How Long Do Racquetball Balls Last? Factors To Consider!

how long do racquetball balls last

When it comes to Racquetball, having the right equipment is essential for optimal performance on the court. Racquetball is a fast-paced and exhilarating sport that requires excellent control and agility.

Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, one thing that can greatly impact your game is the condition of your equipment. And at the heart of this fast-paced sport is the racquetball ball itself. But have you ever wondered how long Racquetball balls actually last? We’ll delve into the factors that need to be considered and we’ll answer this question about the key equipment that keeps the game in motion.

How Long Does A Racquetball Ball Last?

So, how long do racquetball balls actually last? The lifespan of a racquetball ball can vary depending on various factors, such as the frequency of use, playing conditions, and the quality of the ball itself. Let’s delve deeper into these factors to give you a better understanding.

Factors Affecting The Lifespan Of Racquetball Balls

Racquetball balls are made from a rubber compound, a material known for its elasticity and durability. However, even the most robust racquetball balls will eventually show signs of aging and lose their performance over time. On average, racquetball balls can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on various factors. Now we’ll talk about those factors that affect how long these balls last.

Frequency Of Use

The more frequently you play racquetball, the shorter the lifespan of your racquetball balls. Regular use causes the balls to wear down due to the impact and friction with the walls and the racquets of players. If you’re a dedicated Racquetball player who hits the court several times a week, you may find yourself needing to replace your balls more frequently.

Playing Conditions

The playing conditions also play a crucial role in determining how long racquetball balls last. If you mostly play on outdoor courts, the balls are exposed to various elements like dirt, moisture, heat and sunlight, which can degrade their quality. Outdoor play can cause the balls to lose their bounce and become less lively over time. On the other hand, if you play exclusively indoors, the controlled environment may help prolong the lifespan of your balls.

Ball Quality

Not all racquetball balls are created equal. The quality of the ball itself can greatly affect its durability. The quality of racquetball balls can vary depending on the brand and manufacturing process. Higher-quality balls are often more durable and can withstand more intense gameplay. Investing in premium balls might save you money in the long run. High-quality balls are typically made from a durable rubber compound. Cheaper, low-quality balls may wear out faster and lose their bounce more quickly due to inferior materials and workmanship used. Investing in good-quality racquetball balls can help extend your balls lifespan and actually provide a better playing experience.

Storage Conditions

Proper storage is crucial for prolonging the lifespan of racquetball balls. Exposing them to extreme temperatures, either cold or hot, or leaving them in direct sunlight can impact their durability. It’s recommended to store your balls in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Racquetball Ball Maintenance

Regularly clean your balls with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may affect their performance. By cleaning your balls after each use, you will prolong the lifespan of your balls.

Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Racquetball Ballshow long does a racquetball ball last

Knowing when to replace your racquetball balls is very important for playing fair and enjoyable games of Racquetball. Here are a few signs that could show that it’s time for a new set of racquetball balls:

Loss Of Bounce

As racquetball balls age, they lose their bounce. If you notice that your balls aren’t bouncing as high as they used to or if they feel flat, it’s a clear sign that they need replacing.

Visible Damage

Inspect your balls regularly for any visible signs of damage, such as holes, cracks, cuts, or very rough patches. These can affect the ball’s performance and can be a clear sign that it’s time to retire your ball and replace it with a new ball.

Faded Color

Over time, racquetball balls can lose their vibrant color. While a faded color may not directly impact their performance, it does give you an indication that you may be aging and that you should be taking a closer look at the ball for defects described above. It can make them more difficult to see during a fast-paced game. If you maintain and clean your balls regularly this is less likely to occur though.

So How Long Do Racquetball Balls Last?

On average, a racquetball ball can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the factors mentioned above. If you notice that your balls are losing their bounce, becoming scuffed, or showing signs of wear and tear, it’s probably time to replace them.

To ensure that your balls last as long as possible, there are a few simple maintenance tips you can follow. First, make sure to store your balls in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and moisture can accelerate the degradation of the rubber.

Conclusion

The lifespan of racquetball balls can vary depending on factors such as frequency of use, playing conditions, storage conditions, ball maintenance, and the quality of the balls. It’s important to keep an eye on the condition of your balls and replace them as needed to make sure that you continue to have a good playing experience. By following proper maintenance practices, you can extend the lifespan of your racquetball balls and get the most out of your balls.

