1. Yonex Series: DUORA10, ARC 11, VT80E, VT70E, NR-ZSP, NR900, VTFB
Among the top 12 men’s doubles players in the world, over 99% are sponsored by the three major brands: Yonex, Victor, and Li-Ning.
DUORA10 (Green Version)
The Yonex DUORA10 is the most widely used racket among the top 12 men’s doubles players, particularly by European players. Southeast Asian players, on the other hand, tend to prefer the Arcsaber and Voltric series. The DUORA10 features a bold dual-sided design, with each side of the racket differing in color and shape—one side has a box frame, while the other is more aerodynamic. Lee Chong Wei used his signature version of this racket during the 2016 Olympics to defeat his longtime rival Lin Dan, leading many fans to eagerly purchase it.
Kamura Takeshi, Sonoda Keigo
The Arcsaber 11, launched by Yonex in 2013, is known for its balanced performance, making it suitable for players with various playing styles. Rising men’s doubles players like Kamura Takeshi, Sonoda Keigo, and Marcus Fernaldi Gideon have all used the Arcsaber 11. According to Ayubak, a badminton enthusiast, Kamura Takeshi used the Arcsaber 11 BP version (exclusively for the Japanese team), though he switched to the newly released VT-FB this year. Lee Yong Dae also re-signed with Yonex, and many fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the ARC11 LYD.
VT80E
Russia’s powerful doubles player Vladimir Ivanov uses the VT80E, a new color version of the iconic VT80 racket. This version features a bold red color scheme and closely resembles the VT80 in terms of materials and specifications. The VT80E has the second stiffest feel among Yonex rackets, just behind the VT-ZF2. One of its standout features is its modifiability—much like a car, it can be adjusted with additional components to enhance its performance. Compared to the VT80E, the VT70E has a slightly softer shaft, but it also allows for similar performance adjustments through accessory add-ons.
The NR900 is another legendary doubles racket, known for its stiff shaft and head-light balance, designed for quick reflex shots. In contrast to the aggressive power of the VT series, the NR900 offers a softer attacking experience, with clear control during downward shots and smooth transitions between forehand and backhand, making it particularly suitable for Indonesian doubles players who excel in technical play.
The NR-ZSP, with its head-heavy balance, features the smallest frame in Yonex’s history. If you are a skilled player focused on smash speed, the ZSP is an excellent choice. However, you must accept the trade-offs: its ultra-small frame size results in reduced defensive capability and an increased likelihood of frame hits.
2.Victor Series: JS-10, JS-12
JS-10 (Jetspeed 10)
The Jetspeed 10 boasts a smaller frame size of 343cm², which is 6% smaller than the average racket, making it the smallest frame in Victor’s history. The reduced frame size increases swing speed and concentrates power. Combined with Nano Fortify technology, which enhances the toughness of the carbon fiber, the racket delivers a crisp and powerful hitting experience. However, the smaller sweet spot demands a higher skill level from the player. Due to its positive reputation, Victor released a new, more vibrant color variant of the JS-10 this year.
JS-12 (Jetspeed 12)
Following the success of the Jetspeed 8, Victor introduced the larger-framed JS-12, designed to balance offense and defense. The JS-12 provides a firmer feel and faster rebound speed compared to the JS-10, making it ideal for aggressive players who prioritize speed. This year, Victor also released a women’s version, the JS-12F.
3. Li-Ning Series: N99, N50 (First Generation), N55 (Second Generation), N9 (Second Generation), N7 (Second Generation)
N99
Used by Hong Wei and Liu Yuchen, the N99 is a high-end racket introduced by Li-Ning in 2016. It features a slightly stiff shaft that leans towards offense, making it well-suited for players who favor powerful attacks. The relatively flexible frame, when paired with a stiff string, enhances its offensive potential.
N9 (Second Generation)
The N9 (Second Generation) was Fu Haifeng’s racket of choice during his gold medal victory at the Rio Olympics. It has a large frame, a stiff frame, and a moderately stiff shaft, making it easy to handle. Regardless of the player’s previous racket preference, the N9’s adaptability ensures a smooth transition. It offers a high margin of error, strong striking power, and powerful shots. Its large frame and aggressive nature make it a perfect fit for players who enjoy powerful smashes, although it is slightly less effective in fast exchanges compared to the N7 (Second Generation). After signing with Li-Ning, “Frontcourt Wiper” Hendra Setiawan chose the N9 (Second Generation) and the N7, while Rio Olympics mixed doubles champion Tontowi Ahmad used the original N9.
The N50 (First Generation) is a relatively old racket that was used by several former Chinese national players like Wang Xiaoli, Guo Zhendong, and Zhao Yunlei in international competitions. It is known for its ease of use, making it suitable for backcourt clears and midcourt smashes. The N55 (Second Generation), on the other hand, is more suited to players with a certain level of strength who enjoy aggressive offensive play.
4. Babolat X-FEEL BLAST Racket
Peter Gade (Denmark)
Babolat may be relatively unknown among badminton enthusiasts, but it is a well-established brand with over a century of history in the sports industry. Among the top 12 men’s doubles players globally, only Denmark’s Peter Gade uses Babolat equipment. Additionally, the French player Pi Hongyan, who later moved to France, also used Babolat badminton rackets.
