A shuttlecock is a lightweight object that plays a central role in a game of badminton. The quality of the shuttlecock that you choose can be influential on your performance and the fun of the game.
Available in two different types; feather or plastic, it is important to select the shuttlecock that is compatible with your needs.
With shuttlecock being a key part of a badminton game, the market for these products is rather expansive with offerings from many different brands.
We have done the hard work for you and browsed the market searching for our top five picks of the best shuttlecocks available. Below, we have also included a handy buyer's guide detailing our top tips for choosing the best product for you.
OUR TOP PICK
The Yonex Mavis 300 Badminton Nylon shuttlecock combines performance and quality to deliver excellent speed and performance.
Although this is a nylon shuttlecock it displays a similar flight performance to a feather shuttlecock allowing for greater accuracy in each shot.
When it comes to selecting the best shuttlecock for your needs, it is important to consider the temperature of the environment that you are most likely to find yourself playing in.
Despite being deemed as a durable shuttlecock, like most available on the market, these shuttlecocks are prone to breaking in the colder weather and so the temperature categories help you to choose the most suitable shuttlecock for your needs.
It is safe to say that the YONEX Mavis nylon shuttlecocks perform exceptionally well recovering 0.008 seconds faster than a standard shuttlecock. Impressively, there are two different size options available. Choose from a tube containing ½ dozen shuttlecocks, or one containing 1 dozen shuttlecocks.
Pros
- Courtesy of their nylon design these shuttlecocks are durable against frequent use.
- Retailing at an affordable price, they are an ideal option for players on a budget.
- They are an ideal choice for players at a beginner and intermediate level.
- The two size options allow you to select the appropriate amount of shuttlecocks that you require.
- These shuttlecocks perform and recover impressively well.
Cons
- Some players may find these shuttlecocks a little too light.
EDITORS CHOICE
An ideal choice for advanced players, the ZHENAN goose feather shuttlecocks have been designed with quality and performance in mind.
Made using thick goose feathers, these shuttlecocks deliver strength and resistance making them suitable for frequent use. In fact, these goose feathers are treated with a formula that makes them softer and smoother for greater accuracy in each shot.
With good elasticity, these shuttlecocks are resistant against daily use, and their quality construction accounts for improved flight stability.
These shuttlecocks certainly do not compromise when it comes to the quality. Both soft and tough, they utilize a more stable speed due to the neat and accurate placement of the goose feathers.
Impressively, these shuttlecocks are available in a pack of 12 so you have plenty available to see you through many games.
Pros
- Retailing within an affordable price range, these shuttlecocks are great value for money.
- With two different colors available, you can select the shuttlecocks that cater to your preferences.
- The goose feather construction provides great strength and stability.
- Despite being feather shuttlecocks, they have been made with durability in mind.
- Available in a 12 pack there are plenty of shuttlecocks available.
Cons
- As they are rather lightweight, they aren’t the greatest option if you are likely to be playing in windy conditions.
BEST VALUE
The MacGregor Tournament Shuttlecocks have been designed with nylon feathers that provide excellent resistance against daily use. If you are looking for durable shuttlecocks that are going to withstand frequent, repeated use, these aren’t going to disappoint.
A particularly favorable feature of these shuttlecocks is the rounded cork head which allows for consistent and clean contact with the badminton racket.
As medium-speed shuttlecocks, they are suitable for both casual games and tournament play which is great if you are a competitive player. This also helps to develop hand and eye coordination.
Brightly colored, they are ideal for players who often find themselves playing in low visibility. The yellow color allows you to track the shuttlecock when it is in flat and makes it easier to pinpoint when it has landed.
Pros
- Durably designed, these shuttlecocks are likely to see you through many games without becoming damaged.
- As they are brightly colored, they are great for those who often play in the dark.
- These shuttlecocks are great for both casual and competitive playing.
- Affordably priced, these shuttlecocks are great value for money.
- The design allows for greater contact and enhanced performance.
Cons
- Unfortunately, these shuttlecocks are a little slow so may not be ideal for all players.
RUNNER UP
Made with goose feathers and white in color, the KEVENZ Badminton Shuttlecocks are a great choice for tournament players. Using thick goose feathers, in particular, these shuttlecocks are resistant against frequent use and deliver great flight stability.
The cork ball head provides effective elasticity making it much easier to hit each time.
Impressively, during the manufacturing process, a special formulation is applied to the goose feathers which makes them smoother and softer in appearance but also excellent strength which makes them great for accommodating the needs of all types of players.
Available in a pack of 12 you have plenty of shuttlecocks available, should the one that you are playing with get lost or damaged. As well as white, they are also available in a black color which some may find better for visibility.
Pros
- The specially formulated treatment accounts for greater resistance.
- Available in both black and white you can select your preferred color option.
- Ideal for players on a budget courtesy of their affordable price tag.
- Durably designed, these are great quality shuttlecocks.
- Despite being labeled tournament shuttlecocks, they are suitable for beginner players too.
