BADMINTON MYTH BUSTERS

Separating Feelings from Facts

1) MYTH: If the racket wobbles during palm spin, it has a defect.

FACT: The so-called “palm spin test” is not a scientific method to check a racket.

Rotation smoothness depends on:

  • Grip thickness
  • Surface friction of your palm
  • Aerodynamic frame shape
  • Balance point design
  • Shaft stiffness distribution

Different brands use different mass distribution philosophies. A racket can feel different in spin yet perform perfectly in real gameplay.

Performance is judged by:

  • Shot accuracy
  • Stability during impact
  • Frame integrity
  • Balance consistency

Not by spinning it on your hand.

2) MYTH: Higher string tension means more power.

FACT: Higher tension = more control, not more power.

Power comes from:

  • Timing
  • Swing speed
  • Technique
  • Proper shaft flex

Very high tension:

  • Reduces sweet spot
  • Punishes off-center hits
  • Can reduce power for most players

Most non-professional players generate better results between 24–27 lbs.

3) MYTH: Thin strings break faster because they are low quality.

FACT: Thinner strings (0.62–0.66mm):

  • Provide better repulsion
  • Give sharper feel
  • Offer better sound

But yes - they break faster.

Thicker strings (0.68–0.70mm):

  • Last longer
  • Offer durability
  • Slightly reduce repulsion

It’s a performance vs durability trade-off, not quality difference.

4) MYTH: If shots are not landing correctly, the racket is faulty.

FACT: Shot inconsistency usually comes from:

  • String tension mismatch
  • Grip thickness change
  • Switching from even balance to head heavy
  • Timing adaptation period
  • Fatigue

Every new racket requires adaptation time.

Even professional players take weeks to adjust to a new frame.

5) MYTH: All rackets should feel identical if they are premium.

FACT: Premium brands intentionally design differences in:

  • Head weight
  • Shaft flex
  • Swing speed
  • Frame profile
  • Aerodynamic drag

Two high-end rackets can feel completely different - by design.

Different does not mean defective.

6) MYTH: If the shuttle sounds different, the racket has a problem.

FACT: Sound depends on:

  • String gauge
  • Tension
  • Hall acoustics
  • Shuttle quality
  • Impact timing

Sound variation is normal.

7) MYTH: Heavier rackets are always more powerful.

FACT: Power depends on swing speed + timing, not just weight.

  • 3U (heavier) → More stability
  • 4U →Balanced power & speed
  • 5U (lighter) → Faster defense & drives

A lighter racket swung faster can generate more power than a heavier one swung slower.

8) MYTH: Head-heavy rackets are only for professionals.

FACT: Head-heavy rackets help:

  • Rear-court attacking players
  • Players who rely on smash dominance

They are not “pro-only.”
They are style-specific.

Wrong match of playing style causes discomfort - not the racket quality.

9) MYTH: More expensive strings last longer.

FACT: Premium strings focus on:

  • Repulsion
  • Control
  • Feel
  • Sound

Durability depends more on:

  • Gauge
  • Playing intensity
  • Mishits

Price ≠ lifespan.

10) MYTH: Factory stringing is enough.

FACT: Factory strings are usually:

  • Low tension
  • Generic strings
  • For display and safety

Serious players should always restring to:

  • Desired tension
  • Preferred string model

Factory string is not performance stringing.

11) MYTH: Changing grip doesn’t affect performance.

FACT: Grip thickness changes:

  • Swing speed
  • Wrist flexibility
  • Control
  • Comfort

Even adding one extra overgrip can:

  • Reduce head-heavy feel
  • Change balance perception

Many “balance complaints” are actually grip changes.

FACT: Taiwan is one of the world’s leading badminton manufacturing hubs.

Many global premium rackets are manufactured in Taiwan using:

  • Japanese carbon fiber
  • Advanced molding systems
  • High-quality finishing

Manufacturing location ≠ quality level.
Engineering + material + QC determine quality.

12) MYTH: If pros use 30+ LBS tension, I should too.

FACT: Professionals:

  • Have elite technique
  • Hit sweet spot consistently
  • Restring frequently
  • Replace rackets often

For most players:

  • Too high tension reduces power
  • Increases injury risk
  • Shrinks sweet spot

Use tension suitable to your skill level - not someone else’s.

What Actually Indicates a Real Manufacturing Defect?

A genuine defect usually shows:

  • Visible frame crack without clash
  • Paint bubbling from internal carbon fracture
  • Shaft bending permanently without impact
  • Immediate structural failure within first few sessions

These are rare — but covered under proper warranty terms.

Final Word

Badminton equipment is precision-engineered.

Small changes in:

  • String
  • Grip
  • Balance
  • Tension
  • Technique

Can dramatically change feel - without any defect.