Topspin dinks are a vital skill in pickleball, offering players an edge in control and placement. Pro player and coach Will East breaks down the technique into a three-part lesson, empowering players to add this skill to their arsenal.
PART 1: Paddle Positioning and Movement
The foundation of a topspin dink is in the paddle’s initial position and subsequent movement. Begin by positioning your paddle below the ball. This setup is crucial for generating topspin.
The motion should be a fluid, low-to-high swing. This upward trajectory is essential for both lifting the ball and imparting spin. Avoid relying excessively on wrist action, as this can lead to inconsistency.
Key Focus:
- Start Low: Begin with your paddle beneath the ball.
- Upward Swing: Execute a low-to-high movement for optimal spin.
- Consistency Over Wristiness: Maintain a steady paddle motion to avoid erratic shots.
PART 2: Paddle Angle Mastery
Paddle angle plays a pivotal role in executing a successful topspin dink. Imagine your paddle’s face aligned at a ‘7 and 2’ position on a clock face. As you swing, maintain this angle consistently. This alignment ensures that the ‘7’ leads the swing, contributing to the topspin while maintaining control.
Key Focus:
- 7 and 2 Alignment: Keep this consistent angle throughout the swing.
- Controlled Swing Path: Ensure a smooth, uninterrupted upward path.
PART 3: Engaging Your Body
The final piece of the topspin dink puzzle involves your body movement, particularly getting low. By lowering your body, you align yourself ideally to execute the low-to-high paddle motion effectively.
Use your legs to generate upward force, aiding the topspin effect and contributing to a controlled dink.
Key Focus:
- Lower Body Position: Bend your knees to get under the ball.
- Use Your Legs: Generate lift and power through your legs.
Watch and Learn from Will East
To truly understand the mechanics of the topspin dink, watch Will East demonstrate these techniques. His execution of paddle positioning, angle, and body movement offers a practical visual guide to mastering this skill.
Check out more videos on various techniques to up your pickleball game:
- Topspin Drive with Pro Tips from PB Coach
- Unlock Insane Power and Spin with This Wrist Lag Trick
- Hitting with Your Hips: A Key to Better Pickleball Shots
What is the Best Paddle to Add Spin to Your Shots?
The best paddle for adding spin is one that combines the right surface texture, materials, and design to maximize friction and grip on the ball.
Our pickleball gear reviewer Drew McCartt recommends the Diadem Edge 18K Speed Pro as one of the best options for those looking to add spin to their strategic shots.
If you want to check out Drew’s full review of this paddle, click here.
- Designed for players focused on spin and control
- Features a 5.3” Comfort Max gripped handle for fast reloads and quick reactions
- The honeycomb core includes 10mm cells for more pop and a foam perimeter for better rebound behind the ball
- Expansive sweet spot and impressive linger time
Get the Spin Just Right
So, to wrap it up, keep your paddle below the ball to get that nice upward hit for topspin. Lock your wrist throughout the swing to control and spin your dink. And don’t forget the follow-through: aim for a 10% backswing and 90% follow-through to nail that perfect topspin dink every time.
Happy dinking!
The featured image is courtesy of pickleballpopups.com.
