For beginners in disc golf, fairway drivers with disc speeds of 6 to 7 are highly recommended. These discs offer a balance of distance and control, making them ideal for developing proper throwing technique without requiring excessive arm speed.
Understanding Disc Speed
Disc speed is one of four primary flight numbers printed on disc golf discs, indicating how fast a disc needs to be thrown to achieve its intended flight path. The speed rating typically ranges from 1 to 14.
- Lower Speed Numbers (1-5): These are usually putters and mid-range discs, designed for shorter, more controlled throws.
- Mid-Range Speed Numbers (6-7): This range includes fairway drivers, which are designed to fly straighter and farther than putters or mid-range discs, but are still manageable for players with moderate arm speeds.
- Higher Speed Numbers (8-14): These are typically distance drivers, built for maximum distance. However, they demand a very high arm speed to fly as intended. If a beginner throws a high-speed disc without enough power, it will often "hyzer out" (fade hard left for right-hand backhand throwers) prematurely, leading to significantly reduced distance and unpredictable flights.
Why Speed 6-7 is Ideal for New Players
Fairway drivers in the 6-7 speed range are considered appropriate for beginners for several key reasons:
- Controlled Flight: Unlike high-speed distance drivers, fairway drivers are more forgiving. They don't require immense power to achieve a relatively straight flight, allowing beginners to focus on form.
- Good Distance Potential: While not the fastest discs, they can still travel a respectable distance for new players, providing a satisfying experience on the course.
- Learning Tool: Using discs with appropriate speeds helps beginners learn the fundamentals of throwing, including proper release angles and follow-through, without fighting the disc.
Beyond Speed: Other Important Flight Numbers
While speed is crucial for beginners, it's part of a larger set of flight numbers that describe a disc's characteristics. Understanding these can further aid in disc selection:
- Glide: This number describes a disc's ability to maintain loft during flight. A higher glide rating (e.g., 5 or 6) means the disc will stay in the air longer with less effort, which can be beneficial for beginners seeking more distance.
- Turn: This indicates how much a disc will turn to the right (for right-hand backhand throws) during the initial high-speed part of its flight. A negative turn number (e.g., -1 or -2) suggests the disc will "turn over" more easily, which can help beginners achieve straighter flights or even an anhyzer flex shot with less power.
- Fade: This number describes how much a disc will hook to the left (for right-hand backhand throws) at the end of its flight. A lower fade number (e.g., 0 or 1) means the disc finishes straighter, while a higher number indicates a stronger fade.
For beginners, discs with moderate glide, some turn, and a lower fade are generally more forgiving and easier to control.
Practical Tips for Beginners
- Start Simple: Begin with a few fairway drivers (speed 6-7), a mid-range, and a putter. Don't overwhelm yourself with too many disc types.
- Focus on Form, Not Force: Prioritize smooth, controlled throws over trying to generate maximum power. Good form will naturally lead to more distance over time.
- Experiment: As you gain experience, you can gradually try discs with slightly higher speeds, but always assess if your arm speed is truly ready for them.
- Consider Disc Weight: Lighter discs can be easier for beginners to throw with proper speed and control.
To learn more about how disc flight numbers influence a disc's trajectory, you can explore resources on disc golf disc flight numbers.
Recommended Disc Speeds for Beginners
Here's a quick guide to disc speeds and their suitability for new players:
| Disc Type | Speed Range | Suitability for Beginners | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Putter | 1-3 | Excellent | Designed for short, accurate throws into the basket. Excellent for approach shots and putting. |
| Mid-Range | 4-5 | Excellent | Versatile discs for control shots and medium distances. Good for learning control and line shaping. |
| Fairway Driver | 6-7 | Ideal | The best starting point for achieving meaningful distance while maintaining control. Allows for skill development. |
| Distance Driver | 8-14 | Not Recommended | Requires very high arm speed to fly as intended. Will typically "hyzer out" prematurely for beginners, leading to poor distance and frustrating results. Should be avoided until significant progress is made. |
By choosing discs within the 6-7 speed range, beginners can lay a strong foundation for their disc golf journey, enjoying more consistent and successful throws as they learn the game.
