What is a Dink in Pickleball?

March 11, 2025 Dink Quest 7 min read

Dink in Pickleball, what is it and how do you get good at it? Let’s explore shall we…

The Dink Shot in Pickleball

If you’re new to pickleball, you’ve probably already heard people going on about “the dink.” It’s one of those words that sounds almost silly, but trust me, it’s no joke. The dink shot is absolutely fundamental to the game and can make the difference between a chaotic, frantic match and a beautifully controlled rally where you’re running the show.

In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about the dink shot—what it is, why it matters, how to do it properly, and when to use it. So, grab a cuppa and let’s get stuck in.

So, What Exactly is a Dink in Pickleball?

In the simplest terms, a dink is a soft, controlled shot that is gently hit over the net into your opponent’s Non-Volley Zone (NVZ), also called “the kitchen.” Unlike power shots or slams, the dink is all about finesse. The goal is to keep the ball low and unattackable, forcing your opponents into awkward, defensive positions.

Instead of blasting the ball as hard as you can, a dink requires you to slow things down, focus on precision, and keep the rally going with thoughtful placement.

Key Features of a Dink:

Hit softly so it barely clears the net.
Lands inside the opponent’s kitchen area.
Keeps the ball low to make it difficult for your opponent to attack.
Usually played when both teams are at the net.

Why is the Dink So Important?

Pickleball is often called a game of patience, and nowhere is that more obvious than in a dinking battle. Here’s why the dink matters:

1. Neutralises Power Players

If you’re up against someone who loves to smash and hit hard, dinking slows the game down and takes away their power advantage. You control the pace.

2. Forces Errors

A well-placed dink makes your opponent hit up on the ball, increasing their chances of popping it up too high—leaving you with an easy put-away shot.

3. Maintains Control of the Kitchen

Staying at the net and controlling the Non-Volley Zone is key to winning in pickleball. Dinking helps you hold your ground and stops your opponents from pushing you back.

4. Strategic Play

Pickleball isn’t just about athleticism; it’s a mental game. Dinking lets you outsmart your opponents by placing the ball precisely where they least want it.

When Should You Use a Dink?

Knowing when to dink is just as important as knowing how. You’ll typically want to dink when:

Both teams are at the net.
You’re trying to reset a fast-paced rally.
You’re facing an opponent who hits hard and you want to slow things down.
You’re setting up a more aggressive shot by luring your opponent out of position.

In short, dinking becomes the go-to move in the “soft game,” where patience, accuracy, and control win the day.

How to Perform a Dink Shot (Step-by-Step)

If you’re a beginner, don’t worry—everyone starts somewhere. The dink is a feel-based shot, but here’s a step-by-step to get you going:

1. Positioning

Stand just behind the Non-Volley Zone line (the kitchen line).
Keep your knees slightly bent and stay balanced.
Hold your paddle out in front of you with a loose, relaxed grip (imagine you’re holding a delicate teacup, not a baseball bat).

2. Grip

A continental grip works well (this is like shaking hands with your paddle).
Keep it light—this isn’t a power shot.

3. The Swing

Use a short, gentle upward motion.
Keep your swing compact. Think of it like a soft push rather than a full-on hit.
The paddle face should stay slightly open to lift the ball just over the net.

4. Contact Point

Meet the ball out in front of your body.
The goal is to barely clear the net and have the ball land softly in your opponent’s kitchen.

5. Follow Through

Keep your follow-through minimal. The smaller and more controlled the better.
Stay ready for the next shot—don’t relax too much after hitting.

Dink Strategy Tips for Beginners

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. Here are some simple strategies to keep in mind:

✔️ Aim Crosscourt

Crosscourt dinks give you more space to work with and make it harder for your opponent to attack.

✔️ Stay Patient

Don’t try to win the point with your dink alone. Dinking is about setting up a mistake from your opponent or waiting for a ball you can attack.

✔️ Watch Your Opponent

Is their backhand weak? Are they moving awkwardly? Place your dink to force them into uncomfortable positions.

✔️ Don’t Back Up

Once you’re at the kitchen line, stay there. Dinking works best when you hold your ground.

Common Beginner Mistakes When Dinking

We all make them! Here’s what to watch out for:

❌ Hitting too hard – You’ll send the ball too high and get smashed.
❌ Backing away from the kitchen line – This gives your opponent more space to attack.
❌ Reaching too far – Move your feet to get in position rather than overreaching.
❌ Not resetting – After you dink, be ready for the next shot immediately.

Why British Players Love the Dink

Here in the UK, where indoor play is common due to our charmingly unpredictable weather, dinking is especially vital. Indoor courts often have faster surfaces and less space, so mastering the dink helps control the pace and reduces the chaos of power shots ricocheting everywhere.

Final Thoughts

If you want to become a smart, strategic pickleball player, learning how to dink is non-negotiable. It’s the backbone of advanced play and essential for holding your own at the net.

So next time you hit the court, resist the urge to smash everything. Embrace the dink. Practise it. Love it. And watch as your game transforms from beginner flailing to calm, collected, and in total control.

And remember, in pickleball (and in life), sometimes the softest touch makes the biggest impact.