Badminton 101

Clothes

In badminton, clothing isn't just about style — it's about performance. The right apparel supports movement, temperature regulation, and comfort for long, high-intensity rallies.

Performance Fabrics

  • Moisture-wicking polyester: Keeps sweat away from your skin to prevent stickiness and chafing.
  • Mesh panels & ventilation zones: Improve airflow in high-heat areas like underarms and back.
  • Stretch blends (spandex/elastane): Allow full shoulder rotation and lunging without restriction.
  • Anti-odor treatments: Some fabrics use silver-ion or bamboo-based tech to prevent bacteria buildup.
  • UV protection: Useful for outdoor play or training under bright lights.

Shirts & Tops

  • Sleeveless: Great for maximum freedom in arm movement, though less common in competition.
  • Short-sleeved tees: Standard choice for most players, providing balance between coverage and mobility.
  • Polo-style shirts: Often worn in tournaments for a professional appearance; look for breathable collars.
  • Compression tops: Help muscle support and reduce fatigue during long matches.
Badminton shirts

Shorts & Skirts

  • Men's shorts: Should sit above the knee to allow fast steps and lunges. Lightweight with elastic waistbands.
  • Women's skirts/skorts: Combine performance and comfort — inner shorts prevent riding up during play.
  • Pocket options: Some training shorts feature discreet pockets for shuttle storage.
Badminton shorts and skirts

Compression & Base Layers

  • Compression shorts/tights: Improve circulation and help muscle recovery, especially during long training sessions.
  • Long-sleeve base layers: Maintain warmth in colder gyms while still wicking away moisture.
  • Calf sleeves: Reduce vibration fatigue and are popular among competitive players.
Compression tights

Socks

  • Padding zones: Extra cushioning under the ball and heel of the foot for shock absorption.
  • Arch compression: Supports stability and prevents slippage inside the shoe.
  • Moisture management: Technical fibers dry faster than cotton, keeping feet cool.
  • Grip socks: Silicone or rubberized patterns underfoot can improve in-shoe traction.
Badminton socks

Outerwear

  • Warm-up jackets: Keep muscles warm before matches — lightweight and easy to remove between sets.
  • Track pants: Worn over shorts to maintain body temperature during downtime or travel.
  • Light rain jackets: For players who train outdoors, water-resistant shells are ideal.
Badminton outerwear

Fit and Comfort Tips

  • Choose a fit that allows full arm rotation and deep lunges without fabric pull.
  • Flat seams or seamless designs help prevent skin irritation during repetitive motion.
  • Try gear while performing badminton movements — shoulder stretches, overheads, and lunges — before buying.
  • Avoid overly loose shirts that may flap or get caught in airflow when smashing.

Color and Style Choices

  • Light colors reflect heat in warm environments; darker tones can help retain warmth.
  • Professional matches often require modest designs — check your club's or tournament's dress code.
  • Team uniforms promote identity and unity during doubles or group events.

Care & Maintenance

  • Wash in cold water with mild detergent to preserve elasticity and color.
  • Skip fabric softeners — they block the fabric's moisture-wicking pores.
  • Air dry whenever possible; high heat can damage synthetic fibers.
  • Keep clothes separate from Velcro gear to prevent snags.

Recommended Brands

Leading badminton apparel makers include Yonex, Victor, Li-Ning, and Adidas. These brands produce competition-approved kits using lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying materials. Choose models that fit your level — professional-grade lines have finer stitching, advanced mesh ventilation, and ergonomic tailoring.