Understanding Weighted Ducks For Duck Race: Composition, Standards, and Applications

Types of Weighted Ducks for Duck Races

A weighted duck is a specially designed floating toy used in charity duck races, fundraising events, and community festivals. These ducks are engineered to float steadily, resist tipping, and maintain forward motion in water currents. The added weight—typically placed in the base—ensures stability and directional consistency during the race. From eco-conscious materials to customizable branding, the right duck can elevate both the excitement and success of your event.

Ducks with Adjustable Weights

These ducks feature removable or repositionable ballast, allowing organizers to fine-tune performance based on water conditions.

Advantages

• Customizable speed and stability
• Ideal for varying water currents
• Reusable across multiple events
• Enhances strategic race planning

Limitations

• More complex design increases cost
• Requires maintenance between uses
• Potential for weight loss if seals fail

Best for: Professional races, educational STEM events, variable river conditions

Light vs. Heavy Weighted Ducks

Designed with fixed ballast, these ducks come in light, medium, and heavy variants to suit different water dynamics.

Advantages

• Light ducks glide quickly in calm water
• Heavy ducks resist wind and strong currents
• Predictable performance
• Easy to sort and categorize

Limitations

• Less adaptable to changing conditions
• May require separate duck types for different events
• Heavier models may sink if damaged

Best for: Community festivals, charity races, predictable water environments

Sand-Filled Ducks

Filled with clean, dry sand, these eco-friendly ducks offer safe, non-toxic ballast that minimizes environmental impact.

Advantages

• Biodegradable and non-toxic
• Safe for wildlife and aquatic ecosystems
• Cost-effective and widely available
• Natural weight distribution

Limitations

• Potential for leakage if casing cracks
• May harden over time with moisture exposure
• Heavier to transport in bulk

Best for: Environmentally conscious events, school programs, protected waterways

Lead or Plastic Pellet-Filled Ducks

These ducks use dense, compact materials like lead shot or recycled plastic pellets for precise weight control.

Advantages

• Highly durable and long-lasting
• Consistent weight and balance
• Compact fill resists shifting
• Ideal for competitive racing

Limitations

• Environmental concerns with lead
• Plastic pellets contribute to microplastic pollution if damaged
• Higher cost and regulatory restrictions in some areas

Best for: Corporate events, professional races, controlled environments

Floating vs. Semi-Submersible Ducks

While most race ducks float fully, some are designed to sit lower in the water for improved tracking and reduced wind resistance.

Advantages

• Floating ducks are highly visible and fun for spectators
• Semi-submersible models cut through waves better
• Reduced tipping in choppy water
• More realistic "racing" appearance

Limitations

• Semi-submersible ducks may be harder to spot
• Require precise weight calibration
• Limited availability and higher cost

Best for: Windy conditions, long-distance races, professional setups

Premium vs. Budget Ducks

From high-end branded ducks to simple plastic models, options vary widely in quality, durability, and price.

Advantages

• Premium ducks offer UV resistance and vibrant colors
• Budget options ideal for one-time events
• Premium models can be reused for years
• Higher resale or sponsorship value

Limitations

• Premium ducks have a higher upfront cost
• Budget ducks may break or fade quickly
• Lower perceived value with cheap materials

Best for: Premium – corporate sponsorships; Budget – school fundraisers, small community events

Customizable Race Ducks

Personalized with logos, colors, or themed designs, these ducks serve as both race participants and marketing tools.

Advantages

• Excellent for brand visibility and sponsor recognition
• Increases donor engagement and ticket sales
• Available in seasonal or holiday themes
• Can include QR codes or website links

Limitations

• Longer lead time for production
• Higher minimum order quantities
• More expensive per unit

Best for: Charity galas, corporate sponsorships, tourism promotions, holiday festivals

Type	Durability	Eco-Friendliness	Cost	Best Use Case
Adjustable Weight	High	Medium	$$$	Professional or variable-condition races
Sand-Filled	Medium	Excellent	$	Eco-conscious or educational events
Lead/Plastic-Filled	Very High	Poor (Lead), Fair (Plastic)	$$	Corporate or high-performance races
Floating/Semi-Submersible	High	Good	$$	Windy or wavy conditions
Premium Ducks	Very High	Good	$$$	Sponsorship-driven events
Budget Ducks	Low	Fair	$	One-time community fundraisers
Customizable Ducks	High	Good	$$-$$$	Branded events, marketing campaigns

Expert Tip: For maximum engagement, combine customizable premium ducks with a "Duck Adoption" program where donors can name their duck. This personal touch increases emotional investment and fundraising potential.

