What exactly does Square X Sharp play like? / YTEX Square X Sharp Review

Summary

In this video, Brody reviews the YTEC SquareX Sharp tennis string, highlighting its unique four-sided design that boosts spin and power. Despite being a polyester string, it stands out for its softness and arm-friendly characteristics. Brody finds it ideal for players with a Top Spin game, offering great control and tension retention, although its 18-gauge may not be suitable for chronic string breakers. While it provides impressive spin and comfort, the string's power could lead to overhit shots at times. Overall, it’s recommended for spin-focused players, especially those seeking a more arm-friendly polyester option.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Ytech SquareX Sharp tennis string features sharp X-shaped edges, enhancing spin potential and making it ideal for players with a semi-western or western grip.
• 😀 The string's unique sharpness can lead to accidental cuts if not handled carefully, with one instance of a player cutting their finger while touching the string.
• 😀 Polyester construction gives the SquareX Sharp string high control and spin, typical of polyester strings, but with a softer feel compared to most polyesters, reducing strain on the arm.
• 😀 Despite being a polyester string, SquareX Sharp is one of the softest polyester strings available, and Ytech is known for producing some of the most arm-friendly polyester strings.
• 😀 The string comes in an 18-gauge (1.15mm) size, which provides better spin and feel but sacrifices durability, making it unsuitable for players who break strings often.
• 😀 Players should be cautious if they frequently break strings, as the thinner gauge will wear out faster, especially if you're used to 16 or 17-gauge strings.
• 😀 SquareX Sharp holds tension better than most spin-friendly polyester strings, but it's not the best in terms of tension maintenance, especially compared to stiffer control-focused options.
• 😀 While the string generates high spin and power, some players may experience issues with excessive power or loss of control on flatter shots due to the string's inherent characteristics.
• 😀 Brody recommends stringing at a lower tension (around 48 pounds) for better performance, as higher tensions may reduce the string's spin and comfort, especially with polyester.
• 😀 Overall, SquareX Sharp is a great option for players looking for more spin, comfort, and power without compromising too much on durability, provided you're not a frequent string breaker.
• 😀 Ytech SquareX Sharp is ideal for players who prioritize spin and comfort but should be avoided by those who need maximum durability or have a tendency to break strings frequently.

Q & A

What is unique about the Ytec SquareX Sharp tennis string?

The Ytec SquareX Sharp string has a distinctive X-shaped design with four pronounced sides, which are sharp enough that they can potentially cut your skin if you're not careful.

How does the Ytec SquareX Sharp string enhance spin on the ball?

The string's sharp edges grip the ball more effectively, allowing it to stay in the string bed longer and snap back faster, resulting in increased spin, especially for players using a semi-western or western grip.

Is Ytec SquareX Sharp a polyester string, and what are the benefits of this material?

Yes, Ytec SquareX Sharp is a polyester string, which is known for providing excellent control and durability. Polyester strings are also designed to offer more spin and power, making them a popular choice for players seeking control and precision.

How does the Ytec SquareX Sharp compare to other polyester strings in terms of comfort?

Unlike most polyester strings, which are often stiff and harsh on the arm, Ytec SquareX Sharp is one of the softer polyesters available, making it easier on the arm while still offering strong performance in spin and control.

What is the gauge of the Ytec SquareX Sharp string, and what does it mean for playability?

The Ytec SquareX Sharp comes in an 18 gauge (1.15mm), which is thinner than standard polyester strings. A thinner gauge generally offers more feel and spin, but it may lack durability and break more easily, especially for players who frequently break strings.

Can the Ytec SquareX Sharp string be used by players who break strings often?

The Ytec SquareX Sharp may not be the best choice for players who break strings frequently due to its thin 18 gauge. While it provides great spin and feel, its durability may be insufficient for chronic string breakers.

What is the recommended tension range for Ytec SquareX Sharp, and why?

The string performs best when strung at a lower tension, such as 48 lbs, as recommended by the Ytec team. Lower tension allows the string to show its spin-friendly and power-enhancing characteristics while avoiding stiffness that could lead to arm discomfort.

Does the Ytec SquareX Sharp string hold tension well over time?

Yes, Ytec SquareX Sharp holds tension relatively well compared to other polyester strings, although it may not maintain tension as effectively as some strings specifically designed for durability and tension retention.

What might a player experience when using Ytec SquareX Sharp for flat shots?

Players who attempt to hit flatter shots may find that the Ytec SquareX Sharp string generates too much power, causing the ball to sail long. It’s best suited for players who prefer spin-oriented shots.

Who would benefit most from using Ytec SquareX Sharp tennis string?

Players who prioritize **spin**, **power**, and **arm comfort** would benefit most from using Ytec SquareX Sharp. It's especially well-suited for players with a spin-heavy game who seek a softer polyester string, but not ideal for those who need maximum durability or frequently break strings.