Do not blindly follow trends; there is no “best” badminton racket, only the one that suits you best.
For beginners, whose skills are not yet fully developed, it is recommended to purchase affordable entry-level rackets. These rackets are usually made of full carbon material, with moderate weight and a balance between offense and defense, meeting the needs of most beginners.
Today, we will recommend 6 high-value, entry-level badminton rackets:
1.Li-Ning | Raid 1: A classic entry-level racket for beginners who prefer offensive play
The Raid 1 is an ideal beginner racket, designed to accommodate the technical characteristics of novice players. With a flexible shaft, it supports an all-around offensive style. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, featuring high-quality carbon fiber for added rigidity. The Wing Stabilizer System ensures precise control by minimizing racket frame vibrations, making it an excellent choice for new players.
The Li-Ning WS79 is an entry-level racket in the ultra-light series. As the name suggests, it emphasizes lightness, using high-strength carbon fiber. Its lightweight nature makes it easy for beginners to manage both offensive and defensive moves. The racket also has an optimized frame with a large sweet spot, making it very beginner-friendly.
The TK-HMR is another cost-effective racket suited for beginners. It features a box-shaped frame designed using aerodynamic principles, blending stability and torsional resistance. With a flexible shaft, it balances power and speed, and can handle high string tension for enhanced power shots.
4.Victor | ARS-9 Speed: All-carbon material, ideal for beginners
This ARS-9 Speed racket incorporates multiple advantages with a composite sword frame structure that improves stability while maintaining speed. Its carbon fiber frame and shaft make it light, elastic, and versatile for both attack and defense. This speed-oriented racket is recommended for beginners who want to enhance their speed.
5.Yonex | NF-170LTEX Black/Blue: New fluid frame, powerful smashes
The NF-170LT series features a new fluid frame that compresses and rebounds instantly, significantly improving swing speed and operability. This head-light racket combines power and speed, making it a perfect choice for beginners. It is a 5U ultra-light racket with a flexible shaft, delivering quick and smooth strokes.
Part of the Flash Boost series, the NF-8SGE features a one-piece T-joint design that enhances racket stability and power. The lightweight carbon shaft provides a soft, responsive feel, making it easy for beginners to execute powerful smashes. This racket is recommended for novice players who want a speed-oriented racket with excellent control.
Offensive Racket: Characterized by a heavier head, allowing for faster smashes.
Balanced Racket: Combines both defense and offense, with a balance between the weight of the handle and the head.
Defensive Racket: Focuses on defense, with a generally heavier handle compared to the head, which helps to speed up reaction and swinging.
Balance Point:
Generally around 285mm.
A balance point ≤ 285mm is considered a defensive racket.
A balance point ≥ 285mm is considered an offensive racket.
A balance point of = 285mm is considered a balanced racket. Beginners are usually recommended to choose balanced rackets.
On the handle or shaft of the racket, there are generally some letters and numbers.
G + Number: Indicates the thickness of the handle, usually ranging from G2 to G5. A higher number means a thinner handle. Beginners are advised to choose a thinner handle for better power in quick swings. A thicker handle may cause the racket to slip out of the hand.
Number + U: Indicates the weight of the racket. Common weights are 3U, 4U, with some being 2U, 5U, 6U. A higher number indicates a lighter racket. For example:
3U: 85-89 grams
4U: 80-84 grams
5U: Even lighter Players with good grip and strength can choose 3U to better utilize their advantages. For those with less strength, 4U or 5U is recommended for better swing feel.
Number + LBS (Pounds): Indicates the maximum tension the racket can withstand. High-quality rackets can handle up to 30 lbs or more, while most are around 28 lbs. Beginners should not focus on high tension, as medium to low tension (below 23 lbs) is sufficient. Higher tension provides better control but less bounce, making it harder for beginners. Professionals often use higher tension, but for beginners, 22/23/24 lbs is advisable. Higher tension results in tighter stringing and less elasticity, making control more difficult for beginners.
Top 10 Recommended Rackets for Beginners
1.Victor Challenger 9500D (Offensive Type)
The Victor Challenger 9500D, a top choice for beginners, is one of the most popular entry-level badminton rackets with a solid reputation. The latest upgrade, the CHA-9500 D/S, offers faster swing and hitting speed, a more attractive design, and a thinner frame with reduced wind resistance.
This racket is made of full carbon material, making it lightweight with excellent strength, durability, and elasticity. Despite its carbon fiber construction, it remains affordable. Carbon fiber comes in three grades: standard, high stiffness, and ultra-high stiffness. The Challenger 9500D provides great value for its price range, making it an ideal recommendation for beginners.
