Racquetball & Squash

Racquetball & Squash Gear Guide: How to Pick the Best Racquet, Balls, Shoes and Accessories

Why tuning your equipment changes your game

Ever wonder why a tiny change in racquet weight or a different ball makes you hit better? It’s not magic — it’s equipment matching. Choosing the right racquet, ball, shoes, and accessories can shave off unforced errors, boost your control, and even prevent injury. Think of your kit as a tailor-made suit: when it fits, you move smarter, not harder.

How small gear tweaks produce big results

Switching to a lighter racquet can increase swing speed, while a heavier head can add power. A grippier overwrap helps when your hands sweat, and the right shoe keeps you pivoting without slipping. These small upgrades are easy to test and often transform your confidence on court faster than a week of extra practice.

Squash racquets: what to look for

Squash racquets are built for quick wrist action, tight shots and fast volley exchanges. Most modern squash racquets measure about 27 inches in length and weigh between 4 and 5 ounces. That balance of length and lightness makes them nimble enough to react on nick shots yet stable for drives down the line.

Weight, balance and what they mean for you

If your racquet feels like an extension of your arm, you’re close. Lightweight frames (around 4 ounces) favor quick swings and wristy touch. Midweight frames (around 4.5–5 ounces) offer a compromise: decent power without sacrificing maneuverability. Head-heavy racquets add inertia for drives, while head-light models improve control and volley response.

Popular squash racquets to try

Brands like Dunlop, Tecnifibre, HEAD and Prince dominate the squash market with racquets tuned for different play styles. The Dunlop and Tecnifibre models lean toward control and touch, while some HEAD and Prince lines give players a bit more pop on drives. Try demoing a couple: your favorite often surprises you.

Racquetball racquets: different beast, different needs

Racquetball racquets are generally shorter than squash racquets, often ranging from about 22 to 26 inches. They tend to weigh more — typically 6 to 9 ounces — to supply the extra mass needed for a livelier ball in a confined, fast court. The game’s angles and dynamics reward racquets that deliver power while remaining responsive.

Choosing a racquetball racquet

For beginners, a midweight racquet in the 7–8 ounce range with a balanced feel is a safe bet. Advanced players might prefer lighter frames for faster swings or heavier heads for smash power. Brands like Ektelon and Wilson offer a broad selection that spans control, speed, and power.

Balls matter: squash vs racquetball

Don’t underestimate how much a ball affects rallies. Squash balls and racquetball balls differ in size, bounce and temperature sensitivity — each tailored for its sport’s pace and court environment.

Squash ball types and choosing by level

Most squash balls measure about 1.5 inches across. They come in different bounces: a double yellow dot is the slowest (for pro play), a single yellow dot is slightly livelier, and blue or red dots are springier and ideal for beginners. If you’re new, start with a blue or red dot to get longer rallies; as your game sharpens, move toward the slower dots to refine touch and technique.

Racquetball ball basics

Racquetball balls are larger — roughly 2.25 inches in diameter — and generally have higher bounce than squash balls. They’re usually brightly colored, making them easier to track in fast exchanges. Choosing the right ball is simpler here: standard balls work for most players, while specialty balls (like the “eye” ball for training) can help specific drills.

Footwear: the foundation of court movement

Shoes are non-negotiable. Court shoes with non-marking soles, lateral support, and cushioning protect knees and ankles while letting you push off quickly. Good shoes are like shock absorbers and steering wheels rolled into one — they keep you safe and allow sharp, confident movement.

Features to prioritize in squash and racquetball shoes

Look for shoes with a low-to-the-floor design for court feel, strong side-to-side stability, and grippy gum rubber soles. Cushioning should be enough to absorb impact without bogging down your footwork. If you sweat a lot, breathable uppers and anti-odor linings are lifesavers.

Protective eyewear and safety gear

Racquetball courts are fast and balls can change direction instantly. Protective eyewear is required in many clubs and strongly recommended everywhere. Pick polycarbonate lenses and frames that sit comfortably without slipping during sweat-heavy rallies.

Other protective items worth having

Wrist supports and lightweight knee sleeves help players who’ve had minor strains. Finger tape is popular for preventing blisters, and mouthguards can be handy if you play very competitively or have dental concerns. These small items can extend your playing years by preventing chronic injuries.

