Squash is fast, indoor and easy to fit into a lunch break or an evening, rain or shine. These Sydney venues have courts you can book, and our short kit list covers everything else you need to get started.
A racquet, the right ball and indoor shoes, then a few small extras.
Light squash racquets for beginners and regular players.
Squash balls from bouncy beginner dots to double yellow.
Non-marking indoor badminton shoes that grip court floors.
Overgrips and replacement grips for a surer hold.
Cushioned sports socks for quick stops and lunges.
Racquet bags, backpacks and covers for your kit.
Bookable courts in sports centres and clubs around the city.
Four glass-backed squash courts on Wentworth Avenue, open for casual public hire alongside the outdoor tennis courts.
Good to knowRacquets and balls are available to hire, so you can try it without kit. There are private lessons, social squash for members and a weeknight competition.
Seven squash courts at the University of Sydney's sports centre on Darlington Road, bookable online.
Good to knowThe facilities are open to students, staff and local community members, not only the university crowd.
A council recreation centre with three squash courts, one of only a few squash venues on the northern beaches.
Good to knowCompetitions and coaching run here, so it is a good base if you want regular games once you are hooked.
A community youth club on Ador Avenue in the south with a squash court available for public hire.
Good to knowRacquets can be hired at the front desk at set times, which makes it an easy place to try squash with a friend.
The university's sport and aquatic centre lists squash among its hireable courts, serving Sydney's north-west.
Good to knowCourt hire is open to members and to outside bookings, so check with the centre when you plan your first game.
Squash is quick, so a lighter racquet is easier to swing and control while you learn. A larger head gives you more room for error on early shots.
Squash balls come with coloured dots. Beginner balls bounce more and give you time to reach them, while double yellow dot balls are for experienced players on warm courts.
Most squash courts insist on non-marking soles. Indoor court shoes, such as badminton shoes, grip the floor well and support quick sideways moves. Running shoes are not designed for that.
Protective eyewear is a smart choice, especially when you are learning, and juniors are often required to wear it. Ask your venue or coach what they recommend.
Hit the ball against the front wall for a few minutes before you play. A warm ball bounces more, which makes rallies easier.
If you are in the way of your opponent's shot, stop and call a let. Safety comes before winning the point.
Squash is intense. Pause between games, drink some water and build your session length slowly.
| Item | Why | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Squash racquet | The main piece of kit | Hire one first if your venue offers it |
| Squash balls | The dot sets how much it bounces | Start with a bouncier beginner ball |
| Indoor court shoes | Non-marking grip on court floors | Badminton shoes work well for squash |
| Protective eyewear | Guards your eyes from the ball and racquet | Ask your venue or coach for advice |
| Overgrip | A drier, firmer hold | Change it when it starts to feel slick |
| Sports socks | Cushioning for quick stops | Pack a spare pair for after |
| Water bottle | Squash is short but intense | Drink between games, not only at the end |
Not to start. Some Sydney venues hire racquets and balls at the desk, so you can try a few games first. If you play regularly, your own racquet is worth it, because you get used to its weight and balance. A light, forgiving racquet with a larger head is a good first pick.
Wear light, breathable sportswear you can lunge and twist in. Shoes matter most: squash courts need non-marking indoor soles, so choose indoor court shoes such as badminton shoes rather than running shoes. We do not stock dedicated squash shoes, which is why we suggest badminton shoes. Protective eyewear is also a sensible choice, especially for beginners and juniors.
Yes, as long as you ease in. Use a beginner ball with more bounce so you have time to reach it, and keep early sessions short. A lesson or two helps you learn safe movement and court etiquette. Many players find it a fun, sociable workout once the basics click.
Squash courts in Sydney are usually inside sports centres, university gyms, PCYCs and clubs rather than parks. Search for squash near your suburb, then check whether the venue takes casual bookings. Many venues run social nights, competitions or coaching, which are an easy way to find partners at your level.
Knock or wait for a gap before opening the court door, and only enter between rallies. On court, give your opponent a fair view and a clear path to the ball, and call a let when there is any risk of hitting them. Shake hands or say thanks at the end, and leave on time for the next booking.
Book a court near you, grab a bouncy beginner ball and a friend, and come back to us when you want your own kit.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
