Caitlyn vs Kalista ADC Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Caitlyn

VS

ADC

Kalista

Caitlyn vs Kalista

Confidence highUpdated Jun 7, 2026

Overview

Caitlyn wins short trades using superior range and punishes Kalista's last-hit attempts under pressure.
Kalista thrives in extended trades with support engage, so avoid drawn-out fights without (E) ready.
Push waves to crash under Kalista's turret to set trap zones and deny her safe CS and plate access.

Trading pattern

Auto Kalista during her last-hit animations when enemy support cannot immediately punish your forward step.
Use (Q) poke on Kalista when she is locked in CS or walking through trap zones.
Hold (E) defensively to deny Kalista's all-in attempts, especially if her support can follow up quickly.

Danger windows

Kalista with support (R) engage creates lethal all-in windows; avoid stepping forward without (E) ready.
Losing brush control or support cooldowns allows Kalista to stack (E) and force extended trades.
Avoid trading when Kalista can hop freely between autos, as slows or lack of support peel increase your risk.

Early game

Use level 1 range to harass Kalista while she last-hits caster minions near the wave front.
Prioritize level 2 spike to hold (E) for enemy engage and layer (W) traps on retreat paths.
Avoid pushing too hard early if enemy support controls brush, which blocks safe last-hit punish windows.

Power spikes

Level 1 range advantage lets you punish Kalista's early CS attempts before she can safely trade.
First completed marksman item strengthens your poke and turret pressure, enabling more reliable wave crashes for plates.
Two-item siege power spike enhances your ability to control bot lane and secure dragon vision through pressure.

Win conditions

Convert range and trap control into denying Kalista CS and forcing early recalls.
Crash waves under turret to take plates and secure bot priority for dragon setups.
Use poke and lane pressure to reach item spikes first, then leverage safer teamfight positioning to maximize DPS.