A sweet spot is an area on the racket string bed that produces the maximum power. It is generally located in the middle but not exactly in the middle of the string bed. Well, the sweet spot is the zone where you can with the most power, and produce the least shock vibrations in the racket that improves accuracy.
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Factors Affecting a Sweet Spot
The sweet spot in a racket depends on a few factors-
- Head shape (Isometric/Oval),
- Racket technology,
- String Tension.
Isometric/Oval Head Shape
The oval head shape rackets have a smaller sweet spot than Ismotric head rackets. Well, the benefit of a smaller sweet spot is that the power generated is more, however, it gets difficult to find the spot which could lead to errors.
String Tension
The string tension also affects the sweet spot. The tighter the strings of the racket, the smaller the sweet spot. This is the reason beginners are suggested to use lower string tension as the sweet spot is bigger, making it easier to hit while practicing. Once you start improving and getting better, you can move on to tighter string tension.
Where is the Sweet Spot in the racket?
Well, the sweet spot varies from racket to racket. Generally, it is located just above the center of the string bed of the racket.
It’s just like a trampoline where you produce maximum power and height while jumping from the middle and comparatively less power while jumping from the sides.
You won’t be able to identify the spot by just looking at it. You need to identify the spot by playing around it. So, play several shots around the center of your racket and you will surely be able to identify the sweet spot based on the power produced sound impact and feeling.
Where is the Dead Spot?
It is the place that will give you the least amount of power to hit the shuttle which is mostly, located around the throat of the racket. Hitting from this spot makes it difficult to deliver a good shot.
How to hit the Sweet Spot?
Like improving footwork to develop muscle memory for effective movement, here a few things you can practice to hit the sweet spot.
Wall Practice
Well, this is the best practice to improve your game. All you need to do is to hit the shuttle against the wall. The main benefit is that you don’t need a partner to practice and you can practice this anytime and anywhere. If you are a beginner, use a flat wall for slatter rebounds, and once you progress you can move on to an irregular wall for variations. This improves your consistency while hitting the shuttle.
Use a Hanging- Shuttlecock
Well, this technique requires a small set up of a pole and a string, or you can directly use your ceiling to hang down the shuttlecock. But, it’s an effective technique to practice when you alone. Importantly, while practicing, you will be able to focus and improve your form and technique.
You can set this up for drop shots, clears, backhand, and other shots that you want to practice. However, practice one shot at a time to see improved results. Moreover, it will help you develop hitting the shots from the middle of the racket. Try and observe the power you generate when you hit the shot from the sweet spot. Speed up to increase your power and consistency while hitting.
Half-court midcourt clears
In this practice, you will require a partner to play half-court midcourt clears. You have to only aim to hit the shuttle in the midcourt and not worry about generating maximum power to hit it towards the baseline. Concentrate on your technique and swing and keep hitting the shuttle midcourt. This practice improves your consistency and swing technique. Once you are comfortable with this, you can proceed to focus on hitting the shuttle with more power.
Moreover, hitting from the sweet spot will generate power naturally. All you need to do is fasten the swing and racket speed for smashes and slow it down for drops.
Sweet Spot Trainer
Well, a sweet spot trainer is a racket itself with the only difference being the racket head is very small as compared to a normal racket. The idea is that you will focus on hitting the shuttlecock effectively as the head is so small.
You can use this racket for a couple of your practice sessions to practice a particular shot and then switch back to your normal racket.
You can buy it here- https://blackknight.ca/index.php?route=product/product&path=25&product_id=612
Final Thoughts
Hitting the sweet spot is one of the most crucial elements in badminton. It will help you deliver a more powerful shot and also improve accuracy and consistency in your game.
I hope you enjoyed the article.
Thank you! Keep Playing!
10 Badminton Tips for Singles
Badminton Singles is a game that demands high physical fitness, presence of mind, speed, power, agility, and strength. Well, not only this, certain skills are very important to become a good singles badminton player. In this article, I will share with you the 10 tips you should work on for better performance. Moreover, try to incorporate these skills into your practice to see the results in your competitive matches.
