Badminton Equipment Regulations

Badminton is a popular game for children or even adults to play at picnics in the United States. However, in England, it is a popular sport for professional players. It is becoming more and more popular with professional American badminton players as well. While many people may see this as a childhood game, there are rules and regulations regarding the equipment for professional badminton players.

Rackets are typically the same shape as a tennis racket only much lighter in weight. You can find them made of wood, aluminium, graphite and titanium. The racket should measure about 2 ½ feet long and approximately 8 inches wide. The strings of the racket need to be uniform in both the weaving and the tightness of the weaving. Players cannot attach anything to their racket that sticks out or could cause injury to himself or another player.

The birdie needs to have 16 feathers that attach to the cork base. The cork base is sometimes leather covered. All the feathers should be about the same length, measuring just over 3 inches long. The diameter of the circle that the feathers form should also measure approximately 3 inches. The manufacturer of the birdie should sew the feathers into the base instead of using glue to attach them. It should weigh less than ½ ounce.

The top of the net should measure 5 feet from the ground at the centre of the court. The netting itself should be a dark colour, which makes it easier to see through. The top of the net has a white strip across it so players can easily see where the top of the net is. There are posts that hold the net taut on either side of the court. Center the net in the exact middle of the court, dividing it in half for the two players or teams.

The court sizes vary just a little bit depending on whether the play is for doubles or singles. For singles, the court should measure 44 feet long and 17 feet wide. The length stays the same for doubles, but the width of the court widens to 20 feet. Make sure there is about 7 feet of space all the way around the court and a ceiling height of approximately 40 to allow for high shots.

There really are no rules and regulations for the players' uniforms. Players are most comfortable in shorts and short-sleeved shirts.

Wear specific badminton shoes that help protect the ankles from sudden moves and twists. Most athletic shoes provide lateral support, but flat-soled badminton shoes are best.