Tag: Lining

Badminton Racket Lining Turbo Charging 75C Reviews
In the past two years, Li Ning badminton equipment has seen unprecedented popularity. It was expected to continue its success steadily, but unexpectedly, in mid-April, Li Ning announced: “We are changing our approach!” and immediately introduced new naming conventions for rackets: Energy 75, Wind Blade 900, Wind Storm 7000, DBIC, etc. To be honest, I was quite surprised, as if in a game of Landlord, suddenly two peasants said they could play three with two, while the landlord thought they could only play three with one, holding onto a big king that couldn’t be played…
Still clinging to the old naming conventions, I gripped my N50 I tightly, shouting at those who mocked me in the store: “Do you know that the N501 had several series classification methods!” “What’s wrong with the way the N series changes over time?! The N50 series represents balance! The N55 series represents offense!! N7 & N9 are lucky numbers for the Wind and Cloud combination…”
Although the naming conventions of the N series are deeply rooted in badminton stories and many find it hard to part with them quickly, in an environment where racket preferences are becoming increasingly personalized, the non-systematic and non-intuitive naming of the N series largely limits the public’s ability to identify racket features and extend performance. The new rules are inevitable.
This review focuses on the Energy 75C, an enhanced offensive version of the Energy 75 (N9II) under the new naming rules.
As an offensive-enhanced version of the Energy 75 (N9II), the Energy 75C has a balance point of 306±2mm and an overall weight of 87±1g. These parameters place it among the heaviest rackets in Li Ning’s lineup, only behind the N553 and N901. Fortunately, the shaft hardness is relatively soft, and the frame hardness is also soft, so despite the high weight, the Energy 75C is not too taxing on the wrist. I paired it with Li Ning No. 1 string for its crisp sound and the soft GP2000 grip. However, based on the usage experience, Li Ning No. 5 string might be more suitable for the Energy 75C, though it depends on personal preferences.
Since the release of Li Ning’s second-generation rackets in 2010, the paint job and craftsmanship have been industry benchmarks, meticulously detailed. Unlike the bold and novel designs of the Energy 75 (N9II), the Energy 75C features a very understated paint style. The combination of bronze and matte black appears mature and steady. With the higher weight and balance parameters, it feels solid in hand. Moreover, the large bronze-colored foil on the inside of the frame, when held, subtly reflects light, creating a refined yet unassuming look.
Li Ning rackets have long emphasized overall feel rather than just elasticity. Specifically, when hitting hard, even with a flexible shaft and heavy head, the racket does not feel sluggish due to excessive deformation of the shaft; likewise, a stiff shaft and light head do not feel awkward due to insufficient deformation. The Energy 75C has a heavier head and a softer shaft, allowing you to feel the shaft bend during smashes, but it quickly recovers without a significant sense of drag. Due to the soft frame and shaft, the Energy 75C requires precise power application for smashes; hurried strokes may feel somewhat sticky, but a complete motion delivers powerful results.
The Energy 75C’s frame has an internal and external rotational process, supposedly to increase momentum. In my view, this mainly improves the ball’s stay on the frame, effectively wrapping the ball, increasing the power application time, and enhancing the impact force. This wrapping feeling also contributes to a better downward pressure, making the attack smoother. A strong downward pressure and ample wrapping are crucial for powerful and sharp smashes; insufficient downward pressure may result in longer smash trajectories, reducing offensive threat, while too little wrapping may decrease the load time, affecting power transfer and causing fatigue. This explains why Bao Ge prefers rackets with “soft frame + soft shaft.”
In terms of control, the Energy 75C provides strong wrapping around the ball. While it may not be as precise as rackets with a crisp feel and clear feedback, the substantial wrapping offers high forgiveness. Adjusting the shot’s timing with the frame’s wrapping can achieve good control. The only drawback is that due to its overall weight, the Energy 75C may not be as nimble in the front court, and its strengths and weaknesses can only be refined or compensated for with technique.
Speed is a shortcoming of the Energy 75C. The high balance parameter means that agility and swing speed are somewhat inferior compared to the Energy 75 (N9II). Additionally, with the soft frame and shaft, the racket feels a bit sluggish. However, due to its soft shaft and large hitting surface, the Energy 75C performs much better in defensive situations against smashes compared to similar balance rackets, effectively utilizing the head’s inertia and the shaft’s elasticity.
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As an offensive extension of the Energy 75 (N9II), the Energy 75C features higher balance parameters and stronger downward pressure while retaining the soft frame and shaft properties. It is ideal for players who appreciate the Energy 75 but prefer a more offensive approach. The Energy 75 series includes several similar-feeling rackets with different balance parameters, and amateur players’ conditions and events are often unstable. Swapping rackets based on the situation is like strategizing in a game, adding a unique charm, and perhaps that’s the essence of performance extensions.
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September 11, 2024
Badminton racket Lining AYPU077 Reviews
The Li-Ning Energy Aggregation Handsome, as the name suggests, reflects the brand’s confidence in its aesthetic appeal. At first glance, the racquet’s unique design deeply attracts attention with its black and green color scheme, which is both mysterious and vibrant. The overall color is black, accented with clean and energetic dark green lines. A circular gradient “handsome” logo at the bottom of the shaft and a deep green “handsome” on the side of the frame further enhance its dynamic look. The inner part of the racquet features gradient text, which shines brightly under the gym lights. The black-green color combination and smooth lines emphasize the Energy Aggregation Handsome’s visual appeal.
