Synthetic shuttlecocks: Yonex and Victor launch top-end models in 2026
Two new synthetic shuttles, the Yonex Crosswind 70 and the Victor Carbonsonic Max, aim to get close to feather flight; claims come from the makers and retailers and are not yet independently tested.
Two new models
The German retailer Racket World describes the Yonex Crosswind 70 as a synthetic shuttle with individual porous-nylon wing elements, a nylon and carbon-graphite stem and a natural cork base, sold six to a tube, with temperature grades 1 to 5 planned. Yonex presented it at the Yonex German Open 2026, cites almost 15 years of development, and it was released in limited quantities in selected markets with no confirmed European retail date.
The same shop says Victor's Carbonsonic Max combines synthetic feathers with a carbon composite shaft, with a market launch planned for mid-2026. Its page is headlined "BWF-approved" but the body says it "will be" approved, so we treat approval as announced, not confirmed.
Used in youth events
Badminton Asia reported on 3 April 2026 that the Victor NCS Max, an upgrade of the NCS Pro that debuted at the 2025 U15 championships in Chengdu, will be used in its 2026 youth tournaments, including a regional championship in Pakistan (1 to 7 April) and the U15 and U17 championships in Chengdu in October. It cites consistent flight and a longer shuttle life.
What we cannot say
The performance claims (durability, consistency, feel) come from the makers and a retailer; Racket World itself notes that natural feather properties cannot be fully reproduced and that demonstration tests do not settle durability. We found no independent test.
Why it matters
Feather shuttles wear out fast in club play. A durable synthetic shuttle that feels right could lower costs, which is why these launches are worth following.