Padel Shots Guide
Master every shot in padel, from basic groundstrokes to advanced techniques like the bandeja, vibora, and rulo.
Signature Padel Shots
These are the shots that define padel and set it apart from other racquet sports.
Bandeja
The signature padel shot - a sliced overhead that maintains net position.
Vibora
An aggressive overhead with heavy sidespin - the attacking cousin of the bandeja.
Rulo
Franco Stupaczuk's signature topspin overhead targeting the side fence.
Basic Shots
Foundational shots every player needs to learn
Serve(Saque)
beginnerThe underhand shot that starts every point in padel.
Forehand(Derecha)
beginnerThe fundamental groundstroke on your dominant side.
Backhand(Revés)
beginnerThe groundstroke on your non-dominant side, often hit two-handed.
Return of Serve(Resto)
beginnerThe shot used to return the opponent's serve.
Net Play
Attacking shots played at the net
Overhead Shots
Shots played above your head, including signature padel techniques
Bandeja
intermediateThe signature padel shot - a sliced overhead that maintains net position.
Vibora(Víbora)
advancedAn aggressive overhead with heavy sidespin - the attacking cousin of the bandeja.
Rulo
advancedFranco Stupaczuk's signature topspin overhead targeting the side fence.
Gancho
advancedA defensive hooking overhead when the ball is behind you.
Bajada
intermediateAttacking a high-bouncing ball off the back wall with an overhead hit.
Defensive Shots
Shots to recover position and neutralize attacks
Finesse Shots
Soft touch shots requiring precision and control
Ready to Practice?
Find a padel court near you and put these techniques into action.