Design of Weighted Ducks for Duck Race

The design of weighted ducks for duck races plays a crucial role in ensuring both functionality and safety, while also enhancing the entertainment value of the event. Since these races are typically held outdoors under variable weather and water conditions, the ducks must be engineered for durability, consistent buoyancy, and visual appeal. A well-designed race duck not only performs reliably in moving water but also captivates the audience with vibrant colors and creative styling. Below is a comprehensive overview of the key design considerations for competitive and fundraising duck races.

Materials Used in Construction

Outer Shell Materials

Most high-quality race ducks are constructed from durable thermoplastics such as polypropylene or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These materials offer excellent resistance to UV radiation, impact, and temperature fluctuations—critical for outdoor events. Their flexibility reduces the risk of cracking during transport or when subjected to water currents, while their smooth surface minimizes drag for better racing performance.

Internal Weighting Components

To ensure stability and upright floating, weighted ducks contain ballast materials sealed within the base. Common choices include sand, small lead-free metal pellets, or smooth river stones. These materials are chosen for their density and inert properties. Importantly, all internal components must be non-toxic and hermetically sealed to prevent environmental contamination or health risks in case of damage—especially important in public waterways or children’s events.

Aesthetic Appeal and Customization

While functionality is essential, the visual design of race ducks significantly contributes to audience engagement and fundraising success. Traditional yellow rubber ducks remain popular due to their nostalgic and universally recognizable appearance. However, modern duck races often feature creative variations to stand out and attract sponsors.

Themed Designs: Ducks decorated with holiday motifs, animal patterns, or seasonal themes increase visual interest and can be tied to specific events or campaigns.

Branded Ducks: Many organizations customize ducks with logos, slogans, or sponsor branding, turning them into promotional tools that enhance community involvement and corporate partnerships.

Color Psychology: Bright, high-contrast colors like yellow, orange, and red are preferred because they are easily visible on water and attract attention from a distance, improving spectator experience.

Special Editions: Limited-run ducks with unique costumes, glitter finishes, or glow-in-the-dark features can be auctioned or raffled to boost fundraising efforts.

Size and Proportional Design

The dimensions of a race duck directly influence its performance, visibility, and ease of handling. Standardized sizing ensures fair competition and logistical efficiency during large-scale events.

Standard Dimensions

Most competitive duck races use ducks measuring between 6 and 8 inches in length. This size strikes an ideal balance: large enough to be seen clearly on water, yet small enough to be mass-produced, transported, and stored efficiently. Uniform sizing also helps prevent unfair advantages due to hydrodynamic differences.

Scale Adaptability

For smaller venues like kiddie pools or shallow channels, miniature ducks (4–5 inches) may be used. Conversely, larger bodies of water—such as rivers or lakes—can accommodate slightly bigger ducks (up to 10 inches) to maintain visibility over longer distances. Regardless of scale, the center of gravity should remain low to prevent tipping in turbulent water.

Waterproof Sealing and Durability

Effective waterproofing is essential to preserve the duck’s integrity and ensure long-term reusability. Poor sealing can lead to water ingress, which alters buoyancy, adds unpredictable weight, and may cause the duck to sink or list to one side.

Sealing Techniques

High-quality race ducks use ultrasonic welding or industrial-grade waterproof adhesives to seal seams between molded halves. These methods create airtight and watertight bonds that withstand repeated immersion and exposure to chlorinated or saltwater environments. The seal must also resist thermal expansion and contraction caused by sun exposure.

Environmental Resilience

Ducks designed for all-weather races must perform reliably in rain, wind, and strong currents. Reinforced bases, smooth contours, and drainage vents (if applicable) help maintain stability. Additionally, UV-resistant pigments prevent fading, ensuring the ducks retain their vibrant appearance over multiple seasons.

