The kick smash X3, a spectacular stroke that sends the ball bouncing out of the court, is a favorite among amateur padel players. In actuality, though, most don’t do it correctly. It’s a prevalent misperception that power by itself will work. In actuality, the kick smash requires more spin, timing, and skill than force.

Positioning and timing are crucial.

Long before the racket ever touches the ball, the X3 is a success. Players frequently place themselves too far from the ideal contact zone and underestimate the height of the ball. You must be close to the middle of the court so that you have enough room to wind up and hit the ball at its highest point in order to make the shot. Keeping your non-dominant hand up and bending back a little aids with balance and momentum production.

Technique is superior to muscle.

The key to the kick smash is topspin. To generate the required spin, players should brush the ball upward with a relaxed wrist rather than hitting flat and hard. Better control and snap are possible with a continental grip. Instead of just slamming the ball into the wall, the objective is to have it bounce high off the glass and leave the court.

Typical errors that cause the shot to fail

Poor preparation is the cause of more than 90% of botched kick smashes. Players hit the ball at face level rather than above the head, swing too early, or hurry the setup. Others lose the angle required for the ball to escape because they aim too short or too deep. The shot loses its bite when the footwork and body rotation are not correct.

Expert advice from Oscar in Bristol

Oscar, a padel coach known for his obsession with the kick smash, emphasizes honesty in shot selection. Don’t go for the X3 unless the lob is high and slow enough. He advises focusing on technique more than power, warming up well, and practicing with a round racket for improved control. Although his volleys are mediocre, his insights into kick smashes are invaluable.

Concluding remarks for prospective smashers

It takes time to become proficient at the kick smash X3. It’s not just about looking cool — it’s about understanding the mechanics and respecting the shot’s complexity. With the right grip, posture, and timing, even amateur players can turn this flashy move into a reliable weapon. Just remember: if you’re yelling “go out!” and the ball doesn’t, it’s time to go back to basics.