Padel vs Squash – What is The Main Difference?

Ever wondered what’s the difference between Padel and Squash? I get that question a lot. On the surface, they both involve rackets, enclosed courts, and plenty of quick movements—but once you step onto the court, it’s a whole different ball game. I’ve spent years on both courts, and trust me, they each have their quirks. Whether you’re deciding which sport to pick up or just curious about how they differ, I’ve broken down everything you need to know based on real-life experience.

Court Differences You’ll Notice Right Away

Walking onto a padel court versus a squash court feels like stepping into two completely different environments. Padel courts are larger—measuring 10 meters wide by 20 meters long—and they’re surrounded by glass walls and metal fencing. This design isn’t just for show; the glass walls are in play, adding a whole layer of strategy. You’ll often find yourself letting the ball bounce off the wall to set up a better shot, something that takes getting used to if you’re coming from tennis or squash.

Squash courts, on the other hand, are more compact—6.4 meters wide and 9.75 meters long—with solid walls on all sides. Here, the walls aren’t just part of the strategy—they are the strategy. The ball ricochets off every surface, making angles and quick reactions the name of the game. The confined space ramps up the intensity, and if you’re not paying attention, the ball can come flying back at you faster than you expect.

Playing Doubles vs Singles

Padel is played almost exclusively in doubles, which brings a social and strategic element to the game. You’ve got to communicate, cover your partner’s weaknesses, and work as a team to outsmart opponents. Squash, by contrast, is primarily a singles game. While doubles squash exists, it’s not nearly as common. If you’re the type who thrives on solo competition, squash might feel more up your alley.

Racket and Equipment – Size and Feel Matter

One of the first things you’ll notice when picking up a padel racket is that it’s stringless. The racket is solid with holes, designed to give you better control and spin. It’s shorter than a tennis racket, making it easier to maneuver, especially at the net. Squash rackets, on the other hand, resemble smaller tennis rackets with strings, allowing for powerful, precise shots.

The balls differ, too. Padel uses a pressurized ball similar to a tennis ball but with less bounce. Squash balls are smaller and require warming up—literally. When you first take a squash ball out of the tube, it barely bounces. After a few rallies, though, it comes alive, adding another layer of strategy and timing to the game.

Gameplay and Rules – Pace and Strategy

Padel: All About Placement and Teamwork

Padel isn’t just about how hard you can hit the ball. It’s about using angles, placing shots where your opponents can’t reach, and setting up points with lobs and drop shots. The walls come into play more often than you’d think. I’ve lost count of how many rallies have turned around because someone smartly used the glass to keep the point alive. Communication with your partner is crucial—without it, you’ll find yourself out of position more often than not.

Squash: Fast, Furious, and Physically Demanding

Squash feels like a sprint from the first serve. The rallies are quick, the ball moves fast, and you’ve got to be light on your feet. There’s less time to think and more focus on instinct and reflexes. It’s one of the best cardio workouts you can get. Expect to sweat buckets and feel your legs burn after just a few games. Squash rewards quick decision-making and relentless movement—hesitate, and you’ll lose the point.

Physical Demands and Fitness Benefits

Cardio and Endurance

If you’re looking to burn calories, squash delivers. The constant movement and short recovery times between points make it a high-intensity workout. It’s common to see players drenched in sweat after just 30 minutes. Padel offers a different kind of physical challenge. The rallies are generally longer but less explosive, giving you a steady cardio workout without the intense bursts squash demands.

Muscle Engagement and Injury Risk

Both sports engage your core, legs, and upper body, but in different ways. Squash requires frequent lunges and quick changes of direction, which can be tough on the knees. Padel, thanks to its slower pace and doubles format, is generally easier on the joints. That said, don’t be fooled—those quick volleys and overhead smashes will leave your shoulders and forearms sore after a good match.

Social Aspect – Where You’ll Find the Most Fun

One of the things I love about padel is the community vibe. Because it’s played in doubles, you’ll often find yourself chatting and laughing between points. The sport has exploded in popularity partly because it’s so accessible and social. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy a competitive game with friends.

Squash, while social off the court, is typically more intense during play. Matches are often quick and competitive, leaving little time for mid-game banter. That said, post-match drinks or chats are common, especially at clubs where squash is a staple.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Try Padel If: You enjoy teamwork, strategy, and a more relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to socialize. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a game that’s easy to pick up but still challenging at higher levels.
• Go for Squash If: You thrive on intense cardio workouts and fast-paced competition. If you’re competitive and love a good sweat session, squash won’t disappoint.

Both sports offer unique benefits. Your choice really depends on what kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s a strategic doubles match with friends or a high-energy singles battle.

Key Takeaways

✅ Padel focuses on strategy and teamwork, with longer rallies and more tactical play.
✅ Squash offers an intense, fast-paced workout that tests your reflexes and endurance.
✅ Padel courts are larger with glass walls that keep rallies alive; squash courts are enclosed with solid walls, emphasizing quick reactions.
✅ Equipment differs: solid, stringless rackets for padel versus strung rackets for squash.
✅ Padel is generally more beginner-friendly, while squash provides a steeper learning curve but greater cardio benefits.

FAQs

1. Can beginners easily pick up padel or squash?
Absolutely. Padel tends to be more beginner-friendly because the rallies last longer, and the pace is easier to handle. Squash can feel overwhelming at first due to its speed, but regular play improves reaction time and comfort on the court.

2. Which sport burns more calories?
Squash typically burns more calories thanks to its non-stop movement and high intensity. Padel provides a solid workout but focuses more on strategy and shot placement than pure speed.

3. Is padel or squash better for older players?
Padel is generally easier on the joints and offers a less intense cardio challenge, making it a great option for older players or those recovering from injury. Squash, while excellent for cardiovascular health, can be hard on the knees and ankles.

4. Can you play both sports without previous racket experience?
Yes. If you’ve played tennis, you’ll probably find padel more intuitive. Squash may take longer to get comfortable with, but plenty of beginners pick it up quickly with practice.

5. Where can I find equipment for padel or squash?
You can find quality gear for both sports on Amazon US. They offer a wide selection of rackets, balls, and shoes designed specifically for indoor courts.