Small coloured dots on the ball indicate its dynamic level (bounciness), hence, the standard of play for which it is suited. The recognised speed colours indicating the degree of dynamicism are:
A double yellow squash ball.
A double yellow squash ball.
* Double Yellow - Extra Super slow (very low bounce)
* Yellow - Super slow (low bounce)
* Green or White - slow (average bounce)
* Red - Medium (high bounce)
* Blue - Fast (very high bounce)
Balls are manufactured to these standards by Prince, Dunlop, Pointfore, Wilson and others. The 'double-yellow dot ball', introduced in 2000, is currently the competition standard, replacing the earlier 'yellow-dot' which was long considered the competition standard. There is also a high-altitude "orange dot" ball, used in places like Mexico City, Calgary, Denver and Johannesburg. In North America the Dunlop "green dot" ball is often used at high altitude.
Other balls available are:
* Dunlop 'Max Blue' (aimed at beginners) which is 12 percent larger and has 40 percent longer 'hang time' than a 'double yellow' dot ball and has 'instant bounce'
* Dunlop 'Max Progress' (red) (for players wishing to improve their technique) which is 6 percent larger with a 20 percent longer hang-time than a 'double yellow' dot ball and has instant bounce
Given the game's vigorousness, players must wear comfortable sports clothing and robust indoor (non-marking) sports shoes. In competition, men usually wear shorts and a t-shirt or a polo shirt. Women normally wear a skirt and a t-shirt or a tank top, or a sports dress. Towelling wrist and head bands may also be required in humid climates. Polycarbonate lens goggles are recommended, as players might be struck with a fast-swinging racket or the ball, that typically reaches speeds exceeding 200 km/h (125 mph). In the 2004 Canary Wharf Squash Classic, John White was recorded driving balls at speeds over 270 km/h (170 mph). Many squash venues mandate the use of eye protection and some association rules require that all juniors and doubles players must wear eye protection.
