Bajada: forehand
An attacking shot on a ball that has bounced high off your back glass: you hit it in the air on its way down, like an overhead from the back.
When to play it
On a smash or high ball that rebounds high off your back glass. When the other pair are at the net expecting a defensive lob.
How to play it
Turn with the ball as it rebounds and let it come down to shoulder height. Hit it in front of you, flat or with slice, aiming low. Move forward after the shot if it lands well.
Common mistakes
Hitting it too early, while it is still rising off the glass. Trying for too much pace instead of a low, deep ball.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the bajada legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 12.3: after its bounce on your side, the ball is still in play off your back glass, and you may hit it in the air before it lands again (Rule 13c). The shot must cross the net without touching your own mesh (Rule 13l).