Simply put, yes, the weight of your disc golf disc matters and can significantly affect the flight of your golf disc. On the most basic level, lighter discs take less effort to throw than heavy discs and as a result are often more accurate.
How much does a disc golf weigh?
There are a few other weight specifications for approved golf discs, but those details are beyond the scope of this article. Most discs weigh between 160 and 180 grams but there are some that weigh more or less which usually have specific purposes. A special designation of 150 Class is given to discs below 160 grams.
What is the best disc golf for beginners?
What are the 17 best disc golf starter sets for beginners?
- Innova DX standard starter set. The DX starter set is legendary. ...
- Dynamic Discs Prime Burst starter set. I love the Dynamic Discs Burst starter set because of the great selection of discs in it. ...
- Discraft DSSB starter set. ...
- Innova DX starter set by Driven Disc Golf. ...
- Axion starter set. ...
- MVP Premium starter set. ...
- Latitude 64 starter set. ...
What are some good basic starting discs for disc golf?
Let’s check out the three different types of discs:
- Driver: this is the disc you will almost always use first for your tee shot. These discs are meant mostly for speed and distance.
- Mid-range: this disc is used mainly for approach shots close to the basket and for tee shots when the basket isn’t too far away. ...
- Putter: putters are meant to travel short distances as accurately as possible. ...
How much does an ultimate frisbee disc weigh?
Ultimate Frisbee® Disc
- Meets the specifications for the sport of Ultimate
- UPA approved - 175 grams and 10 1/2" diameter
- Colors and graphics may vary
How much difference does weight make in disc golf?
A 20-gram difference between a 175-gram disc (max weight) and a 155-gram disc (lightweight) isn't massive when you consider what a gram actually weighs. However, it can make a significant difference in flight characteristics in a disc that's designed for disc golf.
Are heavier discs better?
Lightweight discs are usually recommended for kids, women and beginner-level players, who tend to have slower arm speed. But if you are an experienced player, you should look for heavier discs because they tend to have better stability and the tendency to maintain the desired flight path.
Do heavier discs fly farther?
A little easier to get out there, but not as much control and even less control in wind. ALL else being equal, lighter discs will go farther than heavier discs.
Why do pros throw max weight discs?
Pros will typically use heavier discs in the mid-section to improve their disc golf, not because they have access to different weights of disc, but because they have the expertise to use the heavier weights to their own game advantage.
Do I want a heavier or lighter disc?
On the most basic level, lighter discs take less effort to throw than heavy discs and as a result are often more accurate. However, light weight discs are also generally affected by wind more than heavy discs so you may find heavier discs can maintain a consistent path more effectively in windy weather.
Should I throw lighter weight discs?
Beginners should almost always use light to mid weight drivers when throwing for distance. As a beginner, you'll get better glide out a lighter disc because you aren't able to put as much arm speed into the throw as someone with more experience.
What disc weight is for me?
The most common weight classes are Lite, 150-159, 160-164,165-169, 170-172, 173-175, 176-177 and 178+ grams. Light discs, 150-159 grams, are the most suitable for beginners, kids, and in general to players who throw under 100 meters long shots.
How does weight affect disc stability?
2:123:03Does weight affect the stability of the disc? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's not a tried-and-true rule that lighter discs are less over stable that's that can be theMoreSo it's not a tried-and-true rule that lighter discs are less over stable that's that can be the case in if it's the if they're disks made at the exact same time same plastic.
How does disc weight affect flight?
A lighter disc will spin easier and can therefore have HSS for longer. High Speed Stability is the tendency for the disc to pull left (rhbh) early in the flight while speed and rotation are high. Generally, lighter discs tend to have lower high speed stability. But then again if it is heavier it will fall faster.
What weight disc does Paul Mcbeth use?
Please note: Disc colors and stamp will vary, weight range 160-175.1g.
Does putter weight matter disc golf?
It doesnt matter, but a lightweight can get squirrely. Anything above 165 that's comfy .
What speed disc should I throw?
Disc golf throws generally fall into three categories and recommended disc speeds: Putts usually use low speed discs to maximize accuracy. Approaches and midrange shots usually use medium speed discs to balance speed and accuracy. Drives usually use higher speed discs to maximize distance.
How does weight affect disc stability?
2:123:03Does weight affect the stability of the disc? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's not a tried-and-true rule that lighter discs are less over stable that's that can be theMoreSo it's not a tried-and-true rule that lighter discs are less over stable that's that can be the case in if it's the if they're disks made at the exact same time same plastic.
What is the best weight for a Frisbee?
The standard weight of an ultimate disc is 175 grams, or just over 6 ounces. There are heavier discs for windy days that come in at 200 grams, or a hair over 7 ounces. Most days you'll be fine with 175, and if you plan to play in a league, you'll want to be comfortable with a 175-gram disc.
What weight disc should I be throwing?
Light discs, 150-159 grams, are the most suitable for beginners, kids, and in general to players who throw under 100 meters long shots. The light weight of a discs really shines in low speeds, or when thrown downwind and/or uphill.
What weight should my putter be disc golf?