Specifications:
- Length: 675mm
- Shaft Thickness: 7.0mm (standard slightly thick)
- Weight: 3U G5
- String Tension: 26 pounds, 66U
- Balance Point: 320mm (head-heavy)
- Grommets: 72
Design and Performance:
The Energy Aggregation Handsome is positioned as a mid-range speed racquet. Its frame features a wind-breaking design and a box-type frame. The box frame improves stability, while the wind-breaking design effectively reduces air resistance, making the racquet faster and more agile. The combination of the shaft and frame provides excellent elasticity, allowing for noticeable deformation during high clears, requiring minimal skill for effective power transfer.
The racquet responds quickly during fast drives and defensive plays, with an intuitive feel that helps in making swift returns. Its performance at the net is exceptional, enabling decisive shots even before opponents have a chance to react. The slight head-heavy balance enhances the attacking power, ensuring clean and efficient shots. Defensive backhands benefit from the shaft’s elasticity, requiring less force while allowing for effective counterattacks.
As a loyal fan of the red factory, I’ve used various classic models like the Thunder 80, 90, and War Blade 8000, but I had never tried a speed racquet from them before. The Energy Aggregation Handsome offers a new experience and performs above average. I adapted to the racquet quickly on my first try, with fewer mistakes compared to other new racquets, highlighting its advantages without the need for extensive adjustment.
In summary, this racquet is suitable for both singles and doubles, providing balanced performance for both attacking and defensive play. It is ideal for beginners due to its low entry threshold and appeals to both men and women with its black and white design. Recommended for players who enjoy fast attacks.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining N9II’s New Color Reviews
About six months after Fu Haifeng won the Olympic gold with the N9II, Li-Ning has introduced a brand-new colorway for this champion racquet. Remember the previous black and purple N9II that was so sought after it was nearly impossible to get? This time, Bao Ge, still active on the court, showcases the new color N9II. Whether this new color will spark a similar frenzy remains to be seen.
Color and Design
The old N9II featured a unique obsidian-like finish with striking purple accents, considered the pinnacle of Li-Ning’s design. The new color N9II continues with a purple theme but now sports a metallic dark purple with a subtle greenish tint. This vibrant and youthful design is said to use limited-edition currency ink. The new N9II features a fluorescent grass green base coat, sprayed over with a metallic dark purple. Under light, the purple paint exudes a metallic sheen; without light, it darkens, revealing the base coat’s faint green glow. The new N9II also has light gray patterns and the word “TURBOCHARGING” on the shaft and frame edges, resembling a watermark. These hidden details add a fun element to exploring the racquet’s appearance and provide an anti-counterfeiting mark. Li-Ning continues to demonstrate top-tier craftsmanship in both paint application and creative light interaction.
Performance Design
The performance of the new color N9II remains unchanged from the old version. It features an energy aggregation frame, with a large and solid hitting surface, high forgiveness, and strong hitting power. The frame design, with its unique Möbius strip-like edge transition, is not improved with shorter grommets or the large top head area, which affects string durability. The shaft hardness is moderate, not too stiff, with excellent elasticity and shock absorption thanks to aramid fiber.
Performance Review
The new color N9II doesn’t deviate from the old version in performance: with a soft and elastic shaft, it can store power effectively. It suits players with substantial power and high force limits, showcasing significant “power utilization.” The swing weight is not low, setting a power threshold, and there is noticeable vibration despite new shock absorption technology. This is an unavoidable aspect of heavy racquets and can be troublesome for players with less strength.
Specifications:
- Model: Li-Ning N9II (New Color)
- Frame Type: W3S2, 76-hole Energy Aggregation Frame
- Face Area: Large+
- Weight (including grip tape, base film, and strings): 97.20g (empty racquet 87.96g)
- Swing Weight: 89
- Balance Point (empty racquet): 296mm, 4mm balanced (296mm-300mm)
- Grip Length: 200mm
- String: Li-Ning No. 1 string, SZ double knot, 27 pounds
- Hardness: Frame—Hard; Shaft—Moderate; Hit Feel—Moderate
- Vibration: Medium
In-Game Performance
The N9II’s design makes it a powerful racquet, ideal for players who excel in backcourt play. The large face and solid shaft offer excellent hitting power for long clears and powerful smashes. It is not the most powerful racquet but balances power with continuous attack capabilities. The design caters to both experienced players and amateurs who prefer a racquet that excels in multi-shot rallies rather than a single heavy hit.
The N9II’s strong hitting capability can lead to weaker control, though this is mostly noticeable in full-force shots. For precise shots, such as net play or drop shots, its control is less effective compared to its attack performance. Its large face provides high forgiveness but struggles with fine control compared to smaller faces.
Defense and Control
In defense, the N9II handles slower shots like drops and smashes effectively, thanks to its large face and high forgiveness. However, fast smashes require good technique and quick reactions due to the racquet’s heavier frame and slight delay in the shaft. The defensive window can be narrow, making it challenging to time powerful shots perfectly.
