The results of the drop test can be used to find out at which range of surface temperatures each ball approximates the bounce of a "hot" Pro. When a Pro becomes "hot" is subjective. According to the World Squash Federation, 113f is a common surface temperature for the Yellow Dot during play (see the section A Benchmark for Surface Temperature). Based on the measurements taken in this study, I've selected over 97f as the "hot" range for the Pro. A Pro at 97f will bounce about 20% less than when it is at 113f.
To approximate bounce, two methods are shown, surface temperature and drive test.
The following chart shows the operating temperature range for each ball. Based on the drop test, it shows the surface temperature range at which each ball approximates the bounce of a Pro over 97f.
Ball |
Operating Temperature Range |
Prince Yellow Dot |
over 104f |
Pro |
over 97f |
Comp |
over 97f |
MaxP |
91f-103f |
Max |
less than 96f |
Prince Blue Dot |
less than 96f |
The idea is to have your ball be in its operating temperature range during play. If your ball is below its operating temperature range, try using a ball lower on the chart. If your ball is above its operating temperature range, try using a ball higher on the chart.
Because the 20% "hot" range of the Pro is relatively wide, the operating temperature ranges of the balls overlap. At the high end of their range, they approximate the bounce of a Pro around 113f, at the low end of their range, they approximate the bounce of a Pro around 97f.
To use surface temperature as a guide, a device similar to the Omega HH11 thermocouple used in this study is required. The Omega HH11 costs about $75 US dollars. Have your club buy one today :).
An alternative to using surface temperature as a guide is to perform the drive test done in the section Rebound Differences During Play. Have an A level player drive a hot Pro and see how far it travels before taking its second bounce? Does the ball come off the back wall? If so, how far does it come off the back wall?
Heat your ball via normal play, and do the same test. Experiment with different balls to approximate the bounce of the hot Pro.