Junior Player Guide
For ParentsRecommended Level
Tension for Juniors
48-52 lbs for juniors (vs 50-55 for adults). Start low and adjust.
Gauge Recommendation
16L (1.25mm) offers best balance of feel and durability for juniors.
Overview
Luxilon ALU Power is the gold standard of co-poly monofilaments with an iconic pro tour pedigree. In addition to being one of the most popular choices on the ATP Tour, this string helped usher in the polyester revolution in tennis. The firm monofilament construction enables players to take huge cuts at the ball without losing control, generating massive stroke speed that produces a dangerous combination of pace and spin. Despite countless attempts to duplicate or improve it, this string remains the gold standard on the professional tour.
Best For
- ✓ Advanced juniors with full swings
- ✓ Players who generate their own power
- ✓ Tournament-level competitors
- ✓ Players seeking control over raw power
Not Ideal For
- ✗ Beginners or early intermediates
- ✗ Players with arm issues or history of tennis elbow
- ✗ Juniors under 13 without proper technique
- ✗ Players who need help generating power
Pros
- + Excellent control and precision
- + Good spin potential for a round poly
- + Consistent feel across string bed
- + Proven performance at highest levels
- + Predictable response on all shots
Cons
- − Not arm-friendly - stiff and demanding
- − Loses tension relatively quickly
- − Premium price point ($21.50/set)
- − Requires proper technique to access benefits
- − Can feel boardy when tension drops
Specifications
Used By
Hybrid Setup Ideas
- Wilson NXT in crosses for added comfort
- Natural gut mains with ALU Power crosses
- Luxilon Element in crosses
Stringer Notes
Pre-stretch is recommended. String plays best between 48-55 lbs. Loses tension quickly in first 24 hours - some players string 2-3 lbs higher to compensate.
Break-in Period
1-2 hours of play. String feels crisp initially and settles into sweet spot.
When to Replace
When tension drops noticeably (typically 10-15 hours for heavy hitters) or when spin response decreases. Many pros restring every match.
Similar Strings
Sources
Data verified January 2025
- Specs: Luxilon Official
- Pricing: Tennis Warehouse
- Lab Data: Tennis Warehouse University
- Review: Tennis Warehouse Review
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