Squash balls all look similar, but the brand, dot colour and condition make a real difference to your game. Whether you need competition-standard double yellows or bouncier balls for beginners, here are the best options in the UK for 2026 and how to choose between them.
Quick answer: Dunlop is the leading squash ball brand in the UK, and its double yellow dot is the competition standard used at most clubs and tournaments. Wilson and other brands also produce quality balls across the range. Choose the dot colour to match your level: double yellow for experienced players, down to blue for beginners.
First, match the dot to your level
The dot colour tells you how much the ball bounces — and more bounce means an easier ball. Get this right before worrying about brand:
| Dot | Bounce | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Double yellow | Least | Experienced/competition players, cold courts |
| Single yellow | Slightly more | Advancing club players |
| Red | More | Improvers |
| Blue | Most | Beginners and juniors |
For the full breakdown, see our squash ball types guide.
The best squash ball brands
Dunlop
Dunlop is the dominant name in UK squash balls and its double yellow dot is the standard at the vast majority of clubs, leagues and tournaments. If you play competitively, you will almost certainly be playing with Dunlop double yellows, so it makes sense to practise with them too. Dunlop also offers balls across the full dot range for every level.
Wilson
Wilson produces quality squash balls and is a trusted name for players who want a reliable alternative across the dot grades.
Other brands
Several other manufacturers make squash balls, but for consistency with match play most UK players default to the brand their club and league use — overwhelmingly Dunlop.
Which ball should you buy?
- Playing leagues or tournaments: buy the double yellow dot ball your competition uses, most likely Dunlop, and train with it.
- Improving club player: single yellow dot to bridge towards competition pace.
- Still developing: red dot for more bounce and longer rallies.
- Complete beginner or junior: blue dot for maximum bounce and enjoyment.
Buy in multiples
Squash balls wear out. Over time they lose bounce, and eventually they crack — often mid-match. Keep two or three spares in your bag so a split ball never ends your session. Buying in boxes usually works out better value if you play regularly.
Playing Squash 57?
If you play Squash 57 (formerly racketball), you need a different, larger and bouncier ball that does not use the dot system. Do not try to use a squash ball for Squash 57 or vice versa — our squash vs racketball guide explains the difference.
FAQs
What squash ball do the pros use?
Competitive squash is played with a double yellow dot ball, most commonly Dunlop, which is the standard at tournaments and clubs across the UK.
Which brand of squash ball is best?
Dunlop is the most widely used and the default for UK match play, while Wilson and others are solid alternatives. For competition, match the brand your league uses.
How long does a squash ball last?
It varies with how hard and often you play. Balls gradually lose bounce and eventually crack, so keep spares and replace them once they feel dead or split.
What ball should a beginner buy?
A blue dot ball bounces the most and is the easiest to rally with, making it ideal for beginners and juniors.
Stock up today
The right ball, in good condition, makes every session better. Browse the squash balls collection at Central Sports for Dunlop, Wilson and more across every dot grade — and grab a few spares while you are there.