Background and Brand Heritage
Hi-Tec is a British footwear brand that helped popularise dedicated court footwear by introducing one of the first shoes designed specifically for squash. The company was founded in 1974 in Shoeburyness, England, by Frank van Wezel, who wanted a lightweight, comfortable shoe for the game he played.
That model, simply called the Hi-Tec Squash and now usually sold as the Squash Classic, became a long-running success. Hi-Tec says it has sold well over 18 million pairs worldwide and describes it as Britain's all-time best-selling sports shoe model. In 2024 Hi-Tec marked the 50th anniversary of the shoe, which keeps the recognisable retro design that many indoor court players still like.
Over the following decades Hi-Tec expanded into running, hiking, tennis and other categories, but squash footwear stayed central to its identity. By the late 1970s and 1980s Hi-Tec squash shoes were a common sight on UK courts, valued for being comfortable, durable and affordable.
Players who remember the era describe the shoes as widespread, with Hi-Tec one of the larger suppliers of indoor court shoes at the time. The brand has long built its pitch around attractive, comfortable, lightweight shoes at a fair price, which helped it reach a broad base of recreational squash players.
Historical and Current Models
Hi-Tec's squash shoe lineage runs from the original 1974 design to more technical models introduced in the 2000s and 2010s. The notable models, with their main features, are listed below.
| Model (year) | Key features | Positioning |
|---|---|---|
| Squash Classic (1974, still produced) | Leather or suede and mesh upper, EVA midsole, non-marking gum rubber outsole for traction; heavier than most modern court shoes | The original squash shoe and the brand's best seller, valued for its retro style, durability and low price |
| Adrenalin Pro (2000s) | Lighter design with a Comfort-Tec cushioned footbed, a CMEVA midsole for better shock absorption, and a mesh, PU and nubuck upper for breathability and support | A mid-range performance shoe of the period, more cushioned than the Classic while staying reasonably priced |
| V-Lite Infinity Flare (2012) | 4:SYS multi-density midsole that Hi-Tec said reduced loading rates by up to 35 percent, a heel impact zone, an external TPU heel counter, a seamless upper, and lightweight V-Lite construction | Flagship shoe developed with three-time World Champion Nick Matthew, who called it the most supportive and cushioned squash shoe he had worn; higher price tier |
| Adrenalin Pro Elite / Ad Pro Elite (2015) | Evolution of the Infinity Flare with a variable lacing system, a TPU midfoot shank, a CMEVA midsole and a drop-in heel cushioning pad | Again developed with Nick Matthew, who first wore it at the US Open; now discontinued and hard to find |
| Viper Court (2010s) | Lighter multi-court shoe in men's and women's versions, including a White/Lilac colourway for women, with a mesh and PU upper and a removable insole | Aimed at casual and club players at a moderate price of roughly 60 to 65 US dollars |
Historical models like the Squash Classic established Hi-Tec's reputation, while later models such as the Adrenalin Pro and Infinity Flare show the brand trying to keep pace with modern performance technology. Today the range is narrow, and Hi-Tec has largely stepped back from new squash-specific models.
On the official Hi-Tec website the main squash shoe available is the Squash Classic reissue, sold as a unisex squash trainer in the familiar white and green colourway and marketed as the world's first squash trainer from 1974. The shoe is essentially unchanged from the original.
In some regions, such as South Africa, Hi-Tec has released a Squash Classic OG 50-year anniversary edition with more sustainable materials, including a recycled foam midsole and vegan suede, but the same classic look. Most other Hi-Tec squash models have been discontinued, though remaining stock of shoes like the Infinity Flare or Viper Court can still turn up at online retailers or in clearance sales.
In short, Hi-Tec's current squash lineup centres on its historic model, which appeals to nostalgia and entry-level use, while its former high-performance shoes are now part of squash history. The following sections look at performance, comfort, durability, pricing and user feedback, compare Hi-Tec to other brands, and consider which players the shoes suit and where to buy them.
Performance and On-Court Design
The performance of Hi-Tec squash shoes can be understood through two tiers: the classic heritage design and the more modern high-performance designs from the 2000s and 2010s.
