Squash is a cousin of both tennis and racquetball. So if you play these sports, you'll probably enjoy squash as well. If you have played before and are looking to invest in some equipment, then you have come to the right place. Chances are that you have an idea of what you are comfortable with, including brands. This guide will give an in-depth look at how to choose equipment for improving your squash game, from the racquet to the extras.
* '''Consider your skill level and size. '''Are you an experienced player or a novice?
** The lighter the racquet the less powerful it is, which means more control and an easier swing.
** Less weight lets you play for longer time without tiring your arm.
** For women, children, touch players, and control players, a lightweight racquet of about 120 grams is preferred.
** Junior racquets are made to be lightweight and smaller for children.
** The heavyweight racquets, weighing in at up to 210 grams, are fine for bigger, stronger, and more experienced players.
* '''Find the right balance.''' You can choose amongst three weight distribution styles, which are handle- or head-weighted, or balanced.
** For maximum power, pick a head-weighted racquet. It will create extra momentum in each swing so as to give more force upon impact with the ball.
** If your focus is speed, or if you simply want better control over the racquet, pick one that is handle-weighted. The head won't gather much speed or power while you swing, so your hit will be less potent.
* '''Pick a head style.''' The head comes in different shapes, such as teardrop, rectangular, large or small.
** The differences in shape are very subtle, but size is more an issue.
** If you are a beginner you will want a larger head since a wider coverage area will give more leeway in where you hit the ball.
** Larger heads reduce the chances that you will hit a "dead spot". Anywhere other than the "sweet spot" will cause your ball to lose its energy.
** Keep in mind that the larger the head, the less maneuverability and speed you will have, especially with a head-weighted racquet.
* '''Choose a material.''' Decide whether you want a stiff or soft racquet.
** If you choose a soft racquet, it will be easier to control because there will be less impact when the ball hits the racquet.
** A stiff racquet generates a more powerful shot.
** Carbon, boron, graphite, and Kevlar are typical materials; also common are titanium and hypercarbon.
** For beginners looking to spend a minimal amount of money, an aluminum racquet might be the right choice.
* '''Choose by skill level'''. Playing ability and the bounciness of a ball are directly related.
** Beginners need a bouncier ball than advanced players.
** Squash balls are conveniently color coded on most brands.
** Blue is for the amateur, leading to red, white, and yellow for the experts.
* '''Choose by brand'''.
** Dunlop, Prince, and Slazenger are common brands.
** All of these manufacturers offer high-bounce, medium-bounce, low-bounce, and extra low-bounce squash balls.
* '''Keep them bouncy'''.
** Don't forget to replace worn out balls frequently depending on how often you play.
** Usually, the average player will need replacements every two months.
* Court shoes are designed specifically for indoors racquet games and are the best choice for any squash enthusiast.
* '''Comfort and sizing''' is key, and the only way to really know what size and style will work best for you is to try to shoes on yourself. After judging the feel and responsiveness for yourself, you may opt to search the net for price cuts on the preferred style.
* '''Search for soles'''. High traction soles should be rubbery or gummy for improving grip on the floor, which helps you move quickly from one position to the next. Always choose light-colored soles, so as not to scuff the floor.
* '''Choose by brand'''. Brand loyalty never fails as a choice option for buying sports equipment. When in doubt about court shoes, here are the top brands: Hi-Tec, Prince, Ektelon, and Wilson.
* Remember that you only need one glove for playing squash, just like in racquetball.
* '''Why buy a glove?'''
** Gloves help improve your grip on the racquet by eliminating moisture.
** Less slip in your grip will ultimately help improve your game.
* '''Choose by features'''.
** Fit is important, but so is ventilation and construction.
** You want something that can handle lots of wear and tear, with reinforced stitching and mesh vents.
* Protective eyewear is not a requirement, but preferred by many, especially those who wear eyeglasses and/or contact lenses.
* Eyewear can keep your eyes and sockets safe from injury as well as provide extra protection from wind, dust, or other particles in the air that may affect your eye sight.
* '''Comfort and convenience factors'''.
** Choose goggles that will not cause irritation on your nose or temples by choosing those with some padding or flexi arm bands.
** So that you won't lose your goggles, either invest a head strap or choose a model that includes one.
* '''Choose by brand'''.
** Prince, Dunlop, Ektelon, Head, and Wilson are popular.
Official Rules, Regs, and Training Help
* Basic rules for the beginner.
* Official world play rules via an easy to navigate table of contents.
* Squash rules and regulations in Spanish.
* Tips for training and playing.
* Colorful, interactive lesson guide to playing squash with pictures.