Remember, replacing your  balls regularly will not only improve your performance but also maintain an enjoyable playing experience. So, keep an eye on your racquetball balls, take good care of them, and enjoy many fun matches on the racquetball court!

Another vital piece of Racquetball equipment is the Racquetball racquet. Read our article where we review the Best Racquetball Racquets on the market today.

 

 

Mastering The Game: A Comprehensive Guide On How To Play Racquetball

how to play racquetball

Welcome to the world of racquetball, where power, precision, and strategy come together on the racquetball court. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a curious beginner, mastering the game of racquetball requires more than just swinging a racket. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the sport of racquetball and explain the sport so that you can enjoy it as a player for a long time. Let’s dive in and show you how to play racquetball, the dynamic sport that has captivated players around the globe.

Understanding The Basics of Racquetball

Before we go into the nitty-gritty details of how to play racquetball, let’s start by familiarizing ourselves with the basic elements of racquetball. Racquetball is a dynamic indoor sport that involves hitting a small rubber racquetball ball against the walls using a racquetball racket. The objective is to outmaneuver your opponent and score points by making the ball bounce twice before they can return it or force them to hit the ball out.

how to play racquetballEquipment Essentials

To play racquetball, you’ll need a few key pieces of racquetball equipment. The most important item in your racquetball bag is a racquetball racket, which is specifically designed for the sport of racquetball. These rackets are lightweight, feature a short handle, and have a large stringed head. Additionally, you’ll need a racquetball ball, which is a small, rubber ball with a diameter of 2.17 inches(5.5cm) which is designed for speed and bounces much more than a squash ball. It’s also recommended that you wear racquetball goggles to prevent your eyes being injured by a ball or opponent’s racquet. A good racquetball glove can also help prevent the racquet from slipping in your hand during a shot. It’s essential to choose the right equipment to enhance your performance on the court.

Racquetball Strokes

Now that you have your racquetball racket and ball, it’s time to delve into the various strokes that will help you become a formidable player. Mastering the forehand stroke, backhand stroke, and the serve will give you a significant advantage over your opponents. Here is how you play these strokes:

Forehand Stroke

Firstly, establish a solid stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and slightly staggered. As you prepare to strike the ball, maintain a firm yet relaxed grip on the racquet, positioning your dominant hand near the base for optimal control. As the ball approaches, pivot your hips and rotate your torso while simultaneously extending your arm forward, generating maximum power and accuracy. Remember to keep your eye on the ball throughout the entire stroke, ensuring a clean and well-timed contact.

Backhand Stroke

Start by assuming a balanced stance with your feet shoulder-width apart, and firmly grip the racquet with your dominant hand. As the ball approaches, position your body sideways to the front wall, ensuring your non-dominant shoulder faces the ball. Generate power by rotating your hips and shoulders in unison, while keeping your eye on the ball. As the ball nears your body, extend your arm and snap your wrist, striking the ball with a smooth, controlled motion. Follow through with your swing, maintaining balance and keeping your racquet parallel to the floor.

how to serve in racquetballServe

Start by positioning yourself in the service box, feet shoulder-width apart, and weight balanced evenly. Hold the racquet with a firm grip and bring it back behind your body, keeping the elbow high and parallel to the ground. As you begin to swing forward, transfer your weight from the back foot to the front foot, generating maximum force. Make contact with the ball at waist level, aiming to hit it with a flat or slightly upward stroke. Follow through smoothly and keep your eye on the ball until it hits the front wall.

Understanding The Rules And Scoring

Racquetball has a set of rules and scoring systems that govern gameplay. Understanding these rules is crucial to ensure fair play and an enjoyable experience for all players. The rules of racquetball, established by the International Racquetball Federation (IRF), provide a clear framework for the game. The game is played with two to four players, and the objective is to score points by hitting the ball against the front wall in a way that makes it difficult for the opponent to return. Each player is allowed to hit the ball once before it must hit the front wall. A player earns a point when their opponent fails to return the ball successfully. A match consists of the best of three or five games, with each game played to 15 points. Points can only be scored by the serving player, and play continues until one player reaches the required number of points to win the game.

Strategies And Tactics For Success

To truly excel in racquetball, it’s important to develop effective strategies and tactics. It’s a good idea to explore offensive and defensive strategies, try to anticipate your opponent’s moves, control the pace of the game, and exploit weaknesses. Additionally, shot selection, court positioning, and mental approaches to give you a competitive edge on the racquetball court is very important.