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Base Position
In singles, it’s only you on your side so therefore, you need to cover your entire court area effectively. For effective movement, you need to recover to your base position after every shot so that you can easily reach the next shot.
To make this easier, try to control your rally so that you get enough time to recover to your base position. If not, your opponent cannot catch you off-guard and you’ll have to scramble to reach the next shot.
While watching professional matches, you might have observed the footwork of elite players like Carlina Marin, Tai Tzu Ying, Kento Momota, and many more. The key aspect of their movement is that they get back to their base position quickly with minimum effort.
There are many strategies you can use to solidify your base position. Importantly, playing at good length by getting your clears and lifts deep into the backcourt of your opponent is one of the best strategies. This gives you time to go to your base position. It also gives you more time to reach and hit the next shot.
Footwork
The most important element in badminton singles is your footwork. Once you settle your base position, the next step is to be able to receive the shuttle from anywhere of the court. For this, you need to channel your movements effectively by practicing several footwork drills so that you don’t receive the shuttle in a wrong manner. There are a couple of things you need to keep in mind to improve your footwork. Work on your split step and develop your muscle memory.
What is a Split Step?
A split step is a technique of widening your stance to get ready for the next shot from your opponent. It involves slightly bending from your natural stance with feet shoulder-width apart. The split step allows you to change directions quickly and helps in fluid footwork. Well, the timing is extremely crucial while executing a split step.
Don’t give easy points
In singles, you alone have to work hard for every single point. Giving free points to your opponent by committing errors and faults will make you lose points in the game. A game constitutes 21 points and even if you lose 2 points, this means you have given 20% of your game to your opponent. Some of the common mistakes that can lose you points are:
- Serving at the net
- Returning the shuttle at the net
- Serving above your waist
- Stepping on the line while serving
Whether you win or lose, you should make your opponent work hard for the points. There are certain situations where you cant control a mistake but don’t make mistakes under situations you have full control over. Take a look at an exquisite badminton rules guide that will help you understand all the rules in badminton.
Master Net Shots
Well, net shots are one of the most important shots in badminton. You need to have control over the net as this will decide whether you will be at the attacking side or not. Moreover, you need to know how to spin the shuttle because they are very difficult to lift and a low lift can give you a strong chance to win a point.
In competitive matches, you might have observed players playing tighter at the net to force the opponent to execute a lift. However, net shots can be risky as well so it is important to keep practicing them.
Aggression
Keeping the rallies at a high pace without losing control forces your opponent to a defensive position. Well, is you are in the defensive position then you have very little options for the next shot that can keep you at a disadvantage. Therefore, if you are able to rush the other player with race, then they don’t have enough time to think about what shots they can play next. Instead, they’ll try to play safely by being more reactive and just try to receive every shot.
Analyze your opponent
Well, this skill comes with experience. It involves analyzing your opponent’s body language, style of play, and position. This can help you analyze as to what shot can your opponent play next. Also, you can analyze your opponent’s pattern of play. For instance, do they always hit a smash when you lift or clear, do they block when you hit a smash, and many more patterns.
The ability to read your opponent’s shots puts you one step ahead in the game and in a rally. For example, if you anticipate that your opponent always hits a straight smash when given the chance to attack, then you can be ready to defend it with a cross block.
Limit your opponent’s options.
In singles, if you can limit the options to which your opponent can receive a shuttle, you will be in advantage. For instance, hitting to the extreme baseline of your opponent will either make them execute a clear, drop or half smash. Well, this is not compulsory for all types of players.
Another instance is if your opponent is extremely proficient at the net, then try to avoid hitting at the net and try to put your opponent in a defensive position most of the time.
Mental Strength
You are the sole source of strength for performance in singles. You need to think positive and not get demotivated when you lose some points. Believe in yourself and take that extra effort to reach difficult shots. This will help you improve your game exponentially. Self-confidence plays a key element in singles. plays a key element in singles.