Summary
The Li-Ning N9II remains an excellent racquet with its new color adding a youthful and vibrant touch. Its performance matches that of the old N9II: a powerful backcourt racquet with a large hitting area and high forgiveness, suitable for powerful players. While it may not excel in control compared to its attacking capabilities, it remains a favorite of known heavy hitters like Fu Haifeng.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining N7II Reviews
At the Rio Olympics, “Fengyun” might not have emerged, but a strong “Southern Wind” was blowing—Zhang Nan and Fu Haifeng took to the men’s doubles court together. Zhang Nan not only took on the responsibility of being Bao’s front-court partner but also inherited the trusted N7 racquet used by Cai Yun. Despite both Zhang Nan and Fu Haifeng being Olympic champions, the Rio Olympics presented new challenges for the Southern Wind duo, and their racquets were newly upgraded—N9II and, today’s focus, N7II. Zhang Nan’s victory meant not only his successful transition from Cai Yun’s front-court partner but also the N7II’s flawless succession from the N7.
Appearance
The N7II continues the white primary color design, but Li-Ning has applied a new polishing process over the pearl white base, giving it a unique texture that resembles bone carving, neither matte nor glossy. The gold reflective paint of the N7 is retained, reflecting a faint green under light. The accent color is a small area of violet, adding a touch of elegance without overshadowing the pearl white.
Frame Design
The N7II, like the N9II, features a large frame with an energy aggregation design. The short string grommets and large head area impact string durability. The measured diameter of the N7II’s shaft is 7.05mm, slightly narrower than the N9II, likely due to differences in paint thickness. After accounting for paint thickness, it is possibly around 6.8mm, still considered a thin shaft.
Specifications:
- Model: Li-Ning N7II
- Frame Type: W3S2, 76-hole Energy Aggregation Frame
- Face Area: Large+
- Weight (including grip tape, base film, and strings): 95.30g (empty racquet 86.13g)
- Balance Point: 296mm, 4mm balanced (296mm-300mm)
- Grip Length: 200mm
- String: Li-Ning No. 1 string, SZ double knot, 27 pounds
- Hardness: Frame—Moderate to hard; Shaft—Hard; Hit Feel—Hard
- Vibration: Medium
On-Court Performance
The N7II feels slightly lighter than the N9II, with a crisp hit feel that is not sticky. The swing weight is lower than the N9II, making it a balanced, fast, and responsive racquet. Its large frame and hard shaft contribute to a fast and powerful response, suitable for quick play in the front and mid-court, while also performing well in the backcourt.
Strengths
- Large Frame: Provides strong hitting power and high forgiveness, making it easy to deliver powerful clears.
- Hard Shaft: Ensures direct power transfer, suitable for aggressive and powerful shots.
- Speed and Control: Balanced for quick reactions in mid-court play, with strong performance in both attack and defense.
Weaknesses
- Stiff Feel: The combination of a hard shaft and large frame results in a hard hit feel, with slightly more vibration and less explosive power compared to the N9II.
- Control: The large frame’s control may be weaker, especially for front-court shots and net play. Precision in placing shots and handling delicate touches requires more skill.
Backcourt Performance
The N7II’s hard shaft and large frame offer substantial power, providing a strong one-shot kill capability. Although its swing weight is lower than the N9II, the direct power transfer from the hard shaft allows for effective short bursts of force. It is well-suited for quick, explosive shots but may struggle with accuracy in full-force smashes.
Summary
The Li-Ning N7II and N9II are complementary racquets, each with distinct roles. The N7II is a classic balanced, fast, and responsive racquet with a solid feel, ideal for quick and powerful play. It may be challenging for players seeking fine control, particularly in net play, but excels in mid-court aggression and backcourt power. As Zhang Nan’s Olympic-winning racquet, the N7II clearly has its strengths and has earned its place in high-level competition.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining Turbo Charging 70i Reviews
Introduction
In addition to the Banana War God, Li Junhui, this racquet also had early endorsements from the Grand Slam champion Zhao Yunlei and the “Sweetheart” Wang Xinling (just kidding).
Basic Parameters
- Weight: 5U
- Balance Point: 305mm
- Shaft Length: 222mm, moderate hardness, slightly soft.
- Breakwind Frame
- 29-pound N68 string
Thoughts on ‘Ultra-Light Racquets’
Before discussing the feel, let’s talk about ultra-light racquets (5U and below). Generally, ultra-light racquets face two main issues:
1.Leverage: Due to the light weight, if the balance point is very low, the leverage effect is minimal. This makes it necessary to apply extra effort to achieve distance even on high clears, which further impacts offensive performance. To achieve leverage, a head-heavy design can be used to increase the balance point. Alternatively, leveraging the shaft’s deformation can help, which means the shaft should not be too stiff and must have good elasticity. A high balance point combined with a less stiff shaft is ideal.
2.Stability During Impact: Head-heavy racquets with a soft shaft may suffer from excessive frame wobble during powerful shots, leading to reduced stability and precision. To address this, it’s essential to balance the shaft’s hardness, elasticity, and torsional rigidity (referred to as the shaft’s bending stiffness).
Energy 70I
- Pure Breakwind Frame
- 5U weight
- Balance Point is not low
- Most importantly, the shaft is long and soft
These factors directly contribute to instability in the hitting feel.
Overall Feel
The most noticeable initial impressions are the light weight and the prominent Breakwind feel. It is positioned as a “sugar water speed racquet,” which means it’s easy to use and visually appealing. The description “sugar water speed racquet” encapsulates its primary characteristics.