Summary: This racket is lightweight and easy to use. With a relatively soft shaft, it allows for easier play and more power from the racket’s rebound effect. A softer shaft offers greater deformation, aiding in a more effortless hit, whereas a harder shaft provides less deformation and faster shuttlecock speed, suited for players with more power and explosiveness.
2.Yonex NR7000I (Balanced Type)
The Yonex NR7000I is an excellent choice for beginners, known for its lightweight and good stability, along with fast speed. This racket offers high maneuverability and elasticity, despite its relatively stiff shaft. Beginners may initially find it challenging to control the shuttlecock’s direction, but the racket provides a good feel for net shots and quick reactions. Once accustomed, it enhances defensive play due to its structure and lightweight design, allowing for better anticipation of incoming shots and effective net play.
Summary: This racket has a good feel with excellent shaft elasticity. The 3U weight makes it very flexible, making smashes and clears effortless. Although the smash power might be slightly less due to the inability to fully leverage the racket head, the excellent shaft elasticity compensates for this, and it performs well at medium to high string tensions.
3.Victor Hammer TK-HMR-M (Attack Type)
The Victor Hammer TK-HMR-M is an offensive series racket with a length of 675mm, designed for high-tension attack play. It features a box-shaped structure that enhances stability and torsion resistance during hits, and it can handle higher string tensions. The power groove design stores force during the swing and amplifies it upon impact, creating greater destructive power, earning it the nickname “Assault Hammer.” The strengthened layered system improves the frame’s rigidity and supports higher tension, providing increased power.
Summary: This racket is very lightweight, making it an excellent choice for beginners, especially for women. It offers great value for its price, with excellent craftsmanship, a refined feel, and attractive appearance. In terms of performance, the racket’s stiffer shaft and heavier head are suited for offensive play, with minimal vibration upon impact and effective cushioning, making it very easy to use. It is a highly recommended entry-level racket.
4.Li-Ning HC1100 (Balanced Type)
The Li-Ning HC1100 is an excellent choice for beginners. It features rebound elasticity and torsion angles that ensure high elasticity of the racket. Even if the impact point is off-center, the rebound elasticity and torsion technology help produce high-quality returns. The frame is mechanically optimized to increase the sweet spot area and extend its position upward, creating a more efficient defensive system. The optimized frame improves the effective defensive area and enhances the rebound power as the string bed area expands, thus increasing ball speed.
Summary: This racket has balanced performance with a high aesthetic appeal. Its relatively soft shaft allows for easy leverage and effortless swings, making it user-friendly. It is suitable for beginners focusing on control and defense, particularly female players. However, it may not be ideal for those who prefer an aggressive playing style.
5.YONEX CAB8000N (Offensive Type)
The YONEX CARBONEX 8000N features high-elasticity carbon fiber and carbon nanotubes to reduce the racket’s weight. The square frame design creates a stable frame structure, effectively improving the racket’s stability, ensuring precise and powerful shots. The arched string groove system supports the racket on a curved surface, reducing reaction forces at contact points and minimizing string fatigue. Its one-piece construction ensures structural stability, resistance to deformation, and good shock absorption, resulting in accurate control.
Summary: This racket is lightweight and user-friendly, with good craftsmanship, making it a classic choice for beginners.
6.Li-Ning Speed 3000 (Balanced Type)
The Li-Ning Speed 3000 is a balanced offensive and defensive racket with a soft and elastic shaft, a large head, and a low balance point. Its thin shaft makes it extremely comfortable to play with. This racket offers comprehensive performance, suitable for both singles and doubles, and is durable and easy to handle, making it ideal for beginners. Due to its soft shaft, it provides a feeling of reduced force on smashes and is more suited for control rather than aggressive play.
Summary: This racket is great for beginners, with attractive colors that appeal to those who care about aesthetics. It has a large sweet spot and high tolerance, making it easy for newcomers to use.
7.Yonex AEROSMASH AXSM (Offensive Type)
The Yonex AEROSMASH AXSM is made with carbon fiber for a resilient handle, designed as an offensive racket with a heavier head and a soft shaft. It is suitable for players with less power who need help with smashes but may not be ideal for powerful players, as it may not deliver sufficient force for strong smashes. The racket is lightweight, allowing for fast swings and advantageous net play, making it suitable for front-court play in doubles. However, its performance in the back-court is weaker, requiring more effort for high clears.
