10 Essential Padel Shots Every Player Should Master
From the bandeja to the vibora, these are the shots that will transform your padel game.
Padel rewards tactical intelligence as much as physical ability. Mastering these ten shots will give you a formidable all-round game.
1. The Bandeja
The defensive overhead — a controlled slice played from above head height that keeps you at the net. Think of it as a volley played overhead. The key is a continental grip and a smooth, slicing motion that keeps the ball low.
2. The Vibora
The bandeja's aggressive cousin. More side-spin, more pace, more angle. The vibora is played with a sharper wrist snap and is designed to push opponents deep into the corners.
3. The Lob
Perhaps the most important shot in padel. A well-executed lob forces the net pair back, creating space and opportunities. The topspin lob that drops just inside the baseline is a thing of beauty.
4. The Chiquita
A soft, low shot played at the feet of the net player. The chiquita is the weapon of choice when you are stuck at the back of the court and need to neutralise the net pair's advantage.
5. The Bajada
When the ball comes off the back wall at a comfortable height, the bajada is your chance to attack. Drive through the ball with pace and direction to put the net pair under pressure.
6. The Volley
Net play is where points are won in padel. Clean, firm volleys with minimal backswing will give you control of the point. Aim for the feet of your opponents or into open space.
7. The Smash
The glamour shot. When the lob is short, the smash is your opportunity to finish the point. In padel, you can also smash the ball out of the cage for an automatic point — the ultimate power play.
8. The Wall Shot
Unique to padel — letting the ball hit the back wall before playing your shot. Timing and positioning are everything. Wait for the ball, set your feet, and play your shot with control.
9. The Serve
The underarm serve should be consistent and tactical. Aim for the side wall to create an awkward bounce, or go deep to the body to limit your opponent's options.
10. The Return of Serve
Get the return back deep and low. The priority is to neutralise the serving pair's net position. A deep return buys you time to advance towards the net yourself.