Spin (also called rotation) has little influence on aerodynamics (drag and lift forces), but it does significantly impact a disc’s flight characteristics. A disc thrown with little spin tends to wobble or flutter during flight, while a disc throw with considerable spin will exhibit a more stable, predictable flight pattern.
What is a flight rating on a golf disc?
FLIGHT RATINGS - Each of Innova's disc golf discs has a distinct "personality" - the flight characteristics that make the golf disc unique. These Flight Characteristics describe a disc's Speed, Glide, High Speed Turn, and Low Speed Fade.
What are the flight characteristics of a disc?
These Flight Characteristics describe a disc's Speed, Glide, High Speed Turn, and Low Speed Fade. Each category is given a numeric Rating. Once you have thrown one disc model, you can use these flight rating numbers to compare it to any other disc model.
What are flight characteristics and flight ratings?
These Flight Characteristics describe a disc's Speed, Glide, High Speed Turn, and Low Speed Fade. Each category is given a numeric Rating. Once you have thrown one disc model, you can use these flight rating numbers to compare it to any other disc model. Flight ratings are based on a right handed backhand throw (RHBH).
What do the numbers on a disc golf disc mean?
The Disc Golf flight numbers are what determine the disc’s flight path, a crucial component of having an accurate throw and improving as a disc golfer. What Are the Numbers on a Disc Golf Disc?
What makes a disc fly far?
8:4411:29Physics of Flight 2.01: Shot Shapes | Disc Golf Instructional VideoYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's going to fight out and flex back to the left. Now this feels like it's going far becauseMoreSo it's going to fight out and flex back to the left. Now this feels like it's going far because it's spending. So much time in the air flexing. But because an overstable disc to have so much fade.
What type of disc golf disc flies the farthest?
The 17 Best Disc Golf Distance DriversInnova Boss – 13, 5, -2, 3.Discraft Zeus – 12, 5, -1, 3.Innova Destroyer – 12, 5, -1, 3.Dynamic Discs Sheriff – 13, 5, -1, 2.Infinite Discs Pharaoh – 13, 6, -1, 2.Innova Wraith – 11, 5, -1, 3.Legacy Cannon – 14, 5, -3, 3.Innova Shryke – 13, 6, -2, 2.More items...
How are disc flight numbers determined?
A measurement of the disc's aerodynamics. Faster discs with higher speed numbers have a larger rim and a sharper nose to allow the disc to move faster and further if you have the arm speed to keep it in the air. This number is generally based on the rim size and scales from 1 to 14.
What makes a good golf disc?
Durability. All golf discs are made of plastic and should prove fairly durable. The least expensive discs are typically made of basic plastics, which offer good grip but can wear quickly or take on nicks and scratches.
Do heavier discs fly farther?
In general, lighter discs fly farther than heavier discs, but heavier discs may fly farther in a headwind due to their greater stability. A safe bet for the average player is to throw discs weighing around 160-165 grams for best distance.
What disc driver flies the straightest?
When it comes to a straight-flying disc golf disc, our #1 pick is definitely the Innova XT Nova. It is, by far, the most popular straight flying disc on the market.
Do Understable discs fly farther?
Understable discs go farther than overstable discs of a similar speed, so an understable mid can encroach on some fairway drivers, and have zero fade.
What is the most stable disc?
The 13 best stable distance driversInfinite Discs Pharaoh (13, 6, -1, 2) ... Innova Shryke (13, 6, -2, 2) ... Discraft Crank (13, 5, -2, 2) ... Dynamic Discs Renegade (11, 5, -2, 3) ... Innova Beast (10, 5, -2, 2) ... Latitude 64 Flow (11, 6, -0.5, 2) ... Westside Discs Sword (12, 5, -0.5, 2) ... MVP Octane (13, 5, -1, 2)More items...
How do you know if a disc is stable?
STABLE – A stable disc has a High Speed Turn number that cancels its fade. For example, a disc with flight numbers 9/5/-2/2 would be considered Stable. A short cut method for determining whether this disc is over or understable is to add the last two numbers in the flight numbers, in this case: -2+2=0.