Summary: The AEROSMASH AXSM is lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for beginners, particularly women and players with less power. Its soft shaft makes it user-friendly for newcomers, and it has an appealing design.
8.Kawasaki KD-1 (Balanced Type)
The Kawasaki KD-1 features mainstream carbon material with high strength, offering a balance of offense and defense. The racket uses high-rigidity carbon fiber for the frame and shaft, enhancing the power and explosiveness during shots.
With a frame length of approximately 675mm and a weight ranging from 95 to 200g, the KD-1 is lightweight and portable. It employs a grooved frame to reduce air resistance and protect the strings. The carbon shaft provides a comfortable grip, increasing shot power and smash speed, while the T-joint enhances stability during hits.
The Kawasaki KD-1 features a high-strength carbon material, offering a balanced performance suitable for both offense and defense. The KD-1’s frame and shaft use high-stiffness carbon fiber,
With a frame length of approximately 675mm and a weight ranging from 95-200g, it is lightweight and portable. The racket features a grooved frame to reduce air resistance and protect the strings. The carbon shaft provides a comfortable grip and improves hitting power and smash speed, while the T-joint design enhances stability.
Summary: The Kawasaki KD-1 is a best-selling racket in the market, known for its affordability and comfort. It is ideal for casual play in community or park settings, making it suitable for family entertainment and relaxation.
Here is the summary of the top recommended badminton rackets for beginners. Finally, for newcomers, it is advised to choose rackets made of carbon fiber or carbon composites. These rackets are lightweight, strong, and durable. It is important not to blindly pursue expensive options but to select a racket that meets your personal feel and preferences.
Badminton rackets can be categorized into three main types: offensive, speed, and all-around. They can also be further divided by skill level into entry-level, intermediate, and professional rackets. How to choose a badminton racket? This article will introduce the characteristics of the three main types of rackets, provide selection suggestions for different skill levels, and include performance analyses of various racket models from major brands such as Yonex, Victor, Li-Ning, Xunfeng, and Bole, catering to the needs of players at different stages and playing styles!
Characteristics of the Three Types of Badminton Rackets:
1.Speed Rackets
Characteristics: Pursues a fast and crisp feel, with a relatively low balance point, moderate or lightweight swing weight, and a low wind resistance frame design.
Suitable For: Doubles players and singles players who prioritize speed.
2.All-Around Rackets
Characteristics: Moderate balance point and swing weight, seeking overall performance, suitable for various playing styles.
Suitable For: Players with well-rounded skills and balanced attack and defense.
3.Offensive Rackets
Characteristics: Typically has a certain swing weight, balance point closer to the racket head, and a stiffer shaft, providing more power to help players attack opponents faster.
Suitable For: Players focusing on powerful attacks, such as offensive singles players.
Suggestions for Choosing Badminton Rackets by Skill Level
1.Entry-Level Stage
Beginners should focus on the ease of use and comfort of the racket.
Recommendation: Choose lightweight rackets for better control.
Opt for rackets with a moderate shaft stiffness to provide good feel and comfort.
Material: Choose full carbon fiber or carbon composite rackets for lightweight and durability.Tension: Opt for low to medium tension (20-23 lbs) suitable for beginners.
2.Intermediate Stage
As skills improve, intermediate players will have higher demands on racket performance and technical parameters.
Recommendation: Select a racket type based on personal playing style, with a medium weight (such as 3U/4U grade) to ensure power transmission and ease of handling. Intermediate players might choose a softer shaft for defensive play or a harder shaft for offensive play. Tension: Medium (23-25 lbs) or medium-high tension (25-27 lbs) for optimal performance.
3.Professional Stage
Professional players have high demands for racket performance and quality, often requiring custom or professional-level rackets.
Recommendation: Choose professional-level rackets from well-known brands based on personal technical characteristics and competition needs. Tension: High tension (28 lbs and above) to meet the demands of professional matches.
The RSL NO.5 is a popular choice among amateur clubs and badminton enthusiasts. It uses high-quality duck feathers, offering stable flight, good durability, and consistent performance.
The GD1 is a classic model from Victor and is recommended by clubs. It uses full round feathers from wild ducks, offering stable flight, precise landing, and a soft hitting feel.
The RSL No.4 is designed for amateur competitions. It uses full round feathers from high-quality ducks, with thick feathers and sturdy quills. It offers stable flight, a soft and crisp hitting feel, and easy control.
