These gym clothes will help you build the best badminton outfit

You might think you're prepared for a game of badminton, you've got your racquet, shuttlecock, but what do you wear? Let's be honest, strutting onto the court with mismatched socks and an oversized t-shirt doesn't exactly scream 'I'm here to win.' Instead, you want to be wearing the best badminton outfit on (and off) the court.

Must-have pieces for the best badminton outfit at a glance

• Best men's badminton shorts: Adidas Train Essentials Woven Training Shorts - View on Adidas
• Best women's badminton shorts: Sweaty Betty Relay Shell Shorts - View on Sweaty Betty
• Best men's badminton jacket: Under Armour Challenger III Jacket - View on Amazon
• Best women's badminton jacket: Gymshark Sweat Seamless Zip Up Jacket - View on Gymshark

Wearing the best gym clothes for a game of badminton isn't just about looking the part. It's about optimising your performance and actually enjoying the experience on the court. Trying to execute a lightning-fast smash in restrictive clothing or battling against the heat in garments that trap sweat like a sauna isn't going to cut it.

Instead, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and specifically designed sportswear to give you better freedom of movement.

Beyond pure functionality, wearing the appropriate badminton attire shows respect for the sport, along with your fellow players (as well as signalling to them they're about to lose). So, your badminton outfit is more than just a fashion statement, it's actually a strategic asset...

SHOP: The best badminton outfit essentials

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Badminton shorts

Often made from lightweight and breathable materials, gym shorts are made to provide unrestricted movement. And, with features like moisture-wicking technology and strategic ventilation, badminton shorts keep players cool and comfortable even in the heat of intense rallies.

Badminton jackets

Wearing a jacket or hoodie to your badminton match will give you that pre and post-game warmth you might be looking for. They're also great to have with you as a versatile layering option, so you can adjust your clothing according to the changing temperatures throughout the match. As we all know, once you get past your warm-up session, you'll probably have to put your badminton jacket to the side.

Badminton tops

The right sports top for badminton will help you to keep cool, and most importantly, dry. Even during the most sweat-inducing matches, a gym top will wick away moisture and provide essential ventilation. A heavy, cotton t-shirt will be doing you no favours...

Badminton leggings

If you don't want to wear a pair of shorts to play badminton, leggings are a great alternative. With their form-fitting design and stretchy fabric, leggings offer a snug fit that allows you to move with ease. Plus, wearing a pair of skin-tight leggings removes any risk of fabric getting caught on equipment or your movement being hindered - giving you the agility you need to deliver those winning shots.

Badminton shoes

Just like choosing the right shoes for any type of workout - whether that be for HIIT or running, having the right pair of badminton shoes in your arsenal is essential. The best pairs of badminton shoes will offer you agility like no other, from lightweight designs to advanced cushioning technologies. Most importantly, they'll protect your feet during training and matches.

Badminton dress

Unlike most athleisurewear, a badminton dress offers the ultimate flexibility. We're not saying you should immediately don a dress and try to do the splits. But, the snug silhouette of a dress will help to minimise any distractions and might even streamline you. That's why it's the go-to for similar racquet sports, like tennis.

Badminton bag

A good badminton bag offers organisation and protection for all your essentials, including your racquets, shuttlecocks and shoes. With designated compartments and pockets, it helps you to make sure that your equipment stays safe and secure, and reduces the risk of damage or loss. Even if you're a casual badminton player, it's a good idea to invest in a quality bag to hold your belongings, as this will help you become more prepared for the match in general.

Badminton outfit styling guide and FAQs

Do you have to wear gym clothes to play badminton?

Technically you don't have to wear specific gym clothes to play badminton. So long as you have your badminton racquet, you're all set. But, choosing athleisurewear designed for badminton does have advantages. Gym clothes are made from the type of material you'd want to play a game of badminton in; they're sweat-wicking, breathable and lightweight. Additionally, they'll offer you the freedom you need to smash hits and beat your opponent.

If you don't have any specialised gym clothes and you do want to play badminton it's not the end of the world, but gym clothes might just help you improve your performance more than you think.

What shoes are not allowed in badminton?

There isn't a set list of shoes that aren't allowed in badminton. Saying that, there are a few types of trainer that aren't suitable. High-heeled shoes, for instance, are an obvious no-go, as they lack in stability and grip. In addition, shoes with heavy treads that are designed for hiking or trail running again aren't the best as they can easily slip on indoor courts. Also, football trainers with metal spikes are of course not permitted. This is because the spikes damage the court and pose a safety hazard.

Instead, look for trainers that are labelled with 'indoor' or 'non-marking' to ensure you're investing in a pair of badminton shoes that will help you, not hinder you.

Is there a uniform for badminton?

No, badminton isn't a sport that requires a uniform. Yes, there are certain things you should and shouldn't wear when hitting the court, but there is no official rule. Some clubs might have a list of things to wear, but the emphasis should always be on wearing a pair of comfortable badminton trainers and breathable attire.

Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.

When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.

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