Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Natural gut tennis strings are a strong option if you value a lively response, comfortable feel, and steady tension retention. The five picks below include classic all-natural gut sets and options with features aimed at hybrid setups. Check the gauge and listing details before ordering, especially if you are replacing one specific string or matching a current setup.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Gauge | Standout feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Natural Gut 17 | 17 | Control, feel, and tension maintenance | Players seeking a responsive, thinner-gauge set |
| Luxilon Natural Gut 130 | 130 | Low-friction coating for hybrid setups | Players combining gut with another string |
| Babolat Touch VS Natural Gut, 16g | 16g | Elastic feel and power | Players who want comfort and a lively response |
| Babolat VS Touch, 16 / 1.30 mm | 16 / 1.30 mm | Specified tension range | Players matching a 1.30 mm setup |
| Volkl V-ICON Natural Gut, 17g | 17g | Comfort and vibration absorption | Players who prioritize a softer feel |
Our Picks: Best Natural Gut Tennis Strings reviews
Wilson Natural Gut 17: A Feel-Focused, Thin-Gauge Option
Wilson Natural Gut 17 is a natural gut set designed around control and feel. The product description highlights its natural serosa fibers, an outer protective coating, and improved durability compared with earlier versions. The coating is also intended to make installation easier.
The 17 gauge is a thinner option than the 16-gauge sets in this list. That may appeal if you prefer a more responsive string bed, though a thinner string is not automatically the right choice for every player or racquet. Think about how often you break strings and whether you are comfortable handling a more delicate string during installation.
Its tension maintenance is a useful feature if you want the string bed to retain a consistent response over time. One important practical note: this product is marked unavailable in the supplied product data. Check the listing before making plans around it, and consider the other available options if you need a set now.
Pros:
- Natural gut construction with a protective outer coating
- 17-gauge option for players seeking a thinner string
- Designed for control, feel, and tension maintenance
- Coating is intended to support easier installation
Cons:
- Marked unavailable in the supplied product data
- A thinner gauge may not suit players who prioritize string life
Verdict: Choose Wilson if its listing is available and you want a 17-gauge natural gut set built around feel and tension retention.
Luxilon Natural Gut 130: A Strong Fit for Hybrid Setups
Luxilon Natural Gut 130 is a natural gut set with a construction described as nine serosa ribbons. Its low-friction coating is designed for hybrid use, where natural gut is paired with a different string. The coating can be a practical consideration when you are building a mixed string bed rather than using gut in both directions.
The product description also points to extra ribbons for tension maintenance and collagen from grass-fed cows as part of its construction. Those details make this a considered option if you want natural gut’s feel and tension retention in a setup that includes another string. It is listed as available in the supplied product data.
The 130 designation is useful when comparing it with the 1.30 mm Babolat option, but verify the product listing and your racquet setup before ordering. As with other natural gut, installation and care matter: handle the string carefully and follow your stringer’s guidance, especially if pairing it with a different string material.
Pros:
- Low-friction coating designed for hybrid string beds
- Construction includes nine serosa ribbons
- Extra ribbons are intended to support tension maintenance
- Available according to the supplied product data
Cons:
- Less directly targeted to players who simply want a basic full-gut set
- Check gauge details carefully if matching an existing setup
Verdict: Luxilon is the most purposeful choice here for players who want natural gut in a hybrid setup and value its low-friction coating.
Babolat Touch VS 16g: Lively Feel with Strong Tension Hold
Babolat Touch VS is a 100% natural gut set offered in 16 gauge. Babolat describes its twisted natural fibers as elastic, with a lively response and the ability to hold tension over time. The set is listed as 12 meters, or 39 feet, and has a natural color.
That combination may suit players looking for a comfortable string bed that helps produce depth without requiring as much effort from each swing. Its elasticity can also contribute to a connected feel at impact. If you are switching from a stiffer string, remember that a different string bed can change your racquet’s response; choose tension with your usual setup and playing style in mind.
Babolat says Touch VS can be used in a hybrid setup as well as a full natural gut bed. Compared with Luxilon, this product’s description emphasizes elasticity, power, and feel rather than a low-friction coating specifically optimized for hybrids. It is listed as available in the supplied product data.
Pros:
- 100% natural gut construction
- Designed for elastic feel and a lively response
- Product details emphasize tension retention
- Can be used in a full gut or hybrid setup
Cons:
- Not the best match if you specifically need a 17-gauge string
- Natural gut needs careful handling and stringing
Verdict: Babolat Touch VS is a well-rounded pick if you want 16-gauge natural gut with an emphasis on feel, comfort, and a lively response.
Babolat VS Touch 16 / 1.30 mm: A Clearly Specified Gauge
This Babolat VS Touch set is identified as natural gut in 16 gauge, with a stated thickness of 1.30 mm. The supplied product details also give a recommended tension range of 24 to 32 kg, or 53 to 70 pounds. That range can help when planning a setup, but your racquet manufacturer’s recommendations and your own preferences should guide the final tension.
Its clearest advantage over the other Babolat entry is how directly the gauge and tension range are specified. That makes it easier to compare against a current string setup if you already know you want 1.30 mm natural gut. The product information provided is more limited on construction and playing characteristics, so it is best to judge this option primarily by its stated size and compatibility with your needs.
It is listed as available in the supplied product data. Before ordering, confirm that the listing matches the set length and packaging you expect, particularly if you are replacing a specific string or buying for a stringer.
