Victor’s new Carbon Sonic Pro (NCS Pro) shuttlecock is set to make its official debut at the 2025 Asia Junior Championships (U15 & U17), marking a significant step toward more sustainable and affordable alternatives to traditional feather shuttles.  This is the first time a synthetic shuttle is being used in an International tournament!

Unlike the standard Carbon Sonic (NCS), the NCS Pro is a higher-grade option, much like how Victor offers different tiers (e.g., Champion, Master) in their feather lineup. It’s not a replacement, but rather an addition that gives players more choices at various quality and price points.

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NEW FEATURES

The NCS Pro features a hybrid cork base, carbon fiber stems, and Styrofoam plumes made of LDPE (Low Density Polethylene)—a construction aimed at mimicking the feel and performance of real feathers. A key design update includes holes in each feather, which help with durability and flight stability. Holding the shuttle in hand, you can feel the weight is similar to feather shuttles.

Gameplay impressions:

• Touch and control at the net are excellent, feeling very close to real feathers.

• Drives, clears, and smashes perform well, though the shuttle tends to slow down slightly more compared to feather shuttles, which may require some adjustment during defensive play.

• The impact sound is similar to feather shuttles but a bit quieter and less crisp.

• The plumes feel slightly softer and spongier, especially as the shuttle wears down, though they remain durable and flexible.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Throughout testing, the NCS Pro held up impressively, lasting multiple games with minimal visible damage, aside from small bits of Styrofoam breaking off. It also produces more spin than the original NCS, which helps stabilize its flight and reduce wobbling, especially during high-speed rallies.  

Overall, the NCS Pro represents a major innovation for the future of badminton, addressing the rising cost and limited supply of feather shuttles. It’s a practical and eco-friendly option that still delivers a satisfying level of performance.  While it cannot replace real feather shuttles yet, we are one step closer to bridging the gap between synthetic and feather.  The NCS Pro is a huge improvement over plastic nylon shuttles and we suggest everyone to give it a try at least once.  You may be surprised by its performance.