Badminton is a great way to get some exercise and have fun at the same time. It requires badminton racquets, shuttlecocks, and a net. The game is played with two or four people on a rectangular court divided in half by a net. The objective is to hit the shuttlecock over the net and into your opponent’s court.

Using the right badminton shuttlecock can level up your game, especially when training. If you’re new to the sport, you might be wondering what kind of shuttlecock you should buy. This guide will help you make the best decision for your needs.

When shopping for a badminton shuttlecock, there are a few things you need to consider to make sure the product is something that will work well for you. They include:

Types of Shuttlecocks

Badminton shuttlecock comes in different types, each with its own benefits. The kind of shuttlecock you choose should be based on your skill level, playing style, and the environment you’ll be playing in. Here are the different types of shuttlecocks:

Nylon Shuttlecocks

Nylon shuttlecocks are the most popular type of shuttlecock. They are made with 16 feathers that are attached to a cork base. The feathers are arranged in a symmetrical pattern around the cork. They are durable and have good flight stability. They are perfect for beginners because they are easy to control.

Plastic Shuttlecocks

Plastic shuttlecocks are made with a synthetic material called polypropylene. They are less expensive than nylon shuttlecocks and have a shorter lifespan. However, they are more resistant to heat and humidity. Plastic shuttlecocks are ideal for intermediate players who want to improve their game.

Feather Shuttlecocks

Feather shuttlecocks are made with 16 real feathers attached to a cork base. They are the most expensive shuttlecock, but they also offer the best performance. Feather shuttlecocks are very light and have good flight stability. They are perfect for advanced players who want to take their game to the next level.

Level or Type of Play

Another thing you need to consider when choosing a badminton shuttlecock is your level and type of play. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to purchase a cheaper recreational shuttlecock.

Training and club-level shuttles are for more advanced players who have developed their skills and techniques. Match and tournament-level shuttles are designed for competitive play and are usually made with higher quality materials. Senior tournament shuttlecocks are made specifically for older players.

Badminton Shuttlecock Speed

The speed of a badminton shuttlecock is indicated by its letter grade. The grades range from A (the slowest) to F (the fastest). The speed of the shuttlecock affects the game in different ways. For example, a faster shuttlecock will make it harder to control your shots. A slower shuttlecock is easier to control, but it doesn’t travel as far.

A shuttlecock’s speed also changes based on the temperature and humidity. A shuttlecock will be faster in warm weather and slower in cold weather. The speed of a shuttlecock also decreases as it gets older.

Price and Durability

The type of material determines the price of a badminton shuttlecock it’s made and the quality of craftsmanship. Nylon shuttlecocks are the most affordable, followed by plastic shuttlecocks. Feather shuttlecocks are the most expensive, but they also offer the best performance.

Plastic shuttlecocks are the most durable, followed by nylon shuttlecocks when it comes to durability. Feather shuttlecocks are the least durable, but they offer the best performance.

You should also consider how often you play when determining how much you want to spend on a badminton shuttlecock. If you only play occasionally, you might not need to invest in a high-quality, expensive shuttlecock. But if you play frequently, it’s worth it to invest in a better quality shuttlecock that will last longer.

Brand

There are many different brands of badminton shuttlecocks on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Yonex, Wilson, and Asics. Choosing a brand is a personal preference. It’s important to read reviews to see what other people think about a particular brand before purchasing.

Environment

The environment you’ll be playing in also affects your choice of a shuttlecock. If you’re playing indoors, you’ll need a different type of shuttlecock than playing outdoors. Indoor shuttles are made with plastic or nylon and have a speed grade of B, or C. Outdoor shuttles are made with feathers and have a speed grade of D or E.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right badminton shuttlecock is important to improve your game. You want to make sure you select a shuttlecock appropriate for your level of play and the environment you’ll be playing in. You also need to consider the speed and durability of the shuttlecock. And don’t forget to consider your budget when making your purchase.