What weight discs do pros use?
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. But it's not so much the case that pros immediately go to the other end of the spectrum and use 175g gram discs because they go further.
How do I choose the right disc?
How to pick out discs using the flight ratingsSpeed ranges 1 to 14. Speed is just about the single most important factor when looking for disc golf discs. ... Glide ranges 1 to 7. ... Turn ranges 1 to -5. ... Fade ranges from 0 to 5. ... Don't worry about what the pros throw… ... Skip the drivers. ... Weight matters. ... Plastic matters.More items...
Are dynamic discs good?
There are many great disc golf brands out there, but it is widely accepted that Discraft, Innova, Dynamic Discs, Discmania, and Prodigy are amongst the best brands.
What do the numbers on Frisbee discs mean?
These four numbers represent different characteristics of the flight. The four numbers are: speed, glide, turn, fade. For example, let's take the Discmania FD. The FD has flight ratings of 7, 6, -1, 1. That means this disc has a speed rating of 7, glide rating of 6, turn rating of -1, and a fade rating of 1.
What do the numbers mean on a disc golf DIC?
This is essentially how fast the disc must be thrown in order to achieve the flight path as determined by the rest of the numbers. The disc speed number will range from 1 up to 14, with the lowest speeds representing putt and approach discs and the highest-speed discs being maximum distance drivers.
What is the 5th number on a disc?
First you'll see the four digits which equate to speed / glide / turn / fade, followed by a fifth number which is the old-school Discraft flight number. So now players who like one system or the other can have both for easy reference.
What is the discraft flight number?
Discraft flight numbers use an additional stability rating that is unique to Discraft, it is basically a “turn” rating of stability — overstable (+3,+2,+1), stable (0), understable (-1,-2,-3). They also add in decimal points to their stability ratings which is a little different from the other manufacturers.
Why is it important to know the speed of a disc?
Knowing the appropriate speed of your disc is important before it determines how fast it reaches the desired destination. It also affects the stability of the disc, making sure the disc does not deviate some other way.
What is a mid range disc?
Mid-ranges are the substitutes for drivers who the beginners, but they just don’t cover that much ground. They are similarly built; however, mid-range discs are much lighter then drivers. Hence, they require lesser strength and technique, which makes them so suitable for beginners.
Why is stability important in golf?
The stability of the discs is of utmost importance because it lays how good your throw will be. A disc can be under stable, where the disc will lend to the right, or overstable, where the disc will lend to the left.
What is a putter disc?
They are discs of a much simpler design, like a frisbee, and they are mainly used for short-range throwing. Beginners are advised to experiment with putters when they just start off to understand the basics of the game.
What does it mean to be aerodynamic?
This refers to the shape of the disc. Being aerodynamic means to design the disc in such a way so that it reduces drag force or any other force opposing the motion.
Can you throw a disc?
There are many ways you can throw a disc. However, there is no strict rule for throwing. It mainly depends on your comfort level and techniques. Some of the well-known throws are named below.
Does wind affect disc golf?
Wind can play a massive role in disrupting the motion of your discs. It may alter the speed and direction of the disc altogether. So, it is better to check the weather before you plan on spending the day playing disc golf.
What is glide disc?
Glide describes the discs ability to maintain loft during flight. Discs with more glide are best for new players, and for producing maximum distance. Beginners wanting more distance should choose discs with more glide. Discs with less glide are more accurate in high wind situations.
What is the speed of a disc?
Speed is the rate at which a disc can travel through the air. Speed 14 Distance Drivers are the fastest, having the PDGA maximum legal wing width. Faster discs cut into the wind with less effort and are best when throwing up wind. Slower discs take more power to throw upwind, but they’re easier to throw more accurately and may actually go farther downwind. High speed discs are not recommended for beginners as they require more power to fly properly.
What is the difference between stable and overstable discs?