Traction and grip
All Hi-Tec squash shoes use a non-marking gum rubber outsole, which has long been a strength. Gum rubber provides good traction on indoor courts, and the Classic's outsole is often praised for giving plenty of grip on squash courts and other surfaces. The sticky sole allows quick stops and direction changes.
Even decades after its debut, the Squash Classic still offers reliable grip and a stable, flat base, which makes it suitable for casual play and training, and according to the brand even outdoor use on surfaces such as concrete. Users rarely complain about grip.
Stability and support
The sole is flat and broad, especially on the Classic, which gives a low, stable feel. That flat design also reflects an older approach, with less of the lateral support and midsole structure found in newer squash shoes. One gear reviewer described the Classics as heavy and flat-footed, a design out of the 1980s.
The Classic has minimal arch support and a simple EVA foam midsole. The foot plants stably, but the shoe may not protect as well against the impact of hard landings or aggressive lunges. Some experienced players say the old Hi-Tecs do not provide enough heel cushioning, which can be an issue for faster or heavier players. The classic design trades advanced support features for a flat, no-frills court feel.
By contrast, Hi-Tec's later performance models added significant technology. The V-Lite Infinity Flare (2012) and the Ad Pro Elite (2015) used midfoot TPU shanks, external heel counters and 4:SYS cushioning in the midsole.
Hi-Tec said the 4:SYS midsole could reduce loading rates by up to 35 percent, and the Infinity Flare added forefoot ESS inserts and a reinforced toe guard to aid quick lateral movement. Nick Matthew said the Infinity Flare gave him the most supportive and cushioned ride he had had in a squash shoe.
These models were also much lighter than the leather Classic, in line with Hi-Tec's V-Lite goal of cutting weight without sacrificing durability. The performance-tier Hi-Tecs were competitive with rival brands of their era, offering a quick feel, high shock absorption and secure support. The drawback is that they cost more and are now hard to find since production ended.
Speed and agility
The Classic's weight and shape are not built for explosive movement, and reviewers describe it as heavy and less responsive. For a beginner or casual club player this is rarely a problem, and many people used the shoes happily for years, but competitive players today tend to prefer lighter shoes.
The lightweight Infinity Flare felt fast on court, and players who tried it reported quicker footwork and less fatigue over long matches. Hi-Tec also used asymmetrical lacing in some models, such as the V-Lite range, for an anatomical fit. With those models discontinued, Hi-Tec does not currently offer a shoe aimed at the speed-focused advanced player beyond remaining stock.
In performance terms, Hi-Tec squash shoes cover a spectrum. The Classic is reliable and stable but dated, sufficient for moderate play and short on advanced support and agility, while the now-historical premium shoes showed Hi-Tec could deliver top-tier performance when it invested in new technology.
With the brand back to its classic model, a Hi-Tec squash shoe bought today offers solid grip and stability, but not the heavily cushioned, structured experience of modern high-end shoes such as the Asics Gel series or Salming models.
Comfort and Fit
Initial comfort
A feature of the original 1974 Hi-Tec Squash was that it felt comfortable straight out of the box, and that emphasis continues. The Squash Classic has a soft nubuck leather and mesh upper designed to flex and breathe, with padding around the ankle collar and tongue. Hi-Tec describes the shoe as built for comfort, with a soft nubuck and mesh upper for lightweight, breathable wear.
For many users, especially those with wider feet, the roomy toe box and simple design make the shoe comfortable for casual wear and light sport. Some long-time users report wearing them for years for both squash and badminton.
Cushioning
Underfoot the shoes use an EVA foam midsole, with extra insole material such as Ortholite in some models. The cushioning is adequate for normal play and gives a good court feel, but on the basic Classic it is relatively low-profile. Players used to gel or air-cushioned shoes may find the shock absorption lacking during high-impact movement.
Some users report that the heel cushioning is not enough for intense or long sessions, with one player saying they stopped using Hi-Tecs because the shoes did not provide enough cushioning for their heels. The shoe is comfortable for general use but may not absorb repetitive impact as well as modern high-performance shoes.
