Okay, so I grabbed this AboveGenius badminton set for some backyard fun, and honestly? Way better than I expected!

First off, the rackets feel legit—like, they're lightweight (3.7 oz? No arm fatigue after an hour of wild swings) but don’t bend like wet noodles when you smash. The steel frame is sturdy, and the strings have decent tension. Not pro-level, but way better than those flimsy Walmart sets.

The shuttlecocks are nylon (not feather, obviously), but they fly straight and survive getting stepped on by my dog twice. Big win.

Grip is comfy—no blisters even during our 'intense' family tournaments (read: my 10-year-old nephew cheating). Works for small and big hands.

Downside? One reviewer mentioned nets breaking, but we just tied ours to lawn chairs and it’s holding up. Maybe don’t expect Wimbledon durability?

Verdict: Perfect for beginners/casual play. If you’re just starting or want a budget-friendly set for picnics, this is a steal. Pro players might scoff, but hey, I’m here for the laughs and accidental birdie-to-the-face moments.