Tennis Racket String Patterns Explained 

November 20th, 2025 by Carlota

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When tennis players shop for a new racquet, they often look at weight, balance, and head size. but one of the most influential factors is the string pattern. Whether you prefer the explosive spin of a 16x19, the precision of an 18x20, or the balanced control of a 16x20, the pattern shapes how the ball interacts with the strings and ultimately how you feel on court.

This guide breaks down the most common string patterns and highlights how Babolat racquets bring each pattern to life.

What Is a String Pattern?

A string pattern describes the number of main (vertical) and cross (horizontal) strings in the racquet.

Examples:

• 16x19 = 16 mains / 19 crosses
• 18x20 = 18 mains / 20 crosses
• 16x20 = 16 mains / 20 crosses

Different patterns change how much spin, control, power, launch angle, and string durability a racquet offers.

16x19 String Pattern: Spin, Height & Easy Power

The 16x19 pattern is the most common today. Its open spacing increases string movement, producing easy spin, a higher launch angle, and more natural power.

Best For

• Topspin-heavy baseliners
• Players who want higher net clearance
• Those seeking a forgiving, lively feel

Performance

• Spin: Excellent
• Power: High
• Control: Moderate
• Feel: Open and lively
• Durability: Slightly lower

Babolat Example: Pure Aero 100 (16x19)

The iconic Pure Aero 100, made super popular with Rafael Nadal, delivers serious spin and lift, making it a favorite for players who love high-arcing, heavy shots.

18x20 String Pattern: Precision, Stability & Predictability

The 18x20 pattern is denser, providing a more controlled, predictable response. Players who hit flatter, faster trajectories typically favor this setup.

Best For

• Precision-based hitters
• Aggressive baseliners who generate their own power
• Competitors seeking stability and accuracy

Performance

• Spin: Lower than 16x19
• Power: Lower
• Control: Exceptional
• Feel: Crisp and ultra-stable
• Durability: Excellent

Babolat Example: Pure Strike 18x20

The Babolat Pure Strike 18x20 is all about control and ball feedback. It’s the racquet of choice for former pro player Dominic Thiem, known for his heavy, explosive groundstrokes and punishing backhand. The dense pattern helps him flatten out shots with precision while maintaining stability on huge swings.

16x20 String Pattern: The Perfect Middle Ground

A 16x20 pattern sits right between the spin-friendly 16x19 and the laser-focused 18x20. You get strong spin potential from the 16 mains but extra control from the additional crosses.

Best For

• All-court players
• Big hitters who need controlled spin
• Those who find 16x19 too open and 18x20 too tight

Performance

• Spin: Strong but more controlled
• Power: Moderate
• Control: Higher than 16x19
• Feel: Consistent, balanced
• Durability: Better than 16x19

Babolat Example: Pure Aero 98 (16x20)

The Pure Aero 98 blends spin, control, and stability in a modern, tour-ready package. Its 16x20 pattern tightens the trajectory compared to the Pure Aero 100 while maintaining strong spin capability.

Its popularity has exploded thanks in part to world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, who uses it to produce his explosive, all-court game and remarkable results. The Pure Aero 98 rewards big swings with controlled aggression and effortless acceleration.

How the Pure Aero 98 (16x20) differs from the Pure Aero 100 (16x19)

Feature	Pure Aero 98 (16x20)	Pure Aero 100 (16x19)
Head Size	98 sq in	100 sq in
String Pattern	16x20	16x19
Spin	Controlled, heavy spin	Maximum spin + easier lift
Launch Angle	Lower, more precise	Higher, more height
Power	More controlled	Higher and more effortless
Control	Higher	Moderate
Feel	Firm, connected	Open, lively
Target Player	Advanced players	Intermediate–advanced players

How to Choose Your String Pattern

Choose 16x19 if you want:

• Maximum spin
• Height and shape
• Racquet-assisted power

Choose 18x20 if you want:

• Precision above all
• A tighter, controlled trajectory
• Greater string durability

Choose 16x20 if you want:

• A mix of spin and control
• A more predictable launch angle
• A pro-style modern feel

Final Thoughts

Your string pattern is one of the most important elements of your racquet setup. Whether you rely on the spin-friendly Pure Aero 100 (16x19), the precision-focused Pure Strike 18x20, or the balanced power of the Pure Aero 98 (16x20) made famous by Carlos Alcaraz, choosing the right pattern can elevate consistency, confidence, and performance.

If you’d like help picking the perfect racquet or dialing in your string tension, don’t hesitate to visit or give us a call! We’re here to make your tennis life easier.

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