Yesterday a stringing colleague in another online forum suggested that there is no difference between polyester strings and copolymers. The comment is representative of an uneducated bias against the newer copolymer strings. The bias stems from inaccurate notions of how the strings perform based on the performance of polyester strings (old school) and the currently popular Luxilon strings. Below is a version of my response.

I would have to respectfully disagree with comment that there is no difference between polys and copolys.  Today’s copolys make use of a variety of additives that soften the final product (copoly = copolymer) and the % of polyester (poly = polyester) has been reduced from the polyester strings. They are definitely 2 different categories of string.

Luxilon argues it doesn’t fit into either category. IMO it is a copolymer, no matter how they market the product. However, it is a firmer and stiffer copolymer. It does not offer the same comfort and string life as some of the newer copolys.

Stringers need to realize that the playing properties offered by the copolys are going to be in demand for some time. It is not a trend. It is not going a away. Toward that end, it is in the best interest of the profession for professional stringers to educate themselves about these strings. They should be embraced…not shunned!

There are many complexities and variables that need to be understood so that proper advice/direction can be given to customers who want to reap the benefits of copolys. This is exactly where professional stringers can demonstrate their expertise and knowledge in steering and directing their customers. Understanding and unlocking the potential of copolys to customers is an opportunity for growth and is the next frontier for professional stringers.

In the case of juniors, the parents want a longer lasting string. This is reasonable and can be accomplished in a variety of ways including hybrids as well as full copoly setups. The properties of the frame need to be taken into consideration and the tension may also require adjustment. Ultimately it is a puzzle that the stringer needs to be able to put together in order to provide the best assistance to his/her customer.