Negative Experiences
From my personal experience, there are some aspects I found uncomfortable. The intended characteristics of being “light” and “fast” should be the main features of this racquet. However, the long and soft shaft results in poor elasticity. The shaft feels quite stiff, which affects the force transmission and slows down shot speed. The swing speed isn’t slow, but the shot feels less crisp. (I used it with 29-pound N68 strings, which are relatively elastic, somewhat compensating, but it still felt less direct.)
A fellow player in a discussion group described it as “long power,” which means the long and soft shaft delays the power transmission, unlike the quick response of a short shaft. This long and soft shaft is a disadvantage in the mid-court. In the backcourt, high clears are easier with more leverage, but smashes feel weak due to the soft shaft and Breakwind frame.
Did Li Junhui Really Use This Racquet for Smashing?
It’s possible that Li Junhui’s exceptional skills could be the reason for the powerful smashes, rather than the racquet’s strength. Another plausible explanation is that the version he used was different from the retail version available to the public. Li Junhui mentioned in interviews that he prefers light racquets, and there are reports of a 3U version of the Energy 70I used by him.
However, these speculations aside, the retail version we can purchase is a relatively “sugar water” light-speed racquet.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining Turbo Charging 70i Reviews
Just the fact that it’s the “Zhao Yunlei signature racquet” already gives it enough of an
After the Energy series was introduced, this legendary racquet naturally came under the Turbocharge banner. The current test is of a used racquet, and although I haven’t played with it extensively, it perfectly matches my stereotypical impression of high-end Li Ning racquets from that era. Not in a derogatory way, not at all.
Specifications: 5UG6, stripped down, current total weight 86.0g, balance point 306mm, shaft length 220mm, moderate hardness, Energy Reversal Breakwind Frame, 76-hole string bed, 8-2 o’clock string groove, 32-pound warranty, strung at 25-27 pounds with BG65TI.
Many might have bought this racquet for its cute pink design. The racquet head is white, with cyan-green on the wings, and the frame lower part is entirely pink, creating a layered and stylish appearance. The Energy 70I seems to be the first Li Ning racquet with such a pink design, representing a transformation from the “tomato and egg” era. However, it doesn’t quite fit Zhao Yunlei’s image, haha. Moreover, the sharp Breakwind Frame combined with the painting process of that time makes it prone to chipping, which becomes quite noticeable. The racquet I have has several visible chips.
I wonder if any female players bought it for its looks but found it unsuitable for them, similar to the fate of the Speed 12F. Even I felt that this 5U racquet was unexpectedly heavy, which perfectly fits my stereotypical view of older Li Ning 5U racquets — ultra-light but with high swing weight, like a meteor hammer.
The head-heavy design indeed provides a noticeable leverage effect. During warm-up for high-clear shots, the 70I felt comfortable to use. With a long shaft, the deformation threshold is low, and the racquet face and sweet spot are exceptionally large. The slightly wider frame compared to the Blade series makes it easier to adapt to high swing speeds, allowing for accurate high-arcing backcourt shots.
It might be my illusion, but I feel the 70I doesn’t have as much “sugar” as the 3UN72. Although the shaft hardness between the two seems not drastically different, the 70I is rated lower in hardness according to equipment information.
In flat drives, while not extremely agile, it surprisingly has power. Due to the strong head-heavy feeling, the 70I experiences a slight delay during the transition from setting up to swinging, forcing users to adjust their grip position to improve continuity. However, during continuous drives, the 70I shows a noticeable driving force, utilizing the shaft’s elasticity to produce powerful and aggressive shots. The large sweet spot makes it easy to handle, and despite being somewhat unskilled, I found it challenging to handle shots to the side, but everything else was manageable.
The 70I has an extremely strong smash capability. Even for many amateur male players, the feedback and shot quality during attacks are excellent. Although many criticize older Li Ning racquets for their soft shafts, the elasticity is quite good. Additionally, the high balance point adds to the weight of the head during smashes. Zhao Yunlei’s comprehensive skill level complements this racquet well — I retract my earlier comment.
Moreover, I think this racquet is quite sufficient for many singles scenarios. The large racquet face and solid feel boost confidence in net play. Its defensive adaptability is also impressive; the large face and high elasticity make it easy to handle defensive shots, although controlling the shuttle to the backcourt requires some effort to avoid going out.
However, it’s not without flaws. The racquet still has issues with direction control during long shots. Whether it’s due to the Breakwind Frame’s inherent disadvantage or the soft shaft leading to head wobble, the 70I’s performance in controlling long-shot placement isn’t as precise, lacking in hardness and directness.
Overall, I see this as a direct competitor to the Speed 12F, and after using it, I feel a sense of wanting more.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 5000 Reviews
Among Li Ning’s mid-range and low-end models, the Wind Blade series stands out in terms of popularity. Although the Energy series also has a few enthusiasts, it cannot compare to the Wind Blade series in terms of visibility. As for the Wind Storm series, despite high ratings from equipment reviews, it remains less prominent, largely due to its association with the older AirStream lineage.
Among these, the Wind Blade 6000 fares better, while the 5000 and 4000 models are less well-received. I want to see if the latter models have any real merit.
