Find the Best Racquetball & Squash Balls in the UK: Stores, Picks, and Buying Tips

Why picking the right ball makes a real difference

Ever wondered why a match can feel slow and clunky one day and crisp and lively the next? The ball you choose is often the unsung hero. Whether you’re smashing in a racquetball court or pinning rallies in a squash court, the ball affects pace, control, and even how much you sweat. Buying the right ball from a reliable UK retailer means you’ll get the performance you expect without surprises.

Understanding the difference: racquetball vs. squash balls

People new to racquet sports often confuse racquetball and squash balls, but they behave very differently. Your decision should be guided by which sport you play, your skill level, and the kind of play you prefer — fast and high-bouncing, or low and tactical?

Size and weight: how big and heavy are they?

Racquetball balls are noticeably larger, typically about 2 1/4 inches in diameter and weighing roughly 1 1/2 ounces. Squash balls are smaller and denser — around 1 9/16 inches in diameter and about 3/4 to 1 ounce in weight. Those size and weight differences translate into different flight paths, bounces, and timing on the court.

Bounce, temperature, and playing feel

Racquetball balls are made to zip around with a lively bounce, even when slightly cool. Squash balls, especially the competition-grade ones, need to be warmed up to come alive — they’ll feel dead at first, then spring to life with a few rallies. Think of racquetball balls as energetic sprinters and squash balls as athletes who need a warm-up lap.

Top UK stores where you can buy racquetball and squash balls

If you’re shopping in the UK, you’ve got a mix of big-name sports chains, specialist shops, and online marketplaces to choose from. Below are reputable options that stock trusted brands and often offer useful buying filters and customer reviews.

Decathlon UK — friendly prices and hands-on testing

Decathlon is a favourite for many players because it offers budget-friendly options and the chance to test equipment in store. They typically carry beginner to mid-level squash balls and related gear, making them a great stop if you want to try before you buy or pick up something quick after a practice.

Sports Direct / Pro:Direct Tennis — wide selection and competitive deals

Sports Direct and its specialist affiliate Pro:Direct Tennis often have a vast selection of sporting goods, including squash and racquetball balls from well-known brands. These stores are convenient for buyers who want brand choice, seasonal discounts, or bundle deals for clubs and frequent players.

Amazon UK and eBay UK — marketplace convenience and variety

If choice and doorstep delivery matter most, Amazon UK and eBay UK give you almost every brand on the market, from entry-level balls to tournament-grade options. Keep an eye on seller ratings and product photos to avoid counterfeits, and consider customer reviews to assess durability and true performance.

Argos and John Lewis — mainstream retailers with solid service

For casual players or families who want dependable service and easy returns, Argos and John Lewis can be good bets. Their offering may not be as extensive as specialist stores, but they often stock the basic lines you need for club nights or backyard practice.

Specialist online retailers and niche suppliers

For players who demand more than the basics, specialist squash retailers and independent online shops are gold mines. These shops focus on racquet sports, carry tournament-grade balls, and provide knowledgeable descriptions that help you make a confident choice.

Brand-focused shops and why they matter

Brands like Dunlop, Tecnifibre, Head, and Black Knight produce balls that cater to different play styles. Specialist retailers often stock the full range from each brand and can advise on differences like double-yellow vs. single-yellow squash balls, or the best racquetball ball for cold courts.

Where to find bulk packs and club deals

Clubs and coaches often buy balls in bulk to keep costs down. Many UK retailers offer multi-pack discounts or club pricing if you’re buying a dozen or more. It’s worth searching specialist shops or contacting them for a custom quote if you need a large number of balls.

How to choose the right ball for your level and game style

Picking a ball isn’t just about brand or price — it’s about matching the ball to your level and how you play. Are you a beginner who needs more bounce, or a seasoned player chasing precision and control?

Beginners and training balls: finding the forgiving option

Beginners benefit from balls that give a bit more time to react — racquetball balls and “training” squash balls with more bounce are perfect. These balls make rallies last longer and help develop shot accuracy without the frustration of dead-bouncing balls.