Aim at the corners
In singles, you have to cover the whole court efficiently and cannot risk being caught out of position. Getting your opponent’s move to the deep corners of the court limits their options and it also gives you enough time to get back to your base position. If the shuttle reaches easily to your opponent, then you can be at a disadvantage as he/she can make you struggle for the next shot.
Deception
This is a skill that comes with experience and practice. Have you watched Tai Tzu Ying who is known as the Deception Queen? Well, sometimes she wins multiple points as she confuses her opponents using her deception ability.
Deception means confusing your opponent by hitting the shuttle in another direction than the expected one by using False Action. You show your opponent a shot that you are really not going to play. This is a very important skill and can help you in difficult situations in a rally.
Final Thoughts
So here are 10 badminton skills you should work on to become a better singles player. ‘Practice makes perfect’ keep repeating this in your mind so that you practice hard to improve upon these skills in your game and remember nothing comes easy but with persistence, passion, and dedication the results are surely fruitful.
Top Badminton Countries in the World
World badminton has changed a lot over the past few decades concerning its competitiveness among countries and the quality of the game. Well, Asian countries have dominated the badminton World since its inception with the most dominant country being China. Interestingly, Badminton is the National Sport of Indonesia and the country has won the prestigious Thomas Cup (a World Men’s Team Championships) for a massive 14 times. It is followed by China who has won it on 10 occasions.
Nothing much has changed as far as the Asian domination of badminton is concerned. Unsurprisingly, China, Japan, Indonesia, and Korea (all Asian) are the current powerhouses of badminton. Well, in this article take a look at the top badminton countries and a detailed analysis of how each country performs in all disciplines of the sport.
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China
China has been the strongest Country in the World since the inception of badminton. However, after the retirement of a few prominent players like Lin Dan, Wang Yihan, the new generation players are trying to make a name for themselves.
As of now, in men’s singles, China has Shi Yu Qi(World no. 9) and Chen Long (World no. 5). While Chen Long, the Rio Olympic Gold medallist, was known for his absolute defense and reach, his age is taking over and it is getting difficult for him to match the younger players. Shi Yu Qi was in a good form for the past few seasons, but after his injury, he has been struggling with his consistency. Moreover, both of them face difficulties while playing against tougher opponents from other countries, making China no longer dominant in the men’s singles discipline.
China’s strongest discipline is Mixed Doubles, where it has achieved the top 2 sports in the World ranking. While the pair of Zheng Si Wei and Huang Ya Qiong take up the top spot, Wang Yi Lyu and Huang Dong Ping have taken up the second spot.
In Women’s doubles, China has two pairs under the top 10 rankings- Chen Qing Chen and Jia Yi Fan as world number 1 and upcoming pair Du Yue and Li Yin Hui as World no. 5. With rising competition from Japan and Korea, it is doubtful that China would be able to hold its no. 1 rank.
In Women singles, Chen Yu Fei (World no. 2) and HE Bing Jiao (World no. 8) are the top Chinese players. Chen Yu Fei is an all-round player having good court coverage, offense, and defense. He Bing Jiao has an aggressive style of play but struggles with top players while being inconsistent during attacks.
China has only one pair in the top 10 of the World Rankings i.e. Li Jun Hui and Liu Yu Chen, also known as the “Twin Towers” due to their heights. They are ranked World no. 3 but have not been posting great results in recent tournaments. They either suffer against pairs who play a good flat game or who have an excellent defense to face their thunderous smashes.
Japan
Japan matches China with the number of players in the top 10 list. However, they are well rounded in all disciplines having higher-ranked players in almost all categories as compared to China.
While China has only one Women singles player in the top 10 list, Japan has Nozomi Okuhara and Akane Yamaguchi. Both of them are consistent players but face some challenges with attacking players such as PV Sindhu, Carolina Marin, etc. Well, they have a more defensive style of play and if they will be able to adapt an attacking style, they would do wonders according to me.
Moreover, Kento Momota is the World no. 1 scripting history with his performances. Undoubtedly, he is the greatest men’s singles player Japan has produced and one of the best the world has ever seen. He recently recovered a fatal car accident and will hopefully be able to maintain his form in the coming tournaments. He is Japan’s strongest hope for gold at the Tokyo Olympics.
