How To Choose the right Squash Ball

The Different Types of Squash Ball:

There are three different types of squash balls. The balls are always black and for competition or intermediate players they have one-or two-yellow-coloured dots.

 

For beginners or children there is a single white dot ball.

The difference between these balls is in their bounce. Your level determines which ball is the most suitable for you.

 

The squash ball with a double yellow dot is called the HEAD ‘Prime Squash Ball’.  

The Prime has the lowest bounce and requires a good technique from both players. The double yellow dot is the official ball at all national and international tournaments. It´s suitable for very advanced players – and it´s the most commonly sold.

 

The ball with a single yellow dot is called the HEAD ‘Tournament Squash Ball’ and it´s the best choice for intermediate players.

The Tournament Squash ball bounces up to 10% more than the Prime and this ball can also be used by advanced players in training sessions and especially in cold weather conditions.

 

Finally, the ball with the white dot is the HEAD ‘Start Squash Ball’ and as the name suggests, it´s designed for beginners.

Which Squash Ball is Best for Beginners?

The ball with a white dot or ‘Start Squash Ball’, is designed for beginners. The Start has up to 40% more bounce than the ‘Prime Squash Ball’. This makes it easier to keep a rally going and also gives the highest bounce. It doesn´t need to be warmed up before you can start the game.

What type of squash ball should I use?

The 2-dot Yellow ball is used by the best players in the world on the PSA World Tour, it is also the most commonly sold and most commonly used ball in recreational level squash.

While a 2-dot ball or ‘Prime’ is favoured by most club players, choosing a ball above your level, i.e., one you cannot heat correctly, removes a degree of skill from the game, making it is easier to hit winning shots, requiring less fitness, demanding less tactical awareness, and making it harder to play lengthy rallies.

To that end choosing the correct type of ball – professional, intermediate or beginner – for your level of play is an important element to consider before stepping onto court.

How long does a squash ball last and how often should you change it?

This is not an exact science. In professional match play a change of ball is allowed every two games.

But for club players the best way to judge when a ball needs replaced is by examining the ball. The optimum performance life of the ball is at an end when it is worn, perhaps becomes shiny and also starts to skid which can usually happen after around eight to 10 hours of play.

When these changes happen to your squash ball it is time to replace it.

What size is a squash ball?

Their diameter, measured perpendicular to the seam, must be between 39.5mm and 40.5mm, and the weight between 23 and 25 grams.

What ball do professional squash players use?

 The squash ball with a double yellow dot it’s used by the best players in the world on the PSA World Tour.

Why do squash balls heat up?

Squash balls heat up when they are hit because the air inside the rubber ball gets warm, the pressure increases and the rubber becomes more flexible which also causes the ball to have a higher bounce.