You’ll hear some strange phrases on a pickleball court!

Don’t believe us? Drop by your local pickleball hangout and listen. You’ll definitely hear some interesting vocabulary! From third-shot drops to topspin drives, pickleball is packed with unique terminology. However, of all the words in the pickleball dictionary, one rules supreme.

Yes, we’re talking about the dink.

It’s an iconic pickleball word that’s woven itself into the fabric of the sport. It’s even the title of Sports Illustrated’s pickleball section, “Dink It Over.” But what is a dink? What about a dink shot?

This blog post is dedicated to the art of the pickleball dink, and we’re about to explain this unique word’s place in our beloved sport.

Understanding Dink Shots

We’ll start with the basics.

A dink shot is considered an advanced pickleball tactic. It’s a soft shot taken near the net and after a bounce that — much like the topspin — falls within the opponent’s non-volley zone. Per USA Pickleball’s official definition, a dink can be a straight shot into the opposing court or a crosscourt affair. While many beginners often rely on direct dink shots, advanced pickleball players tend to hit tricky crosscourt dinks.

This difficult shot serves as both an offensive and defensive maneuver, and a back-and-forth dink exchange may be called a “dink battle.”

Why You Should Love the Dink Shot

As an offensive shot, playing the soft game forces the opponents forward. Often, a dink shot bounces at the opponent’s feet, forcing them to scramble into a new ready position. Dink shots may also land slightly beyond the NVZ, forcing aggressive players to dive for a tricky forehand swing.

A defensive dink shot does the opposite, drawing opponents forward and eliminating the advantages of powerful air-based volleys. (Of course, this requires an impeccable dinking game! Even the slightest miscalculation can push the ball forward, away from the kitchen line, and into volley territory.)

In both cases, a dink battle applies pressure and forces the game into a control-based standoff.

Summarily, this tactic creates low, unattackable shots. It’s a way to control the pace of the game and play your way. Yet, at the same time, it’s about finding the perfect moment to attack! While dinking back and forth may be a worthwhile stamina-based strategy for new players, its true efficacy lies in its aggressive pressure.

How to Perform the Perfect Dink Shot

Now, until this point, we’ve made it sound easy.

Yes, dinking is a strategic move. However, it requires practice and control. It sounds simple, but a dink is a highly technical hit.

The Five Steps of a Perfect Dink

Here’s your at-a-glance breakdown of a dink shot:

1. Get ready. You’ll want to use a sturdy, athletic stance. Otherwise, you risk slipping and injuring yourself! At a minimum, your feet should be shoulder-width apart.
2. Watch the ball. You’ll be hitting after the first ball bounce. (Although some volley-based dinks exist!) Anticipate where the shot will land and aim for the perfect hit.
3. Check your position. You want your paddle in front of your body. Use a loose grip.
4. Move toward the ball. Keep your body parallel to the kitchen line and take lateral steps to reach the ball. Avoid cross-stepping, which may throw you off balance.
5. Swing! Dinking uses an incredibly light swing. Some players use a slight backswing, but much of the work is done by the upward push of the paddle.

Again, it sounds easy!

However, it’s easier said than done. Even a small mistake can cause a pop-off, flinging the pickleball far beyond the boundaries of the court. Similarly, many players tend to overpower their shots, imparting more force than necessary onto the pickleball. Ultimately, it’s all about practice.

But we still have some tips and tricks to help you master your dink shots!

Watch That Wrist

Your wrist should never move during a dink. Instead, the gentle upward movement should come from your shoulder.

This is widely acknowledged as the most common mistake beginners make when hitting dinks. A stiff wrist prevents players from losing control of the ball and maintains the soft, easy touch required for a perfect dink shot.

Stay Low

Similarly, you must keep your motion and speed in check.

The aim of a good dink is to force the opponent into a ground game. Thus, you must abide by your own rules! Don’t let the increased pace get to your head. Keep your paddle low and steady. Wait before returning dinks to get the maximum effect and control.

A low stance also places your feet in the perfect position to stabilize your body. You’ll get a consistent, better shot with the perfect amount of power. This compact stance also promotes the ground-based advantage of dinking, ensuring the pickleball stays well within the court’s boundaries.

Push the Paddle

Finally, remember to push — not flick — the ball.

You’re not necessarily swinging. You’re taking advantage of the natural bounce of a pickleball, and good players understand the importance of a light touch. Use a pushing motion rather than a baseball-like swing. This ensures you’ll clear the net with just enough air to land a perfect dink.

Remember, you want to give the ball a short hop, not a long run!

Learn More About Pickleball

These are just a few tips for hitting that tricky dink shot.

Do you have other ideas? Let us know, and share this post to help others join in on the fun of pickleball!

You can also learn more about the game and improve how you play by browsing the Pickle Goddesses blog. We’re constantly updating our site with new tips, tricks, and news, so don’t miss out! Check the blog often or subscribe to our newsletter to maintain that coveted advantage over your opponents.