How to Use the Chiquita in Padel

Advanced padel · Chiquita shot · Updated 2026

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Why the chiquita matters

Advanced padel is not only about power, smashes or spectacular overheads. It is also about creating uncomfortable balls at the right time. When opponents are at the net, they want you to hit a predictable ball they can volley down. A good chiquita drops low near their feet and forces them to lift the ball — giving you the chance to move forward.

When should you use the chiquita?

Use the chiquita when opponents are at the net, you have enough control to play low and you want to move forward behind the shot. It works especially well when opponents are not tight enough to the net to kill the ball, but close enough that a low ball to the feet is awkward.

Where to aim the chiquita

• The opponent’s feet
• The space just inside the service line
• The middle between both net players
• The weaker volley side
• The body when the opponent is moving

The aim is not to pass cleanly. The aim is to make the volley difficult.

How soft should the chiquita be?

Soft enough to stay low but firm enough to reach the target. If it is too soft, it sits up and becomes easy to attack. If it is too hard, it becomes a normal drive and gives the net player pace to use. Good chiquitas force the opponent to hit up from below net height. Low is more important than fast.

Move forward after the shot

The chiquita is only half the pattern. After playing it, move forward with your partner and prepare to take the net. If you play a good chiquita but stay at the back, you waste the pressure you created. Read: How to master the volley in padel.

Use the chiquita from defence

When defending at the back, opponents often expect a lob or a hard drive. The chiquita gives you a third option. If the ball is low but controllable, play a soft ball to the feet and step in. This can surprise net players and stop them from settling into an easy volley rhythm.

Use the chiquita on return of serve

A low return to the feet can make the first volley uncomfortable and give your pair time to move up. This is especially effective against players who serve and rush the net without split-stepping properly.

Combine chiquita and lob

The chiquita becomes more dangerous when opponents also respect your lob. If they stand too close, lob them. If they stand too deep, chiquita to their feet. This push-pull effect makes it harder for opponents to hold the net comfortably.

Common chiquita mistakes

• Playing it too high so it sits up
• Playing it too softly so it floats
• Trying to win the point with it directly
• Not moving forward after the shot
• Using it when off-balance
• Aiming too close to the sidelines

• Advanced padel guide: full overview
• Advanced padel partner tactics
• How to master the volley in padel
• How to perfect the lob in padel
• Chiquita shot — intermediate guide

Frequently asked questions

What is a chiquita in padel?

A soft, low shot played towards the opponent’s feet, usually to make them volley up and give your pair time to move forward and take the net.

When should I use the chiquita?

When opponents are at the net, you can control the ball low and you want to transition forward from defence into attack.

Where should I aim the chiquita?

At the opponent’s feet, the middle or the weaker volley side. The goal is to force an uncomfortable volley, not to pass cleanly.

Is the chiquita a winning shot?

No. It is a transition shot — it helps you create a weak reply and move forward, rather than winning the point immediately.

What is the biggest chiquita mistake?

Playing the chiquita and then staying still. You need to move forward after it, otherwise you waste the pressure you created.