As a long time kite flyer I have some experience with different types of string on kites and on certain kites it really makes a difference on how they fly or feel to the flyer. I didn't much think of it as it relates to kendama until I had a chance to try some really "unstretchy" string. I found that I really tend to prefer string that doesn't stretch or does so very little because it feels more precise, none of the "rubber band" effect of the really stretchy stuff; I pull the kendama reacts. As for the other characteristics: I like round over flat but it's mostly psychological I think since I can see the twist more with flat string even if it doesn't bunch/kink; and a little stiffer string seems not to get in the way as much the really soft stuff kinks and bunches. So what kind of string stretch do you prefer and why? (the poll is set up to take multiple selections)
Lately I have really become fond of sweets premium silky goodness. It stays put and doesn't bunch up ever. My other strings are nylon speed string/KUSA type. I have noticed those mixed with the micro bearing there seems to be more slip through tama due to a lower coefficient of friction and heavier bead weight.
Pretty sure it's satin at that price point. Hmmm! Not sure. @CodyGriz @MattSweets @Max "Norx" Norcross @Cooper Eddy should have the answer for us. They feel great though.
I kinda like KUSA string mainly because it's round, stretches pretty well, and has a good variety of colors to choose from. The feel of a fresh white KUSA string reminds me of an Oozy string TBH.
Though I prefer round it takes second to low stretch so my current favs are sporting flat string. I haven't found a good round, low/no stretch string. Anyone got a suggestion there?
Ozora strings is probably my favourite and that's sort of flat wound I guess. Original I felt it tangled on itself too easily compared to round but with a bit of sweat and grime it's great. Kusa string is also really nice. Not sure but a little stretch is fine and usually happens when winding the string round the ken. Really dislike stiff(ish) string as that can start to mess with the rotation and movements of lighter set ups. Again imo!
I appreciate your offer but I'm overseas currently and wouldn't want to put you through the hassle or expense. I'll make a note to myself and pick some up when I'm Stateside next time. So they don't stretch much? The stuff I'm currently using is practically wire but the more you play the more pliable it becomes but it still won't stretch.
There's definitely a little stretch, however, I find them very responsive and predictable. I've played strings with zero stretch before but personally, I didn't like the feel or the way that they played.
I have Oozora strings on every setup except my slaydawg, which has the original on it. I used to have a sweets premium but I sweat alot and the the string tended to stick to my hand or tangle as a result. I also had some Yumu strings but they didn't stretch at all, which wasn't for me. idk if they were round but they might be worth trying if you haven't yet @goenKendama Also the yumu strings come with a slipknot tied in them already, which is kinda nice
i prefer the tk strings when im practicing any tricks. it doesn't get too kinky when i play even in advance tricks & combos. the black sting at the shop though is smooth. it doesn't burn my finger when i do a propeller.
Oozora strings, always! They have the right feel and bounce for me, unlike the dreadful Yumu/KenCo string. It's so stiff it kills the feel for me. Also, flat strings help me make sure that i don't tangle up when going for multi-turn tricks.
Yes, and no. I'm not sure I've seen Ozora string like that. It looks more like the last Shinfuji I had. I'll take a look at some Ozora string we have here and see if it looks like that. Thanks for the shots.
besides buying from kendama companies what else strings could I use. Trying to have a longer string on my kendama
You might try searching Amazon for 1-2mm braided cord/string. Last time I looked there they had quite a selection.
I agree with this, I've bought 1mm rattail satin cord, perfect. 2mm seems borderline too big of a string imo.