Specifications: 3UG5, stripped down, current total weight 92g, balance point 305mm, shaft length 215mm, moderately soft tuning, box-shaped frame, 72-hole string bed, 9-3 o’clock string groove, 30-pound warranty, strung at 26 pounds with N68.
The mid-range frame features only one pair of wind holes, which is quite distinctive. The current model comes in black, purple-red, indigo, and emerald green color scheme. I feel like I’ve used a racquet with this color scheme before, possibly similar to the 7000B, though I haven’t used that model. The design is youthful and vibrant, but only to a limited extent. Generally, Li Ning’s paint quality is reliable, but unfortunately, the previous owner didn’t take good care of it.
Don’t be intimidated by the balance point and specifications; upon first use, you’ll find that the Wind Blade 5000 is a very user-friendly racquet. It’s head-heavy, with a long shaft and relatively soft hardness, making it feel easy to handle despite the slightly heavy swing weight. Unlike the holding sensation due to a soft frame, the ball stays on the Wind Blade 5000 longer primarily due to the shaft, though its elasticity is adequate. The head-heavy design enhances directional accuracy, and with brief practice, you can control the ball’s placement accurately near the back line during high-clear shots.
Despite the heavy swing weight, it doesn’t feel cumbersome, similar to the Wind Storm 9000. This advantage is likely due to the wind holes.
If you don’t mind a softer shaft, this racquet offers a very satisfying feel. My recent experience showed that I need some “sugar” in my game. The difference in feel between entry-level and high-end racquets had previously made it difficult to adjust, but I’ve found that the Wind Blade 5000 provides a pleasant hitting experience.
The head-heavy design causes the head to drop, and the shaft’s deformation is easily managed. The combination of elasticity and head weight avoids a sluggish hitting feel. The feedback isn’t direct, but the heavy smash quality is still good, reminiscent of old Li Ning’s solid but soft hitting feel with a large sweet spot, making it easy to handle. The downside of the heavy swing weight is somewhat mitigated by the lower power requirement.
However, continuous defensive play in doubles can be challenging. While it can handle individual smashes effectively, sustained defensive play becomes more difficult as the shaft and head begin to wobble, and the swing weight remains a factor. In fast-paced rallies, the racquet’s softness and head-heavy design may hinder quick reactions and adaptability.
In conclusion, I initially treated it as a smaller version of the Wind Storm 9000. It’s a versatile mid-range racquet suitable for both singles and doubles. While the Wind Blade 500 is popular, I find that other mid-range models offer similar benefits without the higher price associated with popularity.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 4000C Reviews
C for Combat is generally regarded as a mid-range Li-Ning product emphasizing attacking play, regardless of its release sequence. The Wind Storm 4000C, launched in 2017 alongside the Wind Storm 4000, is designed with an attacking mindset. Above it in the lineup is the Wind Storm 5000, which has a strong attacking feel.
1.The release time was early, and 2. Being positioned between two numerical models, rackets in such a “gap” often suffer from unclear positioning and can create marketing dilemmas.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3UG5
- No base grip
- Total Weight (used condition): 88.81g
- Balance Point: 311mm
- Shaft Length: 218mm
- Stiffness: Moderate
- Frame: Box frame
- Wind Tunnel: 4 and 8 o’clock
- String Bed: 72-hole
- String Groove: 9-3 o’clock
- Warranty: 30 pounds
- Recommended String Tension: 25-26 lbs BG65TI
As expected from its release time, the Wind Storm 4000C has only a color difference from the Wind Storm 4000, changing from gold to red to emphasize aggression. The racket’s details and technological applications don’t require further elaboration; it probably reused the same shaft as the 4000. However, the length has been restored to the standard 675mm, making it visually more appealing.
This racket should be a typical 3U head-heavy model. In the balanced Wind Storm series, treating the 4000C as an attacking racket is reasonable. Although the 4000C initially feels heavy in the hand, it becomes lighter after warming up, similar to the Wind Storm 9000, which feels lighter in use despite appearing heavy. Although labeled as 3U, I suspect the empty weight is just around 85g, making it feel closer to the Wind Storm 4000B compared to the Wind Storm 5000.
Unlike the Wind Storm 5000, the 4000C has slightly higher stiffness, so the sweet spot sensation experienced with the Wind Storm 5000 is somewhat reduced. During high-clear warm-ups, the 4000C feels less tactile, with good elasticity, friendly driving, a consistent sweet spot, smooth power generation, and satisfactory placement. However, it doesn’t produce a satisfying smash.
Despite the C suffix indicating a more attack-oriented model in the series, the 4000C feels quite balanced, similar to the Wind Blade 600C. The 600C’s shaft is stiffer and more decisive in shot-making. Compared to the Wind Blade 300C, the 4000C is lighter, making it hard to determine which has better attacking efficiency.
I initially had several perfect smashes go into the net, possibly due to low string tension or the racket’s torsional resistance issues, with the former being more likely.
In fast drives and blocks, the 4000C doesn’t exhibit the same delay as the Wind Storm 4000, and its weight doesn’t compromise agility. In fast-paced rallies, as long as the racket is positioned correctly, it maintains good continuity, though the long shaft still affects recovery speed. During the test, I wasn’t too concerned about opponents’ backcourt shots and could focus on maintaining continuity at the net.
Defensively, the racket handles opponents’ smashes effectively but is less efficient for backhand returns, affected by the shaft’s elasticity and weight.
