Posted on

What Makes A Disc Overstable?

what makes a disc overstable No ratings yet.

If you’ve ever heard players talk about an “overstable disc” and wondered what that means, you’re not alone. Stability is one of the most important parts of disc golf flight, and understanding what makes a disc overstable can help you choose the right disc for your bag.

What Does Stability Mean in Disc Golf?

Stability describes how a disc flies once it leaves your hand. For a right-handed backhand thrower (RHBH):

  • Stable discs fly mostly straight.
  • Overstable discs fade left earlier and more consistently.
  • Understable discs tend to drift right before fading back.

Every player’s arm speed and throwing style can influence how stable a disc feels, but flight ratings give a useful starting point.

What Is “Turn” in Disc Golf?

Turn is the third number on a disc’s flight rating. It shows how much a disc tends to drift right (for RHBH throws) at high speeds:

  • +1 = Very overstable, resists turning over
  • 0 = Neutral or stable
  • -1 to -5 = Understable, with more high-speed turn

What Does Overstable Mean?

An overstable disc resists turning and finishes with a strong, reliable fade. These discs are designed to handle power without flipping over, making them trustworthy in the wind and on shots that require precision.

What Physical Features Make a Disc Overstable?

Several design factors affect whether a disc is overstable:

  • Rim width: Wide-rimmed drivers tend to be more overstable.
  • Dome vs. flat: Flatter discs are usually more overstable, while domey discs often glide more and feel less stable.
  • Beads: Putters and mids with a bead often fly more overstable.
  • Parting line height: As Innova founder Dave Dunipace explains, discs with a higher parting line (the separation line on the nose) are more overstable, while lower lines indicate more understability.

Which Plastics Are More Overstable?

The plastic blend you choose can make a big difference in stability. For Innova discs, the general order from most to least overstable is:

  • Champion / Metal Flake
  • Star
  • XT
  • DX and Blizzard

Durability also matters. More durable plastics like Champion stay overstable longer, while baseline plastics like DX beat in quickly and become more understable over time.

When Should You Use an Overstable Disc?

Overstable discs are useful for many types of controlled shots:

  • Spike hyzers: Steep angles with a guaranteed fade finish.
  • Skip shots: Reliable ground play that skips toward the target.
  • Windy rounds: Overstable discs handle headwinds better than understable discs.
  • Forehand throws: Extra torque resistance makes them dependable for sidearms.

They’re especially valuable for advanced players with higher arm speeds, since these players can throw with more power without flipping the disc over.

Great Overstable Discs to Try

If you’re looking to add an overstable disc to your bag, here are a few proven options:

Innova Destroyer – A go-to overstable distance driver trusted by many pros.

Discraft Zone – A popular overstable putter for approach shots and forehands.

Innova Firebird – Known for its reliable fade, ideal for forehands and wind.

Innova Wraith – A distance driver with glide, accuracy, and stable control that works well for both forehand and backhand players.

Axiom Envy – Famous for the “holy shot” at Worlds, the Envy is one of the best throwing putters ever, handling both power and touch shots.

Envy

Infinite Discs Emperor – A commanding overstable driver with great glide, trusted by many Infinite-sponsored players.

Final Thoughts

To recap, overstable discs resist turning, fade more reliably, and perform best in high-power throws and windy conditions. Design features like rim width, parting line height, and plastic type all influence stability. If you want a disc that won’t flip on you and delivers consistent finishes, an overstable mold is a smart choice.

 

Review This Disc

Posted on

Are You Committing a Disc Golf Foot Fault?

disc golf foot fault No ratings yet.

Foot faults are one of the most common rules violations in disc golf, especially for newer players. When I first started playing, I didn’t pay much attention to where my feet were when I threw. That changed once I saw professionals getting called for foot faults during tournaments. Understanding this rule can save you strokes and frustration on the course.

Disc golf: The only foot fault I call without shame

What Counts as a Foot Fault?

A foot fault happens when your supporting points (usually your feet) are not in the correct position at the time you release the disc. Depending on whether you’re putting, driving, or throwing from your lie, the exact requirements change. Let’s break it down.

Inside the Circle

When you’re putting from inside the 10-meter circle:

  • You must show balance after the release.
  • You cannot step past your lie until you’ve demonstrated balance.
  • Moving forward too early is a foot fault and results in a penalty stroke.

To avoid this, pause after your putt, set your back foot down, or pick up your mini before moving forward. This demonstrates control. For the official rule, see PDGA Rule 806.01.

Teeing Off

On the tee pad, the rules are clear:

  • At least one foot must be in contact with the teeing area at release.
  • All supporting points must be inside the teeing area when you release the disc.
  • You may step outside the teeing area before or after the release, but not during.

Violating these requirements results in a penalty stroke. Learn more in PDGA Rule 802.04.

Throwing from Your Lie

Most shots come from your lie in the fairway. Here are the basics:

  • At least one supporting point must be in contact with your lie (the rectangle behind your marker).
  • No supporting point can be closer to the basket than the rear edge of your marker disc or mini.
  • Stepping too far forward or throwing with your foot over the marker is a foot fault.

