At a glance
Every row is drawn from each sport’s own profile — no scores, just the facts side by side.
| Padel | Squash | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Racquet Sports | Racquet Sports |
| Getting started | Beginner friendly | Some learning curve |
| Intensity | Moderate intensity | High intensity |
| Where you play | indoor or outdoor | indoor |
| Format | Doubles (2v2) | Singles or doubles |
| Essential kit | Padel racquet, Padel balls and Court shoes | Squash racquet, Squash ball and Non-marking court shoes |
What they share
- Both are racquet sports.
- Both can be played indoors.
How they differ
- Padel tends to be gentler to pick up, while Squash rewards more practice early on.
- Squash is typically the higher-intensity of the two; Padel is generally more moderate.
- Padel is usually indoor or outdoor; Squash is usually indoor.
Which might suit you
There is no better or worse here — only what fits your goals, your schedule and what you enjoy.
- 1If you are brand new to sport, many people find Padel a slightly gentler place to start.
- 2If you want a higher-intensity workout, Squash tends to ask more of you.
- 3In the end, the best choice is the one you will enjoy and keep coming back to.
Explore each sport
Full beginner-friendly guides to both.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Padel and Squash?
Both Padel and Squash are racquet sports, so they share a lot. They differ mainly in feel and demands — the comparison above sets out how they line up on difficulty, intensity, setting and kit so you can pick what fits you.
Is Padel or Squash easier for beginners?
Many beginners find Padel a little easier to pick up at first, but both are approachable with a beginner lesson or a patient partner. What matters most is starting gently and building up.
Can I do both Padel and Squash?
Yes — there is no need to choose only one. Playing both adds variety, works your body in different ways and keeps sport interesting over the long term.