Shuttlecock facts for kids
A shuttlecock is a special object used in the fast sport of badminton. Players hit the shuttlecock with a badminton racquet over a net. You might also hear it called a shuttle. Sometimes, people call it a bird or birdie because it often has feathers.
What Shuttlecocks Are Made Of
Shuttlecocks can be made from different materials. These include plastic or feathers. They are shaped like a cone. A round center holds the cone together. This center is usually made of cork or rubber. The cone-shaped part, made of feathers or plastic, is called the shuttlecock skirt.
In places like North America and Europe, shuttlecocks made with feathers usually cost more money. But in Asia, feathers are cheaper. So, in Asia, you will mostly see feather shuttles being used. Plastic shuttles are not used very often there.
Feather vs. Plastic Shuttlecocks
It is harder to hit a feather shuttlecock very fast. This is because feathers create more air resistance. Feather shuttlecocks also do not last as long as plastic ones. They are less durable.
Experienced badminton players often use feather shuttlecocks. In professional competitions, almost all games are played with feather shuttles. Players feel that feather shuttles give them more control. They also believe that feather shuttles require better playing skills.
In school gym classes and for beginner players at clubs in Europe and North America, plastic shuttlecocks are more common. This helps to save money. Plastic shuttlecocks do not break easily. The feathers on a feather shuttle can bend or break if a player does not hit the cork or rubber center correctly.
Images for kids
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Feather shuttlecock
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Plastic shuttlecock
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Shuttlecock at a badminton court in Penang, Malaysia.
See also
In Spanish: Volante (bádminton) para niños