Review PDGA Rule 802.07 for full details.

Defining the Lie

Your lie is the designated area behind where your disc comes to rest. Unless you are on the tee or in a drop zone, the lie is a 20cm wide by 30cm deep rectangle directly behind your disc or mini marker.

Not having a foot in contact with this rectangle during your throw is a foot fault. See PDGA Rule 802.05 for specifics.

Marking Your Lie

You can either leave your disc in place or use a mini marker. If you use a mini:

  • Place it directly in front of your disc, touching the front edge.
  • It must be placed toward the basket, not to the side.

An incorrect marking results in a warning for the first violation and a penalty stroke for repeated violations. Learn more in PDGA Rule 802.06.

Why It Matters

In casual rounds, your friends may not care much about strict rule enforcement. But if you’re preparing for organized play or tournaments, foot faults will cost you strokes. Learning these rules now builds good habits and keeps your scorecard clean.

Final Thoughts

Disc golf is about having fun, but it’s also a sport with rules that make competition fair. Knowing how to avoid foot faults is part of becoming a better player. If you’re new, I recommend carrying a mini marker disc and practicing proper footwork. That way, when tournament time comes, you won’t have to worry about giving away strokes for simple mistakes.

For full details, always refer to the PDGA Official Rules of Disc Golf. It’s the best resource for every rule question you may have.

Review This Disc

Posted on

How To Dye Disc Golf Discs?

how to dye disc golf discs No ratings yet.

One of the best parts of disc golf is making the game your own. Beyond choosing discs that fit your throw, you can also customize them with unique designs. Dyeing discs has become a popular way for players to add personality and flair to their gear. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to dye disc golf discs, step by step, and share a few creative techniques to try.

Easy Double Rainbow Cell Dye - Floetrol Disc Dye Tutorial - #fluidart  #discgolf

Choosing the Right Disc for Dyeing

The best discs to dye are light in color, like white or light gray. These give the dye more contrast and allow colors to pop. Premium plastics tend to hold dye best, including:

  • Innova Star and Champion plastics
  • Discraft Z-Line plastic
  • Other premium blends with durable, smooth surfaces

Baseline plastics don’t always take dye as well and may fade faster with use.

Picking the Right Dye

Not all dyes bond well to disc golf plastics. The most reliable choices are synthetic-friendly dyes like:

  • iDye Poly
  • RIT DyeMore (not regular RIT)
  • Jacquard iDye

These are specifically designed for plastics and produce vibrant, lasting colors.

Essential Materials

Before starting, gather these supplies:

  • A light-colored disc golf disc
  • Stencil paper or a vinyl cutter
  • Adhesive spray
  • Dye and a plastic container
  • Hot water and a stirring stick
  • Gloves and rubbing alcohol
  • Paper towels

Step-by-Step Disc Dyeing Process

Step 1: Prepare the Design

Create your stencil using a vinyl cutter or stencil paper. Spray adhesive on the back and carefully attach it to your disc.

Step 2: Mix the Dye

Put on gloves and mix the dye with hot water according to the package instructions. Stir until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Submerge the Disc

Place the disc in the dye bath, using a spoon or stick to hold it under. Leave it submerged for about 20 minutes, or longer for darker colors.

Step 4: Rinse and Remove Stencil

Rinse the disc under cold water to remove excess dye. Peel off the stencil, and if adhesive remains, use rubbing alcohol to clean it off.

Step 5: Dry and Finish

Pat the disc dry with paper towels. Once it’s fully dry, it’s ready to throw—or to show off.

Other Disc Dyeing Techniques

Dip Dyeing

This method creates a gradient effect by dipping part of the disc into the dye, pulling it out slowly, and repeating until the look is right. It’s simple, but it can be messy, so always wear gloves and work in a ventilated area.

Shaving Cream Method

Spread shaving cream on a tray, add drops of dye, and swirl with a stick to create marbled patterns. Press the disc face into the mixture, leave it to set, then rinse it off. The result is a unique, one-of-a-kind design.

Safety Tips

  • Wear gloves to protect your skin from dye and chemicals.
  • Work in a ventilated space to avoid inhaling fumes.
  • Dispose of dye and materials responsibly.

Final Thoughts

Dyeing discs is a fun, creative way to personalize your gear. Start with a light-colored premium plastic, use the right dye, and try out different techniques. With a little practice, you’ll have discs that not only fly great but also stand out on the course.

If you’re still building your collection, check out our selection of disc golf discs and experiment with dyeing a few of your extras. It’s a great way to combine art with the sport we love.

Review This Disc

Posted on

How Much Do Professional Disc Golfers Make?

how much do pro disc golfers make No ratings yet.

For many disc golfers, the dream is simple—turn your passion into a profession. One of the most direct ways to do that is by going pro. But before you make that leap, it’s natural to ask: how much do professional disc golfers actually make?