The RSL No.7 is used for training in amateur clubs. It features small square feathers from high-quality ducks, with a clean white appearance. It offers excellent durability, a crisp hitting feel, and stable flight.
The Yonex AS-05 is used for small competitions or high-end clubs. It uses full round feathers from high-quality ducks, with uniform shape and high density, providing superior flight stability and durability.
The Yonex AS-9 is a top choice for advanced training, known as the “King of Durability.” It uses middle square feathers from geese, offering high hardness, good elasticity, exceptional durability, even feathers, and straight quills, with accurate landing.
The Yonex AS-03 is used for advanced training. It features large square feathers from high-quality ducks, with thick, soft, and elastic feathers, offering better durability and strong flight stability.
The Victor Gold No. 5 is used for club training. It features large square feathers from wild ducks, offering high cost-performance, stable flight, a soft hitting feel, and good durability with thick quills.
The Victor Gold No. 3 is used for amateur training. It features large camel feathers from wild ducks, with a unique 15-feather design that reduces the weight of the upper part of the shuttlecock, improving its flight dynamics and durability, less affected by weather conditions.
The Red Wecan offers high cost-performance for competition and training. It uses large square feathers from wild ducks, providing good flight stability, high durability, and excellent hitting feel at a reasonable price.
Top 10 Popular Professional Badminton Shoes (Mid-2024)
Yonex Badminton Shoes SHB101CR
A top-selling entry-level badminton shoe from Yonex, an upgrade from the SHB100CR. Features include a power cushion design in the heel, improved torsion resistance, breathability, anti-slip properties, and lightweight cushioning.
Victor Badminton Shoes P9200TD
A leading model in Victor’s mid-range badminton shoe lineup. Made with PU synthetic leather and breathable mesh, it features an EVA midsole, ENERGYMAX cushioning, nylon stability plate, and rubber outsole for enhanced grip. The wide fit suits most foot shapes.
Yonex Badminton Shoes 65Z3 (3rd Generation)
This flagship model features radial fin outsole for enhanced slip resistance. Offers excellent grip, fit, cushioning, and rebound with a wide fit for added comfort.
Victor Badminton Shoes A311
Designed with PU synthetic leather and breathable mesh for better ventilation. Includes an EVA midsole, ENERGYMAX cushioning, nylon stability plate, and rubber outsole. The one-piece strong fabric increases overall support.
Yonex Badminton Shoes SHB520WCR
Features 3D Power Cushion technology with ultra-light midsole cushioning. Offers breathability, anti-slip, and durability with excellent shock absorption and rebound. TPU support on the sides enhances slip resistance and torsion control.
Yonex Badminton Shoes 65Z3 Lightweight Comprehensive Model
Equipped with a new radial blade outsole for improved grip and ultra-light midsole cushioning. Provides lightweight, cushioning, and high propulsion, with a seamless upper for a snug fit and “barely-there” feel.
Yonex Badminton Shoes 65Z3 (3rd Generation)
The seamless upper design has been further expanded for a better fit, reducing pressure and providing a softer feel. Upgraded anti-torsion design on both sides enhances stability and quick starts.
Victor Badminton Shoes P8500TD (Wide Fit 3.0)
An entry-level version of the P8500 series, featuring 3.0 energy foam for improved rebound and cushioning. Includes additional stability features in the arch to enhance shoe stability and torsion resistance.
Yonex Badminton Shoes SHBCFZ3
The third generation of Lin Dan’s signature CFZ wide-fit shoes. Equipped with Yonex’s unique “Power Cushion+” for impact absorption and high rebound. The thicker heel offers better shock absorption and converts high-impact absorption into propulsion, supporting quick movements on the court.
Victor Badminton Shoes A170II U3.0 (Wide Fit)
Features lightweight EVA with nylon stability plate for secure and stable performance. ENERGYMAX cushioning provides stable support and effective shock absorption. The mesh lining enhances the fit and comfort of the shoe.
What badminton rackets are suitable for students? Which badminton racket brands are good? How to choose a badminton racket for high school students? Here are ten entry-level badminton rackets suitable for students, offering high cost-performance, ease of use, affordability, and suitability for teenagers and children alike.
Ten Entry-Level Badminton Rackets Suitable for Students
Kumpoo Badminton Racket K520
Made of full carbon fiber material, it is lightweight and agile, suitable for both offense and defense. Using carbon fiber commonly applied in military and aerospace industries, it combines lightness with a good feel, making it ideal for beginners and amateurs.
