Racquetball is one of the fastest-growing indoor sports, offering a high-intensity workout in just 30 minutes of court time. Whether you're picking up a racquet for the first time or upgrading your gear, knowing exactly what to buy makes the difference between a frustrating debut and a solid start. Here's what serious beginners actually need.
The Racquet: Your Most Important Purchase
Your racquet is the foundation of your game, and it's worth getting right. Beginner racquets typically range from $40 to $100, while mid-range performance models run $100–$200. Look for a racquet between 160–170 grams—light enough to swing repeatedly without arm fatigue, but heavy enough to generate power.
Check the head size: oversized heads (around 105–110 square inches) are more forgiving on off-center hits, making them ideal for new players. The frame material matters too—aluminum frames are durable and affordable, while composite frames offer better vibration dampening if your budget stretches to $120+. A good beginner choice is a graphite-composite hybrid that balances cost and performance.
Balls: Stock Multiple Cans
You'll go through racquetball balls faster than you expect. A standard can contains three balls and costs $5–$8. Buy at least two cans to start (six balls total), but consider stocking four cans if you plan to practice regularly.
Balls come in two main types: pressurized and non-pressurized. Pressurized balls are livelier and faster, making them standard for competitive play. Non-pressurized balls last longer and are cheaper, making them better for beginners learning ball control. As you improve, switch to pressurized balls to match court conditions you'll face in leagues or tournaments.
Eye Protection: Non-Negotiable
Racquetball is played in a confined space with a hard ball traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Eye protection isn't optional—it's essential. ASTM-rated protective eyewear costs $30–$80 and meets the safety standards required at most clubs.
Look for eyewear with polycarbonate lenses (shatterproof) and full coverage that wraps around the sides. Anti-fog coating is worth the extra $10–$15, especially during intense rallies. Some players prefer goggles-style frames for maximum protection; others choose sleeker wraparound designs. Either way, your eyes are worth the investment.
Footwear and Court Attire
Court shoes designed for racquetball or basketball are essential—regular sneakers don't provide the lateral support needed for quick directional changes. Budget $80–$150 for a solid pair of court shoes with good grip and ankle support. Brands like Nike, Asics, and New Balance all make racquetball-specific options.
Wear moisture-wicking athletic shirts and shorts or pants that allow unrestricted movement. Cotton absorbs sweat and becomes heavy; synthetic blends keep you dry and light. Most clubs require non-marking soles on court shoes, so check before buying.
Gloves and Grip Accessories
A racquetball glove ($15–$35) improves your grip and reduces blisters during extended play. The glove goes on your non-dominant hand and protects your palm and fingers. Quality gloves use reinforced leather or synthetic materials that last through dozens of sessions.
If you don't wear a glove, grip tape ($5–$10 per roll) wraps around your racquet handle and provides better control. Replace grip tape every 3–6 months depending on usage, or swap it out when it becomes slick or frayed.
Bag and Carrying Gear
A racquetball bag ($30–$80) keeps your equipment organized and protected. Look for bags with dedicated racquet compartments, mesh pockets for shoes, and a main compartment for balls and accessories. Some players prefer simple drawstring bags; others invest in structured racquet cases for extra protection.
Getting Started Without Breaking the Bank
A complete beginner setup costs roughly $250–$400: racquet ($70), balls and can ($15), eye protection ($50), court shoes ($100), glove ($20), grip ($10), and a basic bag ($40). Many clubs rent racquets for $3–$5 per session, so test the sport before committing to gear.
Mercoly helps you compare and find trusted golf and racquet sports retailers in one place, making it easier to compare prices and equipment options side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a tennis racquet for racquetball? No—racquetball racquets are shorter, lighter, and have smaller heads. A tennis racquet will feel unbalanced and won't perform properly in the confined court space.
Q: Do I need special socks for racquetball? Moisture-wicking athletic socks ($8–$15 per pair) prevent blisters and keep your feet dry, but any quality athletic sock works if you're just starting out.
Q: How often should I replace my racquetball? Pressurized balls maintain performance for 3–6 months of regular play; non-pressurized balls last much longer since they have no internal pressure to lose.
Start with the essentials above, and upgrade as you identify which pieces of gear matter most to your playing style.