Professional Disc Golf Pay Scale

disc golf pay

Professional disc golf earnings can vary widely. Back in 2018, reports estimated the average annual income for a touring pro around $116,000, with the top tier earning well over $200,000. While those numbers can fluctuate year to year, it gives a good idea of the earning potential for elite players.

How Do Professional Disc Golfers Make Money?

A Fitting Finale: Ricky Wysocki, Kristin Tattar Win the DGPT Championship -  Ultiworld Disc Golf

Unlike traditional sports, disc golfers usually combine several income streams to make a living. Here’s where most of their money comes from:

Tournament Winnings

Cash payouts are the most obvious source of income. The bigger the event, the higher the payout. For example, the USDGC (United States Disc Golf Championship) has awarded tens of thousands of dollars to top finishers. Winning a major tournament can make a big difference in a player’s season earnings.

Sponsorships

Major manufacturers like Innova and Discraft sponsor many top pros. Sponsorship deals often include a salary, travel support, and, of course, discs and gear. Sponsored players throw only that company’s products, helping promote their brand on tour.

Signature Discs

Many pros have their name on a signature disc. Every time a disc with their stamp sells, they earn a small royalty. These discs are extremely popular among fans, making them a reliable income source for top players. For example, the Innova Destroyer has featured multiple pro player stamps over the years.

Clinics, Coaching, and Media

Some professionals supplement their income by running clinics, offering private coaching, or producing training materials. Others build audiences on platforms like YouTube—Eagle McMahon’s Eagle’s Vlog is a well-known example. Media appearances and commentary opportunities are also growing as the sport continues to expand.

Launching a Brand

Several pros have started their own disc golf brands or partnered with companies to create custom lines of discs, apparel, or accessories. These ventures can become long-term income streams that last beyond a player’s touring years.

Final Thoughts

Professional disc golf isn’t an easy path, but it’s more possible than ever to make a living on the course. Between tournament winnings, sponsorships, signature discs, and side projects, today’s pros have multiple ways to support themselves while growing the sport. Whether you’re chasing that dream or just curious, it’s exciting to see disc golf evolving into a viable career.

Review This Disc

Posted on

What If The Disc Lands On Top Of The Basket?

what if disc lands on top of basket No ratings yet.

It’s a situation just about every disc golfer has run into: You line up a putt, release it clean, and it flies straight toward the chains… only to land squarely on top of the basket. Now what? Does that count as a made putt?

Let’s clear it up using the official PDGA rulebook and some practical examples so you’ll always know what counts—and what doesn’t.

Does It Count If the Disc Lands on Top?

No—it does not count. According to PDGA Rule 807.B:

“In order to complete a hole with a basket target, the thrower must release the disc and it must enter the target above the top of the tray and below the bottom of the chain support, and come to rest supported by the target.”

If the disc lands on the top of the cage, even if it seems like an amazing shot, it doesn’t meet the entry requirement. You’ll need to mark it and take another throw.

You can read the full rule here on the PDGA website.

Possible Exception: Bounce Out

There is one rare situation that confuses players: What if the disc does enter through the chains properly, then bounces out and lands on top of the basket?

Even in that case, it still doesn’t count. The disc must come to rest supported by the target. If it lands on top after bouncing out, it’s not resting in the target area as defined by the rules.

What If the Disc Gets Stuck on the Side?

This one depends on how the disc got there.

  • If it entered the basket correctly (between the chain support and the top of the tray) and then wedged itself onto the side—it counts.
  • If it simply flew in from the side or above and stuck to the outer edge—it doesn’t count.

Disc Hits the Chains but Bounces Out—Does It Count?

Unfortunately, no. Even if the disc flies through the chains or hits the pole, it must come to rest supported by the target. If it hits and falls to the ground, it’s still in play.

Disc Flies Into the Front of the Basket

Let’s say you have an old or damaged basket and somehow your disc slides in from the front and comes to rest inside. Technically it’s inside the cage… but it doesn’t count.

The way a disc enters the target matters. If it didn’t enter from above the tray and below the chain support, it’s not valid.

Disc Rests Against the Pole on the Ground

This is another tricky one. If your disc hits the chains and falls to the ground, coming to rest against the center pole, that still doesn’t count.

Yes, the pole is part of the basket. But the disc is also touching the ground, so it’s not being fully supported by the target.

How to Make the Right Judgment Call

There are two questions you should ask whenever you’re not sure if a putt counts:

  1. Did the disc enter the target through the correct zone?
    (Above the tray and below the chain support)
  2. Is the disc resting supported by the target?
    (Not the ground, not the top, not wedged on the outside)

If the answer to both is yes, you’ve made the putt. If either answer is no, it doesn’t count.

Want a Visual Explanation?

Here’s a helpful video that walks through several real-life examples: Watch on YouTube

Final Thoughts

Most of the time, you won’t run into these edge cases during casual rounds. But if you’re practicing for tournaments or just want to keep things fair, it helps to understand what counts as a completed hole.

Stick to the basics: correct entry + supported by the basket = made putt. Knowing the rule gives you confidence on the course—and could save you a stroke when