I picked up a badminton racket for the first time at age 40, in 2020 — well past the age most people think it’s “too late” to start a new sport. I got hooked, kept playing, and now play and coach competitively.
The Gear Grit exists because when I started, most gear reviews online were written by 20-something tournament players for other 20-something tournament players. None of it accounted for what actually matters when you’re starting later in life — grip comfort, shock on the joints, forgiving sweet spots, and gear that helps you enjoy the game rather than chase a pro-level edge you don’t need yet.
Everything I write here comes from actually playing with the gear, not just reading spec sheets. If you’re starting badminton at 30, 40, 50, or beyond — this site is built for you.