Victor Badminton Racket 9500
A classic entry-level racket from Victor, known for its high cost-performance ratio. It is well-balanced for both offense and defense, with precise drop shots and smooth flat drives. Easy to handle, perfect for beginners using drop and clear techniques!
Lining Badminton Racket BLADEX Xiaoxuanfeng
Made from full carbon fiber, this ultra-lightweight design offers a smooth and effortless feel when swinging, reducing strain on the hand while improving control. The racket also features a sound-enhancing system for a sharper hitting feel and crisper sound as the shuttle speeds up.
YONEX Junior Badminton Racket 21MP2JRGC
This pre-strung racket is designed specifically for children by the renowned YONEX brand. It is lightweight with a short handle, making it easy to control and swing, ensuring kids will love using it.
Lining Badminton Racket AXFORCEJR
Designed for young beginners under 18 who prefer an attacking style of play, this racket delivers a solid hitting feel with fast shuttle speed and a crisp sound upon impact.
Lining Badminton Racket AYPT307
Also known as “Little Thunder 80,” this high-performance racket is tailored for beginners. With a 4U weight and 32-pound string tension, it meets the needs of attacking players seeking an entry-level racket. It delivers fast strikes and powerful clears, priced around 200 RMB, offering great value for aggressive beginners!
YONEX Badminton Racket ARC11PLAY
This racket is highly beginner-friendly, offering excellent torsion resistance, elasticity, and stability. It is well-balanced for both offense and defense, making it a new-generation entry-level racket for precise control. Ideal for players on a budget who still seek excellent ball control and feel.
Victor Badminton Racket TK-HMRL
With a lightweight design, it provides an easy and light hitting feel. The overall racket is easy to handle and offers high cost-performance, suitable for beginners or players with less power who are looking for a lightweight, attack-oriented racket with good value.
Victor Badminton Racket TK-HMRU
A full carbon fiber racket with a matte finish, a stiff shaft, and a slightly heavier head. This design helps players generate power on clears and leverage the weight for better smashes. The racket frame includes a reinforced layering system and power groove technology, making it resistant to high tension and suitable for beginners who enjoy aggressive play and powerful smashes.
Victor Badminton Racket ARS9
Highly recommended for beginners, offering smooth clears and drop shots. The shaft is relatively flexible, providing a comfortable feel with a balanced attack and defense. This racket is easy to handle and swing, ideal for players who rely more on technique than power.
What are the badminton shuttlecock brands? Which brand of shuttlecock is durable, affordable, and good to use? What are the most popular badminton shuttlecock brands? Top 10 badminton shuttlecock brands! Top 10 recognized strongest badminton shuttlecocks! Badminton shuttlecock sales rankings!
Here is a summary of the top 10 badminton shuttlecock sales rankings for August! If you are unsure about which shuttlecock to choose, please refer to this badminton purchasing guide.
Top 1 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: RSL Shuttlecock No. 5
Top 2 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Victor Shuttlecock GD1 Golden No. 1 / Beijing Special Edition
Top 3 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Victor Shuttlecock CHAMPION NO.3 CP3
Top 4 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: RSL Shuttlecock No. 7
Top 5 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Victor Shuttlecock GD5 Golden No. 5
Top 6 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Okalin Wejian Shuttlecock AC-4
Top 7 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Okalin Wejian Shuttlecock AC-5
Top 8 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: RSL Shuttlecock No. 4
Top 9 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Lingmei Shuttlecock L-201 Duck Feather Straightened
Top 10 Badminton Shuttlecock of 2024: Yonex Shuttlecock AS-9
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.
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.
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.
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.
After nearly 20 days of intense competition, the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, held in Paris, have come to a successful conclusion. Badminton enthusiasts must have enjoyed an exciting badminton feast during this Olympic event.
With decisive smashes and clever net play, you might be curious about the gear used by these Olympic athletes. Without further ado, let’s review the most frequently used badminton equipment by players at the Paris Olympics.
1.YONEX Astrox 100ZZ
This racket was used by the men’s singles champion Viktor Axelsen, the women’s doubles champion Chen Qingchen, and also by Chinese men’s singles players Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng.
In real life, many badminton enthusiasts who pursue big brands and star-endorsed equipment are often fixated on the Astrox 100ZZ, even if they struggle to handle it.
