In pickleball, the lob can be one of the most frustrating shots to defend—and one of the most satisfying to pull off. But not all lobs are created equal. While the defensive lob (used to buy time when you’re under pressure) is fairly common, the offensive lob is a more advanced, strategic tool that can catch opponents completely off guard if you use it wisely.

What Is an Offensive Lob?

An offensive lob is a high, arcing shot intended not just to reset the rally, but to win the point or gain an advantage. It’s a planned attack designed to exploit your opponents’ positioning—usually when they’re crowding the kitchen line and locked into the dink game.

When to Use the Offensive Lob

1. During a Tight Dink Battle

If both teams are locked in a patient dink exchange, that’s prime time for a surprise lob. Your opponents are leaning forward, eyes glued to the ball at net level. This creates the perfect opening to pop one over their heads—especially if you take it out of the air (volley), NOT off the bounce.

Ideal contact point: Between your knees and waist, so you can lift the ball without popping it too high too early.
Why it works: Opponents are leaning forward, often on their toes, and it takes a split second to react backward—a tough move when you’re so close to the net.
Best targets: Deep over the backhand side, especially if your opponent is shorter or slower moving back.

2. When You Notice Predictable Movement

If one opponent constantly crashes the net or leans in after hitting their dink, that’s your perfect setup. Use their momentum against them. A well-timed lob forces them to pivot, retreat, and defend off their back foot—often leading to a weak overhead or a pop-up you can finish with ease.

When Not to Lob

1. When You’re Out of Position

If you’re stretched wide or off-balance, don’t lob. It’ll likely fall short, giving your opponent an easy overhead smash.

2. Against Athletic Opponents Who Love Overheads

If your opponents are tall, quick, and comfortable hitting overheads, your lob becomes a gift, not a weapon. In these cases, mix in lobs sparingly—use them to disrupt rhythm, not as a go-to play.

3. When There’s Wind at Your Back

Wind can turn even a well-hit lob into a floater. If it’s gusty, keep your shots lower and more controlled.

How to Execute the Offensive Lob

Here’s a simple, reliable technique for rec players:

Grip: Stick with your regular grip—no need to switch.
Contact Point: Volley the ball between your knees and waist. Too high, and you’ll overhit. Too low, and you’ll lose control and it will feel forced.
Paddle Angle: Open the face slightly upward. Think “lift,” not “push.”
Follow Through: Finish upward and slightly forward. You’re aiming to send the ball just over your opponent’s reach—not into the clouds. Adding a bit of topspin to your lob gives the ball extra momentum, forcing your opponent to chase it down, putting them under pressure. That’s a good thing!
Placement: Aim for the back third of the court, ideally over your opponent’s weaker side.

Recap

The offensive lob isn’t just a flashy trick—it’s a smart, strategic shot when used at the right moment. Think of it as your “surprise weapon” in a dink battle. If you pick your spot, control your height, and hit with intent, it can change the momentum of a point.

Timing and precision are everything:

Too short, and you’re feeding your opponent’s overhead.
Too long, and you’re giving away a free point.

Used sparingly and executed well, the offensive lob keeps your opponents guessing and keeps you in control of the kitchen. Own that line—and have fun trying it out.

About the Author: Neil Friedenberg is a certified pickleball coach and Head of Education for Empower Pickleball. He is passionate about helping players of all levels grow their skills and confidence on the court. A lifelong player with deep roots in the sport, Neil also brings experience as a paddle company owner, blending technical expertise with a love for the game.

Offensive Lobbing in Pickleball: When to Use It (and When Not To)