What are the classes in para badminton?
B · Beginner · Classes and equipment · 2 of 3There are six classes. WH1 and WH2 play in wheelchairs, WH1 being more impaired. SL3 and SL4 stand with a lower limb impairment, SL3 more impaired. SU5 stand with an upper limb impairment. SH6 is for short stature. When classes combine, the higher number is the less impaired class, and players may enter a less impaired class.
How it works
- WH1: wheelchair; impairment also involves the trunk or an arm.
- WH2: wheelchair; lower limbs, little trunk involvement.
- SL3: standing; more severe lower limb impairment.
- SL4: standing; less severe lower limb impairment.
- SU5: standing; upper limb impairment, either arm.
- SH6: short stature, with height and arm limits.
- Numbers: higher means less impaired.
- Entering up: WH1 may enter WH2; SL3 may enter SL4 or SU5.
The glossary has the sport classes (para badminton), the WH1 and WH2, the SL3 and SL4, the SU5, the SH6 and the less impaired class.
Tricky cases
Can an SL4 player enter SL3?
No. SL3 is open only to SL3 players.
Can an SU5 player have a leg impairment too?
The class is for an upper limb impairment; classifiers decide the class.
What is the SH6 height limit?
145 cm for men and 137 cm for women, with arm-length limits.
Is there a class for vision impairment?
No.
Why the rule exists
Classes group players whose impairment affects play in a similar way. Entering a less impaired class gives players more matches.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| WH2 entry | WH1 or WH2 | G 8.8.1.2 |
| SU5 entry | SL3, SL4 or SU5 | G 8.8.1.5 |
| SH6 entry | SH6 only | G 8.8.1.6 |
From the rule book
BWF, Para Badminton General Competition Regulations, version 7.0 (8 November 2025), Regulations 1 and 8.8.1, with the Para Badminton Classification Regulations, Appendix 1, section 4. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: BWF Statutes, Sections 4.1 and 5.5.