Ben Shelton's Racket: What Strings Does He Use?

Hey guys! Ever wondered what racket and strings rising tennis star Ben Shelton uses to unleash those powerful serves and groundstrokes? Well, you've come to the right place! In this article, we're diving deep into the specifics of Ben Shelton's equipment, giving you the lowdown on what helps him perform at his best on the court. Understanding the gear that pros like Shelton use can give us insights into optimizing our own game, even if we're just weekend warriors. So, let's get started and explore the tools of his trade!

Ben Shelton's Racket

Let's kick things off by talking about the frame that Ben Shelton trusts to deliver his blistering shots. Ben Shelton endorses the Yonex EZONE 98. This racket is known for its blend of power and control, making it a popular choice among aggressive baseliners. The EZONE series, in general, is designed to offer a comfortable feel without sacrificing the ability to hit with pace and spin. The EZONE 98, in particular, has a slightly smaller head size compared to the EZONE 100, providing enhanced precision for players who like to take big swings at the ball. The Yonex EZONE 98 isn't just about power; it also offers a surprising amount of feel, allowing Shelton to execute delicate drop shots and volleys when needed. The racket's construction incorporates high-quality graphite and innovative technologies to minimize vibrations and maximize energy transfer. This means that when Shelton connects with the ball, more of his power is transferred into the shot, resulting in greater speed and depth. The isometric head shape, a signature feature of Yonex rackets, expands the sweet spot, making it more forgiving on off-center hits. This is especially beneficial during long, grueling matches when fatigue can affect precision. Shelton's choice of the EZONE 98 reflects his playing style, which is characterized by aggressive baseline play and a willingness to take risks. The racket complements his strengths, providing him with the tools he needs to dictate play and put pressure on his opponents. For players looking to emulate Shelton's game, the Yonex EZONE 98 is definitely worth considering. It offers a blend of power, control, and feel that can help you take your game to the next level. However, it's important to remember that the racket is just one piece of the puzzle. Proper technique, footwork, and strategy are also essential for success on the court.

Ben Shelton's Strings

Now, let's move on to the strings that Ben Shelton uses. While the racket provides the frame for his shots, the strings are what actually make contact with the ball, making them a crucial element of his equipment setup. So, what strings does Ben Shelton string up in his Yonex EZONE 98? Ben Shelton uses a hybrid string setup consisting of Yonex Polytour Pro 125 in the mains and Yonex Rexispeed 130 in the crosses. This combination offers a balance of power, control, and comfort. The Polytour Pro 125 is a polyester string known for its durability and ability to generate spin. It allows Shelton to hit with aggressive angles and maintain control over his shots, even when swinging at full power. The Rexispeed 130, on the other hand, is a multifilament string that provides enhanced feel and comfort. By using it in the crosses, Shelton softens the overall string bed and reduces the impact on his arm. This is especially important for players who hit with a lot of power, as it can help prevent injuries and maintain comfort during long matches. The hybrid setup allows Shelton to harness the best qualities of both strings. The Polytour Pro 125 in the mains provides the control and spin potential he needs to dictate play, while the Rexispeed 130 in the crosses adds a touch of comfort and feel. This combination is well-suited to his aggressive playing style, allowing him to hit with both power and precision. String tension also plays a crucial role in how the strings perform. While the exact tension that Shelton uses may vary depending on the conditions and his personal preferences, it's likely that he strings his racket in the mid-50s (lbs). This tension range provides a good balance of power and control, allowing him to hit with both pace and accuracy. For players looking to experiment with different string setups, Shelton's hybrid setup is a great place to start. It offers a blend of power, control, and comfort that can be tailored to suit a variety of playing styles. However, it's important to consider your own game and preferences when choosing strings and tension. Experimenting with different combinations can help you find the perfect setup for your game.

