What Equipment Is Needed to Play Badminton?

Badminton is played by using a racquet to hit a shuttlecock over a net until the other player cannot return it back to your side. It can be played one-on-one or as a game of doubles, with two people on each side of the net.

  1. Racquets

    • Badminton racquets are light and thin, with a long handle and small head. They can be made from light metals, such as aluminum or a carbon fiber composite.

    String

    • The strings used in badminton racquets are thin and can be strung at a variety of tensions. Lower string tension gives more power, and higher tension makes it easier to control the shuttlecock.

    Grip

    • Badminton grips are typically made from a synthetic material or a more absorbent, towel-like cloth. Replacement grips are used to completely switch out the racquet's grip. Overgrips are a wrap that simply goes over the racquet's existing grip to make it thicker or to absorb sweat.

    Shuttlecock

    • Synthetic nylon shuttlecocks are used by most recreational players, because they are inexpensive and long-lasting. Shuttlecocks are available in three different speeds, depending on the temperature. Faster shuttlecocks should be used in colder temperatures to adjust for the weather conditions.

    Shoes

    • Badminton shoes are light and have thin soles that allow the player to move quickly in any direction. The soles are made of high-grip rubber or another type of non-marking material.