Lob shots can be frustrating if you’re not prepared. They push you back, disrupt your positioning, and create easy opportunities for your opponent.

The best way to handle a lob shot¹ in pickleball is to anticipate, move efficiently, and execute a controlled overhead or reset shot².

Let’s explore the best techniques for dealing with lobs effectively.

How do you handle a lob shot in pickleball?

A well-placed lob can force you out of position. Reacting properly keeps you in control of the point.

To handle a lob shot, track the ball early, move with quick steps, and prepare for an overhead smash³ or controlled return.

Key Steps for Handling Lobs

Step	Action
Read the Opponent	Watch for cues that signal an incoming lob.
Move Efficiently	Use quick side steps rather than backpedaling.
Prepare the Paddle	Get into position for an overhead or deep return.
Reset If Needed	If the ball is too deep, play a controlled return.

Positioning and reaction speed are crucial to countering lobs effectively.

How to respond to a lob?

Lob shots demand a quick response. A poor reaction can put you on defense.

Respond to a lob by adjusting your footwork, preparing your shot, and choosing between an aggressive smash or a strategic reset.

Best Responses to a Lob

Response	When to Use It
Overhead Smash	When the lob is short and attackable.
Deep Return	If the lob pushes you back but you can control the shot.
Defensive Reset	If the lob is too deep, reset the point with a soft return.

Choosing the right response prevents your opponent from gaining an advantage.

How to defend against a lobber in pickleball?

Some opponents use lobs frequently to disrupt your game. Having a strategy neutralizes their tactics.

To defend against a lobber, anticipate their shots, adjust your court position, and force them into low-percentage plays.

Strategies for Defending Against Lobbers

Strategy	Benefit
Play Closer to the Baseline	Gives you more time to react.
Hit Deep Returns	Pushes them back and limits their ability to lob.
Use Topspin Shots	Makes it harder for them to execute effective lobs.
Attack Weak Lobs	Punish short lobs with overhead smashes.

By staying proactive, you can limit their ability to use lobs effectively.

How to stop a lobber?

Lobbers thrive when you let them dictate the pace. The key is taking control of the point.

To stop a lobber, apply pressure with aggressive shots, move forward smartly, and use strategic positioning to minimize their lob opportunities.

Ways to Counter a Lobber

Tactic	Effect
Hit Low Drives	Forces them to hit low, reducing their ability to lob.
Move Forward After a Deep Shot	Closes gaps they aim for with lobs.
Stay Patient	Wait for weak lobs and attack when possible.
Control the Net	Prevents them from comfortably setting up lobs.

A combination of pressure, positioning, and patience is the key to defeating a lobber.

Conclusion

Lob shots can be frustrating, but with proper anticipation, movement, and strategy, you can neutralize them. By adjusting your positioning and forcing your opponent into difficult situations, you can turn their lobs into opportunities for attack.