Dazadi.com Blog

The game of badminton has a history that spans all the way back to ancient Greece and Egypt. Originally known as battledore and shuttlecock, players hit feathered shuttlecocks with rackets back and forth similar to modern badminton. It was also a popular game in India during the 18th century where it was known as Poona. When British Army Officers were stationed there, they enjoyed the game of Poona and introduced it to their peers upon their return to England. In 1973, the Duke of Beaufort had a gathering at his country home named “Badminton” in Gloucestershire where the Indian version of the game was publicly introduced. Lacking a name, party goers referred to it as “the game of badminton,” and the name has stuck ever since. The modern style of game play is very similar to the original game. Players still use rackets to hit shuttlecocks back and forth, but now they do so over a net.

A popular game and hobby, badminton requires little equipment, but don’t be fooled! There is still some skill involved in buying the correct shuttlecocks, nets, and rackets. At Dazadi, we understand the dilemma that could arise out of figuring out which equipment is best for you. Luckily, we have a variety of products for every age, skill level, and taste.

Rackets - Arguably the most important piece of equipment, choosing the correct racket can help you improve your swing and ultimately your overall game. When looking at different rackets, you want to keep shape, stiffness, and material in mind.

• Shape: The shape of the head of the racket can affect your power, control, and the size of your “sweet spot.” The sweet spot is the place on the racket where you will get the most effective hit. The larger the sweet spot, the more successful your swing. Rackets with a egg or oval shapes are the most traditional badminton rackets. They offer a more concentrated sweet spot. Isometric or square heads offer a larger sweet spot, which is great for beginners.
• Stiffness: Choosing a stiffer racket can provide you with greater power, but are a little more difficult to manage. Stronger, more experienced players may want to try out a stiffer racket. Beginners may want to start with a lighter, more flexible racket to build up some strength.
• Material: Professional rackets are made of carbon fiber composite. Rackets made of steel or aluminum are great for beginning or recreational play and are usually cheaper than the carbon fiber models. Great steel rackets include the Champion Sports All-Steel Badminton Racket and the SSG Twin 200 Badminton Racket.

Shuttlecocks - Bidding a nod to the original name, shuttlecocks are the piece that is hit back and forth with the rackets. They are commonly known as “birdies” and were traditionally made out of actual feathers. Today, the feathered versions can still be found, but plastic or nylon versions are more affordable and durable. The MacGregor Economy Shuttlecock is a lightweight birdie that is great for practice and play!

Nets - Most badminton play takes place at a park or rec center, but for those lucky enough to have a badminton court in their home, nets are necessary. When buying a net, you need to keep the material and dimensions in mind. A great net features mesh with squares that are around 3/4” wide. Look for a net that is about 2.5′ tall with a 1.5” headband such as the Champion Sports 12-Ply Nylon Badminton Net. The ply of a net is also important to keep in mind. The higher the ply, the stronger the net.

After you have purchased all of the proper equipment, you can begin practicing your game. Badminton will have you running for a great cardiovascular workout, and you’ll work on toning and building your leg and arm muscles. So, have a great time, get active, and learn the benefits of a fun game that has been enjoyed for centuries!