The team at Tenniszon knows that selecting the right badminton shuttlecock is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of the game. Just as a skilled player relies on the perfect racquet, choosing the right shuttlecock can significantly impact the flow, speed, and precision during a badminton match. From the material to the speed, several factors come into play when determining the ideal shuttlecock for your game. But worry not! Our team has compiled this easy buying guide to help you explore and navigate the process of choosing the right shuttlecock to elevate your badminton experience. Whether you're a casual badminton player or a seasoned badminton competitor, understanding how to choose the right shuttlecock is essential for enhancing your performance and enjoyment on the court.
The material
We start off this buying guide by looking at the material of the shuttlecock. Selectioning the type of shuttlecock, also commonly called birdie, is very important because depending on the composition, the performance and the playability can significantly vary. That is why badminton players of different levels also tend to gravitate towards different types of badminton shuttlecocks. In general, we can identity three types of bridies when it comes to composition:
- Plastic / Nylon
- Feather
- Hybrid
Plastic and Nylon shuttlecocks are usually made from synthetic materials. Because of this characteristic, they tend to be more affordable and therefore more accessible to beginner badminton players and those playing recreationally. It is also worth mentioning that on top of the accessibility, they are often more durable due to the fact that they don’t tear or get worn out easily as after repeated usage and impact with the racquet. Nylon and plastic shuttlecocks also sport a plastic skirt with a rubber or foam base, which allows for both stability and balance, making it easier to smash during a game. Tenniszon therefore recommends plastic or nylon badminton shuttlecocks for all those looking to get into badminton and those playing sporadically in clubs or in groups. For badminton clubs, you can check out the Yonex Mavis 350 (medium) or the Yonex Mavis 2000 (medium). For junior badminton players and beginners, take a look at the Yonex Mavis 350 slow.
Feather shuttlecocks are the original shuttlecocks historically and have always been used as the standard for the highest levels of badminton. They are notoriously faster off the impact and are usually reserved for advanced or aspiring players. Feather shuttlecocks tend to be more expensive and more fragile than nylon shuttlecocks, requiring to be changed at a quicker rate and thus less suitable for regular club or amateur play. For the highest quality of play, we suggest using the Yonex Aerosensa 50, often used in major tournaments. They need to be humidified for the feathers to be optimal, otherwise they will break rapidly. For players with feather shuttlecocks, we suggest using a Humidome, a device that fits on top of the tube and circulates a thin mist to humidify the shuttlecocks.
The Speed
A second factor that is important to look at when selecting a badminton shuttlecock is the shuttlecock speed. In badminton lingo, when we talk about speed, we usually refer to the distance that a badminton shuttlecock travels once it is hit. The faster the speed, the farther the distance it can go. This capability can be recognized on the tube when buying your shuttlecocks. You will usually see a number indicated, ranging from 73 all the way to 80. The logic is as follows : the bigger the number, the heavier the shuttlecock, and therefore, the faster the speed. That being said, however, a few things still need to be kept in mind when evaluating the speed of your badminton shuttlecock. First, many factors can in fact influence the speed of a given shuttlecock. Factors such as the altitude, humidity and even the temperature of your game environment are to be considered, regardless of the initial given speed. Second, despite the fact that speed is an important characteristic, it is important to also factor in the level of play, which we will talk about next. To help differentiate them, Yonex uses a color cap system for their nylon shuttlecock tubes : green (slow), blue (medium) and red (fast). Note that the medium speed is the most commonly used speed in North America.
The Level of Play
When considering the appropriate type of shuttlecock for a badminton player, it's crucial to factor in the skill level and playing style. Beginner and intermediate players who are still refining their techniques and footwork may find that shuttlecocks with moderate speed offer the best balance between control and playability. These shuttlecocks provide a forgiving margin for error while allowing players to focus on developing fundamental strokes and improving their consistency on the court. In contrast, advanced players with superior control and agility may benefit from using faster shuttlecocks, which demand quick reflexes and precise timing to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Opting for shuttlecocks that align with your skill level not only enhances your playing experience but also fosters continuous improvement and mastery of the game. Therefore, whether you're a novice seeking to build a strong foundation or a seasoned competitor aiming for precision and speed, selecting the right shuttlecock can significantly elevate your badminton performance. The team at Tenniszon recommends the Yonex Aerosensa 40 for badminton players with advanced skills and looking for top quality feather, as it is the official shuttlecock for the world's leading international tournaments. For recreational players or club players, we recommend the ever-popular Yonex Mavis 350, the most popular nylon shuttlecock as they offer an excellent blend of durability, true flight path and value.
Our badminton shuttlecocks buying guide is your new reference for tips and tricks when you will be. However, by any means is this guide exhaustive. Don’t hesitate to talk with one of our experts for more personalized advice and recommendations to suit your needs. You can also browse our vast array of badminton shuttlecocks with the best sports brands and the highest quality sport racquet equipment on the market!