CROSSWIND 70: Advancing the Future of Badminton

TOKYO, Japan— Introducing a new chapter in the future of badminton with CROSSWIND 70, our high-performance synthetic feather shuttlecock.

Nearly 15 years in the making, CROSSWIND 70 reflects our ongoing exploration of performance and material innovation. We closely studied the structure, durability, and flight paths of natural feathers. The more we examined them, the more we recognized how remarkable they are. Their balance of lightness, strength, and aerodynamic stability remains unmatched by any man-made material.

After extensive testing and refinement, we accepted that natural feathers cannot be fully replicated. What we could do was learn from them. CROSSWIND 70 is our closest expression of that learning, developed to offer athletes consistent flight and reliable durability while honoring the standard nature has set.

CROSSWIND 70 features a proprietary synthetic feather inspired by the flight of natural feathers. With future recyclability in mind, we carefully selected materials to incorporate into every element of the design. A porous nylon wing structure achieves an optimal balance of lightness and flexibility. A nylon and carbon graphite stem enhances durability while preserving feather-like flight characteristics. A natural cork base delivers the refined and familiar hitting sensation that athletes expect and trust.

While natural feather performance remains our benchmark, this synthetic shuttlecock combines aerodynamic research and advanced materials to deliver consistent flight and durability, making it a new tournament-grade option for competitive play alongside traditional feather shuttlecocks.

CROSSWIND 70 will be released in limited quantities in select markets beginning in late March 2026.

This launch also reflects our long-term commitment to environmental responsibility. As part of Yonex Environmental Vision 2050, we continue to advance sustainability initiatives across three key pillars: Environment, Supply Chain, and Well-being.

In conjunction with CROSSWIND 70, we are planning the introduction of a new recycling initiative, the “Shuttle to Shuttle Challenge.” This initiative will explore the potential of collecting and recycling used shuttlecocks, transforming them into new playable shuttlecocks and other valuable resources, supporting athletes today while considering the needs of tomorrow.

Through continuous innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality, we remain dedicated to supporting the progression of badminton, helping athletes perform at their best while contributing to a more circular sporting future for the global community.

INNOVATION

A shuttlecock engineered to deliver performance comparable to feather shuttlecocks, incorporating materials* selected with future recycling in mind.

*We are advancing research into the recycling potential of each material, with the aim of giving used shuttlecocks new life as playable shuttlecocks once again.

Smash Deceleration:

Even in the highly demanding area of smash deceleration, it achieves performance values remarkably close to traditional feather shuttlecocks.

Launch Details:

CROSSWIND 70 will be available in select markets from late March.