I Strung It Not Long Ago, and It Breaks Frequently – Why Does This Happen?
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I Strung It Not Long Ago, and It Breaks Frequently – Why Does This Happen?
One of the most frustrating things for badminton players is when their racket strings break too often—especially if they were just restrung recently. If you find yourself frequently dealing with broken strings, you’re not alone. There are several reasons why this happens, and understanding them can help you prolong the life of your strings and improve your overall game experience.
Let’s dive into the most common reasons your strings might be breaking and what you can do to fix the problem.
1. String Tension is Too High
Why it happens:
Higher string tension means the strings are stretched tighter, making them more fragile and prone to breaking. Many advanced players prefer high tension (26-30 lbs) for better control, but this also increases the risk of snapping, especially on off-center hits.
How to prevent it:
- If you’re a beginner or intermediate player, try a lower tension (22-25 lbs). Lower tension gives you more durability and power while reducing the risk of breakage.
- If you prefer high tension, be mindful of your hitting technique—hitting off-center can cause the strings to snap faster.
2. Poor String Quality or Type Mismatch
Why it happens:
Not all badminton strings are made the same. Some are designed for durability, while others prioritize repulsion and control. Thin gauge (0.61mm-0.65mm) strings provide great power and feel but tend to break faster. On the other hand, thicker strings (0.68mm-0.70mm) last longer but may feel less responsive.
How to prevent it:
- If you break strings often, switch to a thicker gauge like Yonex BG65 for better durability.
- If you still want high performance but need extra durability, try hybrid stringing for balance.
3. Bad Contact Point and Mishits
Why it happens:
Strings are weakest at the edges of the racket frame. If you frequently hit the shuttle near the top or sides of the frame, the impact and friction can wear the strings out faster, leading to breakage.
How to prevent it:
- Work on hitting the shuttle in the sweet spot (center of the string bed) for optimal power and durability.
- If you’re mis-hitting often, consider using a larger racket head or lower tension to give yourself a bigger margin for error.
4. Racket Grommets are Worn or Damaged
Why it happens:
Grommets are the small plastic tubes that protect the strings where they pass through the racket frame. If grommets wear out or crack, the sharp edges of the racket frame can cut into the strings, causing them to snap prematurely.
How to prevent it:
- Regularly check your grommets for cracks or missing pieces.
- If you see damaged grommets, replace them before restringing to prevent unnecessary string breakage.
5. Stringing Issues (Improper Stringing Technique)
Why it happens:
Bad stringing technique can cause uneven tension, weak spots, or unnecessary stress on certain areas of the strings. This is especially common if the stringer doesn’t follow the correct pattern or pulls the tension too aggressively.
How to prevent it:
- Get your racket strung by a professional, experienced stringer who understands proper stringing techniques.
- If you string your racket yourself, ensure you follow the correct pattern and use a good quality stringing machine.
- Avoid extreme pre-stretching unless necessary—it can weaken the strings and shorten their lifespan.
6. Environmental Factors (Temperature and Humidity)
Why it happens:
Strings can be affected by weather conditions. In cold temperatures, they become brittle and break more easily. In humid conditions, they may absorb moisture and lose tension faster.
How to prevent it:
- Store your racket in a thermal racket bag to protect it from extreme temperatures.
- Avoid leaving your racket in your car or outside in harsh weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
If your strings keep breaking frequently, don’t panic! Understanding the reasons behind string breakage can help you take better care of your racket and make smarter choices when it comes to string selection, tension, and maintenance.
At Bonbon Badminton, we provide professional stringing services and can help you find the perfect string setup for your playing style. If you're having issues with broken strings, stop by our shop, and we’ll help you troubleshoot the problem!