I initially thought it might be more suited for singles, especially with BG65TI strings, but found it a bit challenging for men’s singles; it might be easier for women. I’m surprised by the discrepancy between my experience and the reviews, which align more with my pre-test expectations. Maybe my game has improved?
Overall, this isn’t a difficult racket for beginners, and the C suffix shouldn’t be intimidating. Among the three Wind Storm models, I am most satisfied with the Wind Storm 4000B. Thus ends my review of the Wind Storm 4000 series.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 4000 Reviews
Feeling spontaneous and starting something, only to find that once you begin, you can’t go back—this happens often. Just like how, after trying the Wind Storm 4000B and Wind Blade 300 and feeling pleased, I got the idea to explore the entire series for performance differences, leading to a new small goal.
One must accept the possibility of making mistakes, having poor performance, and the reality of struggling financially while pursuing these goals.
Specifications:
- Weight: 4UG5
- No base grip
- Total Weight (used condition): 93.0g
- Balance Point: 300mm
- Length: 670mm
- Shaft Length: 210mm
- Stiffness: Moderate
- Frame: Box frame
- String Bed: 72-hole
- String Groove: 9-3 o’clock
- Warranty: 30 pounds
- Recommended String Tension: 25-26 lbs VBS70P
This is also a second-hand racket, and mid-range rackets typically show more wear, as users are less likely to treat them as carefully as high-end models. Without a suffix, this racket is from the earliest release of the series (2017). The black base paint and yellow stickers, with minimal other decorations, give it a dull appearance, quite different from the later 4000B (2019) style. The shaft has minor changes, but the total length is only 670mm, which is shorter compared to mainstream models, possibly inspired by the 88S to adapt to doubles play.
Though labeled as 4U, the racket feels more like a 3U model in terms of swing. Low-end models typically have only two wind tunnels, which don’t significantly improve swing speed. I agree with the notion that “making a hole is not as good as making the frame thinner.” The short shaft increases the difficulty of driving, and the shaft’s normal performance feels wooden. The head has some weight, but the string bed’s sweet spot is consistently large, making the entry level manageable. However, the enjoyment of hitting is not very noticeable.
In terms of feel, it remains within the balanced racket series comparable to the Wind Storm. The ball control feels substantial, likely due to the VBS70P string.
The racket is responsive and performs well in terms of torsion resistance and forgiveness. The feel for small net shots is solid. Changing to a thicker and stiffer string like the BG80 could further improve the feel. Defensively, it’s average, with stable returns and decent flexibility, but the touch for net play and the feel for soft shots aren’t very clear, which is not my preferred style.
If the Wind Storm 9000 is a balanced racket scoring 85-90 points in various aspects, I would rate the Wind Storm 4000 around 60 points.
The 4000 does not offer significant advantages compared to the 4000B. For example, the shorter shaft’s potential for explosive power doesn’t improve the racket’s overall continuity or endurance. The lack of sugar in the smash feeling doesn’t present more issues, but this subtle difference makes the user more restrained in the backcourt, focusing on controlling the shot to create better attacking opportunities rather than just blindly smashing. Analyzing it this way, the Wind Storm 4000 does help in making shot decisions more rationally, though it’s not as satisfying.
Regarding opponent control, the 4000 excels in directional accuracy and feel, particularly for backcourt drop shots and smashes, making it quite handy. In long-distance shots like clears, high clears, and flat drives, despite some lack of communication with the racket, the placement of shots is satisfactory.
However, in fast drives and blocks, the slightly head-heavy weight and sluggish string bed response negate the flexibility benefits of the 4U weight and shorter length. It doesn’t feel agile, and in situations like chasing backcourt shots, it mainly performs simple blocks, with less effectiveness in powerful re-drops.
So, it’s not particularly outstanding. However, in line with the principle of unity and opposition, its imperfections can refine the approach to doubles play, making it useful as a training tool.
In terms of technology, it features multiple composite carbon fiber reinforcement systems, mechanical optimization frame, aerodynamic cross-section system, superconductive nano, hot-melt glue, return elastic twist angle, and high rigidity thin shaft. Yet, in other aspects, it remains a mid-range balanced racket from a major brand.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AirStream N553 Reviews
Some things are hard to admit are good, such as Tenga’s suction or Chun Shui Tang’s skin care; some things are hard to admit are bad, such as my own lack of skill in badminton and the shortcomings of some renowned rackets.
I’ve never been fond of using discontinued old rackets, especially those from brands L and Y. They’re often talked about more for their hype than their actual performance, and their prices can vary widely—skyrocketing for rackets endorsed by stars while those without endorsements often languish in obscurity. Additionally, for someone like me who has a high demand for modern feel, these overly classical or even outdated rackets usually end up being a bad investment. This was fully demonstrated with the N553. I believe I’ve done it justice by updating the N553 review.
Specifications:
- Weight: 3UG5
- No base color
- Total Weight (used condition): 95.0g
- Balance Point: 320mm
- Shaft Length: 210mm
- Stiffness: On the stiffer side
- Frame: Box frame
- String Bed: 72-hole
- String Groove: 9-3 o’clock
- Warranty: 28 pounds
- Recommended String Tension: 25-27lbs XB63
Though the manufacturing technology at the time wasn’t advanced, old Li-Ning rackets had a “classic” appeal, and the paint quality was already top-notch. The N553 can be considered a “Purple Gold Sword,” with a blend of blue and purple colors on the frame and gold paint, creating a layered effect with pearlescent shine. The shaft is mainly gold, reflecting the aesthetic preferences of the era and its flagship status in the Air Stream series. As the predecessor to the Wind Storm series, the wind tunnels were a standout feature. Although it also boasts six wind tunnels like the 9000I, it uniquely places two of them at the head, which may not be seen again.
