Badminton is a popular sport played all over the world. Shuttlecock is an essential part of badminton that helps players to hit and receive shots. Shuttlecocks come in two different types- feather and plastic. Each of these types has its characteristics that make them unique. In this article, we will differentiate between feather and plastic shuttlecocks and also explain the difference between different coloured plastic shuttlecocks.
Feather Shuttlecocks:
Feather shuttlecocks are made from the feathers of ducks or geese. The feathers are sourced from the left wing of a bird as they tend to have more symmetrical feathers. The feathers are hand-selected and sorted based on their weight and shape. A good feather shuttlecock is made up of 16 feathers, and the feathers are arranged in a circular pattern around a cork base. The base is covered with a thin layer of leather to protect the feathers.
Feather shuttlecocks are more expensive than plastic shuttlecocks as they are handmade and use natural materials. They are also the preferred choice for professional players due to their superior performance. Feather shuttlecocks are lighter in weight and have a slower speed than plastic shuttlecocks. They also have a higher trajectory, which makes them more suitable for playing in indoor courts with a low ceiling.
Pros:
Superior performance due to its design
More suitable for playing in indoor courts with a low ceiling
Preferred choice for professional players
Cons:
Expensive compared to plastic shuttlecocks
Fragile and easily damaged
Affected by humidity and temperature
Plastic Shuttlecocks:
Plastic shuttlecocks are made from synthetic materials like nylon or plastic. They are mass-produced using injection molding, making them cheaper than feather shuttlecocks. Plastic shuttlecocks have a hard plastic base with 16 or 17 plastic feathers arranged around it. The feathers are molded to imitate the shape of feather shuttlecocks.
Plastic shuttlecocks are more durable than feather shuttlecocks and can withstand harsh playing conditions. They are also less affected by humidity and temperature, making them more suitable for outdoor play. Plastic shuttlecocks are heavier than feather shuttlecocks and have a faster speed, making them more suitable for playing in outdoor courts with high ceiling.
Pros:
Cheaper than feather shuttlecocks
More durable and can withstand harsh playing conditions
Less affected by humidity and temperature
Cons:
Inferior performance compared to feather shuttlecocks
Unsuitable for playing in indoor courts with a low ceiling
Heavier than feather shuttlecocks
Different coloured plastic shuttlecocks:
Plastic shuttlecocks come in different colours like white, yellow, and red. Each colour represents a different speed and is suitable for different playing conditions.
White shuttlecocks are the slowest and are suitable for playing in high altitudes or hot and humid conditions. Yellow shuttlecocks are the standard speed shuttlecocks and are suitable for playing in normal playing conditions. Red shuttlecocks are the fastest and are suitable for playing in cold and low-altitude conditions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the choice between feather and plastic shuttlecocks depends on personal preference and playing conditions. Feather shuttlecocks offer superior performance but are more expensive and fragile. Plastic shuttlecocks are more durable and suitable for harsh playing conditions but have inferior performance. Different coloured plastic shuttlecocks represent different speeds and are suitable for different playing conditions.