Comfort is subjective, and many players have positive experiences. On a badminton forum the shoes were described as very comfortable relative to some pricier brands. The leather and mesh tend to mould to the foot after a few uses, and the design does not pinch unusually.
Hi-Tec's later models improved cushioning, with the Infinity Flare in particular using advanced midsole tech to add comfort under hard play, so anyone who wore those likely had a softer ride than the original Classics.
Fit and sizing
Hi-Tec squash shoes generally run true to size in length with a fairly standard width, perhaps leaning slightly wide. They are unisex in design, with the Classic often listed in both men's and women's sizing and a broad size range. The lacing is traditional and allows a firm lockdown.
There is nothing high-tech about the fit, no inner booties or cinching systems, but the simplicity works for most feet. The leather upper may need a short break-in period, and some players report blisters during the first few wears until the shoes soften or the foot adjusts. Good sports socks and adjusting the lacing tension can reduce this, and once broken in the leather conforms well and becomes comfortable for the long term.
By comparison, modern lightweight shoes from other brands often use knit uppers or more advanced fit systems that feel snugger or more glove-like. The Hi-Tec Classic feels more like a traditional sneaker, a bit bulkier and cushioned around the foot. For players who dislike the stiff, tight feel of some high-end shoes, the more forgiving fit can be a plus.
Ventilation
The mesh inserts give the Classic some breathability, but it is not as airy as fully mesh modern shoes, so feet may run warmer in long sessions than in, say, a Salming Kobra. For most indoor sessions the ventilation is adequate, with sweat managed reasonably by the mesh panels and the lining. Newer heritage editions such as the Squash Classic OG use moisture-wicking linings to help keep feet dry.
Comfort is one of the stronger points of Hi-Tec squash shoes for most casual players. They offer straightforward comfort, a shoe you can put on and forget about while you play. As long as the player's needs stay within the shoe's support and cushioning, Hi-Tecs feel good. Competitive players who want high rebound cushioning, or who have a history of foot injuries, may find the comfort insufficient for very hard play and may look to other brands.
Durability and Build Quality
One reason the Squash Classic earned its reputation is durability. Some users say the shoes outlast comparable indoor shoes from major badminton brands. The build uses sturdy materials, with leather overlays around the toe and heel protecting high-wear areas, double stitching in many sections, and a thick, abrasion-resistant gum rubber outsole for indoor courts.
Many club players recall a pair of Hi-Tec squash shoes lasting a full season or more of regular play, a solid lifespan for court footwear. Key durability features include:
- A nubuck or suede upper that resists toe drag.
- Punched eyelets that are less likely to tear out under lacing stress.
- A simple cupsole construction that does not delaminate easily.
Hi-Tec's own marketing highlights high-quality materials built to last, and customer reviews often note that the shoes do not need replacing frequently.
There are mixed reports in recent years. Some veteran players feel the modern reissues of the Squash Classic, likely made in different factories than decades ago, are not quite as hard-wearing as the originals. One retailer comment said Hi-Tec squash trainers were very good 30 years ago but that quality seems to be reducing and the trainers do not last as long.
This is hard to quantify, but it is worth noting: the vintage Hi-Tec durability is part of the brand's reputation, and the current product should still be above average for sturdiness without being indestructible.
There are also outliers. One Reddit user claimed their Hi-Tec shoes wore out faster than any other shoe, lasting a week or two at most. That is exceptionally poor and not representative of most users, and may reflect a defect or very harsh use. Most reviews do not report such rapid wear, and another user said they were optimistic about durability given how solidly the shoes felt built. The general consensus is that Hi-Tec shoes are workhorses that can take a beating.
Compared with other brands, Hi-Tec's simpler, heavier construction can be an advantage for durability. High-performance shoes from brands such as Salming or Eye Rackets often use ultralight materials that trade durability for weight. One reviewer noted that the Eye S-Line wore out far faster than other shoes despite costing over 100 pounds. A budget Hi-Tec Classic may outlast some of those because of its solid build, with full leather panels rather than thin mesh. Many squash players keep a pair of Hi-Tecs as a reliable backup or training shoe.
