When To Lob In Padel (And When Not To)

The lob in padel is one of the sport’s most strategic and misunderstood shots. Done right, it buys you time, breaks your opponents’ rhythm, and sets you up for control at the net. Done poorly, it hands the advantage straight back—often in the form of a smashing return.

So how do you know when to lob and when to leave it in your back pocket? Let’s explore the art of the lob, and more importantly, the timing that separates smart players from scrappy ones.

Source: Padel Magazine

The Power Of A Well-Timed Lob

In padel, a well-placed lob does more than just float the ball over your opponent’s head. It shifts the pace, resets a rally, and can completely reverse positional pressure. Lobbing forces your opponents to retreat, giving you and your partner the chance to reclaim the net—where most points are won.

Unlike in tennis, where lobs are often a defensive last resort, in padel they’re a core tactical weapon. But the difference between a calculated lob and a desperate one can be razor thin.

When You Should Lob

1. You’re Under Pressure in Defense

If you’re pinned at the back with your opponents dominating the net, a lob can buy time and give you breathing room. A high, deep lob that lands near the glass makes it harder for them to counter with an aggressive smash.

2. You Want to Reset the Rally

Sometimes, the rhythm of the point isn’t in your favour. Your opponents are dictating, and you’re reacting. A lob can slow things down and force them to reposition, giving you a chance to reset and rethink.

3. You See a Poor Overhead Player

If you’ve noticed your opponent struggles with overheads—especially backhand smashes or bandejas—a lob can expose their weakness. Repeating the shot selectively can build pressure and errors.

4. You’re Trying to Regain Net Position

This is one of the smartest times to lob. When your opponents are locked in at the net and you’re stuck at the baseline, a lob can push them back and give you the opportunity to move forward and flip the court dynamics.

When You Shouldn’t Lob

1. You’re Too Close to the Net

Lobbing from close range is risky. It usually lacks height and depth, making it easy for your opponents to finish with a smash. If you’re already up front, keep the ball low and reactive instead.

2. The Opponent Has a Killer Smash

Some players thrive on lobs. If your opponent has an aggressive and well-placed smash, you’re better off playing low and trying to outmanoeuvre them at the net rather than feeding their weapon.

3. You’re Off-Balance or Rushed

Lobbing requires touch, control, and intention. If you're off-balance, don’t risk a lob that sails too short or too long. A safer low shot buys you more margin for error.

4. It’s Windy or Indoors With Low Ceiling

Conditions matter. In strong wind, the lob becomes harder to control. Indoors with a low ceiling, you may have limited space to play a deep, high lob without it hitting the roof or back glass.

Smart Lob, Smart Game

Mastering the lob isn’t about playing it often—it’s about choosing it wisely. As with all things in padel, success comes down to shot selection, awareness, and strategy.

The best padel players don’t rely on the lob as a crutch. They use it as a calculated move to reset, attack, or manipulate space on the court. Learn to read the moment, know your opponent’s strengths, and trust your instincts.

Remember: sometimes the best shot in padel is the one your opponent isn’t expecting. And that, very often, is a beautifully placed lob.