Conditioning And Fitness

Racquetball is an intense sport that requires agility, speed, and endurance. It’s essential to have good conditioning and fitness to help you stay at the top of your game. From cardiovascular exercises to strength training and flexibility routines, it’s important to improve your overall fitness to improve your racquetball game and prevent injuries.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our authoritative guide on how to play racquetball. By understanding the basics, mastering the strokes, familiarizing yourself with the rules, and implementing effective strategies, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled racquetball player. Remember to practice regularly, stay focused, and most importantly, have fun on the court. So grab your racquetball racket, step onto the court, and let the games begin!

Racquetball vs Pickleball: Which Is The Best Game For You?

Racquetball vs Pickleball: Which Is The Best Game For You?

When it comes to racquet sports, racquetball and pickleball are two of the most popular options. While both involve hitting a ball with a racquet, they are actually very different games. While both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, we’ll take a closer look at each sport to help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s take a closer look at racquetball vs pickleball.

Racquetball

Racquetball is a fast-paced game played in an enclosed court. The court is 40 feet long, 20 feet wide, and 20 feet high, and played in a four-walled court which involves hitting a small rubber ball with a racquet. The goal is to hit the ball so that your opponent is unable to return it. Points are scored when the ball bounces twice on the floor before your opponent can return it or if your opponent hits the ball out of bounds. The ball used in racquetball is bouncy, and players use a stringed racquet to hit the ball.

Racquetball is a fast-paced sport that requires quick reflexes and agility. One of the main benefits of racquetball is its high-intensity workout. The game requires constant movement and can burn up to 800 calories per hour. Racquetball is also a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and agility. However, the fast-paced nature of the game can make it difficult for beginners to keep up initially and may lead to injuries if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Racquetball is a great option for those who love fast-paced, high-energy games. It requires agility, speed, and quick reflexes, as players need to be able to move quickly around the court and react to the ball’s movements. The enclosed court also means that players can have intense rallies without worrying about the ball going out of bounds.

Pickleball

Pickleball, on the other hand, is a slower-paced game played on a smaller court. The court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long, with a net dividing it in half. The ball used in pickleball is similar to a wiffle ball, with holes that reduce its speed and bounce. Players use a paddle instead of a racquet to hit the ball, and the objective is to hit the ball over the net and within the boundaries of the court.

Pickleball is a newer sport that has gained popularity in recent years. It’s played on a smaller court than racquetball and involves hitting a perforated plastic ball with a paddle. The game can be played as singles or doubles and the goal is to hit the ball over the net so that your opponent is unable to return it.

Pickleball is a great option for those who want a more relaxed, social game. It is easy to learn and doesn’t require as much physical stamina as racquetball. The smaller court size also means that players don’t have to cover as much ground, making it a good choice for older players or those with mobility issues.

One of the main benefits of pickleball is its accessibility. The smaller court and slower pace make it easier for beginners and seniors to play. Pickleball is also a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and can be a fun social activity. However, the slower pace of the game may not provide as intense of a workout as racquetball.

Which One Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between racquetball vs pickleball comes down to personal preference and fitness goals. If you are looking for a high-energy, fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes and agility, then racquetball is the way to go. If you want a more relaxed, fun social game that is easy to learn and is accessible to all ages and skill levels, then pickleball is the better option for you.

Both games offer great workout options and fun opportunities to socialize with friends and family.

In conclusion, both racquetball and pickleball have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to try both sports and see which one you enjoy more. Whether you’re looking for a competitive workout or a fun social activity, there’s a racquet sport out there for everyone.

Take a look at our articles show the Racquetball Equipment and Pickleball Equipment that you need to play these fantastic sports.

Ultimate Racquetball Equipment and Accessories List

Racquetball equipment, racquetball racquet, racquetball ball, racquetball glove, racquetball goggles.

Before reading the ultimate racquetball equipment and accessories list, let’s talk a bit about the sport itself.

Racquetball, also known as American Squash, is one of the relatively new racquet sports that have gained a lot of traction lately. It was invented during the 1950s, and was played in very few parts of America. People from other regions started taking part in Racquetball from the beginning of the 21st century. Though this sport is not as popular as badminton, tennis, or table tennis, it is considered as one of the major racket sports.  

Woman & man racquetball players holding racquetball racquet, wearing racquetballglove, eyewear & wearing racquetball shoes.