Sole wear: on wood courts the gum sole holds up well, though like any shoe the tread eventually wears down and loses some grip. Used outdoors on abrasive surfaces such as concrete, the soft gum rubber abrades faster, but as an indoor shoe it handles court friction well. The outsole can separate after long use if the glue ages, but this tends to happen after a year or two of play rather than a few weeks.
Durability is a strong point for Hi-Tec squash shoes relative to many competitors, and you are likely to get good mileage out of them. Some long-time users feel the newer ones are not quite as tough as those from decades past, but they should still meet or exceed the durability of most comparably priced shoes. Basic care, cleaning dust off the outsole and airing the shoes out after use, helps them last.
Price Range and Value
Affordability has always been one of the main appeals of Hi-Tec squash shoes. The brand positions itself around value for money.
Current pricing for the Squash Classic typically falls in roughly the 35 to 50 pound range at full retail, about 50 to 65 US dollars, and it is often found on sale or at discount retailers for less, sometimes around 20 to 40 pounds. This places it in the budget to lower-mid range of indoor court shoes.
By comparison, many squash shoes from Asics, Salming or Adidas start around 70 pounds and run to 120 pounds or more for top models, so Hi-Tec undercuts most of the competition on price.
Historically the Classics were even cheaper relative to peers. Players recall finding the old Hi-Tec squash shoes for well under 20 pounds at discount sports stores some years ago. Large UK discounters have frequently sold Hi-Tec squash trainers at bargain prices, which made them attractive to students, casual players and anyone not looking to spend much on footwear. Even now, shoppers can sometimes find Hi-Tec squash shoes in clearance sales or online for under 30 pounds new, often older stock or during promotions.
For the money, Hi-Tec gives you a fully functional court shoe at the price of many entry-level models from other brands. As one Reddit user advised a beginner, the Hi-Tecs would be fine for a long time and are still far better than improper footwear. The shoes cover the basics, a non-marking sole, some cushioning, decent comfort and durability, which is a major upgrade over playing in running shoes or generic sneakers.
The cost-to-benefit ratio is strong for entry-level use: you pay a fraction of the price of premium shoes and get a product that is serviceable for learning and casual competition.
When Hi-Tec launched shoes like the Infinity Flare and Ad Pro Elite, those were priced closer to the high-end, roughly 80 to 100 pounds, comparable to top Asics Gel models of the time, and retailers sometimes bundled extras given the cost. Even then Hi-Tec often slightly undercut the biggest brands, but its image was tied to value, so some consumers were reluctant to pay premium prices for a Hi-Tec. That may be part of why the brand's push into the high-end did not last, as many buyers at that price chose more established performance brands.
Value is also about how long a shoe lasts for the price. Because durability is good, a budget Hi-Tec that lasts six to twelve months of regular play can be better value than a 100-pound shoe that lasts a similar time, which can happen with some lightweight models. For players who are rough on shoes or play very often, buying two pairs of Hi-Tecs over two years can still cost less than one premium pair per year.
Hi-Tec offers one of the most budget-friendly routes into proper squash footwear, and even its flagship classic remains in the two-digit price range. Some schools and clubs bulk-buy Hi-Tec shoes as loaner pairs because of the low cost. The trade-off is that you are not getting the latest performance enhancements, but buyers who set expectations accordingly are generally satisfied with the value. Retail ratings often sit around four stars, reflecting contentment with what was received for the price.
Customer Reviews and User Feedback
Feedback on Hi-Tec squash shoes is polarised, ranging from nostalgic loyalty to sharp criticism. The common themes are below.
Positive feedback on comfort and reliability
Many users, especially those who have played squash or badminton for years, speak fondly of the shoes and cite comfort, grip and durability as reasons they stick with the brand. One long-term player said the shoes are great for squash and badminton and that they had used them for years.
Such users tend not to chase the latest gear, value the consistency of an unchanged design, and like that the shoes do not break the bank. Some use them as everyday casual sneakers because of the retro style and comfort.
