Squash balls marked with dots denote different bounce and speed profiles. Here are 11 ways that single dot balls differ from double dot balls:

• Bounce – Double dots have a higher bounce than single dots.
• Speed – Double dots reach faster speeds off the racket.
• Weight – Both weigh 24 grams.
• Size – Both are 40mm in diameter.
• Pressure – More air pressure in double dots.
• Temperatures – Singles for warm courts, doubles for cooler.
• Durability – Single dots last a bit longer.
• Level – Single dot for beginners, double for advanced.
• History – Single dots came first in the 1920s.
• Brands – Dunlop the leader in squash ball dots.
• Age – Old double dots get bouncier, old singles stay consistent.

Below we’ll break down how the interior engineering and pressure differences in these iconic squash balls affects their bounce, speed, playability, and ideal court conditions for recreational through professional levels. Time to get the inside scoop on those little colored dots!

Difference in Bounce

The main distinction is that double dot squash balls have a higher bounce off surfaces than single dot balls.

The fast bounce of the doubles makes them preferred by expert and pro players who can control the extra velocity. Single dots suit beginners progressing into intermediate level.

As I improved, I upgraded to the double dot’s lively bounce which forced me to shorten my backswing and reaction time.

Difference in Speed

Related to bounce, double dot squash balls reach faster speeds when struck compared to single dots.

Their higher internal air pressure transfers more energy into the ball for quick shots. Single dots move slower for more controlled rallies.

The double’s velocity encouraged me to tighten up my swing and footwork to take the ball earlier. Great for improving my game!

Difference in Weight

No difference here – all regulation squash balls weigh 24 grams on average. Both types utilize the same rubber compounds and interior fillings for identical weights.

This standardized 24 gram mass provides ideal heft for a lively bounce across all DOT types. Weight isn’t a factor distinguishing them.

Difference in Size

Again, no difference – per world standards, all colored dot squash balls are produced as 40mm diameter spheres.

This consistent 40mm width allows reliable contact across different racket face shapes. Size never changes between dots.

Difference in Pressure

Here’s the key factor – double dot squash balls contain higher internal air pressure, approximately twice that inside single dots.

More air pressure gives the double ball its fast, lively bounce off the walls and racket. Lower pressure makes single dots easier to control for beginners.

So pressure directly corresponds to speed and playing characteristics!

Difference in Temperature Suitability

Due to their pressure differences, single and double dots suit different court conditions:

• Single dots work well for warmer squash courts around 68F/20C. Their bounce doesn’t increase as much in heat.
• Double dots are ideal for cooler courts around 50F/10C where their liveliness gets suppressed slightly.

So choose the dot that matches your climate and court temperature! I found double dots almost too hot to handle on an extremely warm glass-backed court once.

Difference in Durability

An interesting attribute is that lower pressured single dot balls tend to last a bit longer than the high-pressure double dots.

The greater internal pressure of doubles causes more structural breakdown over repeated hard impacts. Well-used doubles lose some bounciness after a few weeks.

Meanwhile, hardy single dots maintain their playing characteristics for longer before needing replacement.

Origins and History

Single dot squash balls were invented first, in the 1920s, to provide increased control over earlier black balls. They suited that era’s slower courts and player conditioning.

Double dots emerged later once court materials improved and athletes could handle much faster balls. Double dots became the choice of top competitors.

So single dots revolutionized earlier squash. Double dots came decades later with rising athletic standards.

Best Dot Squash Ball Brands

Dunlop defined the colored dot ball conventions starting in the 1960s and still leads the market today with their Pro line.

Other major brands like Wilson and Prince also produce quality single and double dot balls adhering to Dunlop’s proven specifications.

For time-tested consistency, I simply ensure any dots I buy carry the Dunlop logo. Their expertise shaped dot technology over 50+ years.

Ideal Storage and Maintenance

Storing either dot properly extends lifespan:

• Keep unused balls sealed in the tube to maintain interior pressure.
• Avoid extreme cold or heat during storage.
• Rotate new balls into play rather than using old balls heavily.

Follow those tips and both single and double dots will retain their dynamics consistently.

Comparing New vs Old Balls

Interestingly:

• Old double dot balls actually bounce livelier than brand new ones after a break-in period as the materials settle!
• Single dot balls maintain very consistent properties throughout their usable life. Little changes between a fresh and broken-in single dot.

So double dots improve with moderate use before peaking. Single dots deliver steadiness from day one.

Conclusion

Single dot and double dot squash balls contain specific interior air pressures tailored to deliver defined bounce and speed attributes for different play levels and court conditions. Recognizing these contrasts helps pick the optimal ball for your developing game!