Of course, there has always been discussion about the impact of wind tunnels on frame structure, especially at the head. I suspect that Li-Ning’s approach at the time was quite simplistic—since the wind tunnel could cause breakage, why not make the structure weaker to accommodate it? Thus, I believe the racket’s heavy swing weight is largely due to additional material at the head. Although the wind tunnels were intended to reduce air resistance and increase swing speed, the 553’s swing weight is excessively high, making the swing speed unsatisfactory.
Indeed, when I saw some players commenting that it is Li-Ning’s greatest weapon to date, I expected this situation.
Undoubtedly, this racket requires good physical condition and power to be effectively used. While it offers substantial power in slow-paced shots, the sweet spot’s explosive power isn’t very focused, and the shaft’s elasticity is quite poor by today’s standards. Officially, the shaft is described as soft, but it actually feels quite stiff, making it challenging for me to use. I had to force myself to adapt over a week, and only used it in mixed doubles matches where my skill level was not very high.
Heavy means strong, and this straightforward, rough approach does offer benefits in solid feel for small ball control. The net play quality stabilizes easily, and after specific training, it can produce very close net shots.
As for downward shots, the N553 feels too wooden to me, lacking the drive sensation. When given an opportunity for a powerful smash, it feels like swinging a hammer to pound the ground—emotionless and unable to connect well with the ball. Sometimes the slow swing speed makes accuracy difficult, further forcing me to move quickly for better positioning. There might have been a couple of times when I smashed through the opponent’s defense from the back court, but those were situations where the opponent’s clear was poorly placed, and no movement was needed. Ignoring the limitations of the racket in long-term play and focusing only on its maximum potential for smashes is not a rational approach.
Surprisingly, I actually prefer using it for overhead shots. It is indeed heavy, and beginners might risk injury due to improper wrist action, but the strong downward feel of the N553 makes the shuttlecock’s placement sharp and precise, thus improving shot quality.
Handling defensive shots and flat drives is another matter. The extreme swing weight leaves me struggling, and unlike other rackets that might compensate for performance and wind resistance, the N553 relies entirely on the user’s skill.
I find it hard to use and feel that for non-collectors, there’s no need to acquire this racket due to its many limitations. Of course, it might be like “luosifen”—loved by those who appreciate it and avoided by those who don’t.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 4000B Reviews
“Good-looking exteriors are everywhere, but interesting souls are rare.” This phrase reflects a sentiment that while the latter part is undeniable, I just like beautiful things.
For many beginners selecting a racket, looks aren’t enough; it also needs to be from a reputable brand. Before improving their skills, they often rely on equipment to make a good impression. Ideally, if the racket is also easy to use, durable, and versatile, that would be perfect.
Wanting it all might seem a bit unrealistic. The result of such unrealistic expectations is often like my own experience: spending over four hundred on a low-end racket that didn’t meet expectations.
However, after a productive weekend, I think I might actually have a viable option…
Specifications:
- Weight: 3UG5
- Total Weight (used condition): 95.65g
- Balance Point: 293mm
- Shaft Length: 220mm
- Stiffness: Medium to low
- Frame: Box frame
- String Bed: 72-hole
- Wind Tunnel: 5 and 7 o’clock
- String Groove: 9-3 o’clock
- Warranty: 30 pounds
- String Tension: 26lbs Li-Ning No. 5 string
Does Li-Ning like the color red? Obviously, their logo is set against a red background, not to mention the color schemes from their first wave of N55 series. While the Wind Storm 4000B is a mid-range model, it also features a bold red design, reminiscent of the Energy 80 that many players find visually appealing. Aside from the color similarity, the racket inherits the high-quality paint Li-Ning is known for. The paint is delicate, refined, and has a metallic feel, with good durability. Apart from the golden stickers, the frame has a subtle dark pattern that you might want to appreciate up close.
The 3U weight might deter some players, but if you want a reputable brand, good looks, and a racket that’s both powerful and fast, you have to be realistic. Despite its 3U weight, the Wind Storm series is designed for control, and for the 4000B model, the 293mm balance point is very user-friendly. It feels solid in hand without being hindered by excessive swing weight. The 72-hole string bed ensures a large sweet spot. While the swing speed isn’t outstanding, the two wind tunnels provide smoothness, which is sufficient.
Try hitting a few high clears, and if you’re a male player over 14, if you don’t manage to get the shuttle to the baseline with the correct technique, consider it a loss. The response of the shuttle on the string bed isn’t extremely crisp but has a noticeable dwell time, indicating that the shaft’s stiffness is not high. However, the thick shaft suggests it shares the common issue with many Li-Ning rackets of that era: a wooden feel.
Let’s break it down: the B suffix denotes a more balanced racket in the series. Honestly, it reminds me of the feel I had with the Wind Blade 900B, though the wind resistance and swing weight aren’t particularly low, and the swing speed isn’t high. It feels quite nimble and stable for flat drives and blocks, making it suitable for mixed doubles players who can effectively pressure opponents with their backhand.
