The short version. In padel, the lob is attack disguised as defence. Lift the ball high over the net players, land it deep near their back glass, then run forward with your partner to take the net. Aim for height and depth, not pace.
Why the lob matters so much
The pair at the net controls a padel point. The lob is the main way to swap places with them. A good lob forces them to turn and chase it back to their glass, and while they are doing that, you and your partner move forward to the net. Club padel is largely a contest between lobs and bandejas.
The technique
- Open racket face, low to high, with a smooth, unhurried swing.
- Hit from below the ball, ideally after it has come off your back glass, when it is slower and higher. See playing off the back glass.
- Lift, don’t hit. Most bad lobs are too hard and go out off their back wall, or too soft and get smashed.
Targets
- Over the backhand side, usually the left-hand opponent’s backhand, where an overhead is hardest.
- Down the middle, when you want them to argue about who takes it.
- Cross-court, the longest route, which gives you the most margin.
Following the lob
The lob is only half the shot. As soon as you see it is good, move forward with your partner to the net. If it is short, stay back and get ready to defend.
When not to lob
- When both opponents are already back. Hit low and to their feet instead, then come in.
- When the ball is low and fast and you are off balance: block it back down the middle.
- Into a strong wind on an outdoor court. Lobs and British weather have an uneasy relationship.
Drill
Play points where the back pair may only lob and the net pair may only play bandejas and volleys. Swap every five points. It teaches both shots, and the patience padel demands.
Quick answers
Is lobbing good in padel?
It is essential. The lob is how the pair at the back takes the net back from the pair at the front. Good club players lob far more than beginners expect.
How high should a padel lob be?
High enough that the net players cannot reach it with an overhead from where they stand, typically well above four metres at its peak, and deep enough to land within about two metres of the back glass.