Starting a new sport can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re staring at a wall of unfamiliar equipment. Golf discs are no exception. Different weights, plastics, and flight characteristics can make choosing the right disc for your first round a real challenge. So I’ve put together a list of beginner-friendly discs that are easy to throw and will help you learn the basics without getting too frustrated.
This guide will break down five of the best golf discs for beginners, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right choice. Plus, I’ll share some tips on what to look for when buying your first disc, so you can confidently hit the course.
Product Overview
- Innova Aviar: A classic putter known for its straight flight and comfortable grip.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: A versatile midrange disc offering excellent control and glide.
- Innova Leopard: A beginner-friendly fairway driver with a manageable speed and predictable fade.
- Latitude 64 River: A smooth-flying fairway driver known for its effortless distance.
- Dynamic Discs Breakout: An easy-to-throw driver with a consistent flight path.
Top 5 Best Golf Discs For Beginners
1. Innova Aviar
The Innova Aviar is a true classic and one of the most popular putters in disc golf. It’s known for its straight flight, predictable fade, and comfortable grip, making it an excellent choice for beginners learning the fundamentals of putting and approaching the basket. It’s the disc I recommend most often to new players.
Pros:
- ✅ Straight and predictable flight path.
- ✅ Comfortable grip for various hand sizes.
- ✅ Excellent for learning putting and approach shots.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for long-distance drives.
- ❌ Can be affected by strong winds.
- ❌ May require some practice to master spin putting.
Verdict: The Innova Aviar is a must-have for any beginner. Its reliable flight and comfortable feel make it perfect for learning the basics of putting and approach shots.
2. Discraft Buzzz SS
The Discraft Buzzz SS is a slightly less stable version of the wildly popular Buzzz midrange. This makes it easier for beginners to control and throw straight, even with less power. It’s a versatile disc that can be used for a variety of shots, from controlled approaches to short drives.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent glide for longer midrange shots.
- ✅ Very controllable, even for beginners.
- ✅ Versatile disc for different shot types.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too understable for experienced players in windy conditions.
- ❌ Not ideal for very tight, wooded fairways where pinpoint accuracy is needed.
- ❌ More advanced players might prefer the original Buzzz for its stability.
Verdict: The Discraft Buzzz SS is an excellent midrange choice for beginners. Its forgiving nature and consistent flight make it a valuable tool for developing your disc golf skills.
3. Innova Leopard
The Innova Leopard is a fairway driver designed for players with lower arm speeds. Its manageable speed and predictable fade make it easy to control and throw accurately. It’s a great step up from a midrange when you’re ready to start adding distance to your game.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to throw for beginners.
- ✅ Predictable fade for controlled flights.
- ✅ Good for learning hyzer and anhyzer techniques.
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for strong headwinds.
- ❌ More experienced players may find it too understable.
- ❌ Distance potential is limited compared to faster drivers.
Verdict: The Innova Leopard is a fantastic fairway driver for beginners. Its ease of use and predictable flight path make it an excellent choice for developing your driving skills.
4. Latitude 64 River
The Latitude 64 River is known for its smooth flight and effortless distance. It’s designed to glide through the air with minimal effort, making it a great option for beginners who want to maximize their distance without overpowering the disc. I’ve seen so many new players crush this disc right out of the box.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent glide for maximum distance.
- ✅ Easy to throw with minimal effort.
- ✅ Comfortable grip for a variety of throwing styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be affected by strong winds.
- ❌ May turn over too easily for players with high arm speeds.
- ❌ Requires a smooth release for optimal flight.
Verdict: The Latitude 64 River is a great choice for beginners looking for a distance driver that’s easy to control. Its smooth flight and excellent glide make it a valuable addition to any beginner’s bag.
5. Dynamic Discs Breakout
The Dynamic Discs Breakout is designed to be an easy-to-throw driver with a consistent flight path. It’s a great option for beginners who are looking for a disc that will fly straight and predictably without requiring a lot of power. It’s also made from durable plastic, which is a plus when you’re just starting out and hitting trees more often than fairways!
Pros:
- ✅ Very easy to throw straight.
- ✅ Consistent and predictable flight.
- ✅ Durable plastic that can withstand abuse.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for advanced players who need more control over their shots.
- ❌ Can be too understable in windy conditions.
- ❌ Might not provide enough distance for experienced players.
Verdict: The Dynamic Discs Breakout is a solid choice for beginners looking for a reliable driver that’s easy to control. Its consistent flight and durable construction make it a great disc for learning the fundamentals of driving.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right golf disc can seem daunting, but here’s what to consider:
- Disc Type: Start with a putter, a midrange, and a fairway driver. These will cover most of the shots you’ll encounter on the course.
- Weight: Lighter discs are generally easier to throw for beginners. Look for discs in the 150-170 gram range.
- Plastic Type: Base plastic is more affordable but less durable. Premium plastic offers better grip and durability but costs more.
- Flight Numbers: Pay attention to the flight numbers (speed, glide, turn, fade). Beginners should look for discs with lower speed numbers and a slight fade.
- Grip: Make sure the disc feels comfortable in your hand. A good grip is essential for consistent throws.
- Read Reviews: Check out online reviews and see what other beginners are saying about different discs.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best weight for a beginner disc golf disc?
A: Lighter discs, around 150-170 grams, are generally easier for beginners to throw and control.
Q: What does “understable” mean?
A: An understable disc tends to turn to the right (for right-handed backhand throws) during its flight. This can be helpful for beginners who struggle to get a full flight out of their discs.
Q: How many discs should a beginner start with?
A: Three discs – a putter, a midrange, and a fairway driver – are enough to get started and learn the basics.
Q: What’s the difference between base plastic and premium plastic?
A: Base plastic is more affordable but less durable, while premium plastic offers better grip and durability, but costs more.
Conclusion
Choosing the right disc can make a huge difference in your enjoyment of disc golf, especially when you’re just starting out. The discs I’ve highlighted here are all beginner-friendly and designed to help you learn the fundamentals of the game. Remember to focus on developing a smooth throwing technique, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different discs to find what works best for you. Most of all, have fun out there on the course!
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