Strings, grips, and fine-tuning your racquet

String choice and tension change how your racquet feels and performs. Softer multifilament strings increase comfort and power, while polyester monofilaments favor durability and control. Tension is measured in pounds — common ranges sit between 20 and 40 lbs depending on the sport and personal taste.

How to pick string tension and type

If you favor control and precision, string tighter — around 30–40 lbs gives a firmer response. For more power and a forgiving sweet spot, go lower — around 20–30 lbs. As for string type, multifilaments are kinder on the arm and great for players who want feel, while thicker polyester lasts longer and resists movement.

Grip types and why they matter

Overgrips add tack and absorb moisture; replacement grips provide padding and reshape the handle. Thickness affects how the racquet sits in your hand: thin grips boost wrist feel, thick grips can reduce shock and are easier to hold for larger hands. Change grips regularly — a fresh grip often feels like brand-new control.

Bags, courtside accessories and what to pack

A good racquet bag keeps frames safe and organizes balls, shoes, towels, and water. Look for dedicated racquet pockets, ventilated shoe compartments, and extra pockets for your phone and keys. A compact stubby towel and a reusable water bottle are essentials you’ll use every session.

Extras that make practice easier

Bring a small toolkit: an extra grip, a few balls, a basic stringing kit if you restring often, and a mini shock absorber. For serious players, a portable rebound trainer or a resistance band for warm-ups can keep you sharp between coaching sessions.

Maintenance: get more life out of your gear

Protect your investment by keeping racquets in a padded cover out of extreme temperatures. Restring before strings lose elasticity — that’s often every few months for frequent players or every 6–12 months for casual players. Clean your shoes and let them dry naturally to preserve sole grip.

When to replace key items

Replace a racquet when the frame cracks or warps, replace shoes when cushioning or sole grip deteriorates, and swap balls when bounce drops noticeably. For many regular players, grips change monthly, shoes every 6–12 months, and balls every few weeks depending on play frequency.

How to choose between control and power equipment

Are you a control player who likes precise drop shots and long rallies, or do you prefer blasting winners from the backcourt? Control-focused gear is lighter, head-light and strung tighter; power-focused gear leans slightly heavier with more head mass and looser strings. Try a mixed approach: start with midweight, adjust strings and grips, then move to a specialized frame once your play style stabilizes.

A simple test to decide your preference

Demo a control racquet for a week, then a power racquet. Track errors, comfort and how long rallies last. If longer rallies and better placement come easier, you’re a control player; if you hit more winners and feel the ball exploding off the stringbed, power might suit you more.

Where to compare deals and read trusted reviews

Before buying, compare price lists, read user reviews, and check performance breakdowns. Comparison sites and customer review sections are great for spotting consistent pros and cons across models. Look for patterns in reviews — one-off complaints are less important than trends that point to true strengths or flaws.

Using trial periods and demo days

Many clubs and shops offer demo programs or demo days — take advantage of them. Nothing beats on-court testing for feel, balance and how a racquet handles in pressure points. Bring your own strings and grips only if you want to test how a racquet would perform after your usual custom setup.

Budgeting: getting the most value

Great performance isn’t limited to top-tier price tags. Mid-range racquets often deliver the best value, and targeted upgrades (new strings, overgrip, shoes) can outswing the benefit of a pricier frame. List your priorities and allocate your budget — for example, spend on shoes if movement is your weakness, or on strings if you want immediate feel improvements.

Finding the right balance between cost and performance

If you play a few times a month, a durable racquet and decent shoes are priority. For daily players, investing in higher-end frames, frequent restringing and quality shoes pays off through better performance and fewer injuries. Consider resale value too: popular racquets in good condition can be sold to recoup part of the cost.

Final tips for confident gear choices

Listen to your body. If your elbow or shoulder nags after a session, consider a softer string and slightly lighter frame. Seek advice from club coaches or experienced players, but try gear yourself before committing. And remember: the best setup is the one that lets you play your best — not what looks pro on the shelf.

Armed with the right racquet, ball, shoes and accessories, your game will feel smoother and more reliable. Enjoy testing gear, keep notes on how each change affects your play, and have fun exploring options — the perfect match is usually a few tweaks away.