How Does ReString Slap Play?

ReString Slap is a hexagonal co-polyester built off the same DNA as Zero, engineered for spin, power, and snapback with an added layer of control and a softer, more plush feel at contact.

The string originally launched as a limited edition collaboration between ReString and Valldoreix.

Customer response was strong enough that we decided to bring Slap back as a permanent addition to the ReString lineup.

This article covers how Slap plays on court, where it sits relative to the other ReString strings, and whether this could be the perfect string for your game.

Built Off Zero's DNA

Slap shares a similar base formula to Zero. It carries the same hexagonal shape, the same Signature Snapback coating, and the same core characteristics of spin, power, and snapback.

The six-sided shape digs into the ball on every stroke, generating heavy topspin with committed swings. If you have played with Zero, this grip on the ball will feel familiar right away.

From that shared foundation, we adjusted the formula to create a slightly different playing experience. Slap is a touch softer and more controlled than Zero, offering a more plush feel at contact without losing the aggressive character of a shaped polyester.

Think of it as Zero's more composed cousin.

How Slap Differs from Zero

The biggest difference is in the response. Zero is our most explosive string, designed to launch the ball with maximum power and spin.

Slap dials back some of that raw power in exchange for better precision and a softer feel.

On off-center contact, Slap is more forgiving. Mishits still provide reasonable depth and consistency, giving you confidence to commit to your shots even when timing isn't perfect.

The control improvement is noticeable without being dramatic. You are still hitting with a shaped, spin-friendly polyester. The ball still jumps off the stringbed with pace.

Slap simply gives you a slightly tighter window, which means fewer shots that fly long when you take a full cut.

We have a full breakdown of these two strings in our Zero vs Slap comparison releasing soon.

A Bridge Between Zero and Sync

Where Slap gets interesting is in how it borrows from both ends of the ReString lineup.

It lives closer to Zero than to Sync because it is built off Zero's formula. The power, the spin, the hexagonal bite on the ball are all rooted in Zero's DNA.

But the control and softness adjustments give Slap a touch of what makes Sync appealing. You get some of Sync's composure and comfort without going all the way to a round, control-first string.

For players who sit somewhere between Zero and Sync in their preferences, Slap fills a gap that did not previously exist in the lineup.

Who Is ReString Slap For?

Aggressive baseliners who take big cuts at the ball and dominate with power and pace will feel right at home with Slap. The hexagonal profile and Signature Snapback reward full swings and long strokes.

Players who have tried Zero and found it a little too lively will appreciate the adjustment. Some of the feedback we have received on Zero is that it can be too powerful for certain players. Slap brings that energy under control without changing the fundamental character of the string.

Sync players looking to add more power and spin without jumping all the way to Zero's all-out explosiveness should also consider Slap. It gives you more aggression than Sync while keeping a level of control and softness that an all-out power string does not offer.

Zero remains ReString's flagship for maximum power and spin, and it leads not just our lineup but the industry in that category. Slap is for anyone who wants that same DNA with the dial turned a click toward control.

Gauges and Stringing Notes

Slap is available in 17G (1.23mm) and 16G (1.28mm). The 17G offers more bite and feel, while the 16G provides added durability from the thicker gauge.

If you break strings frequently or prefer a more solid stringbed, start with 16G. If you want maximum spin access and a livelier feel, go with 17G.

We recommend stringing 2 lbs lower than your usual polyester setup to maximize Slap's snapback and playability benefits. The recommended tension range is 43 to 55 lbs.

Where Slap Fits in the ReString Lineup

ReString now offers four polyester strings, each with a distinct role.

Zero is the power and spin specialist for players who want maximum explosiveness.

Slap is Zero's cousin for players who want that same aggressive DNA with better precision.

Sync is the control and feel string for players who want pinpoint accuracy and connection.

Vivo is the control and spin option made from recycled polyester, offering a direct response.

If you are unsure where to start, our Discovery page breaks down each option.

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.