Having the right equipment is essential for performing at your best in squash. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the perfect racket, shoes, eyewear, and accessories for your game.
Choosing a Squash Racket
Your racket is your most important piece of equipment. The right choice depends on your skill level, playing style, and physical attributes.
Racket Weight
- Light rackets (120-140g): Easier to swing, ideal for beginners and players seeking more control
- Medium rackets (140-160g): Balanced option suitable for intermediate players
- Heavy rackets (160-180g): More power, preferred by advanced players
Head Size
- Mid-size (455-500 cm²): Classic feel, good balance of power and control
- Oversize (500+ cm²): Larger sweet spot, more forgiving for beginners
Balance Point
- Head-light: Better maneuverability, ideal for defensive players
- Head-heavy: More power on shots, suited for aggressive players
- Even balance: Versatile option for all-rounders
String Type
- Synthetic gut: Durable, good feel, budget-friendly
- Natural gut: Superior feel and power, but expensive
- Multi-filament: Good compromise between feel and durability
String Tension
- Lower tension (25-28 lbs): More power, better feel
- Higher tension (28-32 lbs): More control, less power
- Most recreational players benefit from 26-28 lbs
Selecting Squash Shoes
Proper squash shoes are designed for the specific movements of the sport, including quick lateral moves and sudden stops.
Key Features to Look For
- Gum sole: Essential for court grip and non-marking
- Side support: Critical for lateral movements
- Cushioning: Absorbs impact during play
- Lightweight: Enables quick movement
- Breathable upper: Keeps feet cool and dry
Shoe Fit
- Snug fit around the midfoot
- Thumb's width from toe to end of shoe
- Proper heel lock to prevent slipping
Popular Squash Shoe Brands
- Asics
- Salming
- Mizuno
- Prince
- Head
Protective Eyewear
Eye protection is mandatory in many competitions and highly recommended for all players.
Why Wear Eyewear?
- Protects against eye injuries from racket or ball
- Mandatory in many tournaments and leagues
- Required in junior squash
- Prevents dust and sweat irritation
Types of Squash Eyewear
- Standard protective glasses: Basic impact protection
- Anti-fog lenses: Prevents fogging during play
- Prescription lenses: For players who need vision correction
Essential Accessories
Racket Bag
- Protects racket from damage
- Compartments for shoes and balls
- Shoulder strap for easy carrying
Squash Balls
- Dot system: Yellow (fastest) to Red (slowest)
- Double yellow dot: Very slow, for beginners
- Single yellow dot: Slow, beginner to intermediate
- Red dot: Medium, intermediate players
- Blue dot: Fastest, for advanced players
- Replace every 3-5 sessions
Grip and Overgrip
- Replacement grip: For better moisture absorption
- Overgrip: Wraps over existing grip for extra tackiness
- Change regularly for best feel
Wrist and Headbands
- Absorbs sweat
- Keeps hair out of face
- Available in various colors
Equipment Maintenance
Racket Care
- Use a racket cover when not playing
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Check strings regularly for wear
- Replace racket every 2-3 years with regular play
Shoe Care
- Air dry after each session
- Use shoe fresheners
- Replace when sole wears down
- Rotate between pairs if possible
Budget Recommendations
Beginner Package ($100-200)
- Mid-range racket ($80-120)
- Quality beginner shoes ($60-80)
- Protective eyewear ($15-25)
- Balls and grip ($10-20)
Intermediate Package ($200-400)
- Advanced graphite racket ($120-200)
- Performance shoes ($100-150)
- Quality eyewear ($25-40)
- Extra balls and grips ($20-30)
Advanced Package ($400+)
- Professional racket ($180-300)
- Elite shoes ($150-250)
- Premium eyewear ($40-80)
- Multiple balls and grips ($30-50)
Conclusion
Investing in quality equipment is essential for enjoying squash and improving your game. Start with proper shoes and basic protection, then gradually upgrade your racket as your skills develop. Remember that equipment is an investment in your game - the right gear can help you perform better and prevent injuries. Always try equipment before buying when possible, and replace worn items promptly to maintain peak performance.