Are You Using the Right Squash Ball? How to Choose the Right One

Posted by Squash Only Australia on 20th Feb 2025

Are You Using the Right Squash Ball? How to Choose the Right One

Welcome to Squash Only Australia—your go-to destination for everything squash! Whether you're just starting out or fine-tuning your squash game, choosing the right squash ball is crucial for improving your play.

With different squash ball types, sizes, and dots, knowing which one suits your skill level can make a huge difference. In this guide, we’ll explain squash ball differences, the best squash balls for beginners, and which squash balls are used in competition. Plus, we’ll answer common questions like how big is a squash ball, what are squash balls made of, and how fast does a squash ball travel.

Let’s dive in and help you find the perfect squash ball to elevate your game! Stay tuned for expert insights from the team at Squash Only Australia—your trusted source for all things squash.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Squash Ball

Selecting the right squash ball is crucial for beginners to enjoy and develop their skills in the game. A well-suited ball enhances player experience, encourages longer rallies, and makes learning fundamental techniques easier. This not only improves skill progression but also boosts player retention and overall satisfaction.

Too often, beginners mistakenly start with a double yellow dot ball—a disaster for first-time players. With minimal bounce, it dies in the corners, demands excessive effort to hit, and limits movement on the court. The result? No real rallies, no sweat, no sense of achievement—just frustration. It’s no surprise that many rethink playing squash after such a difficult introduction.

To ensure beginners have a genuine and enjoyable experience, it's essential to guide them toward the best squash balls for beginners. Choosing the right squash ball type can make all the difference in helping new players discover the thrill and excitement of the game.

Selecting the right squash ball is essential for improving your game and ensuring an enjoyable experience on the court. Squash balls come in different sizes, speeds, and bounce levels, which are indicated by their squash ball dots. Understanding squash ball types will help you find the best one for your skill level.

Squash Ball Types and Their Differences

Blue Dot (Intro/Beginner Ball)

The best squash ball for beginners, offering higher bounce and faster speed to allow more reaction time.
12% larger than a standard ball (squash ball diameter: 45mm).
40% more bounce than a pro ball, making rallies easier and boosting confidence.

Red Dot (Progress Ball)

Designed for recreational and developing players looking to improve their technique.
6% larger than a standard ball (42.5mm squash ball size), providing 20% more bounce.
Ideal for those transitioning from beginner to intermediate play.

Single Yellow Dot (Competition Ball)

Standard club-level squash ball offering a balance of bounce and control.
Same squash ball diameter as the pro ball (40mm) but with 10% more bounce.
Suitable for advanced players and those playing in cooler conditions, where extra bounce is beneficial.

Double Yellow Dot (Pro Ball)

The official tournament ball used in national and international competitions.
The slowest and least bouncy ball, requiring a well-developed technique and proper warm-up.
Standard squash ball weight and squash ball size: 40mm diameter.

White Ball (Championship Ball)

Used in professional glass court tournaments to enhance visibility.
Offers elite-level performance with consistent bounce and durability.
Standard squash ball weight and squash ball size: 40mm diameter.
Recognised by the World Squash Federation (WSF) and Professional Squash Association (PSA).

Choosing the Best Squash Ball for Beginners

Selecting the right squash ball is crucial for improving your game and enjoying longer rallies. For beginners, the best choice is the blue dot squash ball, also known as the Intro ball.

Why Choose a Blue Dot Squash Ball?

Higher Bounce – With 40% more bounce than a double yellow dot squash ball, it stays in play longer, making it easier to hit.
No Warm-Up Needed – Unlike advanced squash ball types, the blue dot ball doesn’t require warming up before play.
Ideal for Learning – The increased bounce and slower speed allow new players to develop technique, improve reaction time, and build confidence on the court.

Squash Ball Size and Weight Explained

If you’re wondering how big is a squash ball or what are squash balls made of, understanding their dimensions is key to choosing the right one for your game.

Squash Ball Diameter & Weight

Standard squash ball size ranges from 39.5mm to 40.5mm in diameter, measured perpendicular to the seam.
The squash ball weight falls between 23 and 25 grams, ensuring consistency in play across all squash ball types.

These specifications apply to all official competition squash balls. However, beginner squash balls—such as the blue dot and red dot balls—are slightly larger to allow for higher bounce and longer rallies, making them the best squash balls for beginners.

