Babolat Xcel 17/1.25 String Reel Natural - 660'
Line: Xcel
$309.00
This newer version of the Babolat XCel Premium string offers everything that the older string had as well as more durability. With a new construction phase that uses polymid binds instead of polyurethane, Babolat was able to increase the durability and tension maintenance of the string. Plays very soft and natural gut-like, this is one of the better multi-filament strings available.
String specs
| Gauge | 17/1.25mm |
| Length | 660ft/200m |
| Composition | Multifilament |
| Color | Natural |
Where to buy
What players say
Babolat Xcel 17/1.25 is a soft multifilament that players and Tennis Warehouse testers rate highly for comfort and feel, with control that surprised two poly-playing testers. Spin and durability trail firm polyester, and a few owners report it needs a settling-in period or wears faster than expected.
Best for
- Arm pain or elbow sensitivity
- Players who want a gut-like feel
- Control-minded multifilament users
- Hybrid mains paired with poly
Pros
- Comfortable, soft, gut-like feel praised by nearly every reviewer
- Control is better than expected for a soft multifilament, even for poly players
- Good touch and ball pocketing
- Several owners report relief from elbow or arm pain
Cons
- Less spin than a firm polyester; one owner called it hard to drive the ball
- Durability is only moderate, with mixed reports on how long it lasts
- Some report a settling-in period of a couple hours before feel stabilizes
Voices
— Chris, Tennis Warehouse playtester, Web
This was a very, very comfortable string.
— Brittany, Tennis Warehouse playtester, Web
She was surprised by the control, especially on her big strokes.
— Steve Petegorsky, customer review (MA), Web
you can play long and hard with them in your racquet without the impact of a harsher string going into your elbow
— Anonymous customer review (HK), Web
This string doesn't have the crisp spinning feeling and the ball really is hard to drive.
— John Reopelle, customer review (ID), Web
The strings needed some time to settle in.
— Anonymous customer review (CA), Web
It gives me much more control over the ball than other strings I've tried.