The 100ZZ is the most advanced (and also the most expensive) model in the Astrox series, and true to its name, it is the most unconventional racket in the series. With a solid ultra-thin shaft design, it claims to have excellent elasticity, but not everyone can manage it. The combination of a stiffer shaft, a high balance point of 305, and a small frame design makes the 100ZZ particularly demanding for its users. The stiff solid shaft requires significant power and skill to handle defensive shots, while the small frame design makes it more challenging to hit the sweet spot, resulting in a more rigid and dull feel when the sweet spot is missed. This makes it difficult to use and requires a long adaptation period.
In summary, the 100ZZ has a high learning curve and is not necessarily recommended for beginners who are unsure. However, its impressive rear-court performance and the remarkable elasticity provided by its shaft technology are significant highlights of the 100ZZ. If you are an advanced player who loves singles and has mastered your power, the 100ZZ is worth recommending.
2.YONEX Astrox 77 PRO
At the current Olympics, the Astrox 77 PRO was used by women’s singles champion An Seyoung, mixed doubles champion Huang Yaqiong, and China’s women’s singles player Chen Yufei. The Astrox 77 PRO is frequently seen among female athletes and is indeed a racket that is very suitable for female players.
The offensive attribute is undoubtedly the most mainstream design concept of the Astrox series, but compared to other models in the family, the Astrox 77 PRO has a relatively lower overall offensive threshold and is even considered one of the more user-friendly options.
With its moderate shaft stiffness and soft hitting feedback, the Astrox 77 PRO significantly lowers the barrier to use. While it may lack a bit of power for aggressive players, it is an excellent choice for enthusiasts with basic skills or beginners who have already mastered racket positioning and power. For seasoned players, the 77 PRO can also serve as a versatile and smooth “tool for casual play.”
3.YONEX Astrox 88D/SPRO 3RD
The YONEX Astrox 88 series was first launched with great fanfare in 2018, quickly becoming one of the most popular models both in international and amateur competitions, as well as at test events and exclusive stores. At this year’s Olympics, many top international players were seen using this model. For example, the powerful Thai player Kunlavut and our women’s singles player He Bing Jiao both used the third generation of the Astrox 88 series.
The third-generation ASTROX 88 S/D introduces new technology and enhances the highly praised rotational force generation system of the Astrox series. It features added weight at the top of the frame, known as the “Assistive Link,” designed to improve the transfer of power to the shuttlecock. This results in quicker deformation and rebound, enabling more seamless attacks.
The 88SPRO and 88DPRO are often referred to as “the front leaning towards the sky and the back slaying the dragon,” meaning the ASTROX 88 S provides decisive front-court attacks, while the ASTROX 88 D excels at breaking defenses with its back-court power.
The overall swing weight and driving difficulty of the 88SP are not very high. Compared to other models in the Astrox series, it offers better consistency. The enlarged frame design provides high tolerance in the mid and front-court, making it suitable for male players with less power who are keen on attacking, as well as most female players with a certain level of strength.
The third-generation 88DPRO, although it has a slightly reduced head-heavy feel compared to its predecessor, shows a noticeable improvement in the hardness and responsiveness of the shaft. Thanks to the new configuration on the sides of the frame and the use of advanced carbon materials, the 88DPRO offers enhanced overall stability and downward pressure, making its performance in attacks still very impressive.
However, with the improved offensive capability, the difficulty of handling the racket has also increased. The reduced frame size inevitably leads to a lower tolerance for off-center hits, making it more suitable for players with a certain level of strength and skill.
4.YONEX NANOFLARE 1000Z
Aside from the 100ZZ, the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000Z also saw significant usage during the Olympics. Notable players such as Malaysia’s mixed doubles star, Chan Peng Soon, and Spain’s former women’s singles champion, Carolina Marin, have both used this racket. YONEX’s rackets with the letter “Z” in their name are known for their high performance, and the 1000Z is YONEX’s flagship speed racket.
As the top-tier racket in the NF series, the NF1000Z uses advanced materials to enhance its performance. The 1000Z incorporates “Torayca M40X” carbon fiber in the lower part of the frame, significantly improving stability and control. The addition of EX-HMG high-elasticity carbon fiber and dense nano-carbon DR further enhances the racket’s solid hitting feel while delivering faster shuttlecock speeds.
As YONEX’s flagship speed racket promoted extensively in 2023, the 1000Z undoubtedly represents the top of the JETSPEED family. Although its ability to deliver decisive shots remains a common challenge for speed-oriented rackets, its stiffer frame and impressive downward pressure make it more threatening in terms of shot placement. It is particularly well-suited for doubles players with a solid foundation in power, accurate shot placement, and a focus on dynamic, fast-paced play in the mid-court and front court.