The racquetball community has grown a lot during the last decade and more and more official tournaments are being held. If you are willing to take a racket sport as your new passion, then it’s just the right time to dive into racquetball. It is easier to get better at racquetball compared to tennis or badminton, but provides just as much enjoyment.

If you’re a tennis player as well as a racquetball player take a look at our tennis equipment list or if you also play badminton be sure to take a look at our badminton equipment list. It gets even better when you play well, and for that you should know what you actually need for playing racquetball. My ultimate racquetball equipment and accessories list is here to serve that purpose.

Let’s get started with the list then!

 

Racquetball Racquets

It is evident from the name that the most obvious required piece of equipment that you need to play racquetball is a good racquetball racquet. This is exactly why it’s at the top of our racquetball equipment list.

racquetball racket on a racquetball court

Unlike traditional racket sports such as tennis, racquetball racquets are significantly lighter. Weights range from 150g to 185g. However, most racquetball racquets can be categorized into one of three categories by weight. Racquets weighing 6 ounces or lower fall into the light weight category and those weighing up to 6.5 ounces fall into the medium weight category, while 7 ounces or higher are categorized as heavy racquetball racquets.

Most beginner racquetball players just getting into the game prefer heavier racquets and transition into lighter racquets as they get more experienced. According to the current standard racquetball rules imposed by the International Racquetball Federation, there are no limitations on the weight of a racquetball racket. The racket itself, including the grip, the bumper guard and the handle should not exceed 22 inches in length.

How To Choose A Racquetball Racquet

While choosing a racquetball racquet, what is most important is to choose a racquet that aligns best with your playing style. Some prefer a style which is more tactical and light footed whereas others have a more power form of play. If you prefer to play in a tactical manner, lighter racquets will suit your style more while heavy racquets will give you more power when swinging. Each player has a different swing style and swing speed which will heavily influence what type of racquets you will perform best with. Heavier racquets facilitate hitting the ball with greater pace while lighter racquets help with longer rallies and better placement of the ball. If you add in aesthetic preferences and the sheer feel of each racquet, the sample size gets even harder to narrow down.

Racquetball racquets come at vastly different price points and your options and preferences will significantly change with budget. The racquetball racquet you choose to play with should have the best balance and aerodynamics within your price range. All racquetball racquet materials are generally considered safe. Most modern rackets that are used today are composed of composite carbon fiber (Modern carbon fiber is graphite reinforced plastic). Carbon fiber may be augmented by a variety of materials. Read our article where we review the Best Racquetball Racquets. In that article we have tested and reviewed the best Racquetball racquets on the market.

Our Racquetball Racquet Recommendations

Compared to the past, modern racquetball racquets have excellent strength to weight ratio, are relatively stiff, and give excellent kinetic energy transfer. Lower priced racquets start at about the $20 price point and can cost upwards of $200. This means you do not need to spend a fortune on your first racquet, just find the best racquet at the price point that you’re comfortable with.

Here are a few recommendations you can pick from:

 

Racquetball Balls

The word ball is part of the name of the sport for a reason. You can’t play racquetball without a racquetball ball, which is why it’s the second entry on our racquetball equipment list.

Racquetballs are manufactured in a multiple array of colors ranging from green, blue to other brighter colors like yellow and pink. These colors indicate that the ball is made for a specific pre-intended playing environment. However, it is suggested that racquetballs should be bought in sets, since most racquetballs last for 3 to 5 games, dependent on the length and competitiveness of each game. Some racquetballs tend to travel fast while others travel at slower rates. From fastest to slowest they can be ranged as red, purple, green, blue and black.

The balls used in racquetball are made of rubber and have 2.25-inch diameter. Each racquetball is expected to have a weight of around 1.4 ounces. According to federation rules, each ball is expected to have a hardness rating of around 55-60 on the durometer.

These balls bounce about 68-72 ounces when dropped from a height of about 100 inches under standard temperature conditions. Balls are relatively cheap and go for around $3 a set. Once you start using the balls, this process of depressurization is accelerated and eventually the balls lose their initial bounciness and the ball is referred to as dead.

Best Racquetball Balls For Beginners

Your choice of racquetball doesn’t affect the integrity of your racquet too much, as most reputable brand of balls don’t damage the strings on your racquet too much. It is suggested that beginners start playing with a blue ball since these balls have average speed, a glide that shouldn’t be hard to get used to at the beginning. Blue balls are also generally considered neutral balls and are usually the most accurate. You can try to mix up the variant of these balls and figure out which color of ball you like to play with most.