The racket’s somewhat sticky string bed also helps with close net shots and high-point smashes, making it crucial for shifting between offense and defense. After adapting to the 4000B, I found myself able to play effective low net shots and even challenge myself with high-to-low net transitions. Some players might find it a bit heavy, but in my experience, the 4000B handles defense well, allowing for effective returns and powerful smashes.
I know you like powerful smashes. Responsibly speaking, it is the most comfortable and efficient racket for smashes among all the rackets I tested on the day of the review. Compared to the Xiao Gui Zhan, it has smaller forward and backward swings; compared to the Speed 98K, it has better directional control; and compared to the NF800, it’s easier to drive. I’m not saying it’s better than the other three, but once you get it to the right height, the Wind Storm 4000B does deliver, with a solid feel and effective smashes that opponents find hard to return. The only discomfort is that the shuttle’s trajectory is flatter compared to other rackets, possibly due to its balanced design. However, adjusting to this is not impossible. The Wind Tunnel 5000 might be stronger in downward pressure, but it’s less commonly used.
Here’s a tip: after a couple of powerful smashes to intimidate your opponent, a well-executed flat high shot or drop can be even more effective.
I understand that many beginners prefer to use rackets from the big three brands even if they don’t offer the best value or quality, as the brand logo gives them confidence. If the racket also looks great, that’s a bonus. And if it performs well, that’s perfect. According to my recommendation, it’s worth the extra investment. If not, consider the 4000B and make your choice.
September 11, 2024
Badminton Racket Lining AERONAUT 9000i Reviews
I have tried flagship models from the three major brands last year, and the only one I haven’t tested is the former flagship from the ‘Red Factory’. I didn’t expect it to be the Wind Storm 9000i.
The reason I’ve been slow to write this is that I don’t know how to approach it. The ‘Red Factory’ has always been quite stubborn about 5U rackets, especially when trying to balance strong attacking power. This often results in a high balance point and the use of the best mid-shaft available at the time, which can lead to coordination issues with the racket.
Although the Wind Blade 900i provided me with a great experience, the 9000i did not.
Specifications: 5UG6, with a base, total weight in used condition is 89.91g, balance point 320mm, shaft length 210mm, medium stiffness, box frame, 72-hole string bed, full string groove, warranty 30 pounds, string tension 25-27lbs XB63.
The racket has been on the market for a year, and with the overwhelming negative reviews calling it a “hammer,” the 9000i increasingly feels like Lei Zhenzi’s two hammers. Its black base paint and cyan-purple stickers have become the 9000i’s hallmark. As a flagship model, it features many details, including frame edge embellishments, inner frame decorations, a matte finish, gold lettering, and a bright red Li-Ning logo on the T-joint, adding a touch of mysterious prestige. It looks good and is memorable, a strong suit of the ‘Red Factory’. But believe me, the more stickers it has, the more prone it is to defects.
While many criticize this head-heavy 5U racket setup as overly stubborn, I find it not surprising after using rackets like the 900i, Dragon Tooth, and VTFB. The slightly stiffer shaft and head-heavy feel provide a noticeable power assist, with a “solid” hitting feedback, making it somewhat powerful. Under this setup, the shaft-driven feel is noticeable, and the elasticity is apparent. For high clear shots, many players might adapt to it.
The key issue is how much this setup enhances attacking power and how well it balances swing speed and maneuverability.
Regarding the latter, the oversized swing weight requires more space for the swinging action, making it disadvantageous in fast exchanges, especially in doubles where quick blocking is needed. I don’t know how Yuta Watanabe managed to achieve results with the 9000i. Despite its light weight and the rear swing speed not being slow, it often results in frame hits when reacting quickly or intercepting shots. Additionally, during the swing, the 9000i feels like it “can’t stop” during the deceleration phase, with noticeable frame wobbling affecting continuity. Fortunately, the 210mm long handle can help alleviate this issue by raising the grip position.
Regarding the former, the racket has excellent downward pressure. When hitting from a high point, you can clearly feel the frame smashing the shuttle down, creating a low and sharp trajectory. This results in impressive performance in drop shots and cuts, even without focusing on absolute shuttle speed. However, the lightweight design doesn’t easily compensate for the high-weight frame, and in strong attacks, there’s a feeling of insufficient energy transfer to break through the opponent’s defense. But maintaining pressure with the 9000i requires less effort to achieve effective control, which is convenient and energy-efficient, as long as patience is maintained.
The racket excels in touch and control. Its weight within the 5U range provides a solid feel, surpassing many 4U rackets, and its handling allows for very stable net play. Backcourt lifts and slices continue the excellent downward pressure performance, offering high forgiveness and often producing high-quality net shots. As for passive shot handling and defense, while this racket is extreme, it performs adequately in these areas, neither exceptionally good nor bad.
The prevalence of counterfeit versions of this racket makes me hesitant to recommend it. For players interested in the 9000i, there is a high risk. Personally, I find the Wind Storm 9000 much more usable. As mentioned earlier, any feature of the 9000i is also available in the 9000. I don’t understand why this 5U racket has to handle tasks that a 3U racket can naturally manage, and whether players who struggle with a 3U racket can fully utilize the performance of this 5U racket.
September 11, 2024