When to Use a Topspin Drop vs. a Slice Drop in Pickleball

In pickleball, knowing when to hit a topspin drop versus a slice drop can make a big difference in your control and strategy on the court.

Each technique has a time and place, and mastering both will elevate your game by giving you options for every position on the court.

Here’s a quick guide – with tips from Selkirk pro James Ignatowich – to help you decide when to use each shot and tips for executing them effectively.

Topspin Drop: When and How to Use It

A topspin drop is your go-to when you’re further back on the court, especially near the baseline. With a topspin drop, the ball’s forward spin pulls it down quickly, giving you more control over its placement and allowing it to land in the kitchen area more reliably.

How to Hit a Topspin Drop:

Grip and Stance: Use a relaxed grip and hold the paddle with a slight tilt forward.
Swing Path: Start your swing low and finish high, brushing up on the back of the ball to create topspin.
Follow Through: Allow your paddle to naturally finish above your shoulder to keep the ball’s trajectory low and controlled.

Pro Tip: Topspin is less affected by wind, so it’s a great choice on windy days or when you need the ball to stay down rather than float up, especially from a deeper position on the court.

Slice Drop: When and How to Use It

The slice drop is best when you’re closer to the net, typically around five feet from the kitchen line. The backspin in a slice shot makes the ball float slightly, creating a softer landing that prevents easy attacks from your opponents. However, since it’s more affected by wind, it’s a shot best used from mid-court or closer.

How to Hit a Slice Drop:

Grip and Stance: Use a looser grip and hold the paddle slightly open, with the face angled slightly upward.
Swing Path: Swing from high to low, “cutting” across the back of the ball. This will create the backspin needed for the shot to float softly.
Follow Through: Finish with a shorter follow-through to maintain control, especially if you’re aiming for the middle of the court.

Pro Tip: Aim for the center of the court when using a slice drop to limit your opponent’s angles for a return shot. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to reset the point and avoid giving your opponents a chance to attack.

When to Use Each Shot

Use a Topspin Drop from the back of the court for more control and reliability, especially when wind might affect your shot.
Use a Slice Drop when you’re closer to the net, as it allows for a softer shot that’s harder for opponents to attack.

By incorporating both the topspin drop and slice drop into your game, you’ll be better equipped to handle any situation and keep opponents guessing. Practice these shots regularly to build confidence, and soon you’ll have a versatile toolkit of drops that can help you gain the upper hand on the court.