HEAD RIP Control 200M Tennis Strings Reel , Natural

The HEAD RIP Control 200M Tennis String Reel (Natural) is the classic, original colorway of HEAD's iconic control multifilament. It is widely celebrated for providing polyester-like precision and textured ball grip while maintaining an arm-friendly, impact-dampening feel.

"RIP" stands for Ribbon Improved Performance. Unlike smooth, traditional multifilaments, HEAD RIP Control is engineered with a composite core of flexible polyamide (nylon) microfilaments wrapped in textured polyolefin ribbons.

The Natural colorway offers a slightly softer, more elastic feel at contact compared to the Black variant. The ribbed texture increases friction against the ball cover, giving players extra bite for topspin and slice, while its low-powered nature allows aggressive players to swing out without fear of overhitting.

Performance Profile

1. Control & Precision: 9.5 / 10: Phenomenal directional control. Extremely deadened and low-powered compared to typical multifilaments, preventing the ball from flying long.
2. Comfort & Arm Protection: 9 / 10: Highly effective at dampening frame shock. The polyolefin ribbons absorb harsh impact vibrations, making it very gentle on elbows and wrists.
3. Spin Potential: 8 / 10: Top-tier spin generation for a non-polyester string, thanks to the textured ribbon wrapping that bites into the ball on slice and heavy topspin shots.
4. Power: 5 / 10: Low inherent power. Players need to generate their own pace, making it ideal for fast swingers.
5. Durability: 7 / 10: Resists deep notching longer than standard smooth multifilaments, though heavy string-breakers will eventually wear through the ribbon layer.

Best Suited For

1. Injured or Arm-Sensitive Poly Users: The ultimate transition string for players who love the low power and bite of polyester but need relief from joint pain.
2. Aggressive Swingers: Players with fast stroke mechanics looking for maximum control, spin, and a predictable launch angle.
3. Overly Powerful or Stiff Racquets: Excellent for stringing frames with high native power or stiffness (e.g., Babolat Pure Drive, HEAD Boom) to bring control back to the string bed.
4. Hybrid Setups: Functions well as a control-oriented cross string when paired with a soft main string, or as a soft main string paired with poly crosses.

Specifications

• Color: Natural.
• Material / Technology: Polyamide (Nylon) core + Polyolefin Ribbon Technology.
• Reel Length: 200 Meters / 660 Feet (approx. 16–18 full restrings).
• Gauges Available: 16 / 1.30mm (Maximum control & durability).
• Gauges Available: 17 / 1.25mm (Enhanced bite & touch).
• Surface Profile: Textured / Ribbed.
• Playability Category: Low-Power / Control Multifilament.