String gauge is the diameter of a squash string, expressed in millimeters or AWG numbers. Typical ranges run from 1.10 mm (18 gauge) to 1.30 mm (16 gauge). A smaller number means a thinner string; each hundredth of a millimeter alters the way the string-bed deforms on impact, influencing every shot you hit.
The Performance of Thin Strings (17–18 Gauge / ≤ 1.20 mm)
- Power & Bite: With less material resisting stretch, thin strings deliver a livelier “trampoline effect,” launching the ball with extra pace and cut. The ball bites deeper into the pocket, giving skilled players more spin on dying rails and attacking boasts.
- Feel: The higher elongation transmits subtle vibrations to your hand, boosting touch on drops and flicks.
- Trade‑Off: Reduced cross‑section wears faster and notches sooner, so frequent restringing or bulk reels become part of the budget.
The Case for Thick Strings (16 Gauge / ≥ 1.25 mm)
- Durability: Extra fiber volume resists abrasion and shear, ideal for chronic string breakers or doubles specialists drilling off‑center.
- Control & Stability: A stiffer, denser bed prevents over‑trampoline on dead‑court drives, rewarding players who rely on precise length more than outright speed.
- Trade‑Off: Slightly muted feel and lower spin potential may leave finesse players searching for fine touch, especially with lower ball temperatures.
Hybrid & Textured Options
Manufacturers now blend gauges—thin mains for bite, thick crosses for life—or add textured wraps that rough up the surface without sacrificing diameter. Testing hybrids lets you tailor a “best of both worlds” response, provided you accept minor complexity when re‑stringing.
How to Choose Your Ideal Gauge
- Style Check: Power‑hungry or spin‑oriented athletes lean thin; grinder baseliners or junior programs prefer thick for longevity.
- Racket & Tension: Even‑balanced or teardrop frames often pair well with thinner strings to unlock power. Closed‑throat control frames can tolerate thicker diameters. Raise tension a notch when dropping gauge to avoid spray.
- Budget & Frequency: If you restring every two weeks already, moving to 17 gauge is painless; if you stretch sets for months, thicker strings save money and hassle.
Key Takeaways
String gauge is a micro‑tuneable lever: thinner equals livelier power and spin with shorter lifespan; thicker equals steadier control and durability at the expense of razor‑sharp feel. Match gauge to your swing speed, racket design and restring tolerance, and you’ll squeeze every last advantage from just a tenth of a millimeter.
