Last updated on August 4th, 2022 at 01:33 am
Badminton is arguably the most demanding sport; one has to be absolutely sure about their equipment. You just cannot make any compromises on badminton equipment, be it the racket or shuttlecock or the attire + shoes.
We have done some research on the different equipment of badminton that is available in the market. Following is the list of the best options available out there.
Things to consider before buying (Make headings and sub-headings)
How to Choose a Badminton Racket
Choosing the best racket from a wide range of options could be frustrating at first. Pass these badminton rackets through various filters and then decide which racket suits you the best.
Filter 1: What kind of a player you are; beginner, intermediate, or professional?
Filter 2: What do you need it for; training, match, singles, or doubles?
Filter 3: What is your budget?
Upon passing the racket through these filters, you will be left with options that suit you the best. Our options are narrowed down, but now we need to choose from similar types of rackets, which is even more difficult.
Following are the factors you should consider before choosing from a wide range of similar options.
Balance
Under the type of balance, they have. Badminton rackets are divided into 3 different categories.
- Head-Heavy Balance Badminton Rackets
Mass of the racket is shifted towards the head. These types of rackets produce powerful clears and smash, especially from the back of the court. Head-heavy rackets are ideal for players producing lengthy clears from the back of the court.
- Head-Light Balance Badminton Rackets
Mass of the racket is shifted towards the handle. These types of rackets are more suitable for intermediate players that play more doubles than singles. Due to less mass at the head, they provide fast swing, which is ideal for defending smashes.
- Even Balance Badminton Rackets
Mass of the racket is evenly distributed throughout. These rackets are hybrid of the above two types. They provide both power and control. It is ideal for all-rounders who play both at the front and the back.
Shaft
Another important factor that needs to be considered is the flexibility of the shaft. Your arm/wrist speed will decide the level of flexibility needed. A flexible shaft is suitable for beginners that have slower wrist/arm speed. Professional opt for stiffer shaft because they have fast wrist/arm speed.
Racket Weight
The weight of a badminton racket is measured by a unit “U”. The larger the number, the lighter the weight. 3U is between 85 to 89 grams while 4U is almost between 80 to 84 grams.
3U is the recommended weight for singles as it provides stability. 4U provides more speed and is more suitable for doubles.
Grip
The grip of the racket is measure by unit “G”. The value of G and handle size are inversely proportional to each other.
HOW TO CHOOSE A BADMINTON SHUTTLECOCK
Before buying a badminton shuttlecock, several factors should be kept in mind. Buying a low-quality shuttle could be very stressful.
- Stability
Flight stability of a badminton shuttlecock is very important. Feathers of the shuttlecock should be well-balanced in order to achieve stability.
- Speed
Some shuttlecocks are slow, while others are fast. It depends upon the number, weight, and material of the feather. Cork of a shuttlecock defines its overall weight, which is essential in providing momentum.
- Material
Nylon and plastic are the common materials used in the manufacturing of shuttlecock. Cork is made from both plastic and feather. But the ones made from feathers are preferred, as they are soft and bouncy.
Feather is used in all international events. Plastic is limited to beginners only.
- Durability
The durability of a shuttlecock is important. It is both expensive and frustrating to change the shuttlecock after each rally.
HOW TO CHOOSE BADMINTON SHORTS
Following are the things you should consider before buying shorts
- Shorts should be flimsy and breathable
- Their fabric should be stretchable
- Should have proper mesh vent, so that they don’t produce bad odor
- Should be durable
Top Equipment of Badminton
1. Yonex Duora Z Strike
Features
- Color: Black/ White
- String: Nanogy 99 at 24 lbs
- Weight: 83g
Pros
- Exceptional power
- Great defense
- Stiffer shaft
- Provides control
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
Yonex Duora Z Strike is a badminton racket used by professionals. 2017 World Champion Viktor Axelson used it. The racket tops our list due to its amazing design, which provides both power and control. It provides an amazing playing experience due to its solid feel.
Mass of the racket is shifted towards the head, providing exceptional smashing power. The racket is lightweight, which makes defending easier. The strings used are made up of hard nylon and doesn’t break easily. The racket provides an excellent grip as well.
This racket is not recommended for beginners. You need to have a good technique to get benefitted from it.
2. Yonex Voltric Z Force II
Features
- Color: Black
- String: Unstrung
- Weight: 84g
Pros
- Extra-stiff shaft
- Generates powerful smashes
- Comes in different colors
- Provides good control
Cons
- Pretty expensive
- The stiffer shaft will not be suitable for beginners
Yonex Voltric Z force II is specifically designed for doubles. Unlike other doubles rackets that are made to play in a specific court area, it provides reliability in all sections of the court.
Due to its head-heavy balance, it generates amazing power. To neutralize the mass of the head, the frame has been made smaller, providing great control.
The racket will not be suitable for singles, due to its head-heavy balance.
3. Yonex Nanoray Z Speed
Features
- Color: Black
- String: Unstrung
- Weight: 3U
Pros
- Excels in all sections of the court
- Provides excellent control
- Generates powerful smashes
- Super slim
- Lightweight
Cons
- Too powerful for beginners
Currently, on sale in the market, it is the newest addition in Yonex doubles rackets. This Nanoray racket is technically advanced as compared to the previous ones. Its soft grip makes it stand out from all its competitors.
