Squash is a really fast racquet sport that uses most of the walls and the floor of the court as playable surfaces. Because of the game's speed, proper footwear and equipment is very important.
Because of the amount of lateral movement the sport requires, a lot of stress goes to the lower joints of the legs. The ankles are specifically at risk of rollovers or sprains after quick changes in direction. Look for footwear that has strong materials used in the construction of the upper part of the shoe. A secure lacing system is also important so that your foot cannot move inside the shoe. A shoe with a wider footbed makes balance and control easier as well.
New Balance squash shoes have a number of innovative technologies to make the foot sit better inside the shoe for maximium performance. The LockDown Liner is a sort of glove for the top of your foot, attached to the inside of the shoe and the lacing system. As you tighten the laces, the liner hugs your foot and limits movement inside the shoe. The NLock system is integrated with the lacing system too. Tightening the laces forces your heel back in the shoe, placing your foot properly in the footbed.
Prince squash shoes use Natural Foot Shape technology, which allows for the utmost in response and control on the court. While these shoes boast practically no break-in time, reviewers have noted their lack of durability. Prince offers a six-month guarantee on the outsoles of their shoes, but most regular squash players say after about eight months the soles are shot. Regardless of this widely-recognized shortcoming, most players say they will continue to buy Prince shoes.
Unlike tennis and badminton racquets that have oval-shaped heads, the squash racquet has a square nose with varying surfaces areas for each make and model. Beginners are better off with a racquet that has a larger surface area because there is less of a margin of error. Lighter racquets tend to be more expensive, as well as harder to control. There is less momentum from a lighter racquet, so only skilled players can use them effectively.
Squash is a great cardiovascular exercise to keep you active inside. An appropriate racquet and pair of shoes will keep you comfortable on the court and greatly increase the fun you will have.