This review delves into the performance of a hybrid string setup: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour (17 gauge) in the mains and Solinco Hyper-G Soft (16L gauge) in the crosses. Both are co-polyester strings, known for their durability and control, but offering contrasting playing characteristics. The Hurricane Tour provides a firm feel and excellent control, while the Hyper-G Soft adds a layer of comfort and enhanced playability. Strung at 51 pounds, this combination aims to balance power and control, a common goal for many players. The review covers both outdoor and indoor testing, analyzing the strings' performance across various shots, including serves, volleys, and groundstrokes.The testing process assessed power, control, and comfort throughout an extended play period. The review examines how the strings' behavior evolved after the initial break-in, offering insight into their long-term performance and durability. Key findings highlight the surprising power of the combination, the gradual improvement in control over time, and the overall suitability for players seeking a balance between these often conflicting string characteristics. The review concludes with suggestions for optimizing string tension for enhanced control and an overall assessment of the hybrid setup's suitability for different playing styles.
Pros And Cons
- More comfort than standard Hyper G
- Good power levels when broken in
- Control improved indoors
- Some shots still on edge even after break-in
- Good control
- Good power
- Good access to spins
- Lost some control with extra power on some shots
- Serves and volleys were hard to control sometimes
Read more: Best 5 Spin Tennis Strings for Powerful Serves
String Selection and Tension
This hybrid setup utilizes Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 17 gauge in the mains and Solinco Hyper-G Soft 16L gauge in the crosses. The Pro Hurricane Tour is a co-polyester string known for its firm feel, low power, and excellent control. It's now also called RPM Hurricane. The Hyper-G Soft, also a co-polyester, provides increased comfort compared to the standard Hyper-G.
Both strings were strung at 51 pounds. This combination aims to balance the control of the Pro Hurricane Tour with the comfort and playability of the Hyper-G Soft. The slight gauge difference between mains and crosses (17g vs 16L) is a common practice for hybrid setups to enhance the sweet spot and overall feel.
Outdoor Testing: Initial Impressions
Outdoor testing on a cool fall day, lasting approximately two hours, revealed a surprisingly powerful feel. Control was generally good, although some shots showed a slight loss of control due to the extra power. Serves and volleys were quite hard-hitting, but accuracy demanded more focus and precision.
This initial impression highlights the potential for increased power from the combination of strings, although finesse and control may require adjustment in technique or string tension. The balance between power and control needs further evaluation during indoor testing.
Indoor Testing: Refined Performance
Eight hours of indoor testing provided more insight into the string's behavior after the break-in period. Power levels remained consistent and strong. Control improved noticeably compared to the initial outdoor session. While some shots still pushed the boundaries of control, the overall feel became more refined.
The indoor session allowed for a clearer assessment of the string's long-term performance. It showed that the string's responsiveness improves over time, suggesting a good level of durability. The initial concerns about control were somewhat mitigated as the strings broke in, indicating that this hybrid combination may be optimal for players who value both power and control.
Performance by Shot Type
Volleys demonstrated good touch and feel, although a bit more power than anticipated required a slight adjustment in technique for optimal control. Serves provided exceptional power while maintaining control, particularly on kick serves and spin serves which gripped the ball well. The initial burst of power subsided after the break-in period, leading to more comfortable and consistent serves.
The strings exhibited a balance of power and control across various shots. The initial power might need getting used to, especially for players accustomed to less powerful setups. However, this power translates to consistent and powerful serves, and with a little adjustment, volleys also become manageable.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendation
This hybrid setup of Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour and Solinco Hyper-G Soft proves to be a solid choice, offering a satisfying blend of power and control. The initial burst of power may require a short adjustment period, especially for volleys. However, the control improves significantly after the break-in, enhancing overall playability.
A slightly higher tension of 53 pounds in the crosses is suggested for improved control. Despite the full poly setup, this combination provided good comfort and didn't cause arm issues. The combination delivers excellent serve power and spin, making it a suitable option for players seeking a balanced performance.
