Getting into disc golf can be overwhelming, especially when choosing your first discs. There are so many options, and it’s tough to know what’s best for a beginner. You want something forgiving, easy to throw, and that will help you learn the basics without getting frustrated. So, let’s break down some top choices that will get you started on the right foot and having fun on the course.
Here’s a quick look at our top picks for starter disc golf discs:
- Innova DX Leopard: Great for learning control and achieving distance with lower power.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: A super straight mid-range, perfect for controlled approaches and consistent flights.
- Latitude 64 River: Easy to handle fairway driver known for its glide and smooth release.
- Dynamic Discs Judge: Reliable putter for both putting and approach shots, offering excellent grip.
- Westside Discs Swan 2: A very forgiving putter that feels great in the hand and helps build confidence on the green.
Top 5 Best Starter Disc Golf Discs
1. Innova DX Leopard
The Innova DX Leopard is often recommended as one of the best beginner drivers. It’s a fairway driver with a manageable speed, making it easier to control and get some distance without needing a massive arm. I remember when I first started, I couldn’t throw a driver to save my life, but the Leopard gave me hope!
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for beginners due to its easy-to-control speed.
- ✅ Provides good distance even with lower arm speed.
- ✅ DX plastic is affordable and offers decent grip.
Cons:
- ❌ DX plastic wears down relatively quickly.
- ❌ Can become understable in windy conditions.
- ❌ Not ideal for experienced players with high arm speed.
Verdict: The Leopard is perfect for new players who want to learn how to throw drivers without being overwhelmed by high-speed discs. It’s forgiving and helps develop good throwing technique.
2. Discraft Buzzz SS
The Discraft Buzzz SS is a fantastic mid-range disc that flies straight with minimal fade. It’s known for its consistency and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for beginners learning approach shots. I’ve seen so many people improve their game just by adding a Buzzz SS to their bag.
Pros:
- ✅ Very straight flight path with minimal fade.
- ✅ Excellent for learning controlled approach shots.
- ✅ Comfortable grip for various hand sizes.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the best choice for windy conditions due to its straight flight.
- ❌ May not be suitable for players who prefer a more pronounced fade.
- ❌ Can be a bit too stable for some beginners at very low speeds.
Verdict: The Buzzz SS is a reliable and versatile mid-range that will help beginners develop accuracy and consistency in their throws. It’s a disc that you can grow with as your skills improve.
3. Latitude 64 River
The Latitude 64 River is a fairway driver known for its exceptional glide and easy-to-control flight. This disc is designed to float through the air, making it great for beginners who need extra distance without extra power. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how far it went with minimal effort!
Pros:
- ✅ High glide allows for maximum distance with less power.
- ✅ Easy to control and provides a smooth release.
- ✅ Suitable for both backhand and forehand throws.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be affected by wind due to its high glide.
- ❌ Not ideal for very wooded courses where accuracy is more important than distance.
- ❌ May be too understable for experienced players with strong arms.
Verdict: The River is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a forgiving driver that provides easy distance. Its smooth flight and high glide make it a joy to throw.
4. Dynamic Discs Judge
The Dynamic Discs Judge is a popular putter known for its reliable flight and comfortable grip. It’s a beadless putter, which many players find more comfortable in the hand. I’ve used the Judge for years and it’s always been a consistent performer, both for putting and short approach shots.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for putting and approach shots.
- ✅ Comfortable grip for consistent releases.
- ✅ Predictable flight path with minimal fade.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be suitable for players who prefer a beaded putter.
- ❌ Can be affected by strong winds on longer putts.
- ❌ Not the most durable plastic available.
Verdict: The Judge is a great all-around putter that beginners will find easy to use and reliable. It’s a disc that can help improve your putting game quickly.
5. Westside Discs Swan 2
The Westside Discs Swan 2 is a very understable putter that is incredibly forgiving and feels great in the hand. It’s designed to fly straight with a gentle turn, making it perfect for beginners who are still developing their putting technique. I’ve recommended this putter to so many new players, and they all love it.
Pros:
- ✅ Very forgiving and easy to throw straight.
- ✅ Excellent for beginners learning to putt.
- ✅ Comfortable grip and feel in the hand.
Cons:
- ❌ Too understable for experienced players.
- ❌ Not suitable for windy conditions.
- ❌ Can be a bit too flippy for some players.
Verdict: The Swan 2 is an ideal putter for beginners who need a forgiving disc to build confidence on the green. Its understable flight makes it easy to control and helps develop a smooth putting stroke.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right starter disc golf discs can make a big difference in your enjoyment of the game. Here are a few things to consider when making your selections:
- Disc Type: Start with a putter, mid-range, and fairway driver. These disc types will cover most of the shots you’ll encounter on a typical course.
- Weight: Lighter discs are generally easier to throw for beginners. Look for discs in the 150-170 gram range.
- Plastic Type: Base plastics like DX (Innova) or D-Line (Discraft) are more affordable and offer good grip, but they wear down faster. Premium plastics are more durable but can be more expensive.
- Stability: Understable or stable discs are best for beginners. These discs are more forgiving and easier to control than overstable discs.
- Feel: Choose discs that feel comfortable in your hand. The grip and rim shape can affect your throwing technique.
FAQs
Q: What is the best weight for a beginner disc golf disc?
A: Lighter discs, around 150-170 grams, are generally easier for beginners to throw because they require less power and are easier to control.
Q: What does “understable” mean in disc golf?
A: An understable disc tends to turn to the right (for a right-handed backhand throw) during its flight. These discs are more forgiving and easier to throw straight for beginners.
Q: How many discs do I need to start playing disc golf?
A: You can start with just three discs: a putter, a mid-range, and a fairway driver. This will give you a good range of options for different types of shots.
Q: Can I use the same disc for putting and driving?
A: While you can use a putter for short drives, it’s generally better to use a fairway driver for longer shots. Putters are designed for accuracy and control, while drivers are designed for distance.
Q: How do I choose the right plastic type for my discs?
A: Base plastics are more affordable and offer good grip, but they wear down faster. Premium plastics are more durable and maintain their flight characteristics longer, but they can be more expensive. Beginners often start with base plastics to save money and then upgrade to premium plastics as their skills improve.
Conclusion
Selecting the right starter disc golf discs can greatly enhance your learning experience and enjoyment of the game. Discs like the Innova DX Leopard, Discraft Buzzz SS, Latitude 64 River, Dynamic Discs Judge, and Westside Discs Swan 2 are all excellent choices for beginners. They are designed to be forgiving, easy to control, and help you develop good throwing technique. Remember to consider disc type, weight, plastic, and stability when making your selections, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find what works best for you. Happy discing!
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