Design Factor	Recommended Standard	Key Benefits
Material (Shell)	Polyethylene or Polypropylene	Durable, lightweight, UV-resistant, recyclable
Weight Fill	Sealed sand or lead-free pellets	Stable floatation, non-toxic, eco-safe
Length	6–8 inches	Optimal visibility and racing fairness
Sealing Method	Ultrasonic welding or waterproof epoxy	Prevents water ingress, long lifespan
Color	Bright yellow, red, or orange	High visibility, attracts attention

Important: Always ensure that all materials used in duck construction comply with local safety and environmental regulations. Avoid using toxic substances like lead or phthalates, especially in events involving children or natural water bodies. Regularly inspect ducks for cracks or seal damage before each race to maintain performance and safety standards.

Scenarios of Weighted Ducks for Duck Races

Duck races have become a beloved tradition across a wide range of events—from intimate backyard parties to large-scale charity fundraisers. These playful competitions bring people together while raising funds, promoting brands, or simply creating memorable moments. The use of weighted ducks ensures fair and consistent performance, preventing tipping and improving flow in varying water conditions. Whether on calm ponds or flowing rivers, the design and purpose of the duck race shape the choice of materials, weight distribution, and event logistics.

Charity Fundraiser Duck Races

One of the most popular and impactful uses of weighted duck races is in charitable fundraising. Nonprofits, hospitals, schools, and community organizations host duck derbies to generate revenue through ticket sales and sponsorships. Participants "adopt" numbered rubber ducks, which are then released into a river, stream, or temporary water channel. The first duck to cross the finish line wins a prize for its sponsor, while the majority of proceeds support a meaningful cause such as medical research, disaster relief, or youth programs.

• Weighted ducks (often filled with sand or metal pellets) ensure stability and consistent floating, reducing the chance of capsizing
• Pre-numbered, trackable ducks allow organizers to match winners with donors
• Events often include additional attractions like food stalls, live music, and raffles to boost engagement
• Many organizers use eco-friendly, reusable ducks to minimize environmental impact

Pro tip: Partner with local businesses for duck sponsorship tiers—gold, silver, and bronze—offering branding visibility in exchange for donations.

Corporate Promotions and Branding Events

Forward-thinking companies leverage duck races as engaging marketing tools that blend fun with brand visibility. These events allow businesses to align with community values, showcase corporate social responsibility, and strengthen team morale. Custom-branded ducks featuring company logos, colors, and slogans turn a simple race into a powerful branding opportunity.

• Ducks are often customized with UV-resistant printing to maintain appearance over multiple uses
• Corporate teams may compete internally, fostering camaraderie and friendly rivalry
• Sponsorship packages can include naming rights, media coverage, and VIP guest experiences
• Proceeds may support a shared cause, enhancing the company’s public image

Key insight: A well-executed duck race can generate significant social media buzz, especially when influencers or local celebrities participate.

Community Fairs and Festivals

Duck races are a staple attraction at county fairs, town festivals, and summer celebrations. These events draw families and visitors of all ages, making duck races an ideal low-cost, high-engagement activity. The simplicity and visual appeal of watching dozens of ducks bob down a stream captivate audiences and create a festive atmosphere.

• Sand-weighted plastic ducks are commonly used due to affordability and durability
• Races are often repeated throughout the day to maximize participation
• Prizes may include festival vouchers, merchandise, or gift baskets from local vendors
• Some events incorporate themed races (e.g., “golden duck” or “mystery duck”) for added excitement

Event tip: Use temporary inflatable race channels for controlled, repeatable runs in areas without natural water flow.

Educational Events and Science Programs

Schools, nature centers, and botanical gardens use duck races as interactive learning tools to teach students about buoyancy, water flow, ecosystems, and conservation. These hands-on activities make abstract scientific concepts tangible and enjoyable for children of all ages.

• Students may design and test their own weighted ducks, experimenting with balance and materials
• Lessons can include data collection—recording race times, analyzing variables, and drawing conclusions
• Educators emphasize environmental stewardship, discussing pollution, wildlife habitats, and water safety
• Biodegradable or recyclable ducks are preferred to align with sustainability goals

Teaching opportunity: Pair the race with a lesson on river dynamics or watershed systems for cross-curricular impact.

Private Parties and Celebrations

From backyard birthdays to family reunions, duck races add a whimsical and competitive twist to private gatherings. These informal events prioritize fun over fundraising, making them perfect for creating lasting memories. The low setup cost and ease of execution make duck races accessible for DIY event planners.

