Head RIP Control 17 Gauge 1.25 mm

🎾 HEAD RIP Control 17 Gauge 1.25mm Tennis String

A high-performance multifilament string offering exceptional control, comfort, and durability for club and tournament-level players

 

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📄 Product Overview

HEAD RIP Control 17G (1.25mm) is a premium multifilament string designed to deliver a perfect balance of control and comfort. Built with HEAD’s exclusive RIP (Ribbon Improved Performance) Technology, this string features a polyolefin ribbon wrapping around a multifilament polyamide core, mimicking the feel of natural gut while enhancing durability and precision.

Its textured surface improves spin and accuracy, while the soft multifilament construction absorbs shock and minimizes vibration—making it an ideal choice for club players, league participants, and those transitioning from polyester to a softer setup.

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✨ Key Features

1. Exclusive RIP Technology

Multiple layers of polyolefin ribbon wrap emulate natural gut feel

Combines elasticity and durability with a stable multifilament core

Allows players to vary pace and spin with confidence and control

2. Exceptional Control & Accuracy

Provides soft feel without sacrificing precision

Reliable placement from both baseline and net

Stable response even on aggressive strokes

3. Comfort & Shock Absorption

Nylon filaments effectively absorb shock

Reduces strain on the arm and shoulder during powerful shots

Muted feel with reduced vibration for enhanced comfort

4. Solid Spin Potential

Textured surface adds extra ball bite

Effective for topspin and slice play

Requires slightly more effort compared to polyester strings

📏 Recommended Tension Guide

By Racquet Type

Racquet Type	Tension Range	Optimal Tension
Power-Oriented	50–54 lbs	52 lbs
Control-Oriented	48–52 lbs	50 lbs
Balanced	49–53 lbs	51 lbs

 

By Playing Style

Playing Style	Tension Range	Notes
Aggressive Baseliner	51–55 lbs	Control-focused tension for accuracy
All-Court Player	49–53 lbs	Balanced tension for versatility
Serve-and-Volley	47–51 lbs	Lower tension enhances touch at the net

 

By String Pattern

String Pattern	Tension Range	Notes
Open Pattern (16x19)	49–54 lbs	Mid tension for power-spin balance
Dense Pattern (18x20)	47–52 lbs	Lower tension for better feel and response

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⚙️ Gauge Options

HEAD RIP Control is available in multiple thicknesses to suit different preferences:

1.30mm (16 gauge): More durability and control

1.25mm (16L gauge): Balance between feel and durability

1.20mm (17 gauge): Enhanced feel and spin generation

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🔄 HEAD String Series Comparison

Model	Key Characteristics	Recommended For
RIP Control	Comfort, control, durability	Multifilament lovers, players transitioning from poly
Lynx Tour	Precision control, spin, durability	Intermediate–advanced heavy hitters
Lynx	Balanced control, touch, power	All-round players seeking consistent performance
Hawk Touch	Comfort, control, power	Aggressive players needing arm protection
Sonic Pro	Durability, control, vibration dampening	Players focused on consistency and string life
Velocity MLT	Comfort, power, touch (multifilament)	Players preferring a softer, arm-friendly setup

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🎯 Recommended For

HEAD RIP Control 17G (1.25mm) is ideal for:

Club-level players seeking both comfort and control

Players moving away from stiff polyester strings

Those who want a transition step before switching to full poly setups

Versatile weekend league and practice players looking for controlled power

Players who want a natural gut-like feel with better durability and affordability

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📊 Polyester vs. Multifilament Comparison

Feature	RIP Control (Multifilament)	Typical Polyester
Comfort	Excellent	Limited
Durability	Good	Excellent
Control	Very Good	Excellent
Spin	Good	Excellent
Power	Medium	Low
Tension Retention	Good	Good
Shock Absorption	Excellent	Limited

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🏭 About the Manufacturer

HEAD was founded in 1950 in Baltimore, USA, by aerospace engineer Howard Head. Originally recognized for revolutionizing skiing with metal-wood composite skis, the company later expanded into multiple sports through continuous innovation.

In 1969, HEAD entered the tennis industry with the first aluminum tennis racquet, showcased at the US Open. The company gained global fame when Arthur Ashe used the "Arthur Ashe Competition" racquet to defeat Jimmy Connors at Wimbledon in 1975.

Today, HEAD is a global leader in tennis, skiing, snowboarding, and diving equipment. The brand is trusted by tennis legends including Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Maria Sharapova.

The RIP Control series exemplifies HEAD’s long-standing tradition of innovation, offering a well-balanced string solution for tournament and club players alike—especially those who value comfort, control, and lasting performance.