Why This Racket and String Combination Works for Him

So, why does Ben Shelton opt for this particular combination of racket and strings? It all boils down to complementing his aggressive playing style and maximizing his strengths on the court. Ben Shelton's powerful game is perfectly suited to the Yonex EZONE 98 and his string setup. The Yonex EZONE 98 provides the control and stability he needs to handle his powerful shots, while the hybrid string setup offers a balance of power, spin, and comfort. This combination allows him to hit with aggressive angles and maintain control over his shots, even when swinging at full power. The EZONE 98's isometric head shape expands the sweet spot, making it more forgiving on off-center hits. This is crucial for Shelton, who often takes big swings at the ball and needs a racket that can provide consistent performance even when he doesn't make perfect contact. The Polytour Pro 125 in the mains provides the durability and spin potential he needs to generate heavy topspin and control the ball's trajectory. This allows him to hit with aggressive angles and keep his opponents on the defensive. The Rexispeed 130 in the crosses adds a touch of comfort and feel, reducing the impact on his arm and allowing him to maintain his aggressive playing style without risking injury. The combination of power, control, and comfort offered by this setup is essential for Shelton, who relies on his ability to hit with both pace and accuracy to dictate play and put pressure on his opponents. By using the right equipment, he can maximize his strengths and minimize his weaknesses, giving him a competitive edge on the court. The synergy between the racket and strings is also key. The EZONE 98's frame complements the characteristics of the strings, creating a harmonious combination that enhances Shelton's overall performance. The racket's stability and control allow him to take full advantage of the strings' spin potential, while the strings' comfort and feel enhance the racket's overall playability. For players looking to emulate Shelton's game, understanding the reasons behind his equipment choices can provide valuable insights into how to optimize their own setup. However, it's important to remember that what works for one player may not work for another. Experimenting with different rackets and strings is essential for finding the perfect combination for your own game.

Alternative Rackets to Consider

Okay, so maybe you're not quite ready to jump straight into Ben Shelton's exact setup. No worries! There are plenty of other great rackets out there that offer similar characteristics. If you're looking for something with a similar blend of power and control, here are a few alternatives to the Yonex EZONE 98 that you might want to consider. The Babolat Pure Drive is a classic choice for aggressive baseliners. It offers a generous sweet spot and plenty of power, making it easy to generate pace on your shots. However, it may not offer the same level of control as the EZONE 98. Another option is the Wilson Blade 98. This racket is known for its excellent feel and control, making it a favorite among players who like to hit with precision. It may not be as powerful as the Pure Drive or EZONE 98, but it offers exceptional feedback and allows you to place the ball exactly where you want it. The Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro is another solid choice. It offers a good balance of power, control, and feel, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles. It's also known for its comfortable feel, which can be beneficial for players who are prone to arm injuries. When choosing an alternative racket, it's important to consider your own playing style and preferences. Do you prefer power or control? Do you like a racket with a lot of feel or one that is more forgiving? Experimenting with different rackets can help you find the perfect fit for your game. Demoing rackets is always a good idea before making a purchase. This allows you to try out different models and see how they feel in your hand and how they perform on the court. Most tennis retailers offer demo programs, so take advantage of them to find the right racket for you. Remember, the racket is just one piece of the puzzle. Proper technique, footwork, and strategy are also essential for success on the court. Don't rely solely on the racket to improve your game. Focus on developing your skills and using the racket as a tool to enhance your performance.

Choosing the Right Strings for Your Game

Alright, let's chat about strings! Just like rackets, there's a massive variety of strings out there, and choosing the right ones can make a big difference in your game. If you're intrigued by Ben Shelton's hybrid setup but want to explore other options, here's what to keep in mind. First, consider your playing style. Do you hit with a lot of spin? Do you prefer power or control? Do you have any arm issues? These factors will help you narrow down your choices. If you're a spin-oriented player, you'll want to choose a string that offers good bite on the ball. Polyester strings are a popular choice for this, as they tend to be durable and provide excellent spin potential. However, they can also be quite stiff, so if you have arm issues, you might want to consider a softer alternative. Multifilament strings are a good option for players who prioritize comfort and feel. They tend to be softer and more flexible than polyester strings, which can reduce the impact on your arm. However, they may not offer the same level of spin potential or durability. Hybrid string setups, like the one used by Ben Shelton, can be a great way to combine the benefits of different types of strings. By using a polyester string in the mains and a multifilament string in the crosses, you can get a balance of power, spin, and comfort. String tension is another important factor to consider. Lower tension will generally provide more power and comfort, while higher tension will provide more control. Experimenting with different tensions can help you find the sweet spot for your game. Talking to a stringing expert can also be beneficial. They can help you assess your needs and recommend the best strings and tension for your playing style and racket. Don't be afraid to try different combinations until you find the perfect setup for your game. String technology is constantly evolving, so there are always new and innovative strings coming out on the market. Staying informed about the latest developments can help you make informed decisions and optimize your equipment.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A closer look at Ben Shelton's racket and string setup. While copying his exact gear might not magically transform you into a top player, understanding his choices can definitely give you some valuable insights into optimizing your own equipment. Remember, the key is to find what works best for your game. Experiment with different rackets, strings, and tensions until you find a combination that complements your playing style and helps you perform at your best. And most importantly, have fun out there on the court! Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, tennis is a fantastic sport that can bring you years of enjoyment. So grab your racket, string it up with your favorite strings, and get out there and play! Who knows, maybe one day you'll be the one inspiring others with your equipment choices!