Why is dinking important in pickleball?

Because the kitchen stops players from volleying close to the net, a low, soft ball is very hard to attack. Dinking keeps you safe at the line until someone makes a mistake.

Where should I aim my dinks?

Mostly cross-court and deep in the kitchen, near your opponent's feet. That keeps the ball low and forces them to lift it.

How to Dink in Pickleball

5 video lessons

Soft hands, low and steady, until you get the ball to attack.

Quick answer & tips ▾

A dink is a soft shot from the kitchen line that lands in your opponents' kitchen, so they cannot attack it. Hold the paddle loosely, keep the face slightly open and lift the ball with your legs and shoulder rather than flicking the wrist. The aim is a ball that clears the net comfortably and then drops low.

Most dink rallies are lost by the player who gets impatient. Aim cross-court when you are unsure, since the net is lowest in the middle and you have more court to work with, and only speed the ball up when your opponent gives you something high.

Key tips

Grip pressure around 3 out of 10 keeps the ball soft.
Bend your knees and get low instead of reaching with your arm.
Cross-court dinks are safer than straight ones.
Wait for a ball above net height before attacking.

FAQ

Why is dinking important in pickleball?: Because the kitchen stops players from volleying close to the net, a low, soft ball is very hard to attack. Dinking keeps you safe at the line until someone makes a mistake.
Where should I aim my dinks?: Mostly cross-court and deep in the kitchen, near your opponent's feet. That keeps the ball low and forces them to lift it.