Non-marking indoor court shoes
An excellent gift for any serious player, providing necessary grip, support, and cushioning for quick movements on court.
Sport & Fitness
Racquetball & squash
6 kinds worth knowing, 7 picks, and what to check before you buy.
Gifts in this category usually go to someone who already plays a few times a week at a club or community centre, often a dad, brother or friend who books court time. What gets used is the stuff that wears out or gets lost: balls, grip tape and court shoes. Big-ticket items like a new racquet are harder to get right, because players are particular about weight and balance. A good way to think about it: replace something they use every session, or upgrade something they've put up with for too long. Non-marking indoor court shoes and a fresh pack of balls are two safe starting points, since nearly every player goes through both.
Kind 1 of 6
Court shoes that won't scuff the floor
Indoor court shoes have gum or light-coloured rubber soles that grip hardwood without leaving black streaks, which most clubs insist on. They sit lower than running shoes and have more support at the sides for quick lateral moves. They suit anyone still playing in old runners or worn-out court shoes. Before buying, confirm their size in a court or athletic shoe specifically, since fit can differ from casual shoes. Check whether they need a wide fit, and ask the store about exchanges in case the size is off.
Kind 2 of 6
Fresh grip tape for sweaty hands
Overgrip tape wraps over the racquet handle and soaks up sweat so the racquet stays put in the hand. Regular players replace it often, so it's a stocking stuffer that will definitely get used. It suits anyone who plays hard or in warm courts. Check whether they like a tacky or dry feel, and pick a pack of several rolls rather than one. Colour is a small thing, but some players like to match their racquet.
Absorbent racquet grip tape
A thoughtful gift for any player, ensuring a secure hold and improved comfort during intense racquetball or squash matches.
Kind 3 of 6
Court eyewear they'll actually wear
Court eyewear is a wraparound frame with clear lenses made for racquet sports, and many clubs and leagues expect players to wear it on court. It suits newer players who don't own a pair yet, or anyone whose current pair fogs up or slips. Check that the pair is made for racquetball or squash, not general sports sunglasses. If they wear prescription glasses, look for a frame that fits over them or ask what they use now.
Impact-resistant court eyewear
A crucial gift for any racquet sport player, offering essential eye protection during fast-paced games.
Kind 4 of 6
A bag that holds everything
A multi-racquet bag carries two or more racquets plus shoes, a towel, balls and a change of clothes, often with a separate compartment for sweaty gear. It suits someone heading to the club straight from work or hauling a gym bag and a racquet cover separately. Check that it fits the length of their racquet, since squash racquets are longer than racquetball ones. Look for a ventilated shoe pocket and a comfortable shoulder strap or backpack straps.
Multi-racquet sports bag
This practical gift is perfect for players needing to transport their racquets, balls, shoes, and apparel to and from the court.
Kind 5 of 6
Balls for racquetball or squash
Balls lose their bounce or split with regular play, so a new pack always comes in handy. Racquetball and squash balls are completely different, so first confirm which sport they play. Racquetball balls come in cans and vary by speed and colour. Squash balls are graded by dots: double yellow for experienced players, single yellow or red for club and newer players. Pick the ball matching their level, since the wrong one can feel dead or too lively on court.
Official racquetball balls pack
Essential for any racquetball enthusiast, this gift provides a fresh supply for practice sessions and competitive matches.
Professional squash balls set
This gift is perfect for a squash player who needs a reliable supply of balls for training and competitive play.
Kind 6 of 6
A racquet upgrade for keen players
A performance racquet is lighter, stiffer or better balanced than a beginner model, built for players who've outgrown their starter racquet. It suits someone who plays several times a week and has talked about upgrading. Players are fussy here, so find out what they use now, their preferred weight and grip size, and whether they like a head-heavy or head-light feel. If you can't find out, a gift card from a racquet shop may land better.
Performance racquetball racquet
This gift suits an enthusiastic racquetball player looking to upgrade their game with improved power and control.
How to choose racquetball & squash as a gift
- Confirm whether they play racquetball or squash before buying balls, racquets or bags, since the gear doesn't cross over.
- Things that wear out, like grip tape, balls and court shoes, are the safest bets because they always need more.
- Glance at their current racquet or shoes to note brand, size and grip before shopping.
- Pair a small consumable with a bigger item, like grip tape tucked into a new sports bag.
- For squash balls, match the dot colour to their playing level rather than defaulting to the pro ball.
Usually safe to skip
- Beginner racquet sets for experienced players rarely get used, since keen players already have a racquet they like.
- Running shoes or dark-soled trainers often aren't allowed on court floors and won't give the side-to-side support needed.
- Novelty or decorative racquets end up on a shelf instead of on court.
Questions people ask about racquetball & squash
- What is a good gift for someone who plays squash?
- Useful picks are a set of squash balls matched to their level, a pack of overgrip tape, non-marking court shoes or a bag that fits a full-length squash racquet. Things that wear out are the safest choice if you don't know their preferences.
- Are racquetball and squash balls the same?
- No. Racquetball balls are larger, hollow and much bouncier. Squash balls are smaller and need warming up to bounce well, with dots showing the speed. Buying the wrong type means the gift won't be usable, so check which sport they play.
- Can I wear running shoes on a squash or racquetball court?
- Most clubs ask for non-marking soles, and many running shoes leave scuffs on hardwood. Running shoes are also built for forward motion, while court shoes give more support for quick side-to-side movement, which is why court shoes make a practical gift.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All racquetball & squash picks
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