Beginner appreciation
Many beginners and occasional players who bought Hi-Tecs as their first squash shoes were satisfied at first. They note the shoes feel stable and grippy on court, a clear improvement over running shoes. For newcomers the immediate benefit of proper court shoes, even basic ones, is significant, and the low price helps. Reviews along the lines of a better game because of no more slipping on court are common.
Negative feedback on an outdated design for advanced players
Experienced and competitive players are often critical of the current Squash Classic. A frequently echoed view is that it is a 50-year-old design that has not changed while the game has moved on, with brands like Asics Gel seen as much better. Advanced players say switching to modern shoes such as Asics Gel made a night-and-day difference.
The criticisms focus on weight, on cushioning that is too hard or flat, and on support that is insufficient for aggressive movement. Some report blisters and soreness after using the Classics. These reviews often urge others to spend a bit more for a modern shoe.
Durability opinions
Most users acknowledge the shoes hold up well, which is positive. A few had quality issues, possibly a bad batch, including the outlier claim of a pair failing in two weeks. A milder and more common critique is that the quality is not what it once was but is still acceptable. On balance, more people are surprised a cheap shoe lasted as long as it did than complain it fell apart.
Overall ratings
On retail platforms the Squash Classic tends to get average-to-good ratings, often around 3.5 to 4 out of 5. Five-star reviews often mention nostalgia or simply that the shoe met basic needs, while two- and three-star reviews cite comfort and performance limits compared with pricier shoes.
One third-party review-authenticity tool flagged some questionable reviews on a retail listing, though the adjusted rating was still around 4.3 out of 5. Generally the shoe satisfies more people than it disappoints when expectations match what it is.
Wider following
The Squash Classic also has a following in the sneaker community, separate from squash performance, for its retro look in white leather with green or gum accents. Hi-Tec has run occasional fashion collaborations to capitalise on the heritage appeal. Some buyers use the shoes mainly as everyday footwear and comment on style and casual comfort rather than on-court performance, which adds to the positive feedback overall.
Customer feedback splits by user profile. Casual and nostalgic users are generally happy, emphasising comfort, value and decent longevity. Competitive players often steer others away from the current shoes, arguing that a more advanced shoe is worthwhile for serious play.
Both views are valid: Hi-Tec squash shoes do well in the role they were meant for, an accessible and solid option for playing squash, but they fall short against the standards of elite squash footwear. Buyers should weigh their own level and needs, which leads into the comparison and skill-level sections.
Comparison with Other Major Squash Shoe Brands
It helps to compare Hi-Tec with offerings from other leading brands: Asics, Salming, Adidas, Eye Rackets, and others such as Mizuno and Prince.
Asics
In today's squash scene Asics is widely seen as the leading brand. Models like the Gel Blade, Gel Tactic and Gel Fastball are popular, with Gel cushioning, strong support structures and a balanced feel. Asics generally offer more cushioning and arch support than the Hi-Tec Classic, and many advanced players describe switching from Hi-Tec to Asics as transformative.
Asics are also lighter on average, and many top professionals on the PSA Squash Tour use them, with the Gel Fastball worn by world-class players. Asics cost more, usually around 70 to 100 pounds. For a beginner on a tight budget a Hi-Tec at the lower end of its range can be a reasonable stand-in until they decide to invest, but an Asics will likely feel more modern and plush.
On durability Asics are good, though a Hi-Tec may still outlast some Asics due to its tougher, no-frills build. Asics also offer more refined fit options, including some wider versions, whereas Hi-Tec is one basic shape.
Salming
The Swedish brand emerged in the 2010s as a squash-specific performance brand. Shoes like the Kobra, Viper and Hawk are built for agile players, being ultra-light, low to the floor and flexible, with good grip. They are close to the opposite of the Hi-Tec Classic in design, sleek and modern, and excel at fast movement, though their cushioning is somewhat minimal.
