Ultimate Guide to Squash Racquets in the UK: Where to Buy, How to Choose, and Save

Why Choosing the Right Squash Racquet Matters

Picking a squash racquet is like choosing the right pair of shoes for a marathon — the wrong fit can slow you down, give you blisters, or make the whole experience less enjoyable. Whether you’re hitting the court for fun or training to climb the ladder, the racquet you play with affects control, power, and comfort. In the UK market there are dozens of models available from big retailers to specialist shops, so knowing what matters will save time and money.

Key Squash Racquet Features to Understand

Weight (ounces)

Weight is often the headline stat for racquets and it’s usually expressed in ounces. Most modern squash racquets land between about 4.0 oz and 6.0 oz. Lighter racquets (around 4.0–4.8 oz) feel quicker and easier to swing, while heavier ones (about 5.0–6.0 oz) can provide more power and stability. Think of weight like the swing weight of a hammer — a heavier head can drive a nail with less effort, but you trade some speed.

Balance and Maneuverability

Balance is whether a racquet feels head-heavy, head-light, or even. Head-heavy racquets add power to drives and volleys, head-light racquets give you faster reaction times and better wrist work at the tin. If you’re an attacking player who likes power, lean towards a head-heavy feel; if you play tight, quick rallies, a head-light racquet will feel snappier in your hand.

Head Size and Length (inches)

Squash racquet head sizes are smaller than tennis — larger head areas give a bigger sweet spot and forgiveness on off-centre hits. Standard squash racquet lengths hover around 27 inches, which balances reach with control. A slightly larger head area is helpful for beginners because it’s more forgiving, much like a larger cookie cutter covers more dough.

Popular Squash Racquet Brands You’ll See in the UK

Dunlop

Dunlop is synonymous with squash for many UK players — a brand with a long history on the court. Their models often focus on control and precision and are a common sight in clubs. You’ll find a wide range from entry-level frames to pro-grade sticks tailored for elite players.

Tecnifibre and Head

Tecnifibre blends modern materials with player-focused design, while Head produces racquets known for crisp feel and stability. Both brands offer options across the skill spectrum and are widely stocked by UK retailers. They’re good picks if you want tried-and-tested designs backed by player feedback.

Salming, Prince, and Karakal

Salming is popular with players who prioritize maneuverability and quick recovery between shots. Prince and Karakal also deliver solid alternatives with unique technologies and comfortable grips. These brands often show up in specialist shops and online stores catering to serious squash players.

Top UK Retailers for Squash Racquets

Decathlon

Decathlon is a budget-friendly option with a broad sports range and a decent selection of squash racquets from beginner to intermediate levels. If you want to test paddles in-store or prefer a simple return/exchange experience, Decathlon’s physical stores can be handy. Their in-house brands offer great value if you’re starting out.

Sports Direct

Sports Direct stocks a wide range of sporting goods and frequently carries big racquet brands at competitive prices. Their sales and outlet sections can be good places to hunt for bargains. If you’re price-conscious, checking Sports Direct during seasonal sales often pays off.

Pro:Direct Tennis and Tennis-Point UK

Although their names include “tennis,” both Pro:Direct and Tennis-Point cater to racquet sports, including squash. These specialist online retailers offer deeper selections, detailed product specs, and often the latest models. They’re ideal for players who want expert-level choices and brand variety without visiting multiple shops.

Amazon UK and John Lewis

Amazon UK provides convenience and a wide marketplace with customer reviews that help you gauge real-world performance. John Lewis offers a more curated selection and a reputation for reliable customer service. Both platforms are excellent for quick comparisons across brands and price points.

Specialist Shops and Local Pro Shops — Why They Matter

Local pro shops and specialist online stores offer a hands-on advantage: demo programs, expert guidance, and racket-fitting services. While large chains are convenient, a seasoned shop owner or a club pro can point you to racquets that match your style and correct technical faults. Think of these shops as a tailor who adjusts a suit rather than a rack of off-the-peg clothing.

How to Compare Racquets Effectively

Use Comparison Sites

Comparison sites can be your shortcut to the best deal, showing prices across retailers and often highlighting promotions. They’re especially useful when you have a model in mind and want to check who has the best price or warranty. Remember to verify specs like weight in ounces and head size in square inches — tiny differences can change how a racquet performs.

