TL;DR? A dink is a soft, slow shot that lands in the kitchen (no, not the one with snacks). It’s strategic, savage and weirdly addictive. Here’s why it matters.
What Is a Dink in Pickleball?
What is a dink in pickleball?
A dink is a soft, low shot in pickleball that just clears the net and lands in the opponent’s non-volley zone (the kitchen). It’s a strategic move used to slow down the rally, force errors and set up winning shots.
A dink is a soft, controlled shot that just clears the net and lands in your opponent’s kitchen (aka the non-volley zone). It's low. It’s slow. It’s strategic.
Think of it like the chess move of pickleball — gentle but genius.
Want to win more games without breaking a sweat? Dink more. Smash less.
Still wondering what the kitchen even is? We break that down here.
Why the Dink Is a Power Move in Disguise
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Slows down the pace (goodbye panic smashes)
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Pulls your opponent forward into the danger zone
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Sets up easy winners (aka: your moment to shine)
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Neutralises big hitters who rely on brute force
The dink is polite chaos. The calm before the passing shot. The sassiest little shot in the game.
How to Hit the Perfect Dink (Even If You're Brand New)
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Hold your paddle like you mean it — gently
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Stand behind the non-volley line (do not camp in the kitchen)
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Let the ball bounce, then dink — timing is everything
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Aim for cross-court or just over the net
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Keep it low — unless you want to get smashed (don’t)
Want more beginner tips? Read our beginner’s guide to pickleball rules.
Common Dinking Mistakes to Avoid
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Smacking the dink like you're playing dodgeball
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Floating the ball like it's a balloon
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Dinking from behind the baseline (nope)
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Getting out-dinked by a 68-year-old named Carol who’s been playing longer than you’ve been alive
The Dink vs The Smash: Which One Wins?
Honestly? The dink. Because if you can control the tempo, you can control the rally. And that gives you control of the entire game.
Curious about when to smash vs dink? Check out our paddle guide for control vs power.
Want to Level Up Your Dink Game?
Start with the right paddle. Ours are made with Toray T700 carbon fiber — ideal for touch, spin and surgical precision.
Still Wondering What Pickleball Even Is?
You’re not alone. Read our full guide to what pickleball is and why it’s the fastest-growing sport in North America.
Also: yes, there are different balls for indoor and outdoor courts. Here's how to tell.
Final Thoughts: What Is a Dink in Pickleball?
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It's a soft shot that lands in the kitchen
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It slows the game down and forces errors
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It's funny to say, deadly to ignore
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If you’re not dinking, you’re probably losing
Ready to dink like a legend? Start with gear that’s built for it.