• Inflatable pools, garden streams, or even kiddie pools can serve as raceways
• Personalized ducks with guest names or humorous labels increase engagement
• Prizes are often lighthearted—a trophy, silly crown, or dessert privilege
• Reusable ducks can be kept as party favors or mementos

Creative idea: Host a “design your duck” station before the race to boost creativity and ownership.

Specialty and Themed Events

Beyond traditional formats, duck races are increasingly incorporated into themed events such as holiday parades, eco-awareness campaigns, and tourism promotions. These unique applications showcase the versatility of the concept while drawing attention to specific causes or locations.

• “Glow-in-the-dark” duck races are held at night for festivals and fundraisers
• Conservation groups use duck releases to symbolize clean water initiatives
• Tourist boards feature duck races in promotional videos to highlight scenic waterways
• Limited-edition ducks (e.g., holiday designs) can be sold as collectibles

Innovation note: Some events now use GPS-tracked ducks for long-distance river challenges, merging tradition with technology.

Organizer’s Insight: Regardless of the event type, always prioritize safety and environmental responsibility. Use non-toxic, recyclable materials for ducks, avoid single-use plastics when possible, and ensure the release and retrieval process prevents littering. Clear signage, volunteer coordination, and contingency plans for weather or water conditions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Event Type	Primary Goal	Typical Duck Type	Weighting Method	Average Participation
Charity Fundraiser	Fundraising & Awareness	Numbered, reusable rubber ducks	Sand or plastic pellets	500–10,000+ ducks
Corporate Promotion	Brand Engagement	Custom-branded ducks	Internal ballast (molded)	250–2,000 ducks
Community Festival	Family Entertainment	Basic sand-weighted ducks	Sand-filled base	100–1,000 ducks
Educational Program	STEM Learning	DIY or pre-made learning kits	Adjustable weights (washers, clay)	20–100 ducks
Private Party	Recreational Fun	Decorated or novelty ducks	Light sand or none	10–50 ducks

Best Practices for Duck Race Success

• Weight Consistency: Ensure all ducks are evenly weighted to maintain fairness and prevent tipping or sinking
• Retrieval Plan: Use nets, collection booms, or volunteer teams to recover ducks efficiently and prevent loss
• Water Safety: Choose safe, accessible waterways with controlled currents and proper supervision
• Permits & Regulations: Check local environmental and public safety regulations before releasing ducks into natural water bodies
• Sustainability: Opt for durable, reusable ducks over disposable ones to reduce waste and long-term costs

Specification & Maintenance of Weighted Ducks for Duck Races

Weighted racing ducks are essential components of duck races—popular fundraising and community events held worldwide, including international competitions. These ducks, typically placed within inflatable bongos or designed with built-in buoyancy, must meet strict specifications and undergo regular maintenance to ensure fair racing, visual appeal, longevity, and safety. Proper care prevents deterioration, mold growth, and environmental hazards. This guide outlines key specifications, cleaning procedures, storage best practices, and safety protocols to help organizers maintain high-quality, reliable racing ducks year after year.

Safety & Environmental Note: Always inspect ducks before each use. Damaged or leaking ducks can pose choking hazards, release harmful materials into waterways, or sink during races, creating tripping or navigation risks. Only use non-toxic, environmentally safe materials in duck construction and weighting.

Materials and Size Specifications

The performance and durability of racing ducks depend heavily on the materials used and their standardized dimensions. Most professional-grade weighted ducks are manufactured from high-impact, UV-resistant plastics such as polypropylene (PP) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). These materials offer excellent resistance to cracking, fading, and chemical degradation—critical for repeated exposure to water, sunlight, and outdoor elements.

Size standardization ensures fairness and consistency across all participants. The ideal racing duck measures approximately 6 inches in length and 4 inches in width, striking a balance between visibility on the water and compactness for mass launching. This size allows for:

• Uniform hydrodynamics across all ducks
• Sufficient surface area for sponsor branding or numbering
• Internal space for secure weight placement without compromising buoyancy
• Ease of handling during deployment and retrieval

The weight is typically added internally using sand or non-corrosive metal pellets sealed in waterproof compartments. This ballast lowers the center of gravity, improving stability and reducing tipping or spinning in moving water.