Salming shoes are expensive, often over 100 pounds, and some users report durability issues as the soles or uppers wear out faster because of the lightweight build. A Hi-Tec Classic will not match a Salming for performance, being heavier and less responsive, but it may last longer and costs far less. An intermediate could buy several pairs of Hi-Tecs for the price of one Kobra.
For advanced tournament players the performance trade-off is not worth it, so they invest in Salming or similar. Salmings can feel firm underfoot for speed, while Hi-Tec feels softer but less supportive.
Adidas
Adidas has made popular indoor court shoes for years, such as the Stabil series and Court Control, and many squash professionals have worn Adidas. Adidas shoes emphasise stability and durability, often with robust uppers, a slightly heavier build and Adiprene cushioning. In some ways Adidas is closer to Hi-Tec's philosophy than the others, being durable and supportive, though it still uses more modern technology.
The Stabil Next Gen, for instance, has TPU sidewalls for lateral support and a secure lockdown that the Hi-Tec lacks. Adidas shoes are pricier, around 80 to 110 pounds for high-end models, usually with a snugger, more ergonomic fit and better heel cushioning.
Adidas also has mid-range models around the 50-pound mark that compete more directly with Hi-Tec and give a more modern feel for a little extra. Both brands tend to be heavier than Asics or Salming, but Adidas converts that weight into support features while Hi-Tec's weight comes from older construction.
Eye Rackets
Eye, better known for rackets, introduced squash shoes in recent years with a strong marketing push and several professional endorsements. The S-Line and X-Line are stylish, ultra-light and bold in colour, with knit uppers and minimal soles, aimed at advanced and style-conscious players. Prices are high, around 100 pounds.
The main criticism is durability, with one reviewer reporting they wore through Eye shoes far faster than any other shoe, and reports of tearing or wear within a couple of months due to the light materials. A Hi-Tec is not as light or glove-like, but is less likely to fall apart. Eye shoes are also known to run small and narrow, whereas Hi-Tec is more standard and roomy. Hi-Tec does not compete in this high-fashion, high-performance niche; it is a different proposition entirely.
Mizuno and others
Mizuno does not make squash-specific shoes, but its indoor volleyball shoes, such as the Wave Momentum and Thunder Blade, are popular with squash players who want durability and support. Mizunos are typically well cushioned and very durable, usually around 70 to 100 pounds, and they surpass the Hi-Tec Classic for cushioning and support, though some find the fit a bit stiff.
Prince and Karakal also offer squash shoes, with Prince's NFS series known for a wide, comfortable fit, but their market presence is smaller now. Prince shoes were historically somewhat similar to Hi-Tec, traditional, durable and mid-priced, though Prince's current range is limited. Karakal or Tecnifibre shoes can be alternatives around the 50-pound mark, but none have Hi-Tec's heritage.
Hi-Tec occupies the budget, entry-level corner of the squash shoe market today, while brands like Asics and Salming dominate the performance end. Hi-Tec's main selling points are price, nostalgia and durability. In summary:
- Performance: current Hi-Tec models trail virtually all major brands' current performance models.
- Comfort: Hi-Tec is decent but lacks advanced cushioning, with Asics and similar brands better for plush comfort.
- Durability: Hi-Tec matches or beats most, likely outlasting very light shoes such as Eye and some Salming and competing with sturdy shoes like Mizuno and Adidas.
- Price: Hi-Tec is the cheapest option for a real squash shoe.
For a casual or beginner player, Hi-Tec offers an inexpensive entry before deciding whether the fancier shoes are needed. For a serious player, investing in Asics, Adidas or Salming brings performance benefits that justify the higher price. Many serious players spend far more on rackets and string than on shoes, but foot injuries can end a season, so footwear is a sensible place to invest if you play competitively.
Suitability for Different Skill Levels
Hi-Tec squash shoes suit some players well and others poorly. Here is how they fit beginners, intermediate players and advanced players.
Beginners and casual players
A strong fit, especially for budget-conscious players. If you are new to squash or play occasionally for fun and exercise, the Squash Classic is a sensible choice. It covers the basics: a non-marking sole that protects the court, good grip and enough support for the slower pace at which beginners typically move.
