Walking into a squash pro shop for the first time can feel overwhelming. Walls lined with racquets of different sizes, colors, and price points. Shoes that look similar but carry vastly different price tags. Safety equipment that ranges from basic to high-tech. Where do you even begin?
The good news is that squash is one of the most equipment-friendly sports for beginners. Unlike hockey or lacrosse, you don’t need thousands of dollars of gear to get started. Unlike tennis, where adult equipment often works for older kids, squash offers properly sized junior equipment that makes learning easier and more enjoyable.
But with so many options available, how do you know what’s essential versus nice-to-have? What should you buy immediately, and what can wait until your child shows serious interest? Most importantly, how do you buy equipment that grows with your developing player without breaking the bank?
This guide will walk you through every piece of squash equipment your child might need, from absolute essentials to advanced gear, with practical advice on when and where to invest your money wisely.
Understanding the Squash Equipment Essentials
The Must-Have Items for Every Young Player
Before your child steps on a court, they need exactly four things:
1. A properly sized racquet 2. Non-marking court shoes 3. Eye protection 4. Appropriate athletic clothing
Everything else – while potentially beneficial – falls into the “nice-to-have” category that can be added as your child’s interest and skill level develop.
What Most Facilities Provide (And What They Don’t)
Many quality squash programs provide equipment for beginners, which is perfect for those crucial first few lessons. Your coach can tell you exactly what equipment they provide versus what you need to bring – this prevents unnecessary purchases and ensures you have everything needed for that first lesson. Typically, coaches and facilities offer:
- Junior-sized racquets in various weights and grip sizes
- Safety goggles meeting current safety standards
- Balls appropriate for the lesson level
What you’ll always need to provide:
- Non-marking shoes (this is non-negotiable for court access)
- Athletic clothing suitable for movement and temperature
Understanding what’s provided versus what you need to purchase helps you avoid unnecessary early investments while ensuring your child can participate safely and comfortably. Always consult with your child’s coach before making equipment purchases – experienced instructors can provide invaluable guidance on what your child actually needs based on their current skill level and development stage.
The Junior Racquet: Your Most Important Investment
Why Adult Racquets Don’t Work for Kids
The biggest mistake parents make is assuming their child can “grow into” an adult racquet. Here’s why junior-specific racquets matter:
Weight Distribution: Adult racquets typically weigh 125-155 grams and can be too heavy for proper swing development. Junior racquets should range from 110-125 grams (including strings), providing better control and reducing strain while building proper technique.
Grip Size: Adult grips are designed for fully developed hands. Oversized grips prevent proper wrist action and can cause tennis elbow-type injuries in young players.
Length Considerations: While some older juniors can handle full-length racquets (27 inches), younger players benefit from shorter options (21-26 inches) that improve maneuverability and control.
Balance Point: Junior racquets are typically more head-light, making them easier to swing and control for developing players.
Choosing the Right Junior Racquet
Ages 6-9: Ultra-Light Options (110-120 grams)
- Shorter length (21-23 inches) for better control
- Larger sweet spot for more forgiving contact
- Bright colors and fun designs to maintain interest
- Price range: $40-80
Ages 10-12: Intermediate Junior (120-130 grams)
- Slightly longer (24-25 inches) as coordination improves
- Begin transition toward more traditional head shapes
- Better string tension for improved feel
- Price range: $60-120
Ages 13+: Advanced Junior to Adult Transition (130-135 grams)
- Full length or close to it (26-27 inches)
- Adult-style balance and string patterns
- Higher quality materials and construction
- Price range: $80-200+
Racquet Features That Matter (And Those That Don’t)
Important Features:
- Grip size: Should allow comfortable hold without excessive stretching
- Weight: Appropriate for age and strength level
- String pattern: More open patterns (14×18) provide power; tighter patterns (16×19) offer control
- Durability: Quality frame construction that can handle beginner mistakes
Marketing Hype to Ignore:
- “Power” claims: Technique generates power, not equipment
- Professional endorsements: What works for pros may not suit beginners
- Exotic materials: Basic graphite composites work excellently for juniors
- Excessive customization options: Beginners don’t need specialized string tensions or grip modifications
When to Upgrade Your Child’s Racquet
Upgrade triggers:
- Physical growth: Grip feels small, racquet seems too light or short
- Skill development: Child demonstrates consistent technique and longer rallies
- Increased frequency: Playing multiple times per week regularly
- Competitive interest: Expressing desire to play tournaments or join teams
Don’t upgrade because:
- Other kids have “better” racquets
- Your child asks for the most expensive option
- You think better equipment will accelerate improvement
- The current racquet has minor cosmetic damage
Before making any racquet upgrade, consult with your child’s coach – they can assess whether the current equipment is truly limiting progress or if other factors (like technique or fitness) should be the focus instead.
