ASICS Squash Shoes: Models Compared

ASICS does not sell a dedicated "squash" line, but several of its indoor court shoes, drawn from its volleyball, badminton and racket sport ranges, work well for squash. Entry-level models like the UpCourt 6 and Gel-Rocket 11 are lightweight and budget-friendly, aimed at casual players.

Mid-tier shoes such as the Gel-Tactic 12, Gel-Renma, Blade FF and Beyond FF add more advanced cushioning and stability. Higher-end models like the Netburner Ballistic FF 3 and Blast FF 3 use ASICS's latest materials (FlyteFoam, TRUSSTIC, TWISTRUSS and X-Guidance) for top-level performance.

Below is a comparison of these models covering grip, cushioning, durability, weight, breathability and support, along with how each suits different player types. Note that ASICS regularly updates and renames these shoes, so treat model years, exact weights and prices as a guide.

Entry-Level Models: UpCourt 6 and Gel-Rocket 11

ASICS UpCourt 6 (Men/Women)

A basic indoor court shoe built around lightweight flexibility. ASICS describes a lightweight design that offers flexibility and a comfortable fit, with broad mesh panels for a breathable, adaptable upper. An EVA midsole provides moderate shock absorption, and a non-marking gum-rubber outsole delivers reliable court traction.

Reviewers praise its comfort and grip for casual play and training. The thin mesh can wear faster than on pricier models, and it offers less stability and durability than higher-end ASICS shoes.

• Pros: very light (around 10 to 11 oz, roughly 300 to 310g), breathable, good basic traction.
• Cons: fit can run narrow in the toe box, modest stitching durability, minimal cushioning.
• Best for: beginners and recreational players on a budget, or as a lightweight secondary shoe.

ASICS Gel-Rocket 11 (Men/Women)

A step up in stability and versatility. ASICS calls it a multi-purpose indoor court shoe with good stability and easy movement. The upper is flexible and breathable, and a TPU TRUSSTIC insert in the midsole helps resist over-twisting during lateral cuts. Rearfoot GEL cushioning absorbs shock, and the outsole uses flex grooves and a wrap-up edge for solid traction and side-to-side support.

The Gel-Rocket 11 is moderately priced and widely available through Amazon, sports retailers and ASICS outlets. Users highlight its stability and comfort across varied activities. Some players, especially those with high arches, report wanting more midfoot support.

• Pros: good all-around stability and durability for the price, grippy outsole.
• Cons: limited cushioning and arch support, the midsole can feel stiff.
• Best for: casual to intermediate players who need reliable traction and stability, or cross-training athletes.

Mid-Range Models: Gel-Tactic 12, Gel-Renma, Blade FF, Beyond FF

ASICS Gel-Tactic 12 (Men/Women)

A mid-level court shoe balancing comfort and support. ASICS says it features rearfoot GEL technology for underfoot cushioning and a TRUSSTIC system on the lateral midsole to reinforce the midfoot during dynamic play. The upper uses a flexible mesh vamp for breathability with side TPU support.

It is moderate in weight, roughly 12 to 13 oz for the men's and around 9 to 10 oz for the women's. Users report good traction and a stable base. Availability is broad through Amazon and specialty retailers, and it is frequently discounted.

• Pros: strong cushioning and shock absorption from rearfoot GEL, firm lateral support, good grip.
• Cons: relatively heavy for fast play, breathability is average despite the mesh.
• Best for: intermediate to advanced players who want responsive cushioning and support during quick court movements.

ASICS Gel-Renma (Men/Women)

Designed mainly for indoor court sports such as pickleball and volleyball, this shoe blends speed and stability and has since been followed by a Gel-Renma 2. Its features include forefoot GEL cushioning to absorb shock, a breathable upper for agility, a TRUSSTIC system for lateral stability, and a wrap-up outsole with flex grooves for quick direction changes. Synthetic leather overlays add durability for repeated court friction.

Although not marketed for squash, players note its reliability, secure fit and traction on court.

• Pros: forefoot GEL cushioning, strong outsole grip and a robust build.
• Cons: the toe box can run narrow (consider wide sizing), and the upper is firm.
• Best for: players who want extra durability and forefoot cushioning, or those coming from pickleball or volleyball shoes.

ASICS Blade FF (Men/Women)

A speed-oriented court shoe that ASICS markets for squash, badminton and pickleball, with good support and flexibility for multi-directional movement. Key features include a reconstructed upper with minimal no-sew reinforcement films for a snug, supportive hold, a FlyteFoam midsole for lightweight cushioning, X-Guidance for court coverage, and TWISTRUSS to support fast direction changes. A non-marking gum-rubber outsole handles indoor surfaces.

The men's weighs about 10 oz (roughly 290g), light for a court shoe though not the sub-8 oz some listings suggest. Users report a stable forefoot and good fit, and squash reviewers rate it as a low-to-the-ground, agile option.

• Pros: lightweight and agile, strong stability features (TWISTRUSS, X-Guidance), modern design.
• Cons: less cushioning than heavier models, so court impact is more noticeable, and it sits at a higher price point.
• Best for: aggressive, fast players who value quick cuts and court coverage and do not need maximal cushioning.

ASICS Beyond FF (Men/Women)

A higher-performance shoe pairing speed and power. ASICS positions it for players who want support and cushioning through a match. It adds a revamped collar and no-sew upper for lockdown support, a FlyteFoam Propel midsole for springy cushioning, a TRUSSTIC system for stability, and a 5mm heel drop to aid acceleration.

