisper/connected feel. What do you suggest?

ReString Response

For more pop and spin while keeping a crisp, connected feel, I’d suggest Vivo mains with Sync crosses.

Vivo will give you that extra lift, spin, and easy depth. Using Sync in the crosses keeps the stringbed stable, lowers the launch angle, and provides a more connected feel so it doesn’t get mushy.

Compared to your current Soldier and Wasabi X setup, this should feel more lively and spin-friendly while remaining clean and predictable.

To summarize: full Vivo = crisp, lively, more direct feel, whereas Vivo and Sync hybrid = same crisp base, just a bit more control and stability

Question 4 - ReString Slap in Yonex VCORE 98

Recommend stringing Slap at two lbs lower than “usual setup”, if usual setup is Sync?

Also, is 54/52 lbs too high for Sync in 2026 Yonex VCORE 98? Trying to find string setup for this racket; want crisp crack on serves and volleys, but enough shape on FH/BH to provide margin but without launching (which was either from Zero or combination of Zero and this new VCORE).

In summary, considering Slap but unsure if should drop sync to 52/50 lbs first, Slap at 54/52 lbs, or Slap at 52/50 lbs? I know there’s many variables and considerations, but figured you may have more data on this.

ReString Response

You make a good point regarding the variables involved. Usually, when you change a racket or a string, it’s safer to do them one at a time.

If you change your setup and your frame at the same time, it can be difficult to determine if the differences are coming from the racket or the string.

If you have the time and can be patient, I’d recommend trialing your usual setup of Sync in your new Yonex VCORE 98 at your usual tension first. After that, you can switch to Slap at that same tension.

The recommendation to drop the tension by 2 lbs applies to all of our strings, especially those with our Signature Snapback. These strings are engineered for movement, and slightly lower tensions can really supercharge that snapback effect.

Since Sync also features this technology, maintaining the same tension between the two sounds sensible.

Question 5 - ReString Slap in Yonex PERCEPT 97H

I'm considering trying your new string Slap 17 G on my Yonex PERCEPT 97H. I like tension to be around 53-54 lbs but I'm not familiar with the characteristics of the string. Is it soft or stiff?

I've used your ReString Zero, Solinco Confidential, Solinco Tour Bite. I'm thinking 50 lbs but I don't want my stringbed to be mushy. I also swing flat and hard. What's your opinion?

ReString Response

ReString Slap is not mushy. It’s a tad softer and more controlled than Zero, Confidential, or Tour Bite, but it still maintains a clean, controlled response, especially for flatter hitters.

Since you normally prefer 53-54 lbs and want to avoid a loose feel, I wouldn't recommend dropping down to 50 lbs. Instead, I suggest starting around 52 lbs.

This tension will keep the stringbed tight and controlled, avoid a "mushy" feel, and provide more pocketing and comfort than your usual setup.

If you find you need more control, you can always go up 1 lb next time, but 51–52 lbs is a safe starting point for your Yonex PERCEPT 97H.

Question 6 - ReString Sync and Multifilament Hybrid

I’m looking for some stringing advice regarding Sync. I’ve loved using it as a cross for my polyester-polyester hybrid strung at 51/49 lbs.

I’m looking to see if I can do the same for a multifilament-polyester setup. I’m planning to do X-One Biphase as the mains and Sync in the crosses.

If my usual full-bed X-One Biphase is strung at 60lbs, how should I string the Sync?

Should it be a 2lb differential as usual at 60/58lbs, or something closer to 60/49lbs since poly crosses are stiffer?

ReString Response

A 2 lbs differential is typically a great starting point when using Sync in a polyester hybrid.

However, when you hybrid it with a multifilament like X-One Biphase, which is inherently much softer, and place that multifilament in the mains, I’d recommend increasing that differential.

Because multifilament is softer, you generally need to increase its tension relative to the polyester cross. Additionally, putting it in the mains gives it even more elasticity due to the longer surface area, so a higher differential helps compensate for that extra tension loss.

I suggest trying 55 lbs for the X-One Biphase mains and 51 lbs for the Sync crosses. If that feels a bit too low, you could also try a 56/52 lbs setup.

Followup Question

Thanks for getting back to me!

I just had my first hit (ended up stringing at 57/53) and still found it to be a bit too launchy, likely because of the X-One Biphase. I've also noticed notching in the mains already, presumably since the multifilament is a lot softer.

If I wanted to up the tension even more, should I keep that 4 lbs differential consistent, or does Sync perform best below a certain threshold?

It would be comparing something like 59/55 lbs vs 59/53 lbs.

Let me know what you think, thank you!

Followup Response

If you found the current setup a bit too launchy, increasing the tension of the mains is a smart choice. In that case, I would maintain around a 4 lbs differential.

Regarding the notching, since X-One Biphase is a much softer string without a coating specifically designed for snapback (like Sync has), notching is unfortunately inevitable. It is simply a result of the string's construction.

I know it sounds like you prefer the soft multifilament in the mains, but you could also consider switching the setup and putting the polyester in the mains.

This will definitely help with the launchiness, as the polyester main will dictate the feel more.

In that case, you could try 53 lbs for the polyester mains and 51 lbs for the multifilament crosses. This will make it play a bit closer to a full polyester bed while still retaining the plush softness of the multifilament.

Question 7 - ReString Zero in Yonex EZONE 100

I was just wondering what gauge should I be using for ReString Zero?

I play with Yonex EZONE 100 at 53 lbs with Solinco Hyper-G 1.25 gauge.

ReString Response

A great place to start would be the same gauge as your Solinco Hyper-G, so I recommend trying the 17G.

Regarding tension, I would suggest staying pretty similar to your current setup, although dropping 1 lb would reward you with even more snapback.

That is the most significant benefit of the ReString Zero relative to your Hyper G setup.

Got Your Own Question?

We'd love to hear from you and share the best response we can to help your game.

If you have your own question, you can submit that via our contact page or on Instagram.

Until next month, enjoy your tennis!

Note: questions and responses have been lightly edited for easier reading.

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.