Gauge 17 (thinner) delivers better control, higher spin, and suits players who favor technical play or beginners building fundamentals. Gauge 16 (thicker) is more durable, generates more power, and works best for aggressive or intermediate players who hit regularly. Your choice depends on playing style, how often you play, and how often you can restring.
What Is Gauge and Why It Matters for Padel
Gauge is the thickness of string, measured in millimeters. In padel, the most common gauges are 16 and 17. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the string—Gauge 17 is thinner than Gauge 16.
String thickness affects three aspects of your game: ball control, string durability, and power. Choosing the right gauge is a technical decision many beginners overlook, yet it has a real impact on racket performance.
Most padel players in Indonesia start with Gauge 17 without knowing alternatives exist. Understanding the trade-offs between the two gauges will help you play more consistently and manage your string budget wisely.
Gauge 17: Best Control, Spin, and Feel for Technical Players
Gauge 17 is thinner, meaning there is more open space in your racket's string pattern. This lets the ball sink deeper into the string bed, giving you sharper control and higher spin.
For intermediate and beginner padel players, this means you can place the ball into corners more reliably and generate stronger effects (topspin or slice). The softer string also gives better feel—you can read the ball's reaction more accurately.
The trade-off: Gauge 17 breaks more easily, especially at the frame edges where pressure is highest. If you play 3–4 times a week, you may need to restring every 4–8 weeks depending on intensity.
Polyester strings like Dyreex (PowerMax, Black Mist, Cloud9, Whisper, Alu Tour) available at Agena Sports are all offered in Gauge 17, ideal for players who prioritize control and feedback.
Gauge 16: Power, Durability, and Long-Term Budget Efficiency
Gauge 16 is thicker and stiffer. A stiffer string transfers more power to the ball directly—your energy is not absorbed by a flexible string.
This is ideal for aggressive or intermediate-to-advanced players who already have consistent technique and don't rely on string to help with control. If you hit with quick tempo and like taking the offensive, Gauge 16's extra power can make your game more attacking and effective.
The second advantage: durability. Gauge 16 lasts longer—you can play 8–12 weeks or more before restringing, especially at 2–3 times per week. Over time, this saves money on string replacement.
The downside: slightly less control because the string is stiffer, spin is not as high as Gauge 17, and feel is less responsive for delicate shots like drops or volleys that need precision.
Gauge Selection by Player Level
Beginner (< 1–2 months in): Start with Gauge 17. Better control and spin help you learn consistency faster. Don't worry about durability yet—focus on technique and building feel for the racket.
Intermediate (2–6 months, 2–3 times per week): Gauge 17 is still good if you play technical, hit lots of drops, or want maximum spin. If you're hitting more aggressively and your power strokes are consistent, try Gauge 16 to see if the extra power suits your style.
Advanced (regular player, 3+ times per week): Personal choice. Many advanced padel players in Indonesia pick Gauge 16 for durability and power, but some stay with Gauge 17 for the control and spin they need in competition. Try both on court before deciding.
For budget-conscious players: Gauge 16 is more economical long-term because it lasts 2–3 times longer than Gauge 17.
Other Factors: Tension and String Material
Gauge is only part of the equation. Tension (tightness when restringing, measured in pounds or kg) and string material also matter.
Higher tension (57–62 lb) gives more control; lower tension (48–54 lb) gives more power. Combining Gauge 17 + low tension gives maximum control with extra power. Combining Gauge 16 + high tension gives maximum durability with controlled feel.
Material: polyester string (like most Dyreex at Agena) is durable and spin-friendly, good for players who want control and durability balanced. Natural gut or hybrid (gut + poly) offers the best comfort and feel, but costs more and breaks sooner.
Recommendation for padel players: start with Gauge 17 at medium tension (53–55 lb) with polyester string. After 2–3 months, you'll know if you want more power (drop to Gauge 16) or stay with control (keep Gauge 17 but lower tension).
Where to Restring and Typical Cost
Restringing service is available at Agena Sports locations in Jakarta. You can visit to discuss gauge and tension options suited to your racket and playing style.
Jakarta branches with restringing service:
- Agena Sports — Setiabudi One (South Jakarta)
- Agena Sports — GAFOY, Kelapa Gading (North Jakarta)
- Agena Sports — MMT Puri (West Jakarta)
- Agena Sports — Dome, Permata Hijau (South Jakarta)
For Bali players: Agena Sports — Canggu.
Restringing cost in Indonesia typically ranges Rp 150,000–300,000 depending on racket complexity and service level. Buying string from Agena and restringing there often comes with bundled discounts.
Frequently asked questions
Who should use Gauge 17?
Gauge 17 suits beginners and technical players who prioritize control, spin, and feedback. Ideal for players who like drop shots, volleys, and placement strategy. The thinner string breaks more easily, so plan to restring more frequently.
Who should use Gauge 16?
Gauge 16 is best for aggressive, intermediate-to-advanced players or anyone who plays regularly and wants durable string. It delivers more power, lasts longer, and is efficient long-term. Good for players who already have solid technique and don't rely on string for control.
Can I switch from Gauge 17 to Gauge 16 on the same racket?
Yes. No technical problem—the frame supports both gauges. When you restring, tell your technician which gauge you want. Use the same or slightly higher tension to maintain control when moving to the thicker Gauge 16.
How long does padel string last?
Gauge 17 usually lasts 4–8 weeks with 2–3 plays per week. Gauge 16 can last 8–12 weeks. Playing casual (once a week), both can last 2–3 months. If the string shows breaks or feels soft (less tension), it's time to restring.
Does string brand matter more than gauge?
Both matter. Gauge (thickness) affects power vs. control. Brand and material affect durability, spin, and feel. Polyester strings like Dyreex (sold at Agena) balance durability and control well. If you're new, start with reliable brand (Dyreex) at Gauge 17, then experiment with gauge or brand later once you know your preferences.
Where to get yours
Browse the full range at shop.agenasports.com.
Prefer to try before you buy? Visit us in store:
- Agena Sports — Setiabudi One — Setiabudi, Jakarta Selatan
- Agena Sports — GAFOY, Kelapa Gading — Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara
- Agena Sports — MMT Puri — Puri Kembangan, Jakarta Barat
- Agena Sports — Dome, Permata Hijau — Permata Hijau, Jakarta Selatan
- Agena Sports — Canggu — Canggu, Bali
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