Problems with the availability of goose feather shuttlecocks – ESB switches to domestic feather production!

Info: 1.4.2025

The global availability of goose feather shuttlecocks has decreased, and this affects Finnish badminton as well — not only through limited availability but also rising prices.

ESB will need to limit the use of goose feather shuttlecocks in training and is actively seeking alternative options to maintain high-quality activities. During the beginning of the year, we have compared several different alternatives, emphasizing affordability and availability. Based on this evaluation, we have decided to start using new, domestic, eco-friendly shuttlecocks made from crow and sparrow feathers starting April 1, 2025.

"I'm very pleased with this new partnership. This allows us to continue offering high-quality and affordable badminton activities. We can keep shuttlecock costs lower because we are partially self-sufficient in shuttlecock production. Twice a year, we will organize shuttlecock repair workshops, where we replace broken feathers and straighten fluffed ones. Collection boxes for loose feathers are available at the hall", says ESB board member Sami Pajunen.

"We have tested the new shuttlecocks in training, and the crow-feathered ones work very well for adult and competitive play. In my opinion, the sparrow-feathered shuttlecocks are better suited for mini-badminton and junior groups due to their size. Crows and sparrows are also much more cold-resistant than geese, so the shuttlecocks are more durable through the cold winter season", says shuttlecock coordinator Sami Parikka, he adds: "In addition to the economic benefits, I also see the repair workshops as a great way to build community spirit within the club. See you at the workshop!"

The new shuttlecocks will be available for purchase through the club as usual, and they will be used in official competition play for the first time at ESB’s Premier Elite tournament on May 17–18, 2025. The next shuttlecock repair workshop will be held on Monday, May 19.