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BADMINTON SHUTTLECOCKS - SYNTHETIC OR FEATHER SHUTTLECOCKS? HOW TO CHOOSE?
2023-02-25
Badminton is associated by many with merely a recreational backyard game. However, it is a serious and very exciting sport that more and more people want to practice professionally. In this case, the right choice of equipment is crucial, especially badminton shuttlecock. Which shuttlecock is better - synthetic or feather? How to choose the right one? Let's explain!
BADMINTON - THE MOST IMPORTANT RULES
Badminton is played on a 13.4 x 6.1-meter field divided in half by a net. The gameplay consists of punching a shuttlecock above it using rackets. The shuttlecock is a key piece of badminton equipment. This is because its performance and weight significantly affect the trajectory, precision and predictability of plays. The choice of professional shuttlecocks available on the market is quite wide. They differ from each other, among other things, in:
• weight (from 4.74 g to 5.5 g),
• type of basket,
• speed.
The basic division, however, distinguishes between synthetic (nylon) and feather shuttlecocks. Keep reading to learn about their key features and how to choose the right shuttlecock for your game.
BADMINTON SHUTTLECOCKS - CONSTRUCTION AND KEY DIFFERENCES
The type and parameters of a badminton shuttlecock are of great importance for the course of the game. Both the feather and the nylon shuttlecock have their own advantages and unique characteristics that determine their use.
Feather shuttlecocks for badminton - characteristics
Feather shuttlecocks are also sometimes called traditional ones. They are made of natural materials - feathers and cork. Professional feather shuttlecocks are most often made from goose feathers, using 16 for each shuttlecock. They provide the greatest flight precision and enjoyment. It is with these types of shuttlecocks that all professional and most amateur tournaments are played.
What are the characteristics of a feather shuttlecock for badminton? The use of natural materials provides it above all:
• excellent flight properties,
• very good control,
• high predictability of flight.
It is worth remembering that feathered shuttlecocks are available in different speeds (especially 76, 77, 78). This makes it possible to adapt them to any playing conditions. However, some disadvantages cannot be overlooked.
• They tend to be rather short-lived, making them require fairly frequent replacement (although, of course, the higher the quality of manufacture, the longer the shuttlecock will last).
• They are quite expensive - much more expensive than synthetic shuttlecocks.
Synthetic shuttlecocks for badminton - characteristics
A badminton set can also include synthetic (nylon) shuttlecocks. They are much cheaper and more durable, but differ in properties from those of the feather ones. However, it is increasingly possible to find models that combine the advantages of equipment made of natural and synthetic materials.
As a general rule, nylon shuttlecocks have inferior flight characteristics, although this depends on workmanship. You can find products that are similar to feather shuttlecocks in this respect. They also have the disadvantage of poor flight predictability. Therefore, professionals choose them much less often. Instead, they are great for training at the beginner level. Plastic badminton shuttlecocks, like those made of feathers, are available in different speed versions. This allows them to be matched to conditions, ensuring optimal performance. This is because the speed of flight is related to ambient temperature and location above sea level. At high altitudes and higher, you need to choose the "slower" shuttlecocks, and at lower altitudes and temperatures the "faster" ones.
Hybrid shuttlecocks - are they worth it?
Some manufacturers also offer hybrid shuttlecocks. They have a synthetic basket, but there are real feathers attached to it. Is it worth it to choose such equipment? Not necessarily. Hybrid shuttlecocks are more durable, but the comfort of play cannot compare to that experienced when using feather ones. Therefore, according to many experts, it is unnecessary.
BADMINTON SHUTTLECOCK - HOW TO CHOOSE?
The criteria for choosing a badminton shuttlecock are quite simple. They are based primarily on the level and conditions of the game. This first factor primarily affects the type of recommended shuttlecock (feather or nylon).
• Advanced players should choose feather shuttlecocks. During the competition, the highest possible quality shuttlecocks are used, with carefully selected parameters. For training, you can choose the cheaper ones.
• Intermediate players should use feather shuttlecocks - especially during games. For training, it is best to use cheaper models or those worn out during a match.
• Beginners can choose plastic badminton shuttlecocks. However, it is worth choosing high-quality, carefully crafted ones. You can also buy the cheapest feather shuttlecocks to see the differences in the use of these two types of equipment. Nylon shuttlecocks are also great for recreational play.
Weather conditions, on the other hand, primarily affect the choice of shuttlecock speed. "Faster" shuttlecocks are heavier, and "slower" ones are lighter. In the Polish climate, it is usually recommended to use ailerons 78 in winter and 77 or 76 in summer.
In addition, it is worth taking into account the purpose of the game. A professional badminton set will not be necessary if you plan to play only recreationally. However, when training the accuracy of strokes or playing for points, it is advisable to use the highest quality feather shuttlecocks possible. If, on the other hand, the aim of the game is to have long exchanges or, for example, to burn more calories, it is worth choosing a shuttlecock that is slower than the standard one.
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