Racquetballs do break occasionally, and will lose their bounce over time even without breaking due to depressurization of the container. To keep balls around for a long time it is suggested to keep the container in a room temperature setting after opening. Also keep them out of extreme cold or heat because this will cause the balls to become less effective and lose their bounce due to chemical properties of the rubber.

Here are some durable and tested recommendations:

 

Racquetball Set

When you’re starting out with racquetball it could be beneficial to take a look at a racquetball set instead of buying individual racquetball items. Racquetball sets can include a racquetball racquet, balls & protective eyewear or goggles. It allows you to make 1 purchase which will give you the ability to walk on the racquetball court and have your first game of racquetball. It’s a good starting point for racquetball for beginners who want an easy introduction to the sport of racquetball. This is why I’ve included it on the racquetball equipment list.

Take a look at our recommendations for the best racquetball set:

 

Racquetball Shoes

Racquetball is a high intensity sport that requires plenty of quick & sudden movements. And due to the shiny court surfaces the game is played on, a lot of grip is required due to directional movement. Forward to lateral movement switching should be somewhat easier when your shoes give you good support and traction. This is why racquetball shoes are an essential item on the racquetball equipment list.

Racquetball shoes are ultra-lightweight and thus provide little extra weight while moving. These shoes also provide support to the ankles and are padded for micro corrections during movement. The gum soles also offer great grip on to the court and thus are different to normal sports shoes. However, racquetball shoes might not be readily available. In those cases, basketball and volleyball shoes make for great replacements due to the similar surfaces these games are played on. But running shoes should always be avoided since they provide zero to no grip or ankle support to provide excess agility.

Best Racquetball Shoes

The right pair of indoor shoes can help you play your best game, so don’t forget to change out your racquetball shoes after 45-60 hours of play or when they become visibly worn, whichever comes first! There is also the extra cushioning in front of these shoes that degrade with time. So it is always a good idea to switch out your shoes for a fresh pair as they get older. Having a spare never hurts either!

Sizing for racquetball shoes are similar to any other traditional shoe, and most famous brands like Nike, Adidas and Asics also have their own lines of racquetball shoes for those looking to go for established names. But there are also some great affordable and cost-efficient options that are available within the 100 Dollar range.

Read our article where we have tested and reviewed the Best Racquetball Shoes on the market today, so that you have detailed information about the best Racquetball footwear available to you.

Here are some great options that you can consider while buying your next racquetball shoe:

 

Men’s Racquetball Shoes

SHOES NAME

SHOES IMAGE

STAR RATING

Asics Men's Gel Rocket 10 Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

Adidas Men's Barricade 12 Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

HEAD Men's Sonic 2000 MID Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

Python Mid Indoor Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5
4.5/5

 

Women’s Racquetball Shoes

SHOE NAME

SHOE IMAGE

STAR RATING

ASICS Women's Gel Rocket 10 Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

Adidas Women's Crazyflight Bounce 3 Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

HEAD Women's Revolt Pro Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

New Balance Women's 1006 v1 Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

Python Women's Deluxe Indoor Racquetball Shoes

4.5/5

 

Racquetball Goggles, Glasses & Eyewearraquetball player wearing protective racquetball goggles

If you play racquetball at all, whether you play infrequently or several times a week, you must wear the best racquetball goggles when you play. The International Racquetball Federation mandates the wearing of goggles at all times on a court which is why it’s an important item on the racquetball equipment list. The reason why the federation has made it mandatory to wear racquetball protective eyewear is because of the obvious potential injury issue of a 100 mph ball heading towards you.

Goggles are a relatively simple and cheap piece of equipment to pick up so there is no excuse not to do so. There are usually two types of lens goggles in the market- one lens piece or two lens piece. Two lens piece goggles usually have extra support in the middle. These lenses look extremely stylish but often provide very little protection. They also block some of the peripheral vision. Single lens piece goggles are significantly less stylish and may be a bit harder to wear but they offer better vision and provide better security.

Important Racquetball Goggles Features

Anti-fog coating is also an important factor to consider. A lot of goggles will fog up during long playing sessions. This obviously leads to problems like loss of vision and sometimes even nausea. Also check if the new pair of goggles you’re buying come with straps because they might fall off during the heat of play.  Adjustable side arms are also necessary, since goggles aren’t usually one size serves all. You’d want to be able to adjust your size on the go. Also, you may want to consider getting a pair that allows you to swap lenses easily.

