Padel Tennis: Playing Techniques and Shots

Net Play – This Is Where Points Are Won!

Welcome to the heart of padel: at the net! While defensive fundamentals off the glass are crucial, padel is decided in the net position. Here, alongside fast footwork, you need the right specialty shots above all else. At OLIVER-SPORT, we show you the three most important techniques.

1. How Do You Play the Volley?

The volley is the most direct route to winning a point, giving your opponent very little time to react.

• It is a short, blocking motion (a "push") that drives the ball into the opponent's court with control and pace.
• Stabilize your body through footwork: this gives you the necessary power without overloading your arm. Step into the shot with the foot closest to the net!
• Play the ball low at the opponent's feet or short and hard into the corner (angles) to force an error.

2. How Do You Play the Bandeja?

The Bandeja is the most important defensive overhead shot. You need it when the opponent plays a high lob over you.

• The Bandeja serves to play a high ball with controlled backspin (slice) low and deep into the opponent's back corner.
• The ball barely bounces after landing in the opponent's court, forcing them to play the ball from a very low position. This prevents the opponent from coming to the net themselves.
• The movement is more of a push than a strike. Move sideways under the ball, keeping the racket above your head as if you were serving a tray. The point of impact is to the side of your body (not directly above you)!

3. How Do You Play the Vibora?

The Vibora is the aggressive, more offensive variation of the Bandeja and a specialty of many pros.

• The Vibora is struck with heavy topspin and sidespin. The goal is to impart so much spin that, after bouncing in the opponent's court, the ball hits the side glass and then rockets directly away from the mesh fence at high speed.
• The ball becomes unpredictable for the opponent, making it extremely difficult to chase down and return from a good position.
• The backswing is wider than in the Bandeja, and the shot is executed more to the side with a whip-like motion to generate maximum spin. The ball is hit more aggressively and with more forward body momentum.

What Role Does My Equipment Play?

Executing complex overhead shots like the Bandeja and Vibora with precision requires not only practice and clean technique, but also maximum stability and torsional control from your racket.

OLIVER Padel Rackets are built with high-quality carbon composites. These materials minimize torsion (twisting) that occurs during powerful overhead hits. Your stroke's energy is transferred without loss, achieving full impact in both spin and speed.

OLIVER Tip:

Take plenty of time to internalize the correct motion and stroke technique. Focus on repeatable precision before increasing your power.