With two pairs of men’s doubles and 3 pairs in Women’s Doubles, Japan is on the forefront in the doubles category as well. Also, their mixed doubles pair (Praveen JORDAN & Melati Daeva OKTAVIANTI) are ranked World no. 4. Well, this is their weakest category among all five.
Indonesia
Badminton is the National Sport of Indonesia. The strongest discipline of this country is men’s doubles where they have three pairs ranked under World no. 10. The no. 1 sport is taken by Marcus Fernaldi Gideon and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo, also known as “The Minions”, and the second spot is taken by Hendra Setiawan and Mohammad Ahsan, also known as “The Daddies”.In the number 6 ranking are the young pair of Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto who are also quite good players. Well, all three pairs are extremely versatile players, with unmatched coordination, and stamina, making Indonesia the scariest competitors in Men’s doubles.
After Taufik Hidayat, there wasn’t an Indonesian player to compete in the top place for men’s singles. However, now there is Anthony Sinisuka Ginting Jonatan Christie. They ranked sixth and seventh in the World respectively. They are all-around players but face problems with their consistency making their game very predictable sometimes.
In women’s doubles, their sole hope is on Greysia Polii and Apriyani Rahayu at rank 8. Indonesia’s weakest discipline by far is women singles where they don’t have even one player in the top 10 rankings.
After the retirement of one of the strongest mixed doubles pair in the World, Liliyana Natsir and Debby Susanto, they still have two pairs under the top 10 rankings- Praveen Jordan & Melati Daeva Oktavianti and Hafiz Faizal & Gloria Emanuelle Widjaja.
Except 2012, Indonesia has won a gold medal at every Olympics since its inception in 1992. Hopefully, its record would be unbeaten at the Tokyo Olympics.
South Korea
While Indonesia suffers in the Women’s category, South Korea suffers in the men’s category. There are no men’s singles and in the top 10 rankings.
The young and dynamic, An Se Young makes up for the women’s singles discipline. She is ranked no. 9 currently and the 17-year-old has defeated some of the biggest players in her recent tournaments.
Women’s doubles is the strongest discipline of Soth Korea where it has 4 pairs in the top 10 rankings- Lee So Hee/Shin Seung Chan(World no. 4), Kim So Yeong/Kong Hee Yong(World no. 6), Chang Ye Na/Kim Hye Rin(World no. 9), and Baek Ha Na/Jung Kyung Eun(World no. 10). They are certainly strong pairs but have a tough chance with the Chinese and Japenese pairs.
In mixed doubles, the country relies on Seo Sung Jae and Chae YuJung at rank 6 in the world, and in Men’s doubles, Choi SolGyu and Seo Seung Jae (World no. 8). They will have to work very hard to get to the next level.
Chinese Taipei
Chinese Taipei has gained significant form after the prominence of Tai Tzu Ying in women’s singles and Chou Tein Chen in men’s singles. While Tai is no. 1 in the World, Chen is ranked no. 2 in the World.
Tai has created an unsurpassable record by winning the maximum superseries titles and reigning as World no. 1 for the longest period. She is truly a strong contender for the gold at the Tokyo Olympics.
Chou is an exceptional player but lacks consistency sometimes losing to weaker players.
Their presence in mixed doubles and women’s doubles is not very significant.
Malaysia
After Lee Chong Wei, Goh V Shem, and Tan Wee Kiong, Malaysia is struggling with the International circuit. They have no strong players in the women’s singles and doubles category.
In men’s singles, the 22-year-old Lee Zii Jia is the only hope. He is currently ranked World No 10, has shown great performances against top players.
In men’s doubles, they have the young pair of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik at rank number 9, and in mixed doubles, Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying who are ranked no. 7. Well, they have not shown great results till now but hopefully could make some changes in the coming tournaments.