Weights are moderate, around 10 oz for the men's and slightly under for the women's. The shoe delivers an energetic feel for jumps and quick play and rates well for comfort over long matches.

• Pros: responsive FlyteFoam Propel cushioning, locked-in support, light for its level of tech.
• Cons: the upper can feel snug, breathability is mid-level.
• Best for: advanced players seeking a blend of cushioning and responsiveness for multi-directional footwork.

Pro-Level Models: Netburner Ballistic FF 3 and Blast FF 3

ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 3 (Men/Women)

A top-tier court shoe from ASICS's volleyball line. It features protective overlays and a reinforced heel counter, a FlyteFoam Propel midsole for responsive cushioning, TWISTRUSS in the outsole for stability when pivoting, and X-Guidance with a 3D Space Construction element for flexibility. The outsole is grippy and durable, and a mid-top (MT) version is also available for added ankle coverage.

Players report strong traction and durability. It is on the heavier side, in the 11 to 12 oz range, and built for high-intensity play. Note its high heel drop, around 15mm, which is taller than many squash players prefer.

• Pros: strong grip and durability, high-rebound FlyteFoam Propel midsole, solid torsion stability.
• Cons: stiffer break-in, heavier, premium cost.
• Best for: aggressive, high-intensity players, including volleyball crossover athletes, who want maximum traction and support.

ASICS Blast FF 3 (Men/Women)

One of ASICS's latest flagship indoor court shoes, offering support and flexibility for multi-directional movement. Key features are FlyteFoam Propel cushioning, TWISTRUSS for quicker cuts, X-Guidance for forefoot flexibility, a TurnTruss element spanning the midsole and outsole, and a 3D Space Construction heel for stability.

It uses a mid-top, sock-style upper for ankle support and weighs around 12 to 13 oz (roughly 380g at larger sizes), so it is not as light as some listings imply. Marketed for volleyball and indoor court sports, the Blast FF line has been worn by some top squash pros, and squash reviewers report good traction, support and comfort.

• Pros: advanced cushioning and stability, high lateral support, durable build.
• Cons: expensive, and the mid-top cut can restrict ankle mobility for those not used to it.
• Best for: elite players who want the most advanced cushioning and tech, especially those who also play other court sports.

Availability and Retailers

Most of these ASICS court models are sold through both specialty and general retailers. Online merchants such as Amazon, Zappos and Dick's Sporting Goods carry the popular models (UpCourt, Gel-Rocket, Tactic, Netburner) with extensive user reviews.

Squash specialty stores such as SquashGear, SquashGalaxy and Squash Source stock much of the line, sometimes in squash-specific colorways, and often run discounts. ASICS's own site and outlets carry the latest versions.

International availability varies, since ASICS restricts shipping by region, and newer models can be limited to fewer retailers at launch. Check multiple sources for the best pricing and sizing.

Pros and Cons Summary

• UpCourt 6: Pros: very light, affordable, breathable. Cons: lower durability, narrower fit, minimal support. Good for beginners or casual play.
• Gel-Rocket 11: Pros: stable feel, durable outsole, good traction. Cons: modest cushioning, can feel stiff. Suited to entry and intermediate players.
• Gel-Tactic 12: Pros: strong rearfoot GEL cushioning, solid lateral support from TRUSSTIC. Cons: heavier, less breathable. Good for intermediates who want support.
• Gel-Renma: Pros: durable build, forefoot GEL cushioning. Cons: narrow toe box, firm upper. Good for players who want extra durability.
• Blade FF: Pros: lightweight (around 10 oz), agile support from no-sew upper, TWISTRUSS and X-Guidance. Cons: minimal cushioning, premium price. Best for fast, aggressive movers.
• Beyond FF: Pros: responsive FlyteFoam Propel cushioning, locked-in fit, light for its tech. Cons: snug fit, moderate breathability. For players who jump and sprint.
• Netburner Ballistic FF 3: Pros: strong traction and toughness, high-rebound midsole. Cons: heavy, needs break-in, high heel drop. Suited to high-level, speed-focused play.
• Blast FF 3: Pros: advanced cushioning and stability (FlyteFoam Propel, TWISTRUSS, X-Guidance). Cons: expensive, heavier than it looks, mid-top cut. Made for elite multi-directional play.

Player Type Suitability

• Beginners and recreational: UpCourt 6, Gel-Rocket 11 (affordable, forgiving shoes for learning footwork).
• Intermediate and club: Gel-Tactic 12, Gel-Renma, Beyond FF (a good mix of cushioning and support without extreme weight).
• Advanced and competitive: Blade FF, Netburner Ballistic FF 3, Blast FF 3 (more tech for speed and stability).
• Aggressive movers: Blade FF, Netburner Ballistic FF 3 (light or grippy, built for quick cuts).
• Stability and heavy hitters: Beyond FF, Blast FF 3 (solid support, extra cushion).

Comparison Table

Each rating is relative. For example, the UpCourt 6 has high breathability from open mesh but lower durability, while the Netburner Ballistic FF 3 has very high durability from reinforced materials but lower breathability. The table summarizes the comparisons above for an at-a-glance view of how ASICS's men's and women's court models compare on grip, cushioning, durability, weight and ideal use.