What are the rules for a badminton racket?
Officials' detail · The court, the net, the shuttle and the racket · 4 of 4Checked 13 October 2026
A badminton racket can be at most 680 mm long and 230 mm wide overall. The stringed area must be flat, with crossed strings, and no more than 280 mm long and 220 mm wide. The Laws set no weight. Nothing may be attached that changes the racket's shape or adds to its play.
How it works
- Overall: no more than 680 mm long and 230 mm wide.
- Parts: handle, shaft, throat (if there is one), head and stringed area.
- Stringed area: flat, a pattern of crossed strings, no more than 280 mm by 220 mm. Strings may extend into the throat within set limits.
- No attached objects or protrusions, except small ones only to limit wear or vibration, spread weight or tie the handle to the hand.
- No device that lets the player change the racket's shape.
- The BWF rules on whether any racket or shuttle complies.
Tricky cases
Is there a weight limit for a badminton racket?
No. The Laws limit size and shape, not weight.
Can a player tie the racket to their hand?
Yes. A cord securing the handle to the hand is allowed.
Why the rule exists
The size limits stop a racket being made so large or so altered that reach and power come from the equipment, not the player.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All badminton under the BWF Laws | As above | L4, 5.1 |
From the rule book
BWF Laws of Badminton, Laws 4 and 5.1, version 5.0, in force from 26 April 2025. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: BWF Laws of Badminton (PDF).