Once you have had yours for a while, the lenses may naturally get scratched through wear and tear. Racquetball lenses usually come considerably cheap. Prices range from 10 to 30 dollars varying and depending on range and model. These goggles are specifically designed for racquetball, and thus can avoid damage in most conditions, ensuring durability and bang for your buck. Read our article where we tested and reviewed the Best Racquetball Goggles, Glasses and Protective Eyewear and where we classify them into cheap, average priced and premium Racquetball glasses.

Here are some of my recommendations within any range:

 

Racquetball Gloves

Racquetball gloves help even-out the surface of your hands to help promote a more secure grip on the racquet handle. This is especially important if you don’t have a wrap type grip equipped on your handle. Some gloves even come with Terrycloth micro-pads inside the gloves which help to absorb moisture thus reducing slippage and keeping your hands dry and comfortable while playing a hard session.

Gloves are not essential to play racquetball, you could play racquetball without gloves, but it’s can give you an advantage over an opponent who doesn’t wear racquetball gloves. Most professional players have their own preference of gloves and you’ll find one suiting your playing style too.

Best Racquetball Gloves Requirements

Above all, you want your gloves to be ultra-durable. You don’t want your gloves to show signs of tear or stress after a few tumbles and rough landings. To avoid the situation of continuous stress, it is suggested that you have a couple of pairs of gloves to use in rotation. This will also help you figure out your preferences in terms of both gloves and your grips. Another important factor to consider is the breathability of your glove, as gloves that are suffocating will affect your performance.

You don’t want your wrists to get sweaty and slippery within your gloves. Since most gloves are made of leather, they may also stretch. This gives you a good feel, but becomes problematic if your gloves don’t fit you well.

Also look out for adequate padding on your gloves so that you don’t hurt your fingers or palms. Remember not to pick gloves that are too sticky because that takes away from your versatility. You want your wrists to glide freely about the handle but not too slippery as that will result in you losing control.

Racquetball Glove Comfort

Above all, picking the right pair of gloves is all about being comfortable. And there is an array of gloves within all price points that will do you just fine. Most gloves range from under 8$ to well over 20$.

Here are a few options of racquetball gloves for you to choose from our racquetball equipment list:

 

Racquetball Clothes

There is no specific dress code when it comes to playing racquetball. However, for playing this high intensity sport to your fullest potential, you should choose athletic clothes. Though played in a small confined space, racquetball is a very fast-paced sport and you do need breathable clothes for that. Male racquetball players usually wear short sleeved shirts and shorts made of breathable materials such as cotton or polyester.

Female players, on the other hand, prefer athletic tank tops, like tennis players. In fact, racquetball clothing is very similar to tennis clothing, as female racquetball players also wear shorts or skorts. Skorts has become quite popular in recent times in racquetball as well. Skorts are basically customized skirts that come with an inner layer of shorts made of materials like spandex.

Here are my racquetball apparel choices for both men & women racquetball players:

 

Mens Racquetball Shirts

 

Womens Racquetball Shirts

 

Mens Racquetball Shorts

 

Womens Racquetball Shorts & Skorts

 

Racquetball Bag

Some might feel that a racquetball bag isn’t an essential piece of racquetball equipment, but ask any racquetball player whether they need a proper racquetball bag to transport all their gear & they’ll all say a resounding yes. And if you’re only just starting out playing racquetball and only have one set of balls and a single racquet, it makes sense investing in a racquetball bag now, knowing that very quickly you realize that you need a proper bag for all the racquetball accessories that you will start using. This is the reason why racquetball bags are on the racquetball equipment list.

As you get better and more involved in the sport, you’ll start carrying more equipment, so getting a bag in preparation for that is ideal. Above all, a good bag will significantly increase your quality of life and make your game much easier.

What Are Racquetball Bags Made Of

Bags are usually made of soft nylon cloth material and thus will probably not add too much weight to your baggage. It is important that the bag you choose be waterproof. You don’t want your racquetball accessories and equipment getting soggy and unusable on the way to your training session. Another important thing to keep in mind is the number of pockets or compartments your bag has. Most bags usually come with a large compartment. You can store your racquet and your set of balls within this compartment.

