The Shots You Need to Know in Padel

Whether you’re stepping onto court for the first time or trying to finally win that “friendly” grudge match, these are the shots that make padel click. We’ve kept it short, shown you when to use each one, and linked videos so you can see them straight away.

Forehand

The shot you’ll play the most. Smooth, steady, and aimed deep — it’s the bread-and-butter of your rallies. Forget trying to blast it; just keep it controlled and make them run.
How to Forehand in Padel Like a Pro – Dani Hoyo
Video credit: Dani Hoyo
The Padel Forehand – which should you use?
Video credit: The Padel School

Backhand

The one everyone moans about at first — until it starts winning them points. Use two hands early on if it feels more stable, then switch to one as your timing improves.
The Padel Backhand (3-step breakdown)
Video credit: The Padel School
Backhand Pro Tips – Master the Perfect Backhand
Video credit: Padel Trainer

Volley

Net play is where padel gets fun. With a good volley, you can take time away from your opponents and keep the pressure on. Keep the swing short and the racket head up — this is about placement, not power.
8 Do’s and Don’ts to Master Your Padel Volleys!
Video credit: Otro Nivel Padel
The Most Important Volley You’re Probably Missing
Video credit: The Padel School

Lob

Your emergency brake. A good lob resets the rally, pushes your opponents back, and gives you breathing space. Bonus points if it lands deep near the glass.
The Best Padel Lob Masterclass with German Schafer
Video credit: German Schäfer
How to Play a Smart, Controlled Lob
Video credit: Dani Hoyo

Chiquita

Small shot, big impact. This soft, low ball to the feet forces your opponents to hit up, giving you the advantage without needing to blast the ball. Perfect for mixing up the pace.
The Best Video to Understand the Chiquita in Padel
Video credit: The Padel School
How to Play the Chiquita – Lesson 11
Video credit: Mejora Tu Padel

Smash

The crowd-pleaser. Great for ending a point, but only if you can keep it down or send it out of the court. Mistime it, and you’ll gift your opponents an easy rebound.
Learn the Padel Smash in 5 Simple Steps
Video credit: The Padel School
How to Smash Out of the Court Cleanly
Video credit: The Padel School

Bandeja

Your control-smash. Slower and more precise, it keeps you at the net and your opponents pinned back. Think of it as patient pressure rather than a knockout punch.
The Best Video to Understand the Bandeja in Padel
Video credit: The Padel School
How To Play a Good Bandeja? (5 Essential Tips)
Video credit: Hello Padel Academy

Vibora

The flashier cousin of the bandeja — more speed, more spin, and designed to make the ball skid away like a snake strike. Riskier, but satisfying when it works.

How to Tlay The Vibora
Video credit: Everything Padel
How to Hit a Vibora in Padel – Step by Step
Video credit: Otro Nivel Padel

Padel Pool tip: Don’t try to learn all of these in one go. Pick two shots this week, work them into your games, and layer the rest on as you get comfortable. You’ll be surprised how quickly they stick.

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