Guide: How to choose the right squash shoes

Why buy special shoes for squash?

When you play sports, it is important to have a shoe that is specially designed for the sport in question. Each sport has its precise characteristics. For example, 80% of the movements in squash are sideways. You run a maximum of three steps forward or backward, and the sport is performed on the floor indoors. In contrast, 100% of the movements in running are forward and the distances are usually several kilometers. Running also takes place on asphalt, on dirt or gravel paths or on special running tracks.

There are therefore big differences in both movements and surfaces from sport to sport, which places individual demands on your footwear. Choosing the right shoes for your sport can, on the one hand, be a contributing factor in injury prevention, and on the other hand, proper footwear actually improves your performance.

What are the main characteristics of squash shoes?

- The soles

Firstly, the soles must not leave marks on the floor, which is a requirement when playing squash. The soles also ensure optimal contact safety with the floor, as they improve the stability of the feet and ensure optimal weight distribution.

- Lateral reinforcement

The lateral reinforcement is the squash shoe's most important feature. The reinforcements ensure optimal stability and are an essential factor in minimizing the risk of injuries and tendinitis.

The lateral reinforcements are made up of several factors. Firstly, the material on the surface of the shoe, which is most often made of leather. The leather is resistant, it is flexible and it adapts to your foot.

In addition to the surface of the shoes, there are various elements added to the sides of the shoes, which also strengthen the stability. The elements can be synthetic or plastic.

- Suspension 

Squash is an intense sport where the suspension in the shoe is very important. If you have previously had injuries/problems in your knees or back, do not hesitate to buy high-quality shoes with good heel suspension.

Good advice for buying the right shoe for squash

1. Buy your shoes in the late afternoon as your feet are at their largest at this time. You can then be sure that your shoes have a suitable size when you get started on the squash court.
2. Examine the shape and characteristics of your feet, and discuss this with the seller, so that he can more easily find you a shoe for your foot.
3. Try the shoes on with the socks you normally wear when you play squash.
4. Try both shoes on and tie the laces completely. Often one foot is larger than the other; choose the shoe that fits best on the largest foot.
5. Your shoes must have good support in the width. The width of the shoe must be exactly the same size as the width of the foot, i.e. the shoes must fit well on your foot. Don't hesitate to buy a close-fitting shoe, they will expand in width and adapt to your foot.
6. The space between your big toe and the toe of the shoe should only be a few millimeters. 3 millimeters is sufficient.
7. Make sure that the shoe supports and fits well on your heel when you walk. This way you avoid skin irritation and blisters.
8. Walk around and make the same movements as when playing squash. In this way, you can best feel how the shoes will support your foot during the specific sideways movements.

During Squashlife's opening hours, you can always contact us via chat/phone and receive expert guidance.

Conclusion

The quality of the shoe should depend on two factors in particular:

1) How often you play. For example, if you are a beginner and play once a week, choose a good quality shoe.Conversely, if you play squash 4 times a year, then it is not necessary to buy shoes of the highest quality. Here you can better compromise.

2) Previous injuries and problems. If you have had sprains in the past, or if you have had problems with your feet, your knees or your back, it is absolutely necessary to choose good quality shoes. In such a case, you should not compromise on the quality and price of the shoe.