How to properly use the lob in pickleball?

The lob is one of the most underrated shots in pickleball. Often perceived as a defensive or desperate move, it can nevertheless become a formidable tactical weapon when mastered. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, knowing when and how to use it can transform your rallies and turn around seemingly hopeless situations.

In this article, The Pickleballer explains how to use the lob effectively, what mistakes to avoid, and how to intelligently integrate it into your game strategy.

What is a lob in pickleball?

The lob consists of sending the ball very high, with a pronounced arc, so that it falls far behind the opponents.

In pickleball, this shot is particularly interesting because:

• The players are often positioned very close to the net .
• The court is relatively short , so the target area at the back of the court is achievable with precision.
• The no-fly zone (“kitchen”) forces players to stay forward, opening up an opportunity overhead.

Unlike tennis, where the lob is more difficult to place because of the speed and power of the players, in pickleball the lob can really destabilize an advanced team.

Why use the lob in pickleball?

The lob can be used in many situations and is a versatile strategic tool.

1. Remove opponents from the net

In doubles, both players seek to control the no-volley zone.

A well-placed lob forces the opponent to retreat, which:

• creates an imbalance.
• opens up spaces
• allows you to regain the initiative on the point.

2. Gain time on defense

When you're under pressure in a fast-paced exchange near the net, the lob can offer you:

• precious time to get back on your feet.
• a higher and more secure rebalancing
• a decrease in the opponent's pace.

3. Surprise the opponents

If you have sent several consecutive dinks, your opponents expect a short exchange.

A sudden lob can cause:

• a delayed reaction
• a misreading of the trajectory
• a poorly executed smash or an unforced error.

4. Testing less mobile players

The lob is particularly effective against:

• players who have difficulty retreating,
• older players,
• opponents with a fragile smash attack
• players too close to the net.

When to use the lob: the best situations

The lob isn't a shot to use just any time. Here are the ideal strategic moments:

When the opponent is too far ahead

If the opposing player has their feet in the kitchen , it will be difficult for them to retreat in time.

When it is unbalanced

After a high volley or a quick lateral movement, a player loses explosiveness to move back.

When he's not waiting for the lob

If you alternate between dinks, pushes and drops, the lob becomes unpredictable and devastating.

When there is a dazzling sun

Outdoors, aiming at the sun greatly hinders the player who moves backwards.

How to make a good lob in pickleball

The lob must be controlled and precise. Here are the technical fundamentals.

Find the right height

An effective lob must far exceed the range of a smash, approximately:

3 to 5 meters high depending on the distance.

Too low = guaranteed smash.

Too high = easy ball to recover.

Aim for the reverse side

The backhand is often the weakest area for a smash or a high ball.

Give it a lift

Applying a subtle lifting effect allows you to:

• a curved trajectory
• a better impact on the field,
• a deeper rebound.

Position your body as if you were going for a drink.

A good lob starts with a concealed movement, so as not to alert the opponent.

Use your whole arm

Unlike the dink, the lob is struck with:

• an opening of the elbow,
• a broader gesture
• a transfer of body weight.

Common mistakes to avoid

A lob that was too low

Mistake #1: offering an easy smash ball.

It's better to lob too high than too low.

Lobber when the opponent expects it

An opponent anticipating the lob will already be positioned further back, making your shot ineffective.

Uncontrolled lobbying

The lob should be a strategic weapon, not a panic solution.

Don't reposition yourself after a lob

The lob must be followed by a quick retreat to a defensive position , as the opponents will likely attempt a counter-attack.

The lob in singles vs. in doubles

In duplicate

The lob is mainly used to create disorder:

• move the two players,
• to force one of them to retreat,
• open lateral spaces.

In simple

The lob can be an excellent way to:

• push the opponent back to the back,
• move forward into the kitchen,
• take control of the point.

In singles, it is often used as an offensive rather than a defensive shot.

Against whom does the lob work best?

The lob works particularly well against:

• The players were very offensive and stayed close to the net.
• players who have difficulty retreating,
• small opponents
• Players who play too much in anticipation,
• those who have an inconsistent smash.

How to defend a lob effectively?

Knowing how to defend a lob is just as important as knowing how to use it.

Back up in shuffle

Never turn your back. Move forward or backward with side steps.

Prioritize putting the ball back into play

If the lob is good, there's no need to attempt an impossible smash.

A single deep shot is enough to neutralize the point.

Communicating in duplicate

“Your turn!”, “I’m going!”, “My turn!”

Communication avoids collisions and hesitations.

Conclusion: The lob, an indispensable tactical weapon

The lob in pickleball is much more than a defensive shot. It's a versatile strategic tool, capable of:

• to break the rhythm of the exchanges,
• reverse the pressure,
• to surprise their opponents
• create spaces,
• regain control of the point.

To become a well-rounded player, it's essential to incorporate this into your technical repertoire. Like any strategic shot, it requires practice, timing, and a good understanding of the game. Playing at a pickleball club is a great way to work on shots like the lob with a coach.

FAQ – Everything you need to know about lobbing in pickleball

1. Is the lob an effective shot in pickleball?

Yes, the lob is a very effective shot when used strategically. It allows you to surprise your opponents, push them back away from the no-volley zone, and regain control of the point. When executed well, it disrupts the rhythm of a fast rally and opens up new offensive options.

2. When should you use a lob in pickleball?

The lob is ideal when opponents are too far forward, off-balance, or focused on a rally of dinks. It's also very useful on defense to buy time and reposition yourself. The key moment is when the opponent isn't expecting the shot and is struggling to retreat quickly.

3. How to successfully execute a lob in pickleball?

To execute an effective lob, you must strike the pickleball with an upward motion, aiming for a high and deep trajectory, and ideally place the lob on your opponent's backhand side. The goal is to push beyond your comfort zone while keeping the ball in play.

4. Is the lob different in singles and doubles?

Yes.

In doubles , the lob is mainly used to disrupt the opposing formation and to force one of the players back, opening up diagonal spaces.

In singles , it is used more as an offensive shot to push the opponent back to the back and move up to the kitchen to gain the advantage.

5. How to defend a lob in pickleball?

The best defense is to step back with a sideways motion to keep your eyes on the ball and attempt a smash if the lob is too low. If the lob is very good, the goal is no longer to attack but simply to return the ball deep to stay in the rally.

6. Is the lob recommended for beginners?

Yes, it's a simple shot to learn and very useful tactically. Beginners can use the lob to get out of difficult situations or surprise inexperienced players at the net. With good height and trajectory, it's a reliable and safe shot.

7. Which racket makes lobbing easier in pickleball?

Lightweight, control- oriented pickleball rackets are ideal for lobs, as they offer greater accuracy and maneuverability. Carbon surfaces with a polymer core are often preferred for their soft feel and precision on topspin shots.

8. Is the lob risky?

A lob becomes risky if it's too low , as it presents an ideal opportunity for a powerful smash from the opponent. Therefore, it's essential to aim high enough and avoid lobbing against very fast players and good smashers.

9. Can the lob be used near the kitchen?

Yes, the lob is even very effective from the dink zone. The key is to disguise your intention by maintaining the same posture as for a regular dink, in order to deceive your opponent.

10. Does the lob work against all types of players?

The lob is particularly effective against players who:

• feeling uneasy when reversing,
• very aggressive at the net
• older or less mobile,
• small in size,
• or whose smash is weak.

Against fast and explosive players, it needs to be used with more precision.