I tried out StringLab’s AL13 Tour LB in the Head Speed MP. It has the same feel as classic control poly strings, but with a smoother, more playable feel overall. I wanted to try it out in the to see how it stacks up against some of the more well-known players in the category, like Grapplesnake Tour Sniper and Luxilon Alu Power, which are both set standard for control and spin in a firm poly segment.
AL13 Tour LB feels very similar to Alu Power but with better tension holding and stability. Hitting it is surprisingly addictive: once you find your rhythm, it makes you want to keep swinging. I wouldn’t say it’s the most spin-heavy string out there, but its controlled spin profile, comfortable baseline feel, make it a good choice for players who want control without giving up playability.
Tech & specs
- Gauge: 1.25mm (17) (also 1.15/1.20/1.30mm)
- Material: Co-polyester
- Colour: Silver
- Shape: Round
First Impressions – Familiar Control With a Softer Edge
The AL13 Tour LB in the Head Speed MP doesn’t give you massive spin or pop; it is a plush control focussed poly. It feels a lot like Grapplesnake Tour Sniper and Luxilon Alu Power, which I think of as “classic control polys.” But Tour LB is a little softer and less powerful than either of those.
The ball doesn’t jump off the stringbed with a lot of power when you first hit it. It allows you to hit with confidence and the launch angle stays low and consistent. It is honestly so much fun from the baseline and I still found I got enough spin with this string.
After about an hour’s break-in period, I really feel this string comes alive and softens up slightly but never felt like this led to any lack of control.
Break-In Period – Little to None
The string doesn’t need much time to come alive in my view but does feel less responsive in the first 30 mins to an hour. But there is no drastic break-in phase. I noted the following:
- Predictable launch angle from early on
- Baseline rallies feel consistent and controlled
- Spin is solid without being remarkable
It’s not the most dynamic string out there, but its consistency means you don’t waste energy adjusting to it mid-session. It really suits match play in my opinion.
Performance Breakdown – Pros and Cons
Here’s what stood out most in the Head Speed MP for me:
Pros
- Predictable control and trajectory
- Comfortable to play with over extended sessions
- Controlled spin that rewards good mechanics
- Reliable in match situations
Cons
- Less raw power than strings like Alu Power or Tour Sniper
- Spin isn’t as pronounced or sharp as more modern polys
- Tension holding is good, but not outstanding
- Not the most expressive or touch-sensitive at net
Comparable Strings — Where It Fits in the Market
Alu Tour LB is comparable to the following in my view:
- Grapplesnake Tour Sniper – Tour LB is comparable in control and direct feel, but Tour Sniper feels a little more aggressive and powerful
- Luxilon Alu Power – Classic benchmark control poly but AL13 Tour LB is slightly softer with less pop but has superior tension holding and stability
- Toroline Enso Pro – A softer, more forgiving poly; AL13 Tour LB feels firmer and a little more responsive, but both offer controlled playability.
In Summary
StringLab AL13 Tour LB is a playable, controlled polyester that rewards players who value feel and predictability over raw power. It plays somewhat like a less powerful Grapplesnake Tour Sniper or Luxilon Alu Power, with a slightly smoother overall feel that suits long hitting sessions and confidence from the baseline.
The tension holding is above average and the spin isn’t as strong as that of modern shaped polys, but AL13 Tour LB’s controlled spin, stability, and nice feel make it a string you can count on in matches in my view. It’s not the most explosive option out there, but it’s a great control poly that deserves more attention. AL13 Tour LB is a great string to try if you want a control-focused string that feels good and stays consistent over time.