Best Badminton Shuttlecocks: How to Choose the Right One
How to Choose the Best Badminton Shuttlecocks
Want to improve your badminton game but unsure which shuttlecocks to buy? With various materials, speeds, and durability levels, making the right choice can be overwhelming. This guide simplifies the decision process so you can choose the best shuttlecock for your needs.
Key Factors to Consider
When buying badminton shuttlecocks, consider:
- Shuttlecock Type – Feather, plastic, or hybrid
- Speed – Affected by temperature, altitude, and humidity
- Level of Play – Recreational, club, match, or tournament
- Durability & Price – Long-lasting value for money
Types of Badminton Shuttlecocks
Feather Shuttlecocks
- Used by intermediate to professional players.
- Made from duck or goose feathers (goose is preferred by elite players).
- Excellent flight quality and control.
- Less durable than plastic shuttles.
- Requires proper storage in a humid environment to prevent brittleness.
Plastic Shuttlecocks
- Best for beginners, recreational, and club players.
- Made from nylon for extended durability (lasts up to 100 games).
- Faster flight with less control compared to feather shuttles.
- More affordable and long-lasting.
Hybrid Shuttlecocks
- Combines feather and synthetic materials.
- Offers longer durability than full-feather shuttles.
- More affordable than high-end feather shuttles.
- Slightly inferior flight path compared to premium feather shuttlecocks.
Understanding Shuttlecock Speed
Shuttlecock speed is crucial for optimal performance. It is measured in categories from 75-79:
| Speed | Altitude | Temperature | UK & Europe Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75 (Slow) | High Altitude | Very Hot (30+ °C) | Rarely Used |
| 76 (Quite Slow) | Sea Level | Hot (25-30 °C) | Sometimes Used |
| 77 (Medium) | Sea Level | Average (15-25 °C) | Occasionally Used |
| 78 (Quite Fast) | Below Sea Level | Cold (0-15 °C) | Most Popular |
| 79 (Fast) | Below Sea Level | Freezing (<0 °C) | Rarely Used |
For UK and European players, Speed 78 (Yonex Speed 3) is the most commonly used option.
Choosing a Shuttlecock Based on Playing Level
Recreational Players:
- Best Options: Yonex Mavis 10, Yonex Mavis 300
Training Players:
- Best Options: Kawasaki King Kong 500, Victor Pro Court, Babolat 4
Club Players:
- Best Options: Yonex Mavis 600, Yonex AS20, Babolat 1
Match Play:
- Best Options: Yonex AS30, Ashaway International, Victor Gold Champion
Tournament Players:
- Best Options: Yonex AS40, Babolat 1+, Ashaway International
Professional Level:
- Best Options: Yonex AS50, Victor Master Ace
Durability & Value for Money
If you’re a club or coach using high quantities of shuttlecocks, durability is a key factor. Look for shuttles with high durability ratings and consider proper storage techniques:
Tips to Extend Shuttlecock Lifespan
- Store in a humid environment or use a Humidome.
- Keep shuttles above a water tray to maintain moisture.
- Always reseal shuttle tubes after use.
- Store in a cool place to prevent moisture loss.