Being a badminton player can be challenging. It is not only about playing but also about enhancing your performance; it is about undertaking super challenges and strategies to help improve your performance to the best of your ability. Similarly, one of the essential aspects of being a good player is selecting the correct type of equipment that suits your potential and enhances your performance. If not the shuttle, at least you have to be particular about the cork, which is the main ingredient in the game. Hence, there are several types of shuttlecocks available in the market. Selecting the right one for you is necessary.

Let's discover more here in this blog.

What is a Shuttlecock?

A shuttlecock is a small bird-like object which is the main ingredient of the shuttlecock game. It is a small, light object with a round base made of rubber in the end, supported by natural or artificial feathers (depending on the type of shuttlecock) on the top. It is used to hit over the net in the game of badminton. These shuttlecocks are designed so rackets can easily hit them during the match. However, they come in a variety of qualities and the different materials in which they are made up.

What are the different types of shuttlecock for badminton?

There are three main types of shuttlecocks used commonly in badminton. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. They are feather shuttlecocks, plastic shuttlecocks, and training shuttlecocks.

Feather Shuttlecocks

Feather Shuttlecocks are one of the most commonly used shuttlecocks by the pro and the experienced players. These shuttlecocks are embedded with the feathers of the goose and the ducks, supported with a rubber material at the bottom. These shuttlecocks have categories depending on the speed implied or what they contain. The quality of feathers also determines the performance of the players.

These are only useful for the intermediate and the experienced users rather than the beginners. They are easier to control with their lightweight structure than the other types of shuttlecocks. For longer sustainability, storing them in a humid temperature is suggested so the feathers don't dry away and are brittle.

Advantages

  • The feathered shuttlecocks provide you with the benefit of superior flight performance. These offer better performance and also accuracy during the rallies.

  • They have a softer impact and give you a softer touch when compared to the plastic shuttlecocks.

  • They are best for professional and superior players. They have an optimum standard without interrupting the rules.

Disadvantages

  • They are less durable. If exposed to dry conditions, these can dry out and become brittle.

  • These shuttlecocks are sensitive to changes in temperature and might affect flight performance, making them unpredictable during matches.

  • These shuttlecocks are the costliest of all types of shuttlecocks.

Plastic Shuttlecocks

Another common type of shuttlecock used by the players is the plastic shuttlecock. Plastic shuttlecocks are used and considered best for beginners. It is more durable than the feather shuttlecocks. These are also resistant to weather conditions and provide more extended durability and flexibility to store in any weather without worrying about durability.

They come in various speeds and are suggested as suitable for casual play, training sessions, and outdoor use. These are made of nylon, which is sustainable for an extended period. An average of 100 games can be played with these shuttlecocks before wearing out.

Advantages

  • One of the most notable advantages of plastic shuttlecocks is that they are long-lasting and durable.

  • These shuttlecocks also resist weather conditions, reducing the worry of storing them.

  • They are also economical compared to the feathered shuttlecocks.

Disadvantages

  • They offer less performance when compared to the feathered shuttlecocks as they are lighter.

  • They do not provide you with the softer, authentic touch like the feathered shuttlecocks.

  • For professionals, these types of shuttlecocks are less suggested as they impact their performance.

Training Shuttlecocks

Training shuttlecocks are another most commonly used type of shuttlecock by the players. These comprise a blend of both plastic and feathers. The only difference between these feathers and the feathered shuttlecocks is that they provide a longer durability.

They are also an affordable option as they have a lower manufacturing cost. These are mainly designed for training purposes and practice. They have a consistent flight pattern and are suggested to be ideal for drills and exercises. There were also repetitive shots during the practice sessions.

Advantages

  • Just like the plastic shuttlecocks, even the training shuttlecocks provide you with enough durability.

  • As they have a low manufacturing cost, these are affordable.

  • These offer consistent plight without any interruption.

Disadvantages

  • Though they provide a good plight, they cannot match the quality of the feathered shuttlecocks.

  • The authenticity and the touch might be different from the feathered shuttlecocks.

  • These shuttlecocks might not be suitable for competitive sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which shuttlecocks are more durable?

When we compare all three, the feather, the plastic, and the training shuttlecocks, we find that the most durable is the nylon (plastic) shuttlecock.

What is the colour of the shuttlecock?

The shuttlecock comes in various colours. Even some brands use colour brands like blue, green, and red to indicate the speed of the shuttlecocks. The colour green is for slow, blue is for medium and red is for high speed.

Which bird feathers are used in the shuttlecock?

The feathers of the duck and the goose are used to make shuttlecocks.

Henceforth, different types of shuttlecocks are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. Thus, select the right one based on your preference and overall personal factors. So get set ready with your favourite sets of corks and amaze the field with your performance.

Thank you!