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Shuttlecocks might look simple, but they’re the heartbeat of badminton. Every rally, every smash, every delicate drop shot hinges on how that little projectile flies. If you’re new to the sport—or even a regular player—you’ve got a choice to make: feather or plastic? Let’s dive into the details so you can pick the right one for your game.
Feather shuttlecocks are the gold standard, crafted from goose or duck feathers (16, to be exact) fixed into a cork tip. They soar with a natural, predictable arc—smooth, stable, and satisfying to hit. Pros swear by them, and if you’ve watched a tournament, you’ve seen them in action. But there’s a catch: they’re fragile. A hard smash or two can snap feathers, and a single game might retire a shuttle. They’re pricier too—expect $20-30 for a dozen top-tier ones. For competitive play or that authentic feel, though, they’re unbeatable.
Plastic shuttlecocks flip the script. Made with a synthetic skirt, they’re built to last—think dozens of games, not just one. They’re cheaper ($10-15 a dozen) and shrug off rough handling, making them a favourite for practice, casual play, or beginners honing their swing. The downside? Flight’s less refined—nylon’s stiffer, so it doesn’t mimic a feather’s grace. Still, for everyday players, the durability wins out.
Speed’s another layer. Shuttlecocks come rated (e.g., 76-79)—slower numbers (76-77) suit warm climates where air’s thinner; faster ones (78-79) work in cooler spots. Test them by hitting; they should land about 30cm past the back line from a baseline serve. Not sure? Start with nylon at a medium speed (77) and tweak from there.
Storage matters too—feather shuttles hate humidity (warped feathers ruin flight), so keep them in a cool, dry place. Plastic’s tougher but still fades in heat or sunlight. Volant Badminton’s shuttlecocks bridge the gap—our feather range rival pro standards for everyday enthusiasts. We’re all about making badminton approachable, so our shuttles fit your budget and your game.
In our opinion, once you use feather shuttlecocks you'll never go back - but it's up to you! Either way, We've got you covered with quality you can trust.
Badminton’s too fun to skimp on gear—stock up and keep the rallies going. Which shuttlecock’s calling your name?
Check our our shuttlecock range HERE.
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