Mass of the racket is shifted towards the handle. Due to less mass at the head, it provides fast arm/wrist speed, which helps in defending smashes. The frame is made up of elastic material, generating devastating power. It is light in weight, thus provides more control.
They come unstrung, allowing you to choose the sting of your choice.
4. Yonex Arcsaber 11
Features
- Color: Metallic Red
- String: Neo CS CARBON NANOTUBE
- Weight: 3U
Pros
- Large Sweet Spot
- Aerodynamic Shape
- Stiff shaft
Cons
- Expensive
Mass is evenly distributed between head and handle, which provides power and control at the same time. If you have good technique, its stiff shaft will increase the power of your drop smashes.
It provides excellent maneuverability due to its aerodynamic design. Its large sweet spot will provide a greater degree of feel. Its extended shaft enhances your reach, allowing you to defend difficult shots.
The racket is almost 7 years old and still one of the best.
5. YONEX MAVIS 300
Features
- Material: Nylon
- Suitable Temperature: 12-23 degrees Celsius.
- Color: Yellow
Pros
- Durable
- Visible in low light
- Excellent material used
Cons
- Prone to breaking in cold weather
Shuttlecock used in major badminton tournaments is supplied by Yonex. These shuttlecocks are ideal for temperature between 12 to 23 degrees Celsius. It is not suitable for temperature below 7 degrees Celsius as it is prone to breaking in cold weather.
These highly in-demand shuttlecocks are cheap considering the value they provide. MAVIS 300 ticks all the boxes when it comes to flight stability, speed, material, and durability.
Yonex manufacture different shuttlecocks for different weather conditions. So, always consider your environment before choosing a shuttlecock.
6. ASICS Men’s Gel-Rocket 9
Features
- Color: Black/Sunrise red, Black/White, Glacier grey/Mako blue, White/Pure gold, White/Black, Speed Red/White, Black/Silver,
- Size: 8 US
Pros
- Excellent traction
- Provides ankle protection
- Gives structural support
- Reduces foot fatigue
Cons
- Poor arch-support
- Takes time to break-in
To meet the needs of multiple users, ASICS came out with these exceptionally comfortable shoes. Shoes are very lightweight, allowing the player to move quickly in the court without any discomfort.
Its firm grip provides very high stability, which reduces the risk of major injuries. Its midsole is made up of Molded-EVA, which provides a lot of cushioning.
They have a very high price tag that makes them unaffordable for amateur players.
7. ASICS Women’s Gel-Upcourt
Features
- Color: Pink
- Size : 8, 8.5, 10 US
Pros
- The material used is excellent
- Rubber sole
- Synthetic
- Extra-cushioning
- Shock-absorbent
Cons
- Simple look
- Requires extra care
ASICS is a top badminton shoe brand, ensuring excellent stability and performance in the court. They come in various designs and colors.
You might not be impressed with the design of this specific shoe but once you step on the court you will love every bit of it. They will increase your performance in court. Its center of gravity saves you from any kind of injury.
They are highly durable and will not wear and tear even after years of usage. The sole is shock absorbent and will minimize the impact of your jump.
8. LI-NING Men’s Breathable Badminton Shorts
Features
- Color: Blue
- Size: S,M,L,XL,2XL,3XL
Pros
- Multi-purpose shorts
- Fabric is stretchable
- Breathable and durable
- All sizes available
Cons
- High-priced
- A little heavier
Made up of polyester, these badminton shorts are flimsy and breathable. These shorts are made to reduce the generation of static electricity, hence providing more comfort.
The fabric used is quite stretchable allowing the player to move freely in the court. The mesh vent makes these shorts lasting and clean. These shorts could also be used for running and doing other sports.
Conclusion
Whether you are a professional or a beginner badminton player, the equipment you own is IMPORTANT. Playing without proper equipment could lead to serious injuries. Read the buyer’s guide and then decide which equipment suits you the best. Don’t just go and buy the equipment of your favorite badminton player. We have listed the best equipment for you. Now it is up to you to decide.
FAQs
1. What equipment is used in badminton?
The following equipment is a must
- Racket
- Shuttlecock
- Shoes
- Shorts
2. What is badminton attire?
To ensure comfort and movement in the court, T-shirt and shorts made specifically for badminton collectively make a badminton attire.
3. What is a racket in badminton?
A badminton racket is a circular open hoop with a thin long handle. A network of strings is stretched tightly across the hoop. It is used for striking a shuttlecock from one end of the court to another.
4. Which is better 3u or 4u?
3U is heavier and is more suitable where you need stability. Most singles players use 3U.
4U is lighter and more suitable when you need power in your shorts. Doubles players prefer 4U.
5. Are badminton shoes necessary?
It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a professional, the importance of specialized badminton shoes could not be emphasized enough. Using poor quality shoes could result in serious injuries.
6. Which badminton rackets are better; head-heavy or head-light?
Both have their advantages and drawbacks
In head-heavy balance, the mass of the racket is shifted towards the head resulting in more powerful shots.
In head-light balance, the mass of the racket is shifted toward the handle resulting in fast swing speed.
