1. Definition of Shuttlecock
A shuttlecock is a cone shaped object that is used in badminton and other similar sports. The cone has a rounded, cork base and 16 feathers that overlap and are attached to the cork base. The cork is then covered with a piece of thin leather. This is a very aerodynamic design. No matter how it is launched into the air, the shuttlecock flies cork first and remains in this orientation at all times. The shuttlecock is often called a badminton bird or birdie.
2. Badminton Shuttlecocks
The game of badminton is the main sport for shuttlecocks. Using racquets, players or pairs take up opposing sides on a rectangular court. Points are scored when the shuttlecock is passed over the net and lands on the ground. Each side can only hit the shuttlecock once before passing it over the net. Badminton is always played indoors, as the shuttlecock is affected by wind due to its aerodynamic design.
3. Shuttlecock Games Around the World
The popular game of shuttlecock is the national sport of Vietnam and is very popular in China. This game is played using a shuttlecock and kicking it over a net with your feet. The teams hold one or two people and using the same scoring system as badminton. The game of peteca or shuttlecock is also very popular in Brazil. However, this game is played with the hands, and not the feet. In Brazil, peteca is used in elementary school to train students in the basics principles of volleyball.
4. Synthetic Shuttlecocks
Synthetic shuttlecocks are very common and very cheap to purchase The feathers are replaced with a white skirt made from one piece of plastic. The players often call these shuttlecocks plastics. These synthetic shuttlecocks have a very different feel during play. They fly much slower on initial impact, but maintain their speed better at the end of the flight path. These shuttlecocks are much more durable and can last many matches without any impact on their flight pattern.
5. Feathered Shuttlecocks
Feathered shuttlecocks are preferred by experienced and skilled players. All official tournaments are played using feathered shuttlecocks. This type of shuttlecock fly quite quickly off the face of the racquet, but drop in speed and velocity towards the end of the flight. At top speeds, the feather shuttlecocks move at speeds greater than 320 km/hour or 200 mph.
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