How to Clean the Ducks

Proper cleaning after each event is vital to prevent the buildup of algae, mold, scum, and bacteria—especially when ducks are used in natural bodies of water like rivers or lakes. Contaminated ducks can become unsightly, emit odors, and even pose health risks if handled by children or volunteers.

Follow this step-by-step cleaning process:

1. Immediate Rinse: As soon as ducks are retrieved from the water, rinse them thoroughly with clean, fresh water using a soft hose or pressure washer on low setting.
2. Deep Clean: Wipe down each duck with a mild soap solution (e.g., dish detergent and water) using a soft cloth or sponge. Focus on seams, undersides, and any crevices where debris may accumulate.
3. Avoid Harsh Tools: Never use abrasive brushes, steel wool, or strong solvents, as these can scratch or degrade the plastic surface, leading to cracks or leaks over time.
4. Disinfect (Optional): For events with heavy biological exposure, sanitize ducks with a diluted vinegar solution (1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water) or a non-toxic disinfectant safe for plastics.
5. Dry Completely: Allow ducks to air-dry fully in a shaded area before storage. Moisture trapped inside can lead to mold growth and material degradation.

Expert Tip: Set up a dedicated cleaning station at your event with labeled bins for "Used," "Cleaning," and "Clean/Dry" ducks. This streamlines post-race maintenance and reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

Storage Guidelines

Improper storage is one of the leading causes of premature duck failure. To maximize lifespan and appearance, follow these storage recommendations:

• Store Indoors: Keep ducks in a dry, climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Prolonged UV exposure can cause plastic to become brittle and fade colors. Store in opaque containers or shaded areas.
• Prevent Compression: Do not stack ducks directly on top of one another, especially under heavy loads. This can cause warping, sticking, or permanent deformation. Use shelving or bins with dividers to separate them.
• Use Breathable Containers: If storing in bins, choose ones with ventilation or leave lids slightly ajar to allow airflow and prevent condensation.
• Seasonal Inspection: Before and after long-term storage, inspect each duck for signs of damage, mildew, or insect infestation.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount in public events involving water and large crowds. While racing ducks are generally safe, improper design or maintenance can introduce hazards. Key safety practices include:

• Non-Toxic Materials: Ensure all plastics and internal weights (such as sand or steel shot) are non-toxic and fully sealed. Avoid lead-based or chemically reactive materials.
• Secure Sealing: Weight compartments must be permanently sealed to prevent leakage. Conduct regular leak tests by submerging ducks in water and checking for air bubbles.
• Choking Hazard Prevention: Small parts or broken pieces can pose risks to children. Discard any duck with cracks, loose components, or compromised integrity.
• Environmental Responsibility: Retrieve all ducks after the race. Lost or broken ducks can become pollution in waterways and harm wildlife.
• Pre-Race Inspection: Implement a checklist to examine every duck before race day. Look for cracks, fading, loose weights, or deformities that could affect performance or safety.

Maintenance Stage	Best Practices	Common Mistakes	Recommended Supplies
Post-Race Cleaning	Rinse immediately, use mild soap, dry completely	Leaving ducks wet or stacking dirty units	Soft hoses, biodegradable soap, drying racks
Inspection	Check for cracks, leaks, fading, and seal integrity	Skipping individual checks for large batches	Flashlight, water tank for leak testing, inspection log
Storage	Shaded, dry area; avoid stacking; use ventilated bins	Storing in garages, attics, or damp basements	Plastic totes with lids, shelving units, desiccant packs
Safety Compliance	Use non-toxic materials, conduct leak tests, discard damaged units	Using makeshift weights or unsealed compartments	Sealant glue, non-toxic sand, safety data sheets (SDS)

Longevity Tip: Number or barcode each duck for tracking. This helps identify frequently damaged units, manage inventory, and schedule replacements before race day.

Additional Recommendations

• Rotate duck fleets annually to reduce wear on individual units
• Partner with local recycling centers to responsibly dispose of damaged ducks
• Train volunteers on proper duck handling and inspection procedures
• Consider custom-molded ducks with integrated weights for enhanced durability
• Document maintenance logs for insurance, safety audits, and event planning

Maintaining racing ducks to a high standard not only ensures a smooth, fair, and visually appealing event but also reflects professionalism and responsibility toward participants, spectators, and the environment. By adhering to these specifications and maintenance protocols, organizers can protect their investment, enhance safety, and contribute to the long-term success of duck race traditions around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Racing Ducks

Q1: Can weighted ducks be reused for multiple races?