Court Shoes: Safety Meets Performance
Why Regular Athletic Shoes Don’t Work
Squash courts have specific flooring designed for optimal play, and facilities strictly enforce non-marking shoe policies. Beyond facility rules, proper court shoes provide:
Lateral Support: Squash involves constant direction changes. Court shoes offer reinforced sides that running shoes lack.
Non-Marking Soles: Special rubber compounds that don’t scuff court surfaces. This isn’t optional – facilities will deny court access without proper shoes.
Grip Pattern: Sole designs optimized for quick stops and starts on smooth surfaces.
Durability: Construction that handles the abrasive nature of court movement.
Selecting Junior Court Shoes
For Beginners (First 6 months):
- Basic court shoes from established athletic brands
- Proper fit with room for growth (half-size up maximum)
- Non-marking sole certification clearly marked
- Price range: $50-80
For Regular Players:
- Higher quality construction for durability
- Better ventilation for comfort during longer sessions
- Improved lateral support systems
- Price range: $80-130
For Competitive Players:
- Premium materials and construction
- Advanced support and stability features
- Longer durability for frequent use
- Price range: $130-200+
Fitting Court Shoes Properly
Key fitting considerations:
- Length: Thumb-width space between longest toe and shoe end
- Width: Snug but not tight across the widest part of foot
- Heel: Secure fit without slipping during movement
- Arch support: Comfortable support without pressure points
Try shoes on:
- Late in the day when feet are slightly swollen (normal size)
- While wearing the socks your child will use for squash
- Test lateral movement, not just walking
- Consider both feet – they’re often slightly different sizes
Eye Protection: Non-Negotiable Safety
Understanding Squash Eye Injury Risks
Squash balls travel at high speeds in an enclosed space, creating inherent eye injury risk. Professional organizations worldwide mandate eye protection for junior players, and quality programs enforce this strictly.
Injury statistics show:
- Eye injuries account for significant squash-related medical visits
- Proper eye protection reduces injury risk by over 90%
- Children are at higher risk due to developing spatial awareness
- Injuries can range from minor to vision-threatening
Types of Eye Protection
Protective Goggles (Recommended for beginners):
- Wrap-around design with impact-resistant lenses
- Comfortable strap system that stays secure during play
- Anti-fog coatings for clear vision
- Price range: $25-60
Protective Eyewear (For glasses wearers):
- Designed to fit over prescription glasses
- Larger lens areas for comprehensive coverage
- Adjustable features for comfort with glasses
- Price range: $40-80
Sport-Specific Prescription Glasses:
- Custom prescription lenses in protective frames
- Most expensive but most convenient for regular glasses wearers
- Require consultation with sports vision specialists
- Price range: $200-400+
What to Look for in Eye Protection
Safety certifications:
- ASTM F803 standard for racquet sports (US requirement)
- Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approval
- European conformity (CE) marking for international products
Comfort features:
- Adjustable strap systems
- Soft padding around contact areas
- Ventilation to prevent fogging
- Lightweight materials for extended wear
Durability considerations:
- Impact-resistant lens materials
- Robust frame construction
- Replaceable parts (straps, padding)
- Protective carrying case
Athletic Clothing: Comfort and Performance
Basic Clothing Requirements
Squash is a high-intensity sport that generates significant body heat. Proper clothing choices enhance comfort and performance:
Moisture-wicking materials:
- Synthetic fabrics that move sweat away from skin
- Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and becomes heavy
- Blended materials often provide best comfort/durability balance
Freedom of movement:
- Clothing should allow full range of motion
- Avoid restrictive fits, especially around shoulders and hips
- Consider stretch materials for active children
Temperature considerations:
- Courts can be warm environments
- Layering allows adjustment as players warm up
- Breathable fabrics prevent overheating
Specific Clothing Items
Shirts:
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts or tank tops
- Avoid 100% cotton materials
- Consider colors that don’t show sweat easily
- Price range: $15-40
Shorts/Skirts:
- Athletic shorts with comfortable waistbands
- Built-in compression shorts for girls’ skirts
- Length that allows unrestricted movement
- Price range: $20-50
Socks:
- Moisture-wicking athletic socks
- Cushioning in heel and forefoot areas
- Height that prevents shoe rubbing
- Price range: $8-20 per pair
Optional items:
- Sweatbands for heavy perspirers
- Compression garments for muscle support (older players)
- Light jackets for warm-up and cool-down
Equipment That Can Wait: The “Nice-to-Have” Category
Gear for Developing Players
As your child’s interest and skill level increase, certain equipment becomes more valuable:
Equipment bag:
- Dedicated bag for racquets, shoes, and accessories
- Ventilated compartments for sweaty clothes
