Feather vs. Nylon Shuttlecocks: Which One Should You Choose?

Are you gearing up for badminton, but can’t decide between feather vs. nylon shuttlecocks? Whether you’re after better performance or more durability, each option has its own pros and cons.

Here’s what you need to know about feather vs. nylon shuttlecocks, complete with some top recommendations to help you get the most bang for your buck.

A Quick Rundown on Shuttlecocks

A shuttlecock (also called a shuttle or birdy) is an aerodynamic object used to play badminton. It’s lightweight and fast — with speeds reaching a whopping 306 miles (or 493 km) per hour. 

A shuttle’s material is one major factor that impacts its speed and durability. Feather shuttles tend to be less durable with better performance, while nylon shuttles can last longer but might not fly with as much speed. 

Ultimately, you can find high-quality versions of both — as long as you know what to look for. The manufacturer and design play a big role in performance, so it’s always a good idea to read reviews before you settle on any particular brand.

Pros and Cons of Nylon Shuttlecocks

Nylon shuttles are most commonly used in schools, casual badminton matches, and small badminton clubs. The main pros of using a nylon shuttle include:

• Its durability. A well-made plastic or nylon shuttle can withstand a lot of force. And compared to feather birdies, it’s less likely to break after a game or two.
• Its cost: Plastic and nylon are typically more affordable than goose and duck feathers.

But what about the downsides? Plastic shuttles:

• Are slower with a less consistent flight path. Even with improvements in design, nylon shuttles still aren’t quite as fast or aerodynamic as feather shuttles.
• Can warp more at higher speeds. Interestingly, a 2010 study found that synthetic shuttles tend to warp more at higher speeds than feather shuttles. 

Best Nylon Shuttlecocks

When it comes to nylon shuttles, some top options include:

• Yonex Mavis 300s: With a 4.6-star rating and over 1,000 reviews on Amazon, these are easily some of the best nylon birdies for the price. Their solid, durable design makes them great for beginner-to-intermediate levels.
• Yonex Mavis 2000s: These are crafted to deliver a similar flight path to what you’d get with feather shuttles. Because of their durability and speed, they’re fantastic to practice with at any skill level.

Pros and Cons of Feather Shuttlecocks

Feather shuttles are mostly made of goose or duck feathers. They’re consistent, lightweight, and faster than nylon birdies — and for these reasons, they’re the go-to shuttles at high-level competitions and tournaments. 

But what exactly are the pros and cons of using feather shuttles? On the plus side, they:

• Are faster at initial impact and have slower deceleration at the end of their path. They also respond better to swing timing and technique, as opposed to power alone.

• Have a better trajectory. Players often say that feather shuttles are easier to control and have a smoother overall flight trajectory.

• Are often used in tournaments. Practicing with feather shuttles prior to a tournament can help you refine your technique before you compete.

As for cons, feather shuttles tend to be:

• More expensive. Because they’re made of real feathers, they won’t be as budget-friendly as nylon and plastic options.

• Less durable. Feather shuttles are prone to breaking faster than nylon shuttles, especially if you have a powerful swing.

Best Feather Shuttlecocks

• Yonex Aerosensa-30s: The AS-30s are a great midrange shuttle for club play and tournaments. They offer sharp performance, solid durability, and a slightly lower price point than higher-end feather shuttles.
• Li-Ning G900s: These are international tournament-grade shuttles approved by the Badminton World Federation. They are quite expensive, but offer superior performance for high-level matches. 

The Takeaway

When it comes to feather vs. nylon shuttlecocks, it all comes down to what you want to get out of them. 

Feather shuttles are pricier but better for advanced play, while nylon shuttles tend to be cheaper and more durable.

Ultimately, feather shuttles have a faster, smoother flight path — which is why it’s always good to at least practice with them if you plan on joining a tournament. But if you need a shuttle that can withstand impact game after game, then nylon shuttles can be a great option in the meantime.