Bandeja, víbora and smash: three overhead shots
How the three key overhead shots in padel differ and when to use each one.
The 10ka team 7 min read 
In tennis, a high ball is an invitation to smash. In padel it isn’t always: because of the glass, a ball hit hard often comes straight back to your opponent. That’s why players use three different overhead shots. Once you understand the difference, you’ll stop losing points you’d already “won”.
Bandeja: control and position
The bandeja is the most important overhead in padel. It’s hit with slice, at head height or slightly above, out to the side of your body. The aim isn’t to win the point but to hold your position at the net while your opponents try to lob you back.
- Turn sideways and point at the ball with your free hand.
- Hit the ball in front of you with a short, controlled swing.
- Aim deep, towards the back glass or the corner, so the ball comes off the wall low.
Víbora: the bandeja’s aggressive sister
The víbora is hit in a similar way but faster and with sidespin, contacting the ball a little lower and further to the side. After the bounce and the glass, the ball skids low and is hard to return. Use it when the ball is there to attack but isn’t high and short enough for a smash.
Smash: time to finish
The smash is a full-power shot. In padel it only makes sense when the ball is high and short and you’re close to the net. Experienced players smash so the ball flies out over the back or side wall after the bounce, so it can’t be returned. For recreational players that’s an advanced skill – a smash from a bad position often bounces off the glass right onto your opponent’s racket.
How to practise
- With a partner, play only lobs and bandejas for ten minutes in every session.
- Focus on footwork: side steps backwards, never backpedalling while facing the net.
- Accuracy first, then speed.
The bandeja and víbora are best practised on a court with good glass, like the panorama court at 10ka on Alibegovac. For the basics of moving around the walls, read playing off the glass.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a bandeja and a smash?
The bandeja is a controlled sliced shot that keeps you at the net. The smash is a full-power shot meant to finish the point.
When should I use a víbora?
When the ball is a bit lower and to the side and you want something more aggressive than a bandeja. The víbora has sidespin and skids low off the glass.
Should beginners smash?
Early on, the bandeja is the better choice. A smash from a bad position often comes back to your opponent off the glass.