Competitive and tournament standards

Match players should look for competition-grade balls. In squash, that usually means balls labeled with a single yellow or double-yellow dot depending on heat-retention and bounce level. Tournament players often choose double-yellow for consistent low bounce, while club players might pick single-yellow for slightly livelier play.

Practical tips for buying — what to look for in-store and online

Whether you’re standing in a store aisle or scrolling online, a few simple checks will help you buy wisely. Read product descriptions, check the dot color or labeling for squash balls, and look for seller guarantees on marketplaces.

Check the packaging and labeling

Avoid guessing games. Manufacturers label squash balls with colored dots or clear descriptions — single yellow, double yellow, or red, for example. Racquetball balls are usually sold by description (practice, tournament, or advanced). Proper labeling tells you if the ball fits your court, climate, and skill level.

Read reviews and ask questions

Customer reviews reveal how balls perform in real play and over time. For specialist retailers, you can often ask staff or customer service which ball suits cold courts or fast-paced doubles, then compare answers across stores to make an informed decision.

Maintenance, storage, and getting the most from your balls

Even the best ball will underperform if it’s stored wrong or never warmed up. A little care extends life, saves money, and keeps your game consistent.

Storage tips — keep them at room temperature

Store balls at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Extreme cold makes squash balls dead and slow, while excessive heat can damage the rubber. Think of your balls like fine bread — keep them in a cool, dry place so they stay fresh.

Warming up squash balls and when to replace them

Warm up squash balls before full-speed play by hitting gentle rallies for a few minutes. That wakes up the core and improves bounce. Replace balls when they show visible cracks, lose shape, or feel dramatically less responsive — worn balls change timing and can derail rallies.

Price points, value packs, and saving money in the UK

Prices vary widely: you can pay a few pounds for a basic ball or invest in premium packs that last longer. Look for bundle deals or seasonal sales at the bigger retailers, and don’t ignore specialist shops that sometimes offer better performance-per-pound for higher-quality options.

Comparing single balls vs. multi-packs

Multi-packs are almost always the better value for clubs and recreational players. A single ball is fine if you’re testing a new brand, but if you play regularly, buying a pack reduces the cost per ball and ensures you always have spares during practice sessions.

When to splurge and when to save

If you’re competitive and the ball is central to match play, splurging on competition-grade balls is worth it. If you’re playing casually, a mid-range ball from a big retailer will give plenty of life and fun without breaking the bank. Balance your investment with how often you play and the level of play you’re striving for.

Buying locally vs. online — pros and cons

Both paths have clear advantages. Local stores let you touch and sometimes test equipment, while online shops broaden your choices and often have better availability. Consider where you value certainty over selection, or vice versa.

Why local shops still matter

Local sports stores provide instant advice and same-day satisfaction. If you want to try a ball before committing, in-person shopping beats guessing from pictures. Plus, staff can recommend alternatives based on your playing conditions and local courts.

When online shopping wins

Online retailers and marketplaces shine for variety and convenience. You can compare many brands, read dozens of reviews, and filter by price or rating. For rare balls or bulk orders, online stores usually offer the best selection and occasional club discounts.

Final buying checklist — quick reminders before you purchase

Use this simple checklist to make sure you walk away with the right balls: confirm ball type (racquetball or squash), check the diameter and weight if listed, note the color/dot for squash, compare single vs. multi-pack prices, and read user reviews. If you’re buying for a club, look for bulk discounts.

Armed with these tips and a sense of what each major UK retailer offers, you’ll avoid buyer’s regret and find a ball that suits your game, your court, and your budget.

Conclusion: Choosing the right racquetball or squash ball is a small decision that makes a big impact on your game. Whether you shop at Decathlon for affordability, Sports Direct or Pro:Direct for variety, Amazon for convenience, or a specialist retailer for expert guidance, knowing what to look for — size, weight, bounce, and the right dot or label — will help you find the perfect match. Play smarter by matching the ball to your level, warming it properly, and storing it right, and you’ll see immediate gains in control, comfort, and enjoyment.