Core Insights - The price of badminton has seen a significant increase, with popular brands raising the price of a single barrel by approximately 30 to 40 yuan, leading to comments that "the price of three barrels is comparable to 1 gram of gold" and a total increase of 100% over two years [1][5] Price Trends - The most expensive goose feather badminton, priced at 350 yuan for a barrel of 12, and duck feather balls ranging from 110 to 260 yuan per barrel, indicate a consistent upward trend in prices over the past two years [3] - The price of the popular Yonex AS-05 model has increased from 220 yuan to 240 yuan, and now to 260 yuan per barrel, reflecting a gradual price increase [3] Market Dynamics - Major brands like Yonex, Victor, and Li-Ning have experienced price increases of up to 100% in the past year, surpassing the increase in gold prices during the same period [5] - The increase in badminton prices is attributed to a decrease in the supply of high-quality feathers, which are sourced from geese raised for over 120 days, due to a shift in livestock farming towards pigs following a drop in pork prices [7] Consumer Behavior - Despite rising prices, most badminton enthusiasts are willing to pay more and do not plan to reduce their playing frequency, as evidenced by a 49% increase in foot traffic at a local badminton venue compared to the previous year [8] - Some players are adopting cost-saving strategies such as repairing and reusing equipment or opting for lower-quality balls [8]