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If you’ve ever played a match and wondered why the ball felt sluggish or too bouncy, you’re not alone. The right racquetball or squash ball can change the tempo of a rally, the precision of your shots, and even how quickly you improve. Think of the ball like the engine in a car—match it to the track and driving style and suddenly everything runs smoother. In this guide I’ll walk you through types of balls, the best places in the US to buy them, brand recommendations, and practical tips to match a ball to your skill level and court conditions.
Racquetball balls are larger and designed for quick, high-bounce play. Standard racquetball balls measure about 2.25 inches in diameter and are typically made from rubber compounds optimized for lively rebound. They come in different speeds and are often color-coded—blue and green are common—so you can choose something that suits fast rallies or controlled practice sessions.
Squash balls are much smaller, roughly 1.6 inches in diameter, and they behave differently depending on temperature and surface. Squash balls are chosen by their bounce and dot marking: a double yellow dot denotes the slowest, least bouncy ball used in professional play, while single yellow, red, and blue dots indicate progressively bouncier balls. Because they’re sensitive to heat, squash balls can feel dead at the start of a match until they warm up.
Dick’s Sporting Goods is a reliable go-to if you want quick access to popular brands and the convenience of brick-and-mortar locations nationwide. They typically stock racquetball balls from brands like Ektelon and Head, along with a small selection of squash balls from Dunlop or Prince. You’ll find single cans, multi-packs, and occasional starter kits. Their online inventory often includes customer reviews which helps when you’re unsure which ball fits your style.
Academy offers a competitive mix of value and selection, especially for recreational players. They carry affordable multi-packs and seasonal deals that are great if you’re building a local club’s supply or buying for lessons. The pickings may not be as deep for high-performance professional-grade squash balls, but for practice and community play, Academy is a solid choice.
Although primarily tennis-focused, Tennis Warehouse and Tennis Express stock a smart selection of squash and racquetball gear online. These specialty retailers can be a treasure trove for players chasing niche models, limited editions, or specific compound types. Shipping is fast in the US and product descriptions are thorough, so you’ll know whether a ball favors speed, durability, or control before it arrives.
REI and regional sporting co-ops sometimes carry squash and racquetball balls, especially in areas with active indoor racket communities. If you prefer eco-conscious retailers or like to try gear in person, REI’s knowledgeable staff can help match a ball to your playstyle. Availability varies by location, though, so call ahead.
Amazon is unbeatable for selection and fast delivery. You’ll find every major brand, dozens of customer reviews, and often the best bulk pricing for clubs or coaching programs. The downside is the variability in seller authenticity—stick to top-rated sellers or “Ships from and sold by Amazon.com” listings to avoid receiving counterfeit or old stock balls that have lost bounce.
For players who want expert advice and deep inventories, specialty shops—both brick-and-mortar and online—are worth it. Retailers like specialty racquet stores or dedicated online shops stock pro-level balls from brands like Black Knight, Ektelon, and Dunlop, and often carry coaching resources and demo programs. These stores are ideal when you need specific balls for tournaments or professional training.
Don’t overlook your local club’s pro shop. Club shops frequently stock the balls that perform best on their specific courts, and the pro there can tell you which ball matches the court temperature and floor type. Buying locally also supports the community and gives you instant access to new supplies when practice ramps up.
Ask yourself where you’ll play: chilly, poorly heated courts may render slow squash balls even slower, while a hot, humid gym will make a ball livelier. For racquetball, speed and bounce are less temperature-sensitive but durability can vary by rubber compound. Choose balls labeled for indoor or tournament play if you need consistent, high-performance behavior.
Price is important, but aren’t cheap balls worth the frustration if they die mid-practice? Consider whether you want a training ball that’s forgiving and cheap, or a premium ball for matches. Many stores offer mixed packs or trial sizes so you can test a brand without committing to a bulk case.
Ektelon is a long-standing name in racquetball, known for lively, durable balls suitable for both recreational and competitive play. If you want a ball that holds up to regular hitting but still offers a predictable bounce, Ektelon is a brand to trust. Many US retailers carry Ektelon in single tubes and multi-packs.
Dunlop is one of the most popular squash ball manufacturers worldwide. Their double yellow dot balls are a staple in competitive play, and their mid-bounce options work great for club matches and lessons. You’ll find Dunlop balls at specialty stores, Tennis Warehouse, and many brick-and-mortar sporting goods chains.
Head and Prince make both racquetball and squash products and often aim to balance control, spin, and durability. Head’s racquetball balls are engineered for consistent rebound, while Prince supplies a range of squash balls from beginner-friendly to tournament quality. These brands are commonly stocked at large retailers and online specialty shops.
Black Knight is beloved by many racquetball players for its high-performance balls, and Tecnifibre is a premium option for squash players wanting superior feel and durability. These brands are typically found in specialty online stores or through dedicated pro shops.
Temperature has a real impact, especially on squash balls. A double yellow dot ball can feel almost dead at room temperature, but once it heats up under rallying play it begins to bounce correctly. Court surfaces matter too; wooden floors and well-maintained courts will give you a truer bounce than older surfaces. Color can affect visibility more than performance—bright balls make fast rallies easier to follow, while traditional black squash balls are harder to see in dim gyms. Consider all three factors when you choose from a store’s shelf or online catalog.
Ball care is simple: store balls at room temperature away from direct sunlight and humidity, rotate which balls you use so wear spreads evenly, and avoid excessive outdoor use if the ball is designed for indoor courts. Some players keep a practice set and a fresh set for matches. That small bit of attention can add weeks or months to a ball’s useful life and keep play consistent.
As a beginner, you want forgiving, bouncy balls. For squash, start with a blue or red dot ball—these are livelier and make rallies longer, which builds confidence. For racquetball, go for standard recreational balls that offer a comfortable bounce without punishing your timing.
Intermediate players should look for durability and a balance between control and pace. A single yellow squash ball or mid-range racquetball ball from Ektelon or Head helps refine shot placement without being so slow that rallies die early. Many US retailers list the intended skill level right in the product description—use that to guide your choice.
Advanced players will want tournament-grade balls: double yellow dot squash balls and premium racquetball balls from Black Knight or Ektelon designed for consistency and precise rebound. These balls are less forgiving but reward superior technique and are often required in league and tournament play.
If you’re buying for a club or coaching program, bulk packs from Amazon, Tennis Warehouse, or large retailers cut the cost per ball significantly. Watch for seasonal sales—back-to-school and holiday periods often bring discounts. Also consider multi-packs that mix training and match balls; they give you variety and value without compromising quality.
Before you buy, run through this quick checklist: what size and dot marking do you need, is the court temperature taken into account, are you buying for practice or matches, do you prefer a particular brand, and is the retailer reputable? If you’re undecided, choose a retailer with easy returns and clear product descriptions. A little preparation leads to better matches and fewer surprises on the court.
Choosing the right racquetball or squash ball is part science, part personal preference, and part logistics. The best stores in the US—big-name chains like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy, specialty shops like Tennis Warehouse, club pro shops, and broad marketplaces like Amazon—all have roles to play depending on whether you prioritize convenience, expert advice, selection, or price. Match ball type to skill level and court conditions, pay attention to brand strengths, and maintain your balls properly to get the best performance. With the right choices, every rally feels sharper and every practice session becomes more productive.
