Li-Ning has grown from a sportswear company into one of the three biggest names in badminton, alongside Yonex and Victor. Its rackets range from light entry-level frames to flagship power rackets used on the world tour, and its series names (Axforce, Halbertec, Aeronaut, Windstorm, G-Force) can be confusing at first. This guide explains what each Li-Ning series is designed for, compares popular models on their published specifications, and helps you choose the right one.
Where Is Li-Ning From?
Li-Ning is a Chinese brand, founded in 1990 by Li Ning, the Olympic champion gymnast. It became a major force in badminton, particularly in Asia, and was the equipment partner of the Chinese national badminton team from 2009 until 2021. Li-Ning rackets are known for bold designs and for covering a very wide price range.
Li-Ning Racket Series at a Glance
| Series | Designed for | Typical balance |
|---|---|---|
| Axforce | Power and attack | Head-heavy |
| Aeronaut | All-round play with some head weight | Head-heavy |
| Halbertec | Control and all-round play | Even |
| Bladex | Speed and quick handling | Varies by model |
| Windstorm | Ultra-light frames for easy swinging | Head-heavy (light overall) |
| G-Force | Entry and improving players | Varies by model |
Axforce: Li-Ning’s power line
Axforce rackets are head-heavy and built for attacking players. The range includes the Axforce 100 (now succeeded by the Axforce 100 II) and the Axforce 90 Tiger Max and Dragon Max, which Li-Ning lists with balance points of 305 mm and 307 mm respectively. Read our Li-Ning Axforce comparison for model-by-model detail.
Halbertec: control and all-round
Halbertec rackets are Li-Ning’s control line. The Halbertec 8000 is listed by Li-Ning as even-balanced (302 mm for 4U) with a maximum tension of 30 lbs. It suits players who win points with placement and consistency rather than raw power.
Aeronaut: all-round with head weight
The Aeronaut line sits between power and control. The Aeronaut 9000 is head-heavy (305 mm on Li-Ning’s listing) but is generally positioned as an all-round racket rather than a pure smasher. Several variants exist (9000C, 9000D and 9000I), so check the exact version.
Windstorm: ultra-light
Windstorm rackets are built around very low weights. The Windstorm 72 weighs about 72 g, much lighter than a typical 4U racket, yet is head-heavy (315 mm on Li-Ning’s listing for the Speed version) to help with clears. Ultra-light frames are easy on the arm and quick to swing, though less stable against hard smashes.
G-Force: entry and improving players
The G-Force range covers lighter, more forgiving rackets. The G-Force 5900 Superlite (around 79 g, head-heavy, flexible shaft) is aimed at improving players who want easy power from a light frame.
Popular Li-Ning Rackets Compared
| Racket | Weight | Balance | Shaft | Max tension | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li-Ning Axforce 100 older model | 3U, 4U | Head-heavy | Stiff | 4U 30 lbs | Advanced attackers (now succeeded by the Axforce 100 II) |
| Li-Ning Axforce 90 Tiger Max | 3U, 4U | Head-heavy | Medium | 4U 30 lbs | Attacking players who want power with a less stiff shaft |
| Li-Ning Axforce 90 Dragon Max | 3U, 4U | Head-heavy | — | 3U 31 lbs, 4U 30 lbs | Heavy hitters who play from the rear court |
| Li-Ning Halbertec 8000 | 3U, 4U | Even | — | 30 lbs | Advanced all-round players who value control |
| Li-Ning Aeronaut 9000 | 3U, 4U | Head-heavy | — | — | All-round players who still want some head weight |
| Li-Ning G-Force 5900 Superlite | 79 g | Head-heavy | Flexible | 30 lbs | Improving players who want a light racket with easy power |
| Li-Ning Windstorm 72 | ~72 g | Head-heavy | Flexible | 30 lbs (Speed version) | Players who want an ultra-light, easy-swinging frame |
Specs come from the manufacturers' product pages or, where those were unavailable, from authorised retailers. A dash means sources disagreed or the brand does not publish the figure. Compare any two rackets side by side.
Which Li-Ning Racket Should You Choose?
- Attacking advanced player: Axforce 100 / 100 II or Axforce 90 Dragon Max.
- Attacking player who wants a softer feel: Axforce 90 Tiger Max, which retailers list with a medium shaft.
- All-round or control player: Halbertec 8000, or Aeronaut 9000 if you want a little more head weight.
- Improving player or anyone who tires easily: G-Force 5900 Superlite or Windstorm 72.
Put any two models side by side in our racket comparison tool.
Li-Ning vs Yonex and Victor
Li-Ning’s biggest strength is value in the mid-range: its rackets often list specifications, such as higher maximum string tensions, that rivals reserve for more expensive frames. At flagship level, Li-Ning, Victor and Yonex are closely matched, and the choice comes down to feel and local availability. Yonex usually has the best global distribution, while Li-Ning is especially well stocked and competitively priced across much of Asia.
- Yonex vs Li-Ning vs Victor: full comparison
- Yonex vs Li-Ning: which offers better value?
- Victor badminton rackets explained
Buying Genuine Li-Ning Rackets
Popular Li-Ning models are widely counterfeited, especially the Axforce line. Buy from Li-Ning’s own stores or authorised retailers, be cautious of prices far below the market rate, and check the model code and specifications against Li-Ning’s official listing. Warranty handling varies by country and importer, so ask how a claim would be handled before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country is Li-Ning from?
China. Li-Ning was founded in 1990 by the Olympic gymnast Li Ning.
Is Li-Ning a good racket brand?
Yes. Li-Ning makes high-quality rackets used at the top level of the sport, and it is often especially strong value in the mid-range.
Is Li-Ning better than Victor?
Neither is better overall. Both make excellent power, speed and control rackets. Compare individual models on balance, stiffness and weight, and choose whichever is genuine and easy to buy and service where you live.
Which Li-Ning racket is best for beginners?
A light, forgiving racket such as the G-Force 5900 Superlite or the Windstorm 72. Avoid stiff flagship Axforce rackets until your technique is established.
What grip sizes does Li-Ning use?
Li-Ning uses its own grip labels rather than Yonex-style G numbers, so compare actual measurements if you are switching brands.