A: Yes, weighted racing ducks are designed to be reused many times, making them both cost-effective and environmentally friendly when properly maintained. To ensure longevity and consistent performance, it's essential to follow a few key care practices after each race:

• Cleaning: Rinse the ducks thoroughly with clean water to remove dirt, algae, or debris that may accumulate during the race.
• Drying: Allow the ducks to air dry completely before storage to prevent mold or mildew, especially if seals are not 100% waterproof.
• Inspection: Check for cracks, leaks, or damage to the hull or weighted base—early detection prevents failure in future events.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid UV degradation of plastic materials.

With proper maintenance, high-quality racing ducks can last for several seasons and hundreds of races, making them a smart investment for recurring charity events or community festivals.

Q2: What is the best weight for a racing duck?

A: The ideal weight for a racing duck depends heavily on the specific water conditions of the race venue. Proper weighting ensures stability, reduces tipping, and promotes smooth, straight movement down the course:

• Calm Waters (lakes, ponds): Lighter weights (typically 2–4 ounces) are sufficient to keep the duck upright without dragging it down.
• Fast-Moving Currents (rivers, streams): Heavier weights (5–8 ounces) help the duck cut through turbulence and maintain momentum without being easily overturned.
• Variable Conditions: Consider using adjustable weights or testing multiple ducks with different ballast levels during trial runs to determine optimal performance.

Balance is key—too much weight slows the duck, while too little can cause it to wobble or capsize. Many organizers conduct pre-event test races to fine-tune the ideal weight distribution for fairness and speed.

Q3: Are customizable race ducks effective?

A: Yes, customizable racing ducks can be both effective and highly engaging when constructed with care and quality materials. These ducks often feature personalized designs, sponsor logos, or participant names, enhancing the event’s appeal while maintaining competitive integrity:

• Material Quality: Look for ducks made from durable, UV-resistant PVC or polyethylene that won’t crack or fade over time.
• Sealing: Custom ducks must be properly sealed to prevent water ingress, which can affect buoyancy and performance.
• Weight Integration: Ensure that any customization doesn’t interfere with the internal weight placement or balance of the duck.
• Consistency: For fair racing, all ducks—custom or standard—should have similar weight, shape, and hydrodynamic properties.

When done right, customizable ducks combine fun and functionality, offering a unique experience for participants while maintaining reliable performance on the water.

Q4: How can organizers ensure the ducks float properly?

A: Ensuring proper flotation is critical for a fair and successful duck race. Organizers should take several proactive steps to verify that all ducks perform reliably:

• Weight-to-Size Ratio: Choose ducks with a balanced ratio—typically 3–6% of the duck’s total volume should be ballast for optimal stability.
• Pre-Event Testing: Conduct trial races with a sample of ducks to observe floating behavior, alignment, and speed under real conditions.
• Buoyancy Checks: Submerge ducks briefly and watch for air bubbles or slow sinking, which indicate leaks.
• Uniform Design: Use ducks from the same manufacturer or batch to minimize performance variations due to shape or material differences.
• Water Conditions: Adjust expectations and duck specs based on flow rate, temperature, and obstacles in the waterway.

By standardizing equipment and testing beforehand, organizers can ensure a level playing field and reduce the risk of malfunctions during the main event.

Q5: What materials are used for the weights inside the ducks?

A: The internal weights in racing ducks are typically made from dense, non-corrosive materials that provide stability without damaging the duck or the environment:

Weight Material	Advantages	Considerations
Lead Pellets	High density, compact size, excellent balance	Environmental concerns; not recommended for open waterways due to toxicity
Sand	Inexpensive, eco-friendly, easy to measure	Can shift inside the duck; may require sealing to prevent moisture absorption
Small Stones or Gravel	Natural, non-toxic, readily available	Less uniform weight distribution; may need to be packed tightly
Steel or Zinc Shot	Durable, corrosion-resistant, safe alternative to lead	Slightly bulkier than lead but environmentally safer

Many modern events opt for eco-friendly materials like sealed sand or non-toxic metal shot to align with environmental regulations and community values. Regardless of material, weights should be securely enclosed and centered to maintain the duck’s balance and racing efficiency.