Thailand
Thailand’s strongest discipline if women’s singles where they have the former World no. 1, Ratchanok Intanon. Recently, we have seen her become more of an attacking player which has put her to advantage most of the time. She has the potential to pull through against the strongest players but should be more consistent with her performances.
The mixed doubles pair of Dechapol Puavaranukroh and Sapsiree Taerattanachai are ranked World no. 3. They have a strong fast and aggressive game and are a strong contender for other pairs in the World.
India
India’s biggest asset is PV Sindhu, the Rio Olympic Silver medallist who is ranked World no. 6 in the women’s singles discipline. Her thundering smashes are one of the best but if she works on her court coverage and net shots, she can rule the World ranking.
For the first time, India has a men’s doubles pair in the top 10 ranking- the young duo of Satwik Sairaj and Chirag Shetty. Well, they have shown impressive performances in the recent competitions, defeating the Chinese pair of Li Jun Hui and Liu Yu Chen at one instance.
Denmark
Well, Denmark relies on the men’s singles discipline where they have tow players under the top 10 rankings- Victor Axelson and Anders Antonsen.the former World no. 1, Victor Axelson is making a strong comeback after a break due to an injury and is ranked World no 4. His steep smashes and quick court governance are his strong elements.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong has one player in the men’s singles and mixed doubles category. Ng Ka Long is currently ranked 8th but has a tough time playing with stronger opponents.
In mixed doubles, has Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet are ranked World no. 10 but they have not gone far in any tournament.
Other Countries
Spain relies only on one player, Carolina Marin, the Rio Olympic Gold medallist, and former world no. 1. After an ankle injury last year, Marin has spearheaded her ranking to World no. 6. She is a player who is always going to give her opponent a tough time.
Likewise, Canada has one woman singles players, Michelle Li who has shown great performances in the recent tournaments. However, she faces difficulty n sustaining in long rallies and matches.
England has one pair in the mixed doubles category Marcus Ellis and Lauren Smith ranked at number 9.
Final Thoughts
So here are the best badminton countries in the World as of now. It is based on the BWF ranking list (01.09.20) and can change depending upon the performances of the players.
I hope you enjoyed the article.
Thanks for reading. Keep playing.
Top 5 Yonex Badminton Shoes 2020
Badminton is growing rapidly across the World, and at the same time, the badminton equipment manufacturing industry has also widened. The game does not only involve skill and precision but also you need to be able to move around the court with speed and agility. For that, you need a good pair of badminton shoes.
To help you with choosing a good pair of badminton shoes, I have enlisted 5 best shoes Yonex Shoes for the year 2020. Yonex is one of the most trusted brands in badminton and if you are looking for a good pair of shoes you can start with this brand.
Yonex SHB 65 Z
This pair of shoes is the current favorite of Kento Momota. Its exquisite features truly help in enhancing the on-court performance. Let’s look at some of them-
Key Features:
- Power Cushion Plus: Compared to the traditional power cushion, the new power cushion boasts 25% more shock absorption and 12% more repulsion.
- Toe Assist Shape: The toe centric design cuts down the pressure on the big toe and offers a stable fit with improved support at the mid-foot and heel. This helps to reduce power loss and enhance swift footwork.
- Lateral Shell: The lateral shell prevents sliding at the edge of the sole. It reduces power loss, increases footwork response, and creates smooth, offensive foot movements.
- Synchro-Fit Insole: It creates a secure contact between foot and shoe, reducing energy wastage through an improved fit.
- Power Graphite Lite: This graphite plate is inserted under the middle portion of the foot to increase stability and reduce weight within the shoe.
- Round Sole: It is designed to provide all-around support for quick and smooth footwork. Moreover, it ensures smooth movements and the transfer of maximum energy.
- Hexa Grip: The hexagrip pattern comes with 3% more grip and is 20% lighter than standard sole material.
- Double Russel Mesh: This is extremely lightweight and durable and provides eight times more air-exchange for releasing moisture than ordinary mesh fabric.
Overall, this pair of shoes is suitable for agile players that prefer a blend of comfort and speed.