Beginners have usually not developed extremely aggressive movement, so the shoe's limitations in weight and cushioning matter less. New players often do not want to spend much on gear, and getting squash-specific shoes for a low price leaves more budget for a racket or coaching.
Community members regularly recommend Hi-Tec for new players, and a sturdy, stable shoe can help prevent slips and rolled ankles during the learning phase. Switching from running or cross-training shoes to any squash shoe is a meaningful upgrade in safety and performance, and Hi-Tec clears that bar easily.
Intermediate players
A moderate fit, depending on playing style and frequency. As players improve, they move faster, hit harder and ask more of their shoes in cushioning, lateral stability and lightweight responsiveness. A Hi-Tec can still be used at this level, and many club players do, but this is where the shoe's shortcomings show.
An intermediate who plays a few times a week with aggressive movement may find the cushioning insufficient, leading to sore feet or heels, and may notice the shoe feels clunky when chasing hard shots. This is often when players consider an upgrade. One player described growing up using Hi-Tecs, then switching to Asics once they had their own money and finding it a night-and-day difference.
Not all intermediates switch; some stick with Hi-Tec and do fine, especially with a playing style that is not hard on the body or a preference for the familiar comfort and cost savings. Younger, athletic intermediates will likely benefit from a higher-performance shoe sooner, while more casual intermediates, such as older club players who value comfort, can still be well served by Hi-Tec. In short, Hi-Tec is serviceable for intermediates, but many in this group outgrow it as they seek better performance and lower injury risk.
Advanced and competitive players
A poor fit, except as a backup or training shoe. Players in tournaments, high-level leagues or professional play demand the most from their gear, and the current classic Hi-Tec is generally not recommended as a primary shoe for them. The consensus is that the technology is too dated and that insufficient cushioning can pose an injury risk over time under competitive loads.
Virtually no professional or top amateur uses the Squash Classic in competition now. The last time Hi-Tec featured at the top level was when Nick Matthew wore the Ad Pro Elite in 2015, a shoe with full modern tech, but the classic model has not been on a pro's feet by choice in decades.
Advanced players almost always choose brands like Asics, Adidas, Salming or specialised shoes such as Harrow or Mizuno that support intense movement. The lack of gel cushioning, advanced torsion control and lightweight materials puts an advanced player at a disadvantage in the Classic, and advanced players often have specific preferences, such as very low profiles or extra ankle support, that the one-size-fits-all Classic does not provide.
One scenario where an advanced player might still use Hi-Tecs is as a training shoe. Because they are heavier and durable, a player might practise in Hi-Tecs to save their more expensive shoes for matches, then feel faster switching to a lighter shoe in a tournament. This is more anecdotal than common. More often, advanced players keep a pair as a nostalgic item or for coaching and recreational hits rather than serious competition.
Hi-Tec squash shoes are best suited to beginners and casual intermediates. They give an economical, adequate solution for players developing their game or playing socially. As skill and intensity rise, most players benefit from moving to higher-performance shoes. If an advanced player has no other option, they can still play in Hi-Tecs, it is just not optimal, and longtime players who simply like the feel of the classics can keep using them as long as they stay injury-free. It comes down to personal comfort and priorities weighed against the demands of your level.
Where to Buy Hi-Tec Squash Shoes
Hi-Tec squash shoes, especially the Squash Classic, are widely available through several channels, often at competitive prices. Here is where to find them, with some pricing notes.
Sporting goods retailers
Large sports chains and online stores often carry Hi-Tec squash shoes in their indoor and court section. In the UK, stores such as Sports Direct frequently stock the Classic, sometimes labelled as a squash trainer or court shoe, in multiple sizes and often at discounted rates, sometimes around half off the list price.
Other UK retailers including Sweatband, PDH Sports and TennisNuts have sold Hi-Tec squash shoes. In North America, retailers focused on racquet sports occasionally stock Hi-Tec, though it is less common than in Europe, usually in the indoor court or racquetball category.