Cons
- When it comes to flight stability, these shuttlecocks are a little inconsistent.
RUNNER UP
If you are looking for shuttlecocks with a fun design, the ZHENAN LED badminton shuttlecocks are an excellent choice.
Each shuttlecock features a high quality LED light that alternates between different colors. An excellent choice for players who often find themselves playing in the dark as the vibrant colors making them easy to spot.
Using these shuttlecocks is a relatively simple process. The switch enables you to turn the LED lights on as and when you choose and they have an approximate 50-hour lifespan, so you can enjoy this fun way of playing for longer.
There are three different options to choose from allowing you to select the most appropriate for your needs. This includes a 4 or 6 pack of feather LED shuttlecocks and a 5 pack of nylon shuttlecocks.
Pros
- The unique LED design adds a fun concept to the game.
- With different pack options available, you can select the most appropriate option for your needs.
- These shuttlecocks perform very well with excellent flight off the racket.
- They retail at an affordable price; great for players on a budget.
- As LED shuttlecocks they make playing in the dark much easier with improved visibility.
Cons
- When hit with force, the LED’s inside these shuttlecocks are prone to turning on and off.
Best Badminton Shuttlecock Buying Guide
Investing in the right equipment can have a significant impact on your game and how well you play, hence why it is important to select a good quality shuttlecock that is going to develop your skill, without hindering your performance.
We have outlined some factors below that we would recommend you considering before making your purchase.
Plastic or Feather Shuttlecock
The market offers two different types of shuttlecock, those that are made using plastic and those that are made using feathers. A plastic shuttlecock is typically made from nylon material.
As the name suggests, a feather shuttlecock is made using feathers. This can differ depending on the country that they are made in. Some will use goose feathers while others use white duck feathers.
You will find that many goose feathered shuttlecocks are coated with a special formulation which makes them softer and smoother. Both types of shuttlecock have a cork head which is typically made using the bark from a cork tree.
The Speed of the Shuttlecock
A plastic shuttlecock tends to travel faster than a feather shuttlecock making it an ideal choice for fast-paced games. As a feather shuttlecock is made with a lighter cork it travels at a slower pace but is an ideal choice for achieving shots with greater accuracy.
Your Skill Level
It is important to assess your skill level before investing in your shuttlecock. Those of a novice level will likely benefit from using a plastic shuttlecock.
A plastic shuttlecock with a foam bottom is a particularly favorable choice as they tend to be lightweight but durable, so those who are getting to grips with the game can be a little rough with the shuttlecock without worrying about damaging it in the process. Feather shuttlecocks are recommended for Intermediate and advanced players as they possess greater flight qualities along with improved accuracy and control.
The Durability of the Shuttlecock
The durability of your shuttlecock is also important. You don't want to invest in your shuttlecock only to find yourself replacing them regularly due to their poor quality. It is important to select a shuttlecock that is resistant to tough and frequent use.
There are steps that you can take yourself to prolong the life of your shuttlecock such as steaming it in between uses depending on the conditions that you often find yourself playing in. On the whole, feather shuttlecocks are considered to be less durable than plastic. This is because the feathers are prone to wearing.
Goose feathers tend to be the preferred option if you are likely to invest in a feather shuttlecock as they are thicker and less susceptible to becoming damaged easily. Plastic shuttlecocks are praised for their excellent durability, hence why they are recommended for beginners as they can withstand harsh use particularly well.
The Stability and Trajectory of the Shuttlecock
The stability and trajectory essentially refer to the shuttlecock's ability to remain in the air for a specific amount of time. The path that the shuttlecock follows and the position where it lands is known as the trajectory.
A plastic shuttlecock tends to deliver a direct trajectory that follows a smoother path. A feather shuttlecock is known to deliver a more consistent and linear trajectory.
The Pack Contents
Different brands offer shuttlecocks that are available in different amounts. However, there typically tends to be four or more in most packs of shuttlecocks. Some will even contain as many as 12 or 24. This ensures that you have plenty available to see you through many games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a feather shuttlecock better than a plastic one?
The answer to this question can be rather dependent on your skill level as a player, although most would suggest that a plastic shuttlecock is the best option. For novices, in particular, the qualities of a plastic shuttlecock make it somewhat easier to play with.
Not only is it lightweight but a plastic shuttlecock is made with a foam base that makes it more durable and impact resistant.
How do I choose a badminton shuttlecock?
There are many factors involved in choosing the best shuttlecock for your needs. However, it is largely dependent on the altitude of the area that you are likely to be playing in. The shuttlecock will travel faster in an area with high altitude due to the low air density.
A feather shuttlecock will travel slower when played with on ground that is below sea level.
How do you make a feather shuttlecock last longer?
A feather shuttlecock is prone to becoming dry and brittle, particularly when used in cold and dry climates. To make your shuttlecock last longer if it is likely to be exposed to these conditions frequently it can be steamed.
Doing so can restore the moisture of the feathers, ultimately helping the shuttlecock last longer.
