Shuttlecock

Shuttlecocks Yonex Aerosensa 20

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Shuttlecock on a badminton court

Shuttlecock, also known as a bird or birdie, is a high-drag projectile used in the sport of badminton. It has an open conical shape formed by feathers (or a synthetic alternative) embedded into a rounded cork (or rubber) base. The shuttlecock's unique aerodynamic properties allow it to fly differently from the balls used in most racquet sports; it flies with the cork forward and is aerodynamically stabilized by the feathers or synthetic skirt.

History

The game of badminton evolved from earlier games, with the shuttlecock being a central element for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations in Europe and Asia, with a form of the game being played in Ancient Greece, China, and India. The modern game of badminton began in the mid-19th century among the British as a variant of the earlier game of battledore and shuttlecock.

Construction

A traditional shuttlecock is made of 16 feathers from the left wing of a goose or a duck and is embedded into a cork base covered in a thin layer of leather. The feathers are arranged in a circular fashion, creating a cone shape that is approximately 62 to 70 mm in diameter at its wider part and 85 to 92 mm in length. The cork is hard and rounded, making it fit for striking with racquets. In competitive badminton, shuttlecocks are graded according to their speed.

Synthetic shuttlecocks, made of nylon or other plastics, are also widely used, especially by recreational players and in regions where the use of feathered shuttlecocks is not economical. These synthetic versions mimic the flight characteristics of feathered ones to a degree but are more durable and less susceptible to damage.

Aerodynamics

The shuttlecock's design allows it to fly with stability and decelerate rapidly after being hit. Unlike a ball, the shuttlecock is feathered so that it presents significant drag, causing it to slow down more quickly than a ball. This high drag makes the shuttlecock more affected by wind, which is why badminton is traditionally played indoors.

Regulations

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) sets the standards for shuttlecock construction and use in official competitions. According to BWF regulations, the shuttlecock should weigh between 4.74 to 5.50 grams. The diameter of the cork base should be between 25 to 28 mm, and the diameter of the circle that the feathers make should be between 58 to 68 mm.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its role in badminton, the shuttlecock has cultural significance in several countries. It is used in traditional games and celebrations, particularly in Asia. For example, the Chinese game jianzi involves players keeping a heavily weighted shuttlecock in the air using their feet.

Environmental Considerations

The production of feathered shuttlecocks has raised concerns regarding animal welfare and environmental sustainability. The sourcing of feathers, primarily from geese and ducks, has led to discussions about ethical sourcing and the impact on these bird populations. Synthetic shuttlecocks offer an alternative that is more environmentally friendly and animal-friendly, though debates about their performance compared to feathered shuttlecocks continue.