What is the difference between feather and synthetic shuttles?

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Which shuttle speed should I choose?

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How many shuttles come in a tube?

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Do feather shuttles need any care?

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Which shuttles are best for matches versus training?

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Do you supply shuttles in bulk for clubs?

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All Shuttles

Browse the UK's most complete range of badminton shuttlecocks at Central Sports — the country's leading badminton specialist and official retailer of the Yonex All England Championships. Whether you need tournament-grade feather shuttlecocks for competitive play or hard-wearing synthetic shuttlecocks for club training and practice, we stock every speed grade from the world's best brands, including Yonex, RSL, Victor, Babolat and Yehlex, with fast next-working-day UK delivery.

Feather, synthetic or hybrid shuttlecocks?

The right shuttlecock depends on how and where you play:

Feather shuttlecocks — natural goose or duck feather, used in all competitive and tournament badminton. The best flight and the authentic feel, but they wear faster. The choice for match play and county-level players.
Synthetic (nylon) shuttlecocks — a durable plastic skirt that lasts far longer than feather. Ideal for beginners, coaching, schools and high-volume club sessions where cost-per-hour matters. Yonex Mavis is the UK's most trusted synthetic range.
Hybrid shuttlecocks — a feather-and-synthetic construction that blends near-feather flight with added durability, bridging the gap between the two.

Understanding shuttlecock speed grades

Feather shuttlecocks are graded by speed to suit temperature and altitude. Slower speeds suit warmer halls; faster speeds suit cooler conditions. Common grades run from 76 (slow) through 77 and 78 to 79 (fast), with 77 being the most widely used across UK sports halls. Not sure which speed you need? Our team fits and advises in store and by phone.

Shop shuttlecocks by brand

Explore the full line-up from Yonex shuttlecocks — including the Aerosensa tournament series and the Mavis synthetic range — alongside RSL, Victor and Babolat. Every shuttle we sell is stocked and dispatched from our UK stores.

Complete your kit

Pair your shuttles with a new frame from our badminton rackets range, or fit fresh badminton strings with our expert in-store restringing service.

Badminton shuttlecock FAQs

Which shuttlecock is best for beginners? Synthetic (nylon) shuttlecocks such as the Yonex Mavis range. They're far more durable and cost-effective while you develop, and fly consistently for practice and club play.

Why do feather shuttlecocks cost more? Each feather shuttle is hand-built from 16 natural feathers set into a cork base, giving superior flight and feel — the trade-off is faster wear, which is why they're reserved for competitive play.

What speed shuttlecock do I need? Speed 77 suits most UK sports halls. Choose a slower speed (76) for warmer venues and a faster speed (78–79) for cooler conditions. Ask our team if you're unsure.

How many shuttlecocks come in a tube? Feather and synthetic shuttlecocks are typically sold in tubes of a dozen (12); some synthetic ranges are also available in smaller packs.