5.YONEX NANOFLARE 800PRO
Building on the already well-regarded NF800, the PRO version of this racket delivers a high-scoring answer to speed racket demands. At the Paris Olympics, popular men’s doubles players Wang Chang/Liang Weikeng and renowned Japanese player Chiharu Shida were seen using the NF800PRO.
The inherently lightweight head of the JETSPEED 800PRO, combined with excellent shaft torsion resistance, makes it outstanding in flat drives and blocking. Its strong continuous pressure and fast, cohesive speed allow the 800PRO to perform well even in high-level competition. However, as with many speed rackets, it struggles to deliver a decisive attacking blow. The 800PRO is better suited for players who favor a quick and fluid style of play. The 3U model is recommended for male players with some experience and strength, while the 4U model is more suitable for female players with less power.
I remember the first time I contacted badminton, my family brought me this Razor 10, at that time I have no concept, only heard others say that this brand is very good, but also as a treasure like cherish, but with the passage of time, with more and more, more and more good racket, this racket will naturally be quietly abandoned in the corner. Luckily, thanks to the protection, the racket is still in mint condition, so it’s time to regain the “original sharpness”.
As usual, let’s look at the equipment parameters first: 4UG4, length 675mm, center bar 210mm. Weight after removing the three layers of film on the sole is about 90g, balance point is about 307mm. Wind breaker frame, 72-hole line bed, 24lbs warranty. Line 23lbs YONEX AB, hand rubber soft flash large disk
I have this is the blue model, the paint as a whole gives a fresh and not lose the feeling of detail, the frame of the blue and white two-color transition is very good, and symmetrical pattern design can still be pleasing to the eye. Racket paint I think can still play, and the paint seems to be quite durable? Anyway, I have been in the hands of so long, the racket basically did not fall off the paint ……
The weight of the racket is not too heavy, so I can’t feel any head weight, but the swing speed is good, up to the level of a speed racket. Sugar is reflected, iso frame in this racket can feel the big sweet spot. The racket has more dexterity in handling small balls in front of the net, and the flat draw is quite consistent. This allowed me to hit good small ball handling in the game that day.
However, due to the positioning of the racket, the mid-range feel was soft, and the downward pressure was not strong enough to kill the ball, which made the performance a bit incompetent. When returning the ball, you need to have a certain amount of power to return the ball to the backcourt. Maybe it would be good to play the role of a “net wiper” in doubles? The good cable makes up for some of the shortcomings of the racket.
I think the passive ball handling is still passable, but still the same problem – a little weak, return, pick up a little directional but always appear the position of the front of the problem, you need a certain level of power to use this racket well. But overall it was a good “re-experience”. One more thing, the handle of the G4 is still a bit thick for me!
This is a racquet that was used along with the last installment of bowlite, and the good and the bad tend to come from comparisons. One thing’s for sure, although I got this used for its value, I’ve always been impressed with the NR series, even the NRSP which I couldn’t get right, so it was interesting to see how the lower-end models, other than the NRD1, fared. And the summary after the trial is also in line with my judgment, the NR series is quite good.
Parameters: 4UG5, bottomed, total weight in used condition 91.99g, balance point 293mm, center bar length 213mm, medium-low stiffness, boxed racket frame, 76-hole string bed, 9-3 point string groove, 24lb warranty, threaded 24lbs training string. Pink in color, 80 points bottom, I’d say. Examining its details, the head of the racket to points 4 and 8 is covered in a conspicuous bright red color, with a section of black and gold transitioning before picking up the pink primed tee and center bar, and then transitioning to the black cone cover. The look is sweet even without any stickers, and immediately reminds me of ripe strawberries, or strawberry-flavored snacks such as Rakuten Beardies and strawberry-flavored Planet Cups.
Also highly recognizable is the special shape of the cone cap, which has a deep fish mouth and a ring around the edge that may be used for shock absorption or to strengthen the bond, reminding me of the NS6600, which was once a bow. nanoscience now.
Not to mention, this gain will be more obvious than the nanoscience, under the premise of the racket line is not so pull crotch, the DA’s strike feedback is obviously much clearer than the lite, the middle of the pole can produce a sense of drive in the high long ball, and the racket face is also large enough sweet spot, back to some of the long line of the ball out of the hand more feeling and more confident.
This frame can not be said to break the wind, but the original ZSP can not be said to be much wind, let’s just use it, as a 4U specification of the entry racket, its swing speed or coherent sense of power is not so outstanding, many times in the center of the forecourt initiated by the draw file can form a hold but can not take advantage of the often still have to be a soft block in the middle to break the game. However, the racquet is also more obedient, in the passive getaway performance is also quite good, short power feel is better to find, and there is no bad temperament, will let me have a sense of use.