- Useful once playing regularly (2+ times per week)
- Price range: $30-80
Extra racquet:
- Backup in case of string breakage or damage
- Consider once child has established preferences
- Can be slightly different specifications for versatility
- Price range: Same as primary racquet
Training aids:
- Solo practice balls (lower bounce for wall practice)
- Reaction balls for hand-eye coordination
- Resistance bands for strength training (older players)
- Price range: $10-50 per item
Advanced Equipment for Serious Players
Multiple racquets:
- Different string tensions for varying conditions
- Backup racquets for tournament play
- Seasonal rotation to extend equipment life
Specialized training gear:
- Heart rate monitors for fitness tracking
- Video analysis tools for technique improvement
- Professional stringing equipment (for families with multiple players)
Travel considerations:
- Hard-shell racquet cases for tournament travel
- Wheeled equipment bags for extended trips
- Climate control accessories for equipment protection
Budget-Smart Shopping Strategies
When to Buy New vs. Used
Always buy new:
- Eye protection (safety equipment should never be compromised)
- Court shoes (used shoes may have wear patterns from different foot shapes)
- Strings (old strings lose tension and can break unexpectedly)
Consider used for:
- Racquets (frames rarely wear out, can be restrung)
- Equipment bags (purely functional, aesthetics matter less)
- Training aids (balls and practice equipment)
Where to find quality used equipment:
- Local squash clubs often have trade-in programs
- Online marketplaces with return policies (reverseboast.com offers excellent selection and service for squash equipment)
- Junior tournament venues sometimes have equipment sales
- School and club team equipment exchanges
Pro tip: Your coach likely has relationships with trusted equipment suppliers and may be able to direct you toward the best deals and most reliable sources.
Seasonal Shopping and Sales
Best times to buy:
- End of summer: Back-to-school sales on athletic equipment
- Post-holiday: January clearance sales
- End of squash season: Spring clearance on winter sports equipment
- New model releases: Previous year’s models often discounted
Avoid impulse purchases during:
- Tournament visits (limited selection, higher prices)
- Emergency replacements (less time for comparison shopping)
- Peak season (fall/winter when demand is highest)
Building Equipment Gradually
Phase 1: Getting Started (First 3 months)
- Borrow or rent equipment when possible
- Purchase only absolute essentials: shoes and eye protection
- Wait on racquet purchase until preferences develop
Phase 2: Regular Participation (3-12 months)
- Invest in properly fitted junior racquet
- Add equipment bag and basic accessories
- Consider seasonal clothing needs
Phase 3: Committed Player (12+ months)
- Upgrade to higher quality equipment as needed
- Add backup equipment for reliability
- Invest in specialized training aids
Maintenance and Care: Protecting Your Investment
Racquet Care
String maintenance:
- Restring regularly based on play frequency (rule of thumb: times per week = times per year)
- Store racquets in covers to prevent damage
- Avoid extreme temperatures (car trunks, direct sunlight)
- Check for frame cracks or damage regularly
Grip maintenance:
- Replace overwraps when they become slippery or worn
- Clean grips with damp cloth regularly
- Consider grip size increases as hands grow
Shoe Care
Extending shoe life:
- Rotate between multiple pairs if playing frequently
- Allow shoes to dry completely between uses
- Clean soles regularly to maintain grip
- Replace when tread wear affects performance
Storage and Organization
Proper equipment storage:
- Ventilated areas to prevent mold and odors
- Temperature-controlled environments when possible
- Organized systems that make equipment easily accessible
- Regular cleaning and maintenance schedules
Special Considerations for Growing Children
Planning for Growth Spurts
Children’s equipment needs change rapidly during growth periods:
Monitoring fit:
- Check equipment fit monthly during rapid growth phases
- Watch for changes in grip comfort and shoe fit
- Assess racquet weight relative to strength development
Timing purchases:
- Avoid major equipment purchases just before expected growth spurts
- Consider adjustable or expandable options when available
- Plan equipment budgets around seasonal growth patterns
Involving Your Child in Equipment Decisions
Age-appropriate involvement:
- Ages 6-9: Focus on comfort and fun colors/designs
- Ages 10-12: Begin teaching basic equipment knowledge
- Ages 13+: Include child in research and decision-making process
Teaching equipment responsibility:
- Establish care and maintenance routines
- Connect equipment condition to performance
- Encourage ownership and pride in equipment
Making Smart Equipment Investments
Quality vs. Price Considerations
Where to invest more:
- Safety equipment (eye protection should never be compromised)
- Items used most frequently (shoes and racquets for regular players)
- Equipment that affects performance (properly fitted racquets)
Where to save money:
- Aesthetic features that don’t affect function
- Advanced features not yet needed for skill level