Pros:
- Clearly identified as 16 gauge and 1.30 mm
- Includes a stated recommended tension range
- Natural gut in a natural color
- Available according to the supplied product data
Cons:
- Product details provide less information about playing feel than the Touch VS 16g listing
- May not suit players who want a thinner 17-gauge string
Verdict: Pick this version if you want Babolat natural gut with a clearly stated 1.30 mm gauge and tension range.
Volkl V-ICON Natural Gut 17g: Comfort and Softer Feedback
Volkl V-ICON is a 17-gauge natural gut set, with the listed version in yellow. Its product description focuses on elasticity, responsiveness, shock absorption, and a softer feel. It also highlights tension maintenance and touch, making it an option for players who want natural gut’s feel in a thinner gauge.
The emphasis on absorbing impact vibrations may be appealing if comfort is high on your list. Its 17-gauge size is worth weighing against your string-breaking habits and the amount of durability you need. The product description calls its durability above average, but it does not provide a comparison method or a specific lifespan, so treat that as a general product claim rather than a guarantee.
This listing is marked unavailable in the supplied product data. If you are interested in the comfort-focused design, check whether the set can be sourced; otherwise, the available Babolat sets offer natural gut alternatives. Volkl also notes Crystal and Yellow color options, so confirm the color on the specific listing.
Pros:
- 17-gauge natural gut construction
- Designed for comfort and impact absorption
- Product description emphasizes tension maintenance and touch
- Color options are listed as Crystal and Yellow
Cons:
- Marked unavailable in the supplied product data
- Thinner-gauge string may not suit every player’s durability needs
Verdict: Consider Volkl if comfort and a 17-gauge feel are your priorities, but confirm availability and color before choosing it.
How to Choose Natural Gut Tennis Strings
Choose a Gauge That Fits Your Priorities
Gauge describes string thickness. The options here include 17-gauge sets and 16-gauge or 1.30 mm sets. A thinner gauge can offer a more responsive feel, while a thicker option may be a better match if you are concerned about string wear. Your racquet, swing, and string-breaking habits matter, so use gauge as a starting point rather than a promise of performance.
Decide Between a Full Gut Bed and a Hybrid
A full gut setup uses natural gut throughout the string bed. A hybrid pairs gut with another type of string. Luxilon’s low-friction coating is specifically described as optimized for hybrid use, while Babolat says Touch VS can also be used in a hybrid. If you are unsure about string combinations or tension differences, ask a qualified stringer to help match the setup to your racquet and preferences.
Consider Feel, Power, and Comfort
Natural gut is often chosen for its elastic response and feel. In this group, Babolat Touch VS emphasizes elasticity and power, while Volkl highlights comfort and impact absorption. Wilson focuses on control and feel. These are useful points of comparison, but your preferred response depends on your technique and what you want the racquet to do.
Look at Tension Retention and Setup Details
Several of these products emphasize tension maintenance. That can matter if you want the string bed to keep a more consistent response as you play. The Babolat VS Touch 16 / 1.30 mm listing provides a recommended range of 53 to 70 pounds. Follow your racquet’s guidance, and avoid treating a product’s stated range as a one-size-fits-all tension recommendation.
Handle Natural Gut with Care
Natural gut needs more careful handling than many synthetic strings. Moisture and rough installation can be concerns, so protect the set before stringing and follow the stringer’s instructions. If you play in wet conditions or want a low-maintenance setup, ask whether natural gut fits your routine before buying.
Confirm the Exact Listing and Availability
Check the gauge, color, set length, and product details before ordering. Two products from the same brand can have different specifications, and availability may change. The Wilson and Volkl listings in this selection are marked unavailable in the supplied product data, so confirm that they can be purchased before choosing one of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of natural gut tennis strings?
Natural gut is valued for its elastic response, feel, and ability to hold tension. The products in this list also describe benefits such as comfort, power, control, and tension maintenance, though the emphasis varies by model.
Is 16 gauge or 17 gauge better?
Neither is best for everyone. The 16-gauge and 1.30 mm options may suit players who want a thicker string, while 17 gauge is the thinner choice in this group. Consider your feel preferences, string durability needs, and current racquet setup.
Can I use natural gut in a hybrid setup?
Yes. Luxilon’s set has a low-friction coating described as optimized for hybrid setups, and Babolat says Touch VS can be mixed with another string. A stringer can help you choose a combination and tension that suit your racquet.
Which pick is best for comfort?
Volkl V-ICON specifically highlights shock absorption and a softer feel. Babolat Touch VS also emphasizes elasticity and comfort. Compare their gauges and check availability before deciding.
Which option has the clearest tension guidance?
Babolat VS Touch 16 / 1.30 mm lists a recommended range of 53 to 70 pounds. Your racquet’s guidance and playing preferences should still shape the final tension.
Are the Wilson and Volkl sets available?
Both are marked unavailable in the supplied product data. Availability can change, so check the product listings before making a purchase decision.
How should I care for natural gut strings?
Handle them carefully during installation and protect them from moisture where possible. Ask your stringer for care advice based on your playing conditions and the setup you choose.
Final Recommendation
For a versatile natural gut option with an emphasis on lively feel and tension retention, Babolat Touch VS 16g is the strongest all-around starting point in this selection. Choose Luxilon Natural Gut 130 if you are planning a hybrid setup, or Babolat VS Touch 16 / 1.30 mm if you want clearly stated gauge and tension details. Wilson and Volkl may suit players seeking 17-gauge options, but their listings are marked unavailable in the supplied product data, so confirm availability first.