Stability is a description of the disc’s flight path. Understable means a flight that turns right (RHBH throw). Stable is a flight that doesn’t turn. Over stable refers to a flight that turns left (RHBH throw). Spike/Spike Hyzer is a shot that lands almost vertically and doesn’t skip.
What is low speed fade?
Low Speed Fade is the discs tendency to hook left (for RHBH throws) at the end of the flight. Fade is rated from 0 to 5. A disc rated 0 will finish straightest, while a disc rated 5 will hook hard at the end of the flight. High fade discs are usually used for Spike and Skip shots.
What Are the Numbers on a Disc Golf Disc?
The four numbers on a disc golf disc were created as a flight rating system which represents the intended path of a disc golf disc as it flies through the air. The four numbers correspond to the following characteristics: speed, glide, turn, and fade.
History of Disc Golf Flight Numbers
Disc golf flight numbers haven’t actually been around as long as people think. The game of disc golf has been around since as far back as the 1970’s (not very long when compared to other sports), but the flight number rating system that is now universally accepted by most companies has only been in place since around 2009.
How Flight Numbers Are Determined
An important note to make is that disc golf manufacturers do not use an industry standardized scale for speed. This means that a 12 speed from one brand, may not necessarily fly the same as a 12 speed from another brand. However, one brands 12 speed disc, will always fly faster than the same brand’s 11 speed disc.
How The Weight of a Disc Affects Flight Path
Theo Pozzy conducted a study in the year 2000 which examined the relationship between many factors and the distance that a disc golf disc will fly. some of the key measurable data included player level, disc mold / brand, disc weight, and release velocity.
Other Flight Rating Systems
Disc Craft has used a single number rating system for years on their discs, and even though they have adopted the widely accepted 4 number rating system, they still include their single number on most of their discs.
Final Thoughts
The flight numbers on a disc golf disc are important to your game, and will influence the flight path of every disc. However, it is important to note that the numbers are only accurate when technique is perfect.
Which is more speed sensitive, a stable or overstable disc?
Understable discs are much more speed sensitive than stable or overstable discs. Understable discs thrown with more zing will curve more to the right than discs thrown with less zing. Therefore an understable disc will often fly stable to overstable at low speed.
What is the difference between glide and glide?
Slower discs with lower numbers offer better distance control, take more power to throw far, and have less chance to fly past the target. Glide describes the ability of a disc to maintain loft during flight . Ratings are from 1-7 with 7 having the most glide.
What is a hyzer disc?
Hyzer is the angle of release where the outside edge or left edge of the disc is tilted downward for a right hand back hand (RHBH) thrower. A disc throw with hyzer will turn left more quickly than one thrown flat. If you are trying to get your disc to go sharper to the left, throw it with more hyzer (RHBH).
Is the DX more overstable than the Pro?
DX will start more overstable and with use will match the ratings. With continued use, the DX will eventually become more understable than the ratings. For more info on plastics, see Plastics Comparison.
How to become a better disc golfer?
By spending a good amount of time practicing on your own and studying the numbers, you will become a more confident and intuitive player in no time. When you start out in disc golf, the rule of thumb to live by is lower numbers.
How many discs can a disc golf bag hold?
Some serious players will have bags that hold 20 or more discs, meaning they are prepared for absolutely any scenario. There are tons of great choices for disc golf bags (trust us: you want to buy a bag specific to disc golf to stay organized during play).
What is the difference between a disc and a frisbee?
Disc golf dics are smaller and denser than frisbees. Frisbees can be around 12 inches in diameter, whereas a disc will be 8 inches. Another important reason to distinguish between the two is the numbers representing flight patterns.
How does fade play out?
How your fade plays out will be heavily affected by the disc flight speed. Optimal speed means a smooth flight with a hook at the end. When you do not achieve optimal speed—as is the case for many beginners—that disc will take a quick left hook into the ground.
How does a disc stay aloft?
A disc stays aloft initially when it is thrown. The higher the disc’s glide, the further it will travel. The factor that influences glide more than any other is the shape of the disc. This shape is what air passes over and under when the disc is in flight. In addition to shape, the glide is affected by the player.