Yonex Power Cushion Infinity
The Yonex Power Cushion is a new technology introduced by Yonex that gives players the best fit and comfort in badminton shoes. Its immense comfort and lightweight property help to protect your feet. The power cushion plus technology provides high shock absorption. Let us look at some of its exquisite features.
- Double Dial BOA Fit System: Two BOA fit system dials are positioned to secure the toes and ankles in the shoes. The toe features a soft lace for extreme comfort and the dial on the ankle tightens the sailcloth covering the instep which secures the foot. This provides dynamic footwork and comfort at the same time.
- Toe Assist Shape: The toe centric design cuts down the pressure on the big toe as well as provides improved support at the mid-foot and heel area. This enables a stable fit and reduces power loss, allowing for swift footwork.
- Synchro Fit Insole: The synchro-fit insole construction creates a secure contact between the foot and the shoe. This reduces energy wastage through an improved fit.
- Hexa Grip: The hexagrip pattern comes with 3% more grip and is 20% lighter than standard sole material.
- Yonex Power pad +: The midsole is equipped with this technology which absorbs the energy generated by the impact and rebounds. Therefore, it is suitable for the aggressive pace of the player and at the same time takes into account the fit, stability, and shock absorption.
Yonex Aerus 3
Grab the lightest shoes from the Yonex footwear family which comes in 270g only. It is currently used by Indonesian doubles pair, Kevin Sanjaya, Marcus Gideon. It comes with super ventilation and solid fit which is available in two colors for both men and women.
Key Features
- It is developed with Yonex’s flagship technology-Power Cushion+ which helps in high shock absorption.
- Graphite Power: This is an ultra-lightweight technology plate inserted into the middle portion of the shoe which increases the stability of the shoe.
- 3D Power Carbon: A 3D graphite sheet is inserted in the middle section of the shoes to offer stability in all directions. It also provides 15% more strength against twisting.
- Toe Assist Shape: The toe centric design cuts down the pressure on the big toe as well as provides improved support at the mid-foot and heel area. This enables a stable fit and reduces power loss, allowing for swift footwork.
- Durable Skin Light: The combination of high-quality mesh and thin PU Film provides a comfortable fit and reduces excess weight.
Yonex Eclipsion Z Men’s Badminton Shoes
The Yonex Eclipsion Z is designed for professional badminton players. It comes with the latest manufacturing technology and provides enhanced stability. High stability with good comfort makes it one of the best all-around performance badminton shoes.
Key Features:
- Power Cushion+: It is developed with Yonex’s flagship technology which helps in high shock absorption.
- Durable Skin: Die-cut design offers better finishing and quality.
- Inner Bootie Structure: The tongue connected with the shoe opening reduces overlapping layers for a better fit.
- Graphite Power: This is an ultra-lightweight technology plate inserted into the middle portion of the shoe which increases the stability of the shoe.
- Toe Assist Shape: The toe centric design cuts down the pressure on the big toe as well as provides improved support at the mid-foot and heel area. This enables a stable fit and reduces power loss, allowing for swift footwork.
Yonex Legend King 68
The Yonex Legend King 68 is a recent launch by Yonex that comes with an improved sole. The sole is optimized for functioning in all types of courts including a cement court. It is specially designed for beginners and intermediate players. Moreover, if you are looking for a decent pair of shoes at an affordable price, then this is the right pick for you.
Key Features:
- Tru Shape: The toe centric design cuts down the pressure on the big toe as well as provides improved support at the mid-foot and heel area. This enables a stable fit and reduces power loss, allowing for swift footwork.
- Tru Cushion: The Tru Cushion Technology helps in maximum shock absorption and quick compression recovery.
- Round Sole: The round sole provides support for smooth and quick movement and transfer of maximum energy.
Final Thoughts
To help you further, I have a badminton shoe guide which will help you to look for specific details before purchasing a good pair of shoes. A good pair of shoes will help you to enhance your performance and prevent injuries. So go ahead and select a pair of shoe that matches your playing ability and skills.
I hope you enjoyed reading this article.
Thanks for reading. Keep playing.
