Li-Ning Halbertec 1000

The Halbertec 1000 opens Li-Ning's Halbertec control line at the beginner end, the softest and most forgiving frame in the 1000-9000 series.

An even balance and a medium-flex, STD-modulus carbon frame put the weight where a new player needs it: neutral in the hand, easy to swing repeatedly without arm fatigue, and forgiving on off-centre hits. The trade-off is that it won't reward hard smashing the way the rackets higher up the range do - power here comes from technique and timing, not the frame doing the work for you. Strung within its lower tension ceiling, it keeps the sweet spot large and the shuttle response predictable, which is exactly what you want while you're still building a consistent swing.

This is the racket for someone picking up badminton for the first time, coming back to the game after years away, or a club player who wants a light, easy-swinging spare. It is not for anyone who already smashes hard and wants the frame to add pace - for that, look further up the line. The Halbertec 2000 and 3000 keep a similar beginner-friendly feel with a livelier or firmer shaft, and by the 5000 and above you're into stiffer, higher-tension frames built for players who generate their own power.

Strung by hand in our Perth workshop, free with every racket. 100% authentic Li-Ning stock.