What happens if you throw a disc at an angle?
If you choose to throw the disc at an angle where the wind is under the disc, it will achieve more glide. If there is more air across the top of the disc, it will have less glide. Less glide is also inevitably going to mean less distance.
What are the numbers on a disc?
For stable discs, look for a set of numbers close to these: 1 Speed 9 2 Glide 4 3 Turn -2 4 Fade 2
Why is the Leopard a good disc?
The Leopard should be everyone’s first fairway driver because it has excellent glide and is easy to throw straight and far. The Leopard is a great turnover disc for players of all skill levels. More experienced players can use the Leopard for throwing distance stretching “Hyzer Flip” shots.
What is a Cobra disc?
The Cobra is a predictable mid-range large diameter disc that is easy to grip. It is very beginner friendly with a long and useful lifespan. The Cobra is a great disc choice for long, slow turning shots and rollers. The thin rim is great for smaller hands and creates a clean predictable release.
What is a Makani disc?
The Makani is designed to ride the breeze and land where you throw it. The Makani will make you better at throwing flying discs in general. This all around sport disc has high glide and very straight, clean flight dynamics. The Makani is perfect for fun casual play, backyard games, catch, Ultimate, and even disc golf.
What is a Daedalus driver?
The Daedalus is a maximum downwind distance driver crafted for less powerful players. The disc will double as a long distance roller for more advanced players. GStar is known for grippy, flexy discs that perform well all year, but they really show their quality in the cold and wet weather. Close.
What is a sidewinder disc?
The Sidewinder is a fast flyer with a predictable high speed turn and lots of glide. This disc can add distance to anyone’s drive, but is especially useful for those with less power. The Sidewinder is our best disc for long turnover shots and long distance rollers.
What is Champion line disc?
Champion line discs are usually a little firmer and more stable than the same model in other plastics. Whether used in heavily wooded situations, or on extremely rugged courses, our Champion line plastic will continue to perform predictably and avoid damage better than any other plastic. Close. Champion Wraith.
What is a Panther disc?
The Panther is a slightly understable mid-range disc with a shallow rim. Players of all abilities can use it for throwing medium and short range shots. The Panther is a perfect disc for those learning to throw a slow controlled turnover shot. The Panther makes a great small diameter roller for mid to long range shots.
Force, Vectors and Moments
- A force is any influence that causes an object to start, stop, speed up, slow down, or change direction. A force has both magnitude and direction, making it a vectorquantity… Torque (also called rotary force) is the turning effect produced by force. The moment of a force is the measur…
Velocity
- Most people use the terms velocityand speedinterchangeably, but they are mechanically different. Speed is simply the rate of motion. Velocity indicates both magnitude and orientation (direction) and is represented by a vector… As a disc flies, both the magnitude and orientation are constantly changing. After all, as a disc slows down it also rises and falls. This all affects the relative veloci…
Aerodynamic Forces
- The two main aerodynamic forces that act on a flying disc are drag and lift. In essence, flying discs behave much like an airplane wing does. As a disc flies, air molecules exert pressure on it. This pressure, called the dynamic fluid force, is proportional to the air density, the surface area of the disc, and the square of the relative velocity of the disc to the air. So, if the relative velocity do…
Angles
- Pitch angle(also called the angle of attack) is a disc’s back-to-front tilt relative to its direction of flight. Pitch angle is an important variable because it is dictated by the thrower (initially) and because it significantly affects drag, lift, and other forces. The optimal pitch angle depends on the style of throw and type of disc, but nearly flat is a good reference point. A disc golfer releases th…
Choosing The Best Disc
- Understanding the science of flight and what the flight numbers mean can help you quite a bit when choosing the best disc golf discs for your game. As you get better, you’ll be able to impart more velocity and spin, and you’ll have more control over your angles. Then, it’s a matter of matching the right discs with the right throws for every type of shot you’ll need on the disc golf c…