- Brand premiums without functional benefits
Long-term Value Thinking
Consider total cost of ownership:
- Higher quality equipment often lasts longer
- Better fit reduces replacement frequency
- Proper maintenance extends equipment life
- Resale value for well-maintained equipment
Avoiding false economies:
- Very cheap equipment often requires early replacement
- Poor-fitting equipment can hinder development
- Safety compromises are never worth cost savings
Building Your Equipment Strategy
Creating an Equipment Timeline
Immediate needs (before first lesson):
- Non-marking court shoes (properly fitted)
- Eye protection (certified for squash)
- Basic athletic clothing
First month additions:
- Junior racquet (after trying different options)
- Equipment bag for organization
- Additional athletic wear for regular play
Three-month evaluation:
- Assess all equipment for proper fit and condition
- Consider upgrades based on increased play frequency
- Add backup equipment if playing regularly
Annual review:
- Complete equipment assessment for growth and wear
- Plan major purchases around budget and sales cycles
- Evaluate child’s continued interest and commitment level
Working with Coaches and Professionals
Leveraging expert advice:
- Consult with your child’s coach before any major purchases – they know your child’s specific needs and development stage
- Ask about equipment trials or rental programs
- Seek coach recommendations for local equipment sources – experienced coaches know the most reliable suppliers
- Understand coach preferences for student equipment and why certain brands or models work better
Remember: Your coach sees dozens of young players with different equipment choices and knows what actually works versus what’s just marketing hype.
Where to shop for quality junior equipment:
- Local pro shops at squash facilities (often with coach-recommended selections)
- Specialty squash retailers like reverseboast.com (excellent online selection with knowledgeable customer service)
- Established sporting goods stores with racquet sports sections
- Coach-recommended suppliers who understand junior-specific needs
Most importantly: Always run equipment choices by your child’s coach before purchasing. Their experience with your child’s specific development and needs is invaluable for making the right investment.
The Bottom Line: Equipment as a Tool, Not a Solution
Keeping Equipment in Perspective
Remember that equipment serves your child’s squash development – it doesn’t create it. The most expensive racquet won’t replace proper instruction, consistent practice, and genuine enthusiasm for the game.
Focus on:
- Proper fit and safety first
- Age-appropriate equipment choices
- Quality instruction over premium equipment
- Your child’s enjoyment and development
Avoid the trap of:
- Equipment as motivation (gear won’t create interest)
- Keeping up with other families (every child has different needs)
- Premature upgrades (let skill development drive equipment needs)
- Overcomplicating simple purchases (basic quality equipment works excellently)
Supporting Your Child’s Squash Journey
The right equipment, properly chosen and maintained, becomes an invisible support system that allows your child to focus on learning, improving, and enjoying squash. By making informed decisions based on actual needs rather than marketing pressure, you provide the foundation for a positive, long-term relationship with this fantastic sport.
Ready to Get Your Child Properly Equipped?
When selecting squash equipment for your young player, consider consulting with experienced coaches who understand both equipment needs and child development. Professional guidance can help you make informed decisions that support your child’s progress while protecting your investment.
Expert Equipment Guidance Available
- Professional consultation on junior equipment selection and fitting
- Equipment trials available during lessons to test preferences
- Racquet and safety equipment provided for beginners and trial lessons
- Local supplier recommendations with trusted quality and service
- Custom fitting services for optimal comfort and performance
The right equipment makes squash more enjoyable and accessible for young players. Combined with quality instruction and proper fit, good equipment becomes a foundation for lifelong enjoyment of this incredible sport.
The most important equipment advice? Talk to your coach first. Their knowledge of your child’s specific needs, combined with years of experience seeing what works for different players, makes them your most valuable resource for equipment decisions.
Start Your Child’s Equipment Journey Right
Contact Gary Gargan, US Squash Level 3 Certified Coach, for expert guidance on junior squash equipment selection. With 15+ years of experience helping young players get properly equipped, professional advice ensures your investment supports your child’s development and safety.
Visit jumbosquash.com or contact gary@jumbosquash.com to schedule a consultation and trial lesson where equipment needs can be assessed personally.
Great equipment doesn’t make great players – but the right equipment makes learning easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Jumbo Squash Academy 
Leave a comment