Recommended Disc WeightAgeDisc TypeDisc Weight7-9Putters, Mid-ranges, Drivers< 150g10-14Putters, Mid-ranges, Drivers150-160g15-18Putters, Mid-ranges, Drivers160-175g18+Putters, Mid-ranges, Drivers165-180g
Why is the weight limit on discs 175 gram?
Physics will tell you that a max weight disc will fly farther as it cuts through the air easier. Increased mass leads will sustain more spin and maintain maximum velocity, and that should (in theory) make the discs travel longer distances. There are reasons why the PDGA puts a 175-gram weight limit on drivers for competitive play. However, if you are not able to get the disc up to full speed, it may hyzer out on you earlier and you will lose distance.
What makes a disc more stable?
A tailwind is going to make the disc more stable and will enhance glide if thrown at a proper angle. A headwind will make the disc less stable. Faster speeds and heavier weights help fight the wind better along with a more overstable mold like a Champion Firebird.
What discs are best for disc golf?
Lighter discs are usually best for beginner players and young disc golfers, as well as those players who impart less power behind their throws (whether by choice or by physical ability). Those who throw harder and faster—looking for max distance with max effort—will generally prefer heavier discs.
What happens if you throw a disc too hard?
Then there is the other side of the coin. If you throw a lightweight disc too hard, it may flip over too much or stall out if released at a poor angle. In this case, you also lose potential distance along with control. Let’s exaggerate this concept by imagining you are throwing a standard porcelain dinner plate compared to a disposable plastic or paper plate you’d use at a picnic. The dinner plate will give you more control and dependable flight with a stable finish (followed by an explosion of porcelain), whereas the paper plate will give you much less control. However, if thrown just perfectly in the right conditions, you just might get more distance out of it. These are extreme examples because neither are designed to be thrown like disc golf discs, but you get the idea.
What is the difference between paper and dinner plate?
The dinner plate will give you more control and dependable flight with a stable finish (followed by an explosion of porcelain), whereas the paper plate will give you much less control. However, if thrown just perfectly in the right conditions, you just might get more distance out of it.
Should you lean toward max weight discs?
Some players will swear by lightweight discs while others will say that you should always lean toward max weight discs. The truth is, the weight of a disc can make a significant difference depending on the player and their personal preferences. In future DGU Blog articles, we will be talking more about disc speeds and overall flight numbers, ...
Is wind a factor in DGU?
Wind can also be a factor (another topic we will be covering a lot on the DGU Blog). Some players will reach for lighter-weight, understable discs with a lot of glide in a tailwind, while sticking with heavier, overstable discs in a headwind. Again, this choice boils down to simple physics.
How important is a disc golf frisbee?
Some Final Words. Getting the right disc golf frisbee is as important as getting the right golf clubs for real golf. Each one influences your game, and where the disc lands. To make sure you are getting the best disc for you, make sure you know your playing level.
How big is a disc golf ball?
You have slight differences between different manufacturers. Here are the general dimensions of a good golf disc: Diameter - this ranges between 8 to 8 1/2 inches in size.
What are disc golf discs made of?
Tip #2: most disc golf disc are made out of plastic or plastic blends. The quality of the construction material will influence the flight of the disc. Go with the better construction materials to have better flight time and distance.
How to choose disc golf discs?
You need the right disc golf discs to navigate a disc golf course successfully. How to Choose Disc Golf Weight: One of the key ways in choosing the right disc golf disc for you is to know your level of play . Different discs are designed for beginners, intermediates and for advanced players. You need to find the right disc to match your level ...
Why use a lighter disc?
Now if you are a beginner, have slow arm speed or a youth, you may prefer to use a lighter disc. The lack of weight may be what you need to make sure you get the distance you are looking for.
Do lightweight discs turn over?
The second piece of information you should know is that lightweight discs are not as stable as you may want them to be. They have a habit of turning over and possibly shortening your distance. A heavier disc is a lot more stable and does not turn over like the lighter models.
Is it harder to throw a heavier disc?
A heavier disc may be harder to throw and a beginner, etc., may not have developed the control and power needed to handle those weighted models. In the end the disc you use may be the one you are most comfortable with and that can be either a lightweight one or a heavier model.
How many grams should a disc be for a golf putter?
Newer players may prefer a disc in the 170-172 gram range since it can be thrown farther, but it is more sensitive to windy conditions. For throwing putters, I would go with one that comes in around 172 grams to get the best control and distance possible.
How much does a disc golf disc weigh?
Legal Disc Golf Weight – According to the PDGA Guidelines, a legal disc golf disc must not exceed a maximum weight of 200 grams. Besides the legal weight, there are common weights that each type of disc will be. For putters, mid-ranges, and drivers, the majority of discs will fall between 165-175 grams. Most disc golf brands offer ...
Why are drivers at least 165 grams?
Most drivers are at least 165 grams because of their ability to be thrown accurately in most conditions on a course. Discs that are lighter than 165 grams might struggle with headwinds or tailwinds and won’t get the maximum distance that you’re aiming for.
Where is the weight on a disc?