Check the Fine Details

Compare the string pattern, recommended string tension, stiffness rating, and factory stringing. These technical details influence feel and durability. Also look at included accessories — a cover, pre-installed grip, or dampener can add value. It’s like comparing two cars by looking under the hood, not just at the paint job.

Best Squash Racquets by Skill Level

For Beginners

If you’re new to squash, choose a racquet that’s forgiving and friendly. Look for a slightly larger head, a comfortable grip, and a weight in the neighborhood of 4.5–5.5 oz. These choices give you power without overwhelming your timing. Entry-level models from Decathlon or value lines from big brands are perfect starter options.

For Intermediate Players

Intermediate players often want a mix of control and power, so look for racquets around 4.3–5.3 oz with a balanced feel. Models from Dunlop, Tecnifibre, and Head aimed at club players offer that sweet spot. These frames give enough punch for attacking play while still being responsive at the front of the court.

For Advanced and Competitive Players

Serious players usually select racquets tuned to a specific playing style: very head-light for quick volleying, head-heavy for power, or mid-balanced for all-round performance. Pro-level racquets can be as light as about 4.0 oz or tuned heavier for stability. Advanced players often fine-tune string type and tension to match their game, treating the racquet like a finely tuned instrument.

Strings, Grips and Accessories — What to Buy and Where

Strings and grips shape the racquet’s feel more than many players realise. A softer string offers more control and a livelier touch, while a firmer string gives more durability and predictable response. Grip thickness is measured in inches — choosing the right grip can improve your hold and reduce the chance of blisters. Stores such as Pro:Direct, Tennis-Point, and Amazon UK stock a wide selection of strings, replacement grips, and dampeners. If you’re unsure, buy a spare grip and a set of strings to experiment with the feel.

Finding the Best Deals: Sales, Outlets and Seasonal Tips

Timing can shave a significant chunk off the price. Watch key sale periods like Black Friday and Boxing Day in the UK, and keep an eye on post-season clearances in January. Retailers often reduce older models to make space for new lines — and racquets from a previous season can still perform brilliantly. Using price comparison tools can alert you to sudden discounts so you don’t miss a bargain.

Demo Programs and Trying Before You Buy

Nothing beats swinging a racquet before committing. Many specialist shops and clubs offer demo racquets you can borrow for a session. If you can’t demo, buy from retailers with good return or exchange options so you can test a racquet on-court. Think of it as a test drive — you wouldn’t buy a car without feeling how it corners, and the same logic applies to racquets.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Racquet’s Life

Take care of the frame and strings and your racquet will reward you. Replace grips when they become slick, re-string before performance drops too low, and keep the racquet in a cover to avoid temperature extremes. Inspect the frame for cracks, and if you notice a ding, address it quickly — minor damage can spread with competitive play. Good maintenance is like routine servicing for a bicycle; small steps prevent big failures down the road.

Where to Get Expert Advice in the UK

If you want personalised advice, visit a local club coach or a pro shop and explain your style — do you volley a lot, do you play long rallies, or do you rely on drop shots? Describe the racquets you’ve used and what you liked or disliked. A short conversation can shorten the learning curve and guide you to a model that complements your strengths.

Final Buying Checklist

Before buying, run through this checklist: weight in ounces, head size in square inches, balance (head-heavy vs head-light), grip size in inches, string type and recommended tension, and whether you prefer a demo option or warranty. Also compare prices across retailers and check for bundled accessories like covers or strings. This simple checklist cuts through confusion and helps you make a confident purchase.

Buying a squash racquet in the UK doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little homework — reading specs in ounces and inches, testing where possible, and comparing prices from mainstream retailers and specialist shops — you can find a racquet that feels like an extension of your arm. Whether you’re picking your first racquet or upgrading to a pro-level frame, the right choice will make you look forward to every match like meeting an old friend.

Conclusion

Choosing the right squash racquet is a balance of feel, weight, and personal style. UK shoppers benefit from a healthy marketplace that includes high-street retailers, specialist online stores, and comparison sites to find the best deal. Understand the main specs in ounces and inches, try before you buy if you can, and prioritise comfort and playability over hype. Do that, and you’ll be serving, volleying, and nailing that boast with confidence.