I already mentioned that I play badminton sporadically. What always impresses me that even as an amateur I have to make a lot of choices regarding the gear. I already wrote how I choose the badminton racket, but still, one important decision lies ahead. What kind of shuttlecock should I use? Here is a smart and short guide how I choose the best badminton shuttlecocks for me.
Feather or Nylon badminton shuttlecocks
Firstly, you have to know if you want to play with a feather or with nylon shuttlecocks. Both have some advantages and some disadvantages.
Feather Badminton Shuttlecocks
Feather shuttlecocks are made from feathers, surprisingly :). Feathers are out of duck or goose. They are 62 to 70 mm long. The weight of feather shuttlecock should be from 4.74 to 5.50 grams. Professional matches are played just with feather shuttlecocks. So if you want to play like a pro, use them. But be prepared for their lower durability. Basically, you will need more than one to play even one game.
You can choose the feather badminton shuttlecocks according to their speed. Be aware, that usually, the warmer conditions make shuttlecocks fly faster. The same can be applied to high altitude conditions. Use table below for choosing the right feather badminton shuttlecocks.
International Speed Metric
| 1/75 | Slow | Use in highland |
| 2/76 | Medium Slow | Use in hotter area |
| 3/77 | Medium | Sea level area |
| 4/78 | Medium Fast | Cold area |
| 5/79 | Fast | Below sea level |
Kevenz Goose Feather Badminton Shuttlecocks | Lhedon Badminton Shuttlecocks | Kevenz Goose Feather Badminton Shuttlecocks |
12 pack | 12 pack | 12 pack |
Do you like tennis more? Check our guide to best tennis balls for every player
Nylon Badminton Shuttlecocks
Nylon badminton shuttlecocks are made from Nylon. They are more durable than feather ones, but they are slower. They are used mainly by amateur and recreational players due to their durability. Usually, they are white or yellow.
Speed Metrics for Nylon Badminton Shuttlecocks
| Green | Slow | 22° – 33° C |
| Blue | Medium | 12° – 23° C |
| Red | Fast | 0° – 13° C |
Head Badminton Air Performance 300 Shuttlecocks | Yonex Mavis 350 | Kevenz Advanced Nylon Feather Shuttlecock |
6 pack | 6 pack | 12 pack |
Summary – The best badminton shuttlecock is …
I am amateur badminton player and I do not need to have the newest and expensive gear to enjoy badminton. When choosing the badminton shuttlecocks I prefer nylon. They last more, they are cheaper and they are absolutely o.k. with my badminton level. I play with Blue nylon badminton shuttlecocks, but it really depends on the temperature you live and play in.
Yonex Mavis Medium
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It was really a good read on badminton shuttlecocks! we all know that badminton is played ‘singles’ or we can team up with another player. badminton combines hand-eye coordination, power, strength, speed, stamina and decision-making skills. One of the first equipment we will need is a shuttlecock. It’s good to see someone put forth recommendations on shuttlecocks. As you point out, there are plenty of shuttlecock at competitive prices for badminton players. Great selection! Thanks for the information, it was really very useful.
I would like to be here again to find another masterpiece article.