Badminton Shoes Guide: How to select a good pair of badminton shoes?
Are you looking out for a good pair of badminton shoes? Well, before you run off to purchase, here are a few important tips that will help you choose the best one.
Shoes are undoubtedly the most crucial equipment for a badminton player along with the racket. Badminton is a high-intensity sport that requires quick direction changes as well as high impact weight on the shoes.
Here are two main reasons why you need to choose a good pair of shoes-
- It enhances performance.
- It prevents injuries.
Some basic qualities of a good pair of shoes are-
- Good cushioning
- Light Weight
- Sole
- Ventilation
- Ergo Shape
- Hexa Grip
Ergo Shape
This concept is developed by Yonex for badminton shoes. In this, a specially designed shape is provided at the forefoot and toe area of the shoes. This provides better comfort as it provides the equilibrium for your toes, ankles, and feet.
Importantly, it provides better flexibility and stability at the forefoot and toes area, which is important for efficient footwork.
Cushioning
Cushioning is very important as it gives the power to absorb shocks caused by player movement. Power Cushion Technology absorbs shock and reverses the impact energy for smooth transfer into the next shot.
This helps to improve balance and reduce the chances of an injury due to a heavy shock impact on the knees.
Weight of the Shoes
The weight of your shoes will have a major impact on your performance. Moreover, it can lead to injuries. Heavyweight shoes can impact your speed due to which you will be late to receive and pick up shots.
On the other hand, lightweight shoes enhance your foot movement across the court which makes it easier to jump, run, and flex.
Sole
There are generally two types of soles in badminton-
- Rubber Soles
- Gum Rubber Soles
Choose one among them depending upon your playing surface. If you play on a synthetic or wooden surface, then Gum Rubber soles are highly recommended as they provide the perfect grip and traction. Remember to keep the sole clean, as it accumulates dirt easily. This can reduce the traction of the sole.
However, if you play on a cement surface, then a rubber sole is recommended
Ventilation
Badminton is an extensive sport which involves a lot of movement due to which your feet will sweat a lot. Therefore, you need a pair of shoes with good ventilation so that your feet stay dry and cool. Otherwise, it could lead to bacteria, parasites, leading to bad odor, and worse.
The Double Rubber Mesh technology used in most of the shoes is an effective sweat management system. It avoids the accumulation of sweat inside the shoe, which gives you a cool and comfortable feel during your game.
Hexa Grip
The new Hexa Grip pattern on the outer sole offers an added advantage of better grip and high traction force. It provides 3% more gripping power and is 20% lighter than an ordinary material. Designed for agile and stable footwork, it provides better comfort and effective court covering.
Other things to consider:
- Wear your shoes only when you are on the badminton court.
- Keep the shoes clean all the time.
- Choose shoes that fit you properly. If there is extra space in your shoes, the friction between your feet and the shoes may cause blisters.
- It is natural for your shoes to loosen a little eventually. Therefore, if you wear the right size and it seems a little tight then bear with it and do not opt for the next size. It will season eventually.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are buying the best badminton shoes or best badminton rackets, make sure to consider all performance-enhancing factors before making the purchase. Ensure, that the shoes help to prevent you from injury and help you in developing your game.
I hope that this detailed guide will help you to select the best pair of badminton shoes for yourself.
I hope you enjoyed the article.
Thanks for reading. Keep Playing!
Tai Tzu Ying: Five Best Performances of her career
Tai Tzu Ying, one of the greatest women single’s player the World has ever seen has never failed her fans with her performances. She has given birth to some of the most spectacular performances in her career. Her unsurpassable record makes her rule supreme at the top of the World rankings.
Nonetheless, in her two spells of carrying the World no. 1 rank for 148 weeks, she surpassed the previous record of 124 weeks set by the Chinese player, Li Xuerei.
Currently, she is ranked World no. 1 with 97,575 points. To date, she has won 10 World Tour titles, 12 Superseries titles, and 3 Grand Prix titles throughout her career.
