When done properly, the float serve is one of the most dangerous tools available to a volleyball team. When the ball moves unpredictably in the air, it becomes extremely difficult for the passer to read. One of the best things about the float serve is that you don’t need a powerful arm to master it — all you need is consistent, proper technique.
Below are the four key steps to developing a great float serve.
Step 1: Develop a Consistent and Clean Toss
Every float serve begins with a good toss. The ball should leave your tossing hand at roughly shoulder height. The toss should be flat and level — avoid twisting, spinning, or bouncing the ball beforehand. A clean toss is essential because it allows you to make a controlled, “no‑spin” contact, which is what creates the float effect.
Important things to remember:
- Toss the ball straight up with your non‑hitting hand.
- Do not toss the ball higher than about 8 inches above your hitting shoulder.
- Keep the ball steady in the air — any rotation will create spin.
If you cannot produce a consistent, clean toss, the rest of your serve will suffer.
Step 2: Focus on a Small, Level, and Stable Approach
Because the float serve does not involve jumping, you don’t need a long run‑up. Most players take only a few small steps before serving. The main goal is to stay stable as you approach the ball.
Additional points to consider:
- Keep your body upright and centered over your feet.
- Align your shoulders with your target.
- Avoid unnecessary movement before contact.
The more stable your body is, the cleaner your contact will be.
Step 3: Strike the Ball With a Flat, Open Hand
A proper float serve is created by striking the ball with a flat, open hand. The goal is to push the ball forward with controlled force rather than whip it like a topspin serve.
Technique tips:
- Make contact with the center of the ball.
- Keep your wrist firm — do not snap it.
- Hit the ball with your arm, then stop your arm as soon as possible after contact.
Stopping your arm quickly helps eliminate spin, which is what gives the float serve its unpredictable movement.
Step 4: Hit the Ball Deep and Let It Move
You don’t need to hit the float serve hard — you just need to hit it cleanly. Aim for the deeper areas of the court and let the ball’s natural movement create problems for the passer.
Target areas:
- The back corners of the court
- Between receivers (Libero and Outside hitters)
If you consistently hit deep, no‑spin balls, the ball will naturally drift sideways or drop suddenly.
Additional Bonus Tips for Improving Your Float Serve
- After contact, watch the ball. If it spins, adjust your hand position for your next serve.
- Serve with intention — don’t just get the ball over the net. Identify weaknesses and attack them.
- Build consistency with low‑risk serves first, then add power once you’re accurate.
- Film yourself serving — you’ll immediately see if your toss or contact needs adjustment.
- Float from different positions from Zones / Positions 5 to 5, 5 to 1, 1 to 1, or 1 to 5 / short or long.
Conclusion
The float serve is one of the most effective skills in volleyball because it relies on clean contact, balance, and precise footwork rather than raw power. Since stability plays such a big role in the approach, the right volleyball shoes can make your motion smoother and more controlled. If you want to improve your movement and float serve consistency, check out our guide to the Best Volleyball Shoes for 2026.
