Nylon guitar strings, also called classical guitar strings, are softer, lower tension sets that pair clear nylon trebles with wound basses for classical, flamenco and folk playing.
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- In Stock (13)
- 28-43 Gauge Nylon Strings (8)
- Alice (5)
- Aria (1)
- Augustine (1)
- D'Addario (2)
- Ernie Ball (3)
- Martin (2)
About Nylon & Classical Guitar Strings
Nylon guitar strings, also known as classical guitar strings, are made for classical, flamenco and some folk guitars. Compared with steel strings they produce a warmer, mellower tone with a softer, lower-tension feel under the fingers, which makes them ideal for fingerstyle playing and traditional repertoire. Most sets pair clear nylon trebles with silver-plated wound basses, while carbon trebles offer a brighter tone and better tuning stability, and black nylon gives a warmer sound often favoured in flamenco and folk.
Tension matters more than gauge when choosing a set. Normal tension sets, typically listed as 28-43 gauge, balance tone, projection and playability, while low tension feels softer and high tension adds volume and clarity. Traditional tie-end sets suit classical guitars, and ball-end sets are an easy option for crossover and folk-style guitars with bridge pins. SWAMP stocks trusted brands including D'Addario, Martin, Ernie Ball and Alice. Playing a steel-string acoustic instead? Browse our steel guitar strings or the full guitar strings range.
Nylon Guitar String FAQs
Are nylon and classical guitar strings the same thing?
Yes. Classical guitar strings are nylon strings, and the two terms are used interchangeably. Both refer to sets with nylon or carbon trebles and wound basses, designed for classical, flamenco and folk guitars.
What tension nylon guitar strings should I choose?
Normal tension, commonly listed as 28-43 gauge, is the most popular choice and balances tone, projection and playability. Low tension feels softer and easier on the fingers, while high tension gives more volume and clarity but feels firmer.
Can I put nylon strings on a steel-string acoustic guitar?
Ball-end nylon sets can be fitted to some folk-style guitars with bridge pins, while standard tie-end sets need a classical-style bridge. Never fit steel strings to a classical guitar, as the extra tension can damage the neck and bridge.