Well, it is of surprise that the ace shuttler has given the badminton fraternity some of the best performances in Women singles. Take a look at her five best performances.
2012 Japan Open- Youngest player to win a Superseries
The 18-year-old was the 10th seed at the 2012 London Olympics. She came through all the preliminary rounds with straight wins but eventually lost to Li Xuerei of China in the round of 16.
Tai quickly rebounded over this disappointment by winning the Japan Open Superseries title in September. The teenager edged Japanese Eriko Hirose 9-21, 21-9, 21-14. Moreover, she was the fifth seed at the event and came from behind to claim victory in a 57-minute match scripting history for her country by becoming the first Taiwanese to win a Super Series singles event.
Remarkably, she became the youngest-ever winner of a Superseries tournament (currently the third-youngest player, after Ratchanok Intanon won the India Open in 2013, and Akane Yamaguchi won the Japan Open 2013).
2014 Superseries Finals
Tai avenged her loss of being deprived of the title when she lost against Li Xuerei in the finals of the 2013 Superseries finals. This time the final was against Sung Ji Hyun and the Taiwan ace was extremely focused from the beginning of the match, not willing to give any points to the Korean.
The 20-year-old shuttler, used all variations of shots while releasing some thundering smashes down the line, forcing Sung Ji Hyun to abdicate, 21-17, 21-12.
It was a revenge for Tai as she was beaten in two finals last year by Sung. Tai changed her fortune in 2014 which saw her holding the trophy that she bravely earned.
Notably, she became the first player from Chinese Taipei to win the season-ending Finals championship. She repeated this feat with her victories at the All-England Open (2017), Asia Championships (2017), and Asian Games (2018).
2016 Superseries Finals
Tai won the Superseries finals in Dubai for the second time in her career. This was a rematch of the 2014 Super Series finals against Sung Ji Hyun and Tai rolled a 21-14, 21-13 win over the Korean.
The Taiwan ace not only became the second player to win the Superseries finals title two times ( after Li Xuerei) but also scripted history by becoming the first women singles player to reach the final of the event three times.
In the same year, Tai became World no. 1 for the first time in her career and her rank not being disturbed for 72 weeks till 18 April 2018.
2018 Asian Games Gold
Tai Tzu Ting defeated PV Sindhu 21-13, 21-16 in the women’s singles final of the Asian Games to claim the gold medal. Sindhu was soundly beaten in just 39 minutes in straight sets.
Tai became the first Chinese Taipei player to win a medal at the Asian Games. Remarkably, Sindhu was also the first Indian athlete to reach the finals of the Asian Games.
After winning her next title- Denmark Open, Tai became the second player in the women’s singles category to break 100,000 points, the first being Li Xuerei from China, who led the points by 101,644. Eventually, after reaching the finals of the French Open in the same year, her points went up to 101,667, making her the highest point holder in the women singles history.
2020 All England Open
Tai Tzu Ying emerged victorious from at the All England Open, overcoming defending champion, Chen Yufei, 21-19, 21-15. With this, she avenged her last year’s defeat to Chen at the finals. Remarkably, this was her third All England title in four years. The 25-year-old’s previous titles came in 2017 and 2018 and she clinched a third with an impressive style.
The splendid match was against World no. 1, Chen Yufei and World no. 2, Tai Tzu Ying and was characterized by brilliant attacks from Tai and excellent defensive skills from Chen.
However, at the end of the first set, the Chinese shuttler could not hold back the relentless offense of Tai, who just edged a tight first set 21-19. The second set looked just as tight as the first but Tai found a foothold and took it by 6 points, 21-15 to win the match.
Tai became the third women singles player to win the coveted title three times after Xie Xingfang (2005, 2006 and 2007) and Tine Baun (2008, 2010 and 2013).
Final Thoughts
Despite Tai’s unsurpassable record, she still misses out on an Olympic and World Championship medal. Hopefully, she would be able to turn the table other way round at the Tokyo Olympics and fill up the emptiness of an Olympic medal.
However, Tai’s performances over the last few years makes her an exemplary player in the history of World Badminton.