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Shouldn't have believed the hype:

Ballistic® Trimmer Line by Shakespeare - scientifically engineered to be more durable and last longer than residential trimmer line. Impact modifiers are embedded within the nylon to keep your line from breaking away when trimming against obstacles.

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This Shakespeare the most expensive trimmer line I've ever bought and probably the worst for durability. It wears down every three feet, if it doesn't break off first.

What's your go-to these days?

jack vines

This is the trimmer I recommend to anyone that asks. I bought this 8 years ago and have had absolutely no problems, and I’ve abused it. I don’t know if this model is still available, but Echo is the only way I will go. https://www.echo-usa.com/trimmers-brushcutters/srm-266

Echo, Stihl, and Rotary 0.95

A little-known trick about nylon trimmer line is to wet it with water before use. It's true and it works. I usually wet my loaded trimmer head before each use.

A little-known trick about nylon trimmer line is to wet it with water before use. It's true and it works. I usually wet my loaded trimmer head before each use.

Auto Doc's said:

A little-known trick about nylon trimmer line is to wet it with water before use. It's true and it works. I usually wet my loaded trimmer head before each use.

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Interesting. What physics/material properties do we attribute this effect? The parts are all plastic and don't absorb any moisture.

jack vines

packardv8 said:

Interesting. What physics/material properties do we attribute this effect? The parts are all plastic and don't absorb any moisture.

jack vines

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Nylon cutter string tightens up the cell structure when wet. Also, the water provides short term lubrication and cooling, so the line does not get so hot that it starts melting to itself.

The rule that most people follow about mowing is don't cut wet grass with a rider or push mower. Why? Excess buildup under the deck. The rule does not apply to string trimmers. They actually cut better.

I guess I read this thread wrong, as I was assuming the OP was looking for trimmer brands, not line brands. Sorry about that. I use any off brand I can get at the local home improvement store, but I spray the line with a small amount of light lubricating oil after installing. The oil keeps the line from sticking to itself.

Rivets said:

I guess I read this thread wrong, as I was assuming the OP was looking for trimmer brands, not line brands. Sorry about that. I use any off brand I can get at the local home improvement store, but I spray the line with a small amount of light lubricating oil after installing. The oil keeps the line from sticking to itself.

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Gator line (has a thin metal wire that runs the it in the middle).

Vortex line (black in color and is great stuff).

Any line that has twists, corners, and is not totally round cuts better.