For most discs, the weight is located and written on the bottom of the disc. Sometimes we have discs with no given weight or it’s been worn down from use and time. If that’s the case it can be slightly frustrating not knowing the weight of the disc you’re throwing.
Can you throw a lighter disc farther?
A lighter disc can often be thrown farther especially for newer players, but it comes at the cost of stability and control. Throwing max weight discs required more technical form and overall strength to shape your shot and control the disc.
What is the lightest disc in golf?
150 class. A disc that weighs 150 grams or below falls under this category. These are the lightest golf discs available. It can be used to cross a long distance. These are also easy to throw. So for younger players or the beginners, these discs can be a good option.
Why do people use heavy discs in games?
Once a player knows the basics, he or she can start using heavy-discs to develop skills . Lightweight discs are easy to throw and easy to control.
What is overstable disc golf?
Overstable refers to a flight that turns left. Finding the middle ground is what a lot of people look for, especially when you are just staring. Many of the pro golfers ignore lightweight discs. That is fine for pros, but you will want to start with lighter discs such as 166 grams.
How much does a putter weigh?
Max weight for a putter is usually between 174, 176 grams. 170-172 grams and 173-175 grams do fall under the category of appropriate weight classes for putters for most players. Light putters would be a good option for young players.
What are the different types of discs?
There are three categories of discs, including putters, mid-range discs and drivers. You have to select them for different purposes, and many of the features will differ based on the type you are choosing.
Which disc is more comfortable to throw?
Disc with more turn is more comfortable to throw for the beginners. As lighter disc usually achieve more turns, choose one of them. You have to play on the field to understand it because the experience is something that can provide better knowledge about disc golf weight for beginners.
Does a heavier disc spin easier?
Spin. Comparing to a disc that is light in weight, heavy disc requires more strength to get the same spin. Being a beginner, you probably will not have the snap to throw a heavier one. A lighter one will spin easier with the same amount of power.
Drivers
Drivers start at around 150 grams, but beginners tend to go for something in the range of 165-169 grams because they’re easy to get good results with.
Mid-range
Perhaps perversely, this is where you’ll find the most difference between beginners and pros. It’s also here that you’ll find pros using the heavier weights in their collection. When it comes to mid-range play, pros will regularly pull discs above 175 grams to give them both distance and control.
Putters
Ironically, when it comes to finally “sinking” the disc into the basket, the difference recedes again, with anything over 170 grams being an appropriate choice for most players, from beginners to pros. There’s a logic there, in that by the time you’re pulling a putter disc, the task ahead of you is pretty similar, irrespective of your level.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi, everyone! My name is James, and I love sharing what I’ve learned about disc golf. It struck me as odd that such an amazing sport could be overlooked by so many people. To help spread the joys of disc golf and to provide some useful tips for improvement, I created the Disc Golf Mentor website. Thanks for stopping by!
Legal disc golf weights
Picking discs for the course or weather you’re playing in can give you an advantage over your fellow competitors. To try and stop discs which aren’t in the spirit of the sport and abuse the rules of the sport the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has laid down some standard rules for discs.
What weight discs do pros use?
Many people assume that the pros use different discs to the rest of us, or that somehow their equipment is better. The truth is that most pro players use discs on the open market.
Do heavier disc fly farther?
Many folks claim that heavier discs fly further because they feel solid in their hands, seems sensible?
How do I know if my disc is overstable or understable?
If you’ve been around disc golf players long enough, you’ve probably heard someone passing judgement on another players disc
When should you throw an understable disc?
So why would you throw an understable or overstable disc when you could just throw a stable disc?
Why is disc golf so easy?
One disc allows the new player to focus on throwing technique, disc angles, and repetition which accelerates the learning curve. One disc is also easier for kids to keep track of when playing a course or in the classroom. Equipment responsibility is part of the game.
How many discs are needed for disc golf?
The beauty of disc golf is that it only takes one disc to play. One disc is recommended in the classroom when first introducing disc golf. It makes it easy to teach and for the group or individual to learn. Implementing different discs too soon will work against the group, individual, and instructor.
What is the difference between a golf disc and a Frisbee?
When compared to a Frisbee, a golf disc travels faster and farther which may make it more difficult to control.
What is the most popular technique in disc golf?
The most popular throwing technique in disc golf is the backhand throw. The backhand is what most people think of when they think of throwing a Frisbee.
How many people play disc golf?
The PDGA annually presents four separate world championship: Professional, Professional Masters, Amateur and Juniors. It is been estimated that 8 to 12 million Americans have played disc golf and that over half a million play regularly. The majority of these players participate at the amateur and recreational level.
How much has disc golf increased in popularity?
Disc golf has steadily increased in membership popularity by 15 percent over the last seven years. The game of disc golf has a 72 percent course growth rate, and tournament play has increased by 90 percent. These stats translate to an all-time high for disc selection and courses to play.
What is a mid range disc?
These have a slightly sharper edge than putters and are used for controlled shots that require more speed and distance than can be achieved with a putter. Mid-range disc offers the most versatility when teaching a class or just starting out with one disc.
