Clothing for badminton in the sports hall
Short answer: Badminton demands long lunges, jumps and rapid changes of direction, often in a warm hall. Light shorts, an open top and underwear that stays put during powerful movements form the basis of a good training session.
An intense game
Badminton looks graceful, but it is one of the most intense racket sports. You lunge deep towards the net, jump for a smash and run backwards to the baseline within seconds. A single match can contain hundreds of short sprints. The body warms up quickly and sweat comes early. Clothing should therefore be light, give room for big arm movements and dry quickly during the breaks between games so you do not cool down too much.
Shorts for lunges and jumps
In a deep lunge the fabric stretches across the thighs and hips, and stiff shorts can pull or restrict movement. Soft shorts with a good cut and a waistband that stays put when you jump are the best choice. See bamboo shorts for men. The length should end above the knee so it does not get in the way when you drop into a deep lunge at the net to retrieve a short drop shot.
A top with free shoulders
Overhead shots and smashes require full movement in the shoulder. A tank top gives the most freedom and the most air, while a T-shirt offers slightly more protection from draughts during breaks. Many players wear a tank top in matches and pull a thin top over it while resting. See bamboo tank top for men. Viscose from bamboo feels light and cool, and its smooth surface does not chafe under the arms during repeated strokes.
Underwear that supports
Jumps and lunges put demands on underwear. It should fit closely enough to give support, but not so tightly that it rubs at the groin. Underpants with short legs and flat seams are a good choice because they stay in place during big movements. See bamboo underwear for men. Choose a size where the waistband lies flat and does not roll down once you start to sweat during a fast rally.
Heat and hydration
Badminton halls are often kept closed to avoid draughts, which affect the flight of the shuttlecock. That means the air can become warm and humid during training. Drink water in the breaks and keep a towel by the court. A second set of clothes for the second half of the session is pleasant if you sweat a lot. A thin top for after training stops you from getting cold on the way home.
Caring for your kit
Rinse or wash your training clothes soon after use, so that sweat and bacteria do not settle into the fibres. Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees inside out and avoid fabric softener. Let the garments dry on a rack, since high heat in the tumble dryer can cause the knit to shrink. With a few sets in rotation you always have clean kit ready for the next session at the club.
Frequently asked questions
Tank top or T-shirt for badminton
A tank top gives the most freedom in the shoulder and the most air. A T-shirt covers more if the hall is cool.
Why are badminton halls often warm
Because doors and windows are kept shut to avoid draughts that can affect the flight of the shuttlecock.
How short should shorts be
They should end above the knee so they do not get in the way during deep lunges.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