How to Choose the Best Squash Ball for Your Game

Selecting the right squash ball is crucial for improving your game and ensuring an enjoyable experience on the court. The squash balls difference lies in their bounce, speed, and dot markings, which indicate the level of difficulty. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, understanding squash ball types will help you play at your best.

Choosing the Right Squash Ball for Your Skill Level

Beginners should start with a blue dot or red dot squash ball, which has a higher bounce and longer hang time. These are the best squash balls for beginners as they allow for easier rallies and help develop fundamental skills.
Intermediate players can progress to a single yellow dot ball, which offers less bounce and requires better technique.
Advanced and serious club players should use a double yellow dot squash ball, the official choice for competitions, including the PSA World Tour. This ball has the lowest bounce and demands precise control and power for more challenging play.

Factors That Affect Squash Ball Performance

Bounce and Hang Time: A higher bounce makes the game easier, while a lower bounce requires more skill and faster reactions.
Court Conditions: Temperature plays a role in ball performance. In cold courts, balls tend to be slower and less bouncy, so using a ball with higher bounce (e.g., a single yellow or red dot ball) is recommended. In warm courts, the ball heats up faster, making it more lively, so using a lower bounce ball (e.g., a single or ouble yellow dot) is ideal.

Final Tips

Choosing a squash ball size and type that matches your skill level ensures a better playing experience. Avoid using a ball that’s too advanced, as it can limit rallies and slow skill progression. Whether you're wondering which squash balls are used in competition, how big is a squash ball, or how fast does a squash ball travel, selecting the right one will enhance your game and keep you improving on the court!

How Long Does a Squash Ball Last?

One of the most common questions players ask is how often to replace a squash ball. The lifespan of a ball depends on factors such as playing style, frequency of use, and the ball type.

Signs You Need a New Squash Ball

There is no exact rule on when to replace a squash ball, but there are clear signs to look out for:

The ball becomes shiny and starts to skid on the court.
It loses bounce and doesn't react the same way during rallies.
You struggle to maintain the usual speed and control in your game.

Typically, a squash ball lasts 8 to 10 hours of play before it starts to wear out. Professional matches allow a ball change every two games, while club players may go through a ball over several sessions.

If you play regularly, it’s best to keep a few fresh squash balls in your bag so you’re always ready for a quality game. Understanding squash ball types and when to replace them helps maintain consistency and improves your overall playing experience!

Why Do Squash Balls Lose Performance?

What are squash balls made of? Squash balls consist of two rubber halves sealed together, trapping air inside. Over time, the air slowly escapes, reducing internal pressure and causing a loss of bounce. This is why older balls feel dead and don’t perform as well.

Why Do Squash Balls Need to Be Warmed Up?

If you've ever started a game of squash with a cold squash ball, you’ll know it doesn’t bounce much. That’s because squash balls need to be warmed up before they perform properly.

The Science Behind Warming Up a Squash Ball

Squash balls are made of rubber and contain air inside. When hit repeatedly against the wall, the air inside warms up, increasing internal pressure and making the rubber more flexible. This results in a higher bounce, allowing for faster rallies and better gameplay.

How to Warm Up a Squash Ball

To ensure optimal performance, players warm up a squash ball by hitting it against the wall for a few minutes. This process gradually increases the bounce and responsiveness of the ball.

Do All Squash Balls Need to Be Warmed Up?

Beginner balls (blue dot) – These have a naturally higher bounce and do not need warming up, making them the best squash balls for beginners.
Intermediate balls (red dot) – Require only a short warm-up to reach optimal playability.
Advanced and competition balls (single and double yellow dot) – These have a lower natural bounce and must be properly warmed up for a fair and competitive game.

By properly warming up your squash ball, you’ll ensure longer rallies, better control, and a more enjoyable game!

Which Squash Balls Do Professional Players Use?

When it comes to professional squash, the choice of squash ball is crucial for ensuring a fast-paced and competitive game.

The Official Squash Ball for Professionals

The double yellow dot squash ball is the standard choice for elite players and is the official ball used on the PSA World Tour. This ball has the lowest bounce and slowest speed, making it the most challenging to play with. It requires proper warming up before it reaches optimal performance.

