Shuttlecock: Compare 15 different types

Compare 15 different types of shuttlecocks for badminton, from nylon to feather, based on speed, durability and price. Find out which shuttlecock suits your playing level and style, and how to choose, use and maintain them. A shuttlecock (also called a birdie or shuttle, or ball) is a high-drag projectile used in multiple sports, most notably badminton. It has an open conical shape formed by feathers or a synthetic material, such as plastic, embedded into a rounded cork (or rubber) base. The progress of shuttlecock design is driven by the pursuit of excellence in badminton equipment. Manufacturers engage in research and development to enhance shuttlecock performance, addressing factors such as flight stability, durability, and environmental sustainability. Shuttlecock Fundamentals The badminton shuttlecock , also known as a Shuttle, Birdie, Volant, or Ball, is the object hit between two people playing badminton. The Shuttle is characterised by two parts, the base (or head), and the skirt. The shuttle is the only sports object designed to slow down once hit instead of speed up.