Make sure your bag is over 22 inches in internal length because otherwise you’ll be cramped in space. It’s also really important that your fragile accessories are placed within the most padded pockets of your bag. And use smaller pockets or spaces for storing extra grips, gloves or sweatbands.

How Much Do Racquetball Bags Cost?

Bags come in all sizes, shapes and price points. Your preference in aesthetics is completely up to you, but always remember not to break your budget with a bag. Bags can start at under 15 Dollars for under cheaper brands and they can go as high as 150 dollars for premium bags that come with special features and extra compartments.

Here are a few of our recommendations for the best bags money can buy:

 

Racquetball Grip

One of the most important steps to becoming better at racquetball is to hold your racquet the right and most comfortable way. However, even the best racquetball players struggle from time to time trying to grip their racquet. It is important to have the most help possible in tricky situations to pull off that spectacular shot or finish the rally. A racquet slipping out of your hands isn’t just embarrassing, it can also be devastating to your chances of winning a pivotal point. Most good rackets come with factory grips, but these grips wear down over time. The more often you play & the more intensely you play determines how long your racquetball racket lasts. 

Racquetball Grip Categories

You can significantly improve your performance by choosing a good grip for your personal use. Racquetball grips can be categorized into two distinct categories based on their equipment style. Slip-ons are made of a single piece of rubber that can be slipped on to the handle. Wraps are wrapped around the handle in single or multiple layers and are usually made of synthetic leather. Since slip-ons usually come in different textures and thicknesses because they are single layered while wraps can be layered as much as you want. It is suggested that wraps be used by players that don’t use gloves since the rubber of the slip-ons may slip after your hands get sweaty.

Grips are usually very inexpensive compared to some of the other racquetball equipment or accessories.

Buying a grip is always a good investment, and here are some of my recommendations.

 

Racquetball Strings

Most racquetball racquets will come pre-strung with a set of strings. However, it is a good idea to always keep a set of spares at hand since you never know when your strings might get worn out & break. Besides, high quality strings can be put on basic racquets for significant performance enhancement. The better your string compatibility with your racquet, the sweeter your shots will feel with the smashing sound on each impact. Good racquet strings will go a long way in winning you more matches.

The main things to consider while choosing a set of strings are stringing tension, string gauge, elasticity and the dimensions of each string. The best string chosen with these factors taken into consideration will offer optimal comfort, power and control over their shots.

Types Of Racquetball Strings

The two most widely known variants of strings are multifilament and monofilament.   In the past, most of the racket strings were made of nylon, but the current trend has shifted the production trend towards monofilament. Monofilament strings are usually made out of polyester, polyether or a compound made of these elements. Multifilament strings tend to be more stiff, and some players prefer more bounce on their strings; thereby shifting the trend towards monofilament strings. These strings are considered illegal or bad if they mark, deface or damage the integrity of the ball in any way.

Good strings can be found in the price range of about 10 to 20 dollars. Here are a few of my favorites within that price range:

 

Racquetball Sweatbands

Sweatbands are great accessories that are often overlooked by beginner players in any sport. But their value in maintaining a good body health and grip is unparalleled. Experienced players and coaches understand the importance of wristbands during playing physical sports, especially ones as demanding as racquetball. These small pieces of clothing protect you from wet, sweaty  hands that may cause injury. They absorb sweat and give you a cool playing environment.

You will find yourself getting very warm while you play racquetball and a sweatband is the ideal quick fix to absorb the excess sweat. This can be done by wiping on your forehead with your wristbands or wearing a headband which will absorb the sweat before it has the chance to run down your forehead. This is to prevent sweat and other bodily fluids running into your eyes and harming your vision or by simply having a pair on to avoid getting wet palms.

Why You Should Wear Sweatbands

Sweat on your hands will affect the way that you hold your racquet thereby affecting your overall grip. Most sweatbands are ultra-soft, thus also adding a special comfort factor to your gameplay. The majority composite material of regular sweatbands is cotton. There are also alloys of spandex and Nylon added within the materials to ensure durability and comfort. All sweatbands are free size, thereby taking away the hassle of looking for a perfect size or shape. As an added plus, sweatbands also add an aesthetic factor to your game, making you more stylish while you’re at it.

Sweatbands are usually available at all price points. They usually don’t cost too much either and are definitely worth the price. Moderate to high quality sweatbands start at around $7 and go as high as $20.

Here are a few of our recommendations for the best wristbands & headbands on the market: