Unleash Your Game: The Best Racquetball & Squash Gear and Where to Buy It in the UK

Why the right racquetball and squash gear matters

If you’ve ever felt like your game is held back by the wrong equipment, you’re not alone. The difference between an enjoyable session and a frustrating one often comes down to your kit — racket balance, shoe grip, ball type, and even the right pair of socks. Choosing the right racquetball or squash gear makes court time safer, more comfortable, and a lot more effective. Think of your equipment as the foundation of a house: get that right and everything built on top performs better.

Where to buy racquetball and squash equipment across the UK

Shopping for racquetball and squash gear in the UK is easier than it seems. You’ve got a mix of high-street retailers, specialist online shops, manufacturer storefronts, pro shops at clubs, and general marketplaces. Popular nationwide options include Decathlon and Sports Direct for budget-friendly basics; specialist retailers like Sweatband and Pro:Direct Tennis for a wide selection of rackets and strings; and Amazon UK for convenience. Don’t forget brand stores such as Dunlop, Head, Wilson, and Tecnifibre, which often have the latest models and pro-level gear.

High-street and big-box options

If you prefer seeing gear in person, Decathlon and Sports Direct are great starting points. They stock entry-level rackets, shoes, and protective eyewear at sensible prices. Argos can be handy for quick buys too. These stores are great for beginners who want to try a few items without committing to a premium racket straight away.

Specialist online retailers

For a deeper selection and knowledgeable customer service, specialist sites like Sweatband, Pro:Direct Tennis, and Tennis-Point UK are excellent. They carry specific racquetball and squash ranges, manufacturer collections, and accessories such as overgrips, string packs, and specialist shoes. These sites often run seasonal sales where you can snag a mid-range racket for a professional-level price.

Brand stores and manufacturer sites

Buying directly from brands like Dunlop, Head, and Wilson can be reassuring — you’ll often find exclusive models and detailed specs. If you want the exact model your coach recommends, check brand shops or official UK dealers. These channels sometimes offer limited-edition rackets and demo programmes for club players.

Essential racquetball gear and what to look for

Racquetball gear has its own set of priorities. Whether you’re stepping onto the court for the first time or sharpening your tournament game, these essentials will keep you competitive and comfortable.

Racquets — length, weight, and frame material

Racquetball rackets are built with power and manoeuvrability in mind. Official racquet length is typically no more than 22 inches, so keep that in mind when shopping. Weight is commonly measured in ounces; lighter rackets (around 6–8 oz) give you faster swing speed while heavier frames deliver more stability. Graphite or composite frames balance power and control for most players, while beginners may prefer a slightly more forgiving frame.

Balls — size and bounce

Racquetball balls are larger than squash balls, with a diameter around 2.25 inches. You’ll find different bounciness levels: recreational balls for slower, more controlled play, and higher-bounce or tournament balls for faster rallies. Match the ball to the court conditions and your playing style — a livelier ball makes for longer rallies but can be trickier for newer players.

Protective eyewear — non-negotiable safety

Protective eyewear is often required at clubs and is a must for racquetball. Modern goggles are light, vented, and wrap around the face for full protection. Aim for ANSI-approved or CE-marked models and try a pair on for comfort — fogging and fit are common issues you want to avoid.

Shoes and accessories

Racquetball shoes need good lateral support and non-marking soles for grip on the court surface. Look for reinforced toe boxes and cushioning to absorb sudden stops. Add accessories like breathable socks, wrist sweatbands, a durable racket bag, and replacement grips to keep everything playable session after session.

Essential squash gear and shopping tips

Squash has slightly different priorities: control, feel, and precision are critical. Your equipment choices should reflect the quick, tight rallies that define the sport.

Squash rackets — the length and balance matter

Squash rackets are generally longer than racquetball rackets, with a maximum of about 27 inches. Players choose rackets based on balance point (head-light for control, head-heavy for power), string pattern, and overall weight. Weight is usually described in ounces; intermediate players often prefer something in the middle ground to blend speed and stability.

Squash balls — temperature and bounce

Squash balls are much smaller, typically around 1.5 inches in diameter. Ball types are categorized by bounce level: beginner or “double yellow dot” balls differ in how much heat they require to bounce optimally. Beginners often find red or blue dot balls livelier and easier to play with at first, while advanced players use less bouncy balls for precision and longer rallies.

Squash shoes and protective gear

Squash shoes should provide excellent lateral stability and responsive cushioning. Non-marking soles are essential. Protective eyewear is recommended in many clubs, and many players add ankle supports or tape if they’ve had previous injuries. Proper clothing that wicks sweat and allows full movement will keep you comfortable during intense rallies.

Choosing the right gear for your level

Choosing gear is not one-size-fits-all. A beginner needs forgiveness; an intermediate player needs a tool that helps improve technique; an advanced player demands precision and fine-tuned control.

Beginners

If you’re just starting, pick a forgiving racket with a larger sweet spot and a mid-range weight. Go for a livelier ball in squash and a slightly bouncier racquetball to keep rallies fun. Basic but supportive shoes and mandatory protective eyewear will keep you safe as you learn the ropes.

Intermediate players

As technique improves, you’ll want a racket that lets you shape shots — consider head-light balance for squash or a mid-weight racquetball frame. Experiment with string tensions measured in pounds; many players find a balance between power and control in the mid-tension range. Invest in a better pair of court shoes that support quick lateral moves.

Advanced players

Advanced players focus on feel and precision. They might choose a stiffer frame, a precise string pattern, and custom string tensions in specific pound ranges to suit their spin and control preferences. Expect to replace strings more often and to invest in premium footwear designed for tournament intensity.

Budget vs premium — where to splurge and where to save

Deciding where to spend your money is like building a race car: the engine matters most, but you still need good tires and brakes. For racquet sports, the racket (or racquet) is the engine. Spending more on a high-quality racket often gives the best performance jump. The next place to invest is footwear — your feet are the link between you and the court.

Save on accessories

Grips, dampeners, balls, and basic apparel can be bought affordably without sacrificing comfort. Look for value packs of grips or multi-ball deals from specialist sellers. Seasonal sales and clearance offers from online retailers are great for stocking up.

Maintenance: keep your kit court-ready

Good maintenance extends the life of your equipment and keeps performance consistent. Store rackets in a padded bag away from extreme temperatures and clean shoes after muddy sessions to protect soles. Replace grips when they lose tack and restring your racket when strings fray or lose tension — string tension is measured in pounds and affects control and power, so don’t ignore it.

How often to restring

Restringing frequency depends on how often you play. A rule of thumb is to restring as many times per year as you play per week — if you play three times a week, consider restringing three times a year. That keeps string performance consistent across pounds of tension and play styles.

Buying tips and saving strategies in the UK

Want to save without sacrificing quality? First, compare prices across specialist retailers and general marketplaces. Look for demo programmes at local clubs where you can try a racket before buying. Keep an eye on end-of-season clearances and factory sales. For almost-new gear, check local buy-and-sell communities and established marketplaces for gently used rackets and shoes — you can find top-tier frames at a fraction of the price.

Try before you commit

Many pro shops at clubs and specialist retailers offer demo rackets. Trying a racket on court will save you the headache of a mis-buy. If you can, swap rackets with a friend or borrow club gear for a session before purchasing.

Warranty and genuine products

When buying online, ensure the seller is an authorised retailer to avoid counterfeit rackets or fake warranty claims. Manufacturer warranties and reputable return policies matter for higher-priced purchases, so check those terms carefully before checkout.

Club buying and local pro shops — the community advantage

Club pro shops and local independents often provide personalised service you won’t find with big-box stores. Pro shop staff will recommend racket balance, string type (and pound tension), and shoe models based on your playing style. They can also handle restringing quickly so you stay on court. Think of them as your local tune-up garage for racquet sports — convenient and tailored.

Final checklist before you buy

Before you click “add to basket,” run through this quick checklist: is the racket the right length in inches for your sport? Does the shoe provide lateral support and a non-marking sole? Is the ball type matched to your level and court conditions? Have you checked string tension recommendations in pounds? Answering these questions helps avoid buyer’s remorse and keeps you playing at your best.

Whether you play racquetball or squash, the right gear transforms your time on court. Start with a racket that suits your level, invest in good shoes and protective eyewear, and shop smart with specialist UK retailers or trusted high-street stores. Demo when possible, compare prices, and maintain your kit so it serves you match after match.

Conclusion

Picking the right racquetball and squash equipment boils down to matching gear to your skill level, playing frequency, and budget. Use specialist retailers, club pro shops, and reputable brands to find gear that fits — from a 22-inch racquetball racquet to a 27-inch squash racket, the details in inches and pounds matter. With the right mix of racket, shoes, balls, and protective gear, you’ll play safer, feel better, and see improvement quicker than you might expect. Now grab your racket, lace up, and enjoy the court.