RPM Soft vs. Poly Tour Air: A Comprehensive Guide

In the realm of tennis strings, RPM Soft and Poly Tour Air stand as two highly acclaimed options that cater to distinct playstyles and preferences. This in-depth guide delves into the intricacies of these exceptional strings, comparing their properties, performance, and suitability for various players.

Properties & Construction

RPM Soft:

• Material: Co-polyester monofilament
• Gauge: 16, 17, 18
• Color: Neon yellow

Poly Tour Air:

• Material: Polyester monofilament with PU additive
• Gauge: 16, 17, 18
• Color: Silver

The primary difference between the RPM Soft and Poly Tour Air lies in their construction. RPM Soft is a co-polyester string, known for its durability, spin potential, and control. On the other hand, Poly Tour Air incorporates a unique PU additive, resulting in a softer feel and enhanced playability.

Performance Characteristics

Spin:

• RPM Soft: Excellent spin generation due to its textured surface and octagonal shape
• Poly Tour Air: Moderate spin production compared to RPM Soft, but still provides ample bite for aggressive strokes

Control:

• RPM Soft: Precise and predictable control, allowing for consistent shot placement
• Poly Tour Air: Slightly reduced control compared to RPM Soft, but offers a firmer feel for enhanced stability

Power:

• RPM Soft: Moderate power output, emphasizing spin and control
• Poly Tour Air: Slightly higher power potential than RPM Soft, providing a balance between control and power

Feel:

• RPM Soft: Firm and responsive feel, offering a crisp and direct feedback
• Poly Tour Air: Softer feel, reducing arm fatigue and providing enhanced comfort

Suitability for Players

RPM Soft:

• Ideal for advanced players seeking maximum spin and control
• Suitable for players with fast swing speeds who prioritize precision
• Can be demanding on the arm due to its firm feel

Poly Tour Air:

• Versatile option for intermediate to advanced players
• Provides a blend of spin, control, and comfort
• Recommended for players seeking a softer feel without compromising performance

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-stringing: Both RPM Soft and Poly Tour Air are designed for optimal performance when strung at specific tensions. Over-stringing can reduce their durability and alter their playing characteristics.
• Improper installation: Ensure proper string tension and knotting techniques to prevent premature breakage and compromised performance.
• Neglecting re-stringing: Regular re-stringing is crucial to maintain optimal performance and avoid potential injuries. The frequency of re-stringing varies based on factors such as playing style, tension, and usage.

Pros and Cons

RPM Soft

Pros:

• Excellent spin generation
• Precise control
• Durable

Cons:

• Firm feel
• Demanding on the arm
• Lower power output

Poly Tour Air

Pros:

• Versatile performance
• Softer feel
• Enhanced comfort

Cons:

• Moderate spin generation
• Slightly reduced control
• Potential for higher string breakage

FAQs

1. Is RPM Soft more durable than Poly Tour Air?

• Both strings offer comparable durability, but RPM Soft may have a slight edge due to its denser construction.

2. Which string is better for generating topspin?

• RPM Soft is the clear winner in terms of spin potential due to its textured surface and unique shape.

3. Is Poly Tour Air suitable for beginners?

• Poly Tour Air is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced players due to its firmer feel and reduced control compared to RPM Soft.

4. How often should I re-string my racket with RPM Soft or Poly Tour Air?

• The re-stringing frequency depends on individual factors. As a general guideline, re-string every 3-6 months for optimal performance.

5. Is RPM Soft available in different colors?

• No, RPM Soft is exclusively available in neon yellow.

6. What is the gauge difference between RPM Soft and Poly Tour Air?

• Both strings are available in gauges 16, 17, and 18.

Humorous Stories

Story 1:

A tennis player, known for his aggressive style, was using RPM Soft strings for their exceptional spin. One day, during a particularly intense match, he hit a thunderbolt of a serve that sent his opponent's racket flying. The opponent, in a fit of frustration, exclaimed, "Your strings are so spinny, they made my racket do a backflip!"

Lesson: High-spin strings can have unexpected and hilarious consequences.

Story 2:

A recreational player, who had recently switched to Poly Tour Air strings, was praising their comfort to his friend. The friend, an experienced player, chuckled and said, "Yeah, those strings are so soft, they're like playing with a marshmallow."

Lesson: Soft strings can provide a surprising level of comfort, even for demanding players.

Story 3:

A tournament director was setting up the courts for a big event. As he was stringing the rackets for the top-seeded players, he accidentally mixed up RPM Soft and Poly Tour Air strings. The players, who were meticulous about their equipment, noticed the error immediately. One of them quipped, "I'll take the spin strings, and you can have the comfort strings. Let's call it a fair trade."

Lesson: Pay close attention to the strings you use, as even a small mistake can have a significant impact on your performance.

Tables

Table 1: String Properties

Table 2: Performance Characteristics

Table 3: Suitability for Players