Online marketplaces
Amazon is a convenient source, where searching for the Squash Classic typically returns the classic white and green model, often sold by third-party sellers or the Hi-Tec store. Prices vary, commonly around 50 to 65 US dollars, sometimes with free shipping. Some listings include a historical note about the shoe being the first designed for squash. Amazon reviews are mixed, so factor those in.
eBay can also be a good source, and because the design has not changed, even older stock serves well, sometimes available new for under 40 US dollars. Check that the seller is reputable and that the listing is the genuine squash model rather than a similar-looking Hi-Tec indoor shoe.
Hi-Tec official website
Hi-Tec's regional sites sell the Squash Classic directly. On the UK site it is usually listed under men's or women's sports trainers at around the standard retail price. Buying from the official site ensures authenticity and the fuller size range, and there are sometimes promotions such as sign-up discounts or seasonal sales.
The downsides are shipping costs outside the region and fluctuating availability, since popular sizes can sell out. The South Africa site has the OG anniversary edition, which on sale comes to roughly 50 US dollars, so even special editions stay affordable.
Specialist squash retailers
Shops dedicated to squash or racquet sports may carry Hi-Tec, but it varies. Some squash pro shops stock them because coaches recommend them to new players as a starter shoe, and a local club with a gear shop may keep a few pairs for beginners or spares. Badminton equipment stores also sometimes carry Hi-Tec court shoes, since the requirements overlap, including a non-marking sole and good grip.
Pricing notes
The going price is generally around 50 US dollars, or roughly 35 to 50 pounds at full retail and less on sale. If you see the shoe priced much higher, such as 80 US dollars or more from a boutique or third-party listing, it is worth shopping around, since that is above the typical market rate. Informed buyers know the approximate value and look for the lower end of the range.
Seasonal deals appear around holidays or year-end clearance, sometimes as low as around 25 pounds. Be cautious with extremely low prices on unfamiliar websites and buy from reputable sources. Availability of older models such as the Infinity Flare or Ad Pro Elite is now scarce; they occasionally appear on eBay or as old stock at some retailers and can be bargains, but sizes are hit or miss.
If you are buying for the first time, check the sizing conversion, since Hi-Tec uses UK sizing on many sites, and convert to US or EU sizing with the provided charts. The shoes run true to size, so ordering your normal size should be fine. Finding Hi-Tec squash shoes is generally easy and affordable, and their stable, low pricing over the years is a big part of their continued presence in the squash community.
Conclusion
Hi-Tec squash shoes hold a distinctive place in the sport, being both a piece of squash history and a practical budget choice today. From the introduction of the first squash-specific shoe in 1974 to the period when world champions wore its flagship models, Hi-Tec has had a lasting effect on the sport's footwear.
The shoes deliver solid grip and basic stability, with good comfort and durability for the price, and value for money is where Hi-Tec stands out, making the sport accessible without a large outlay on gear.
The other side is that Hi-Tec's current offering, mainly the Squash Classic, lags modern competitors in technology. Players seeking the most cushioning, support and lightweight agility have better options from other brands, and experienced players generally agree that Hi-Tecs are adequate but that you can do better if you demand the most from your footwear. Squash has grown faster and more athletic over the decades, and shoe design has changed with it, while the Classic has not.
Hi-Tec squash shoes suit beginners, recreational players and anyone who prefers a classic, no-fuss shoe that does the job. They also carry sentimental appeal, and many players keep buying them for these reasons. The shoe remains Britain's all-time best-selling sports shoe model, which speaks to its lasting appeal.
Competitive athletes and gear enthusiasts will tend toward the more advanced shoes on the market, and Hi-Tec appears content to focus on its heritage model and its outdoor lines rather than pushing squash technology further. Its place in squash history is secure as the brand that started squash footwear and sold millions of shoes by meeting the core needs of players.
Hi-Tec squash shoes combine old-school reliability with value. They are not the cutting-edge choice for a national champion, but for many players across skill levels they have been, and remain, dependable on the court. Whether you are lacing up a pair for your first squash game or buying a new pair after years away, you are stepping into a small chapter of squash history, and for many players that is reason enough to keep them in mind.