And its kill performance is also in the middle of the class, backcourt heavy power hitting feeling is not much but there is, the rebound performance of the center stick is improved than the lite, so the feel of the downward pressure when the hands can provide more confidence. While neither is a great offensive performer, it’s nice to be able to hit consistency and blitz. The racquet also has a little bit of torsional strength, and the pointing in the downswing is still relatively clear, so the occasional diagonal shot can be as effective as you’d expect.
It would be a bit of a sham to write too much about a low-end racquet, and the current length is quite appropriate. I was a bit surprised to learn that the DA is available in some supermarkets, as is the lite, which makes it a bit more of a high end product.
The originator of the NR series, and also the former racket of the wife of the Chinese Badminton Club, is the NR700, or to be more precise, the RP, which is the version that was launched earlier than the FX. Generally speaking, the first series of high-end racket are more or less faulty, mainly due to the market’s acceptance of new technologies and new ideas and manufacturers of new concepts of product understanding there is a slow elevation of the process. rp this racket did not get a relatively high level of recognition. However, Aerotus author have played over, NR700 era of production will only be better.
Parameters: 3UG5, de-bottomed, total weight of 86.5g in use condition, balance point 304mm, center shaft length 214mm, medium stiffness, wind-breaking frame, 76-hole string bed, 9-3 point string groove, warranty 25lbs, stringing 24-25lbs BS720. Compared to the NR750, 800, 900 and even ZSP of the latter Jinn, the RP is rather ordinary in appearance. The outside of the racket frame is a dark brown color similar to herbal tonics, while the inside is predominantly bronze with some bright yellow decals added. The perception is relatively flat, the sense of hierarchy is not obvious. The author’s hands came to the new shoot, but the strength of the paint seems to be not as good as it should be, the sticker is easier to be scratched, and the visual experience is mediocre.
This 2011 racket has a very typical speed racket feel, with a low swingweight and high windbreak efficiency, and a sharp sound effect on short power shots. The frame is narrower and the face is larger, but the sweet spot is also larger, making it easy to find the right spot when hitting the ball, and the feel of the power is clear. With the latest Fullerene material, the middle of the shaft is still flexible, the same level as NR750, and at least it won’t fall out of gear when you use it nowadays. The racquet is moderately easy to get started with, with a clear drive feel, and the low swingweight means that the physical exertion is relatively low when using it for long periods of time. The only thing that needs to be examined later on is whether or not this racquet, which emphasizes more on the active power, will cause the quality of shots to slip after the energy and physicality have dropped off.
Looking at the professional players who have used RP, both singles and doubles players, rich women and bullfrogs who play in a masculine style, and strong women and Nasir who are strong in front of the net, it seems that there is no indication of the underlying tendency of the racquet. It’s also true that the 700RP is more of a balanced racquet with a high swing speed than a speedy racquet, even though it’s called the NR speed racquet. There is a ball-holding feeling on the racket face, not much different from the NR750, which produces a more stable performance in small-ball control. Near the net, although the rubbing hand feeling is much lighter, once let me feel the heart is not bottom, but from the effect of the shot, the quality of the return is quite controllable.
For long distance push-pick, flat and high pressure shots, it still produces a certain sense of distrust after the shot. It’s not that the NR700RP is not good, but it’s always a mistake to hit the ball out of the way. In fact, it still has a good sense of speed on the ball, which can be adapted by golfers who like this kind of lightweight feel. But if you analyze it from a consistency standpoint, that’s saying a lot. In terms of head weight, the NR700 is a bit higher than the 750, so you can use the inertia of the racket head to drive the ball a bit more in short bursts. If the 750 is purely consistent and fast, then the 700 splits a little bit of that flair into the power of the ball, making for a little bit more confrontational play.
When it comes to offense, I have to admit that the NR700 still has some reservations about explosiveness. Subjectively, the feel of the ball can’t be helped, after all, the balance point is only 290mm, but the elasticity of the center stick and the racket face will transfer all the energy to the head as long as possible during the killing process, so its heavy kills are quite fast in terms of the speed of the ball, but it’s still in the state of being easy to be picked up on the top of the ball. Can’t say it’s great, but this performance is a surprise relative to its stature. It’s similar to the NR750 in that it’s not as stable as the NR750, but still has a lot to offer against it.