White Squash Balls for Glass Courts

In modern glass courts, where visibility is key, professional tournaments often use white squash balls, also known as the White Pro or Championship Ball. These are identical in performance to the double yellow dot ball but are designed to be more visible under bright lighting conditions.

Should You Use a Professional Squash Ball?

If you're an advanced player looking for a challenge, the double yellow dot ball is ideal. However, if you're a beginner or intermediate player, opting for a red or blue dot ball can help develop skills before transitioning to professional-level play.

By choosing the right squash ball, you’ll ensure a more enjoyable and competitive game suited to your skill level.

Squash Ball Brands: Understanding the Differences

When choosing a squash ball, brand matters. While all squash balls follow standard regulations for squash ball size, squash ball weight, and squash ball diameter, different brands offer unique playing characteristics, durability, and consistency.

Dunlop Squash Balls – The Gold Standard

Dunlop is the most widely recognised brand, producing squash balls used in professional competitions, including the PSA World Tour. Known for unrivalled performance, long lifespan, and consistent bounce, Dunlop balls ensure a high-quality game at any level.

Head Squash Balls – Innovation and Performance

Head squash balls incorporate advanced materials to enhance durability and playability. They are a popular choice among competitive and club-level players looking for reliable performance.

Tecnifibre Squash Balls – Designed for Every Level

Tecnifibre offers a range of squash ball types, catering to beginners, intermediates, and professionals. These balls are built with durability and performance in mind, making them a versatile choice for players of all skill levels.

Karakal Squash Balls – Ultra Soft Rubber for Extra Control

Karakal squash balls stand out due to their Ultra Soft Rubber formula, which enhances control and accuracy. This makes them particularly appealing to intermediate and recreational players who want precision in their game.

Which Squash Ball Brand is Right for You?

While Dunlop squash balls are the go-to for professionals, other brands like Head, Tecnifibre, and Karakal provide excellent alternatives depending on your playing style and preferences. No matter your choice, understanding the difference in squash ball brands can help you find the best squash balls for your game.

Mini Squash Balls: The Perfect Start for Young Players

Introducing children to squash requires the right equipment, and mini squash balls are specially designed to help young players develop their skills. These balls differ from standard squash ball types in size, bounce, and speed, making it easier for kids to learn the game in a fun and engaging way.

Types of Mini Squash Balls

Dunlop Fun Red Mini Squash Balls (Ages 5-7)

Larger and bouncier than regular beginner squash balls, allowing more reaction time.
Ideal for building coordination and motor skills.
Designed for absolute beginners to enjoy the game from the start.

Dunlop Play Orange Mini Squash Balls (Ages 7-10)

Slightly less bouncy than the red ball, providing better control.
Helps young players refine their skills and maintain longer rallies.
The bright orange colour enhances visibility and reaction time.

Why Choose Mini Squash Balls?

Mini squash balls are essential for introducing children to the sport. Their adjusted squash ball size, weight, and bounce ensure an enjoyable experience while fostering essential skills like hand-eye coordination, reaction speed, and confidence on the court. For the best squash balls for young beginners, start with mini squash balls and set young players on the path to future success.

Final Thoughts on Squash Balls

Understanding squash balls in detail allows you to make informed choices based on your skill level, playing conditions, and personal preferences. Whether you're wondering which squash balls are used in competition, what are squash balls made of, or how big is a squash ball, having the right knowledge ensures you get the best performance on the court.

The squash ball size, weight, and bounce all impact gameplay. With different squash ball types, including those with various squash ball dots, choosing the right one is essential for skill development and competitive play. The best squash balls for beginners offer higher bounce and longer rallies, while advanced players benefit from lower-bounce, faster balls.

Squash Only Australia – Your Go-To Shop for Squash Balls Online

At Squash Only Australia, we offer a wide range of squash ball types, helping you select the perfect ball based on your skill level and playing conditions.

We proudly stock high-quality squash balls from trusted brands like Dunlop, Karakal, Head, and Tecnifibre, available individually, in twin packs, packs of three, half-dozen sets, or full boxes of 12. Buying in bulk ensures you always have a fresh ball on hand, as squash balls wear out over time.

With fast shipping available across Australia, getting the right squash balls has never been easier. Whether you’re a casual player or competing at the highest level, we have the perfect squash ball for you. Shop online today at Squash Only Australia and take your game to the next level!