I’m new to disc golf

It can be tempting to want to try a variety of discs, including high speed ones.  But until you develop a feel for throwing disc golf discs, it is better to focus on learning two or three.  Innova’s DX 3 Pack Starter Set is available here on our site.  Additional great options for new players include Aviar, Polecat, Stingray, Shark, Leopard, and Eagle.

Some of the best disc golf discs for children are discs weighing between 135 grams to 150 grams. Some kids are amazing and can throw all sorts of speeds, but as a rule they will want to throw lighter discs. Putters are a safe option to start them out on because the high glide will get them distance and won't punish them for lack of speed. Great starter puttes would include the Innova Birdie and Polecat in the DX Plastic. You can read more about the why it's fine to us a lightweight disc.

A driver is used for teeing off and long fairway drives.  Midrange discs are for the shots that fall between the drives and putts.  A putt and approach disc for just that – putting, and if needed – approaching.  New players have options; they can start with just one multipurpose disc or a small set, typically consisting of a driver or two, a midrange, and a putter.  Many established players will carry a variety of discs in the three primary categories for a range of driving, approaching, and putting situations.

A new player seeking a midrange with a reliable flightpath may like the Shark, Mako3, Atlas, and Wombat.

Predictably straight flying putters such as the Polecat, Birdie, Dart , and Nova are suggested for beginners, as well as the Aviar.

The weight in grams is typically shown on the underside of each disc golf disc.  The abbreviation of the disc model could also be indicated. 

For most new players, DX plastic is the best choice.  Not only is it the least expensive plastic, as it wears it becomes easier to throw.  If you’re looking for a disc that will maintain the aspects of its flight longer, try Star, GStar, or Champion plastics. As you progress as a player, you'll want these for drivers, they tend to hit the trees at a higher speed than other discs and may take small chunks out as you get better.  Each blend offers its own advantage in different situations.  Our website has an in-depth Plastic Types Overview for info on each line’s advantages and drawbacks.

What are the different skill Levels?

Beginners are the less serious players that head out to the disc golf course for recreation, often using a small bag of discs or holding them in their hands.  Many players in this category have developed their own technique, but could still benefit from a few tips and some practice.  While recreational players can play a hole or two like a more advanced player, they are still learning the basics and often lack control and consistency.  The throws of most beginners lack the ‘snap’ of a pro’s throw and normally travel less than 250 feet. Putting is hit or miss. Many folks fall into this category.

Intermediate players have graduated from the beginner/recreational level and will often play in a local league, possibly nearing par in local tourney rounds. Disc golfers at this level usually have a small number of throws that they know will work in certain circumstances, but they haven’t mastered technique.  Though some play with a degree of accuracy, it is still developing for most in this group.  They continue to polish their putt and approach skills.  Intermediate players typically throw over 250 feet, maxing out at around 400 feet. 

Disc golfers in this group regularly drive over 350 feet and are frequently found playing in organized tournaments. The typical advanced disc golfer owns many, many discs, and carries about 15 in their bag during any given round.  Some advanced golfers aspire to reach the professional level; some are happy to test their skills in local tournaments on the advanced card.

This is the smallest group of disc golfers – where many of us would like to be but few are.  These players are capable of throws exceeding 500 feet, and consistent throws over 400 feet or more are just one of the skills they’ve mastered, which also include speed, snap, Hyzer shots and putting.  Professional or ‘Open’ players are able to direct a disc to turn and fade at the exact moment any hole requires.