Badminton players use thin, lightweight rackets to launch a feathered shuttlecock, or shuttle, across a net to score points. The shuttlecock's design allows it to travel much faster than many types of balls, but also contributes to a quick deceleration that keeps it from traveling too far. When choosing gear for badminton, consider factors like price, skill level and playing style to find the best type of shuttlecock.
Synthetic Shuttlecocks
Shuttlecocks made of plastic or composite materials cost about $1 each as of September 2010, according to Arizona Badminton, and offer an affordable alternative to traditional feathered shuttlecocks. They feature a mesh casing that mimics the look of lapped goose or duck feathers, as well as a foam or rubber tip to direct the path of travel. In addition to its low cost, one of the primary advantages of a synthetic shuttlecock is its durability. Synthetic units often last much longer than feathered shuttles, according to USA Badminton, making them a good choice for beginners and recreational players. For those just starting out in the sport, USA Badminton recommends playing with a synthetic shuttle that has a medium-speed rating in order to build swing consistency and help develop your skills.
Duck Feather Shuttlecocks
Duck feather shuttlecocks consist of overlapping feathers arranged in a conical shape, with a cork or rubber tip at one end. According to Arizona Badminton, duck feather units cost $8 to $20 for a pack of 12 shuttles. This mid-priced shuttlecock design is a good choice for youth or club players looking to balance budget and performance. Compared with synthetic shuttlecocks, duck feather models provide better control and a more predictable flight pattern. The feathers tend to appear thinner and more transparent than those found on top-end goose feather shuttlecocks, and duck feathers also may feature a curved spine rather than a straight one.
Goose Feather Shuttlecocks
Badminton shuttlecocks made with goose feathers represent the top of the line in shuttlecock design. They consist of 16 goose feathers embedded in a tip made from leather-covered cork. Goose feathers offer the most consistent flight pattern and allow the shuttle to fly faster than those made from other materials. Goose feathers allow advanced and expert players to predict how the shuttle will travel to maximize playing skills and competition. However, these shuttles also are expensive, at $12 to $40 per dozen, according to Arizona Badminton, and relatively fragile compared with synthetic models. According to the University of Southern Mississippi Badminton Club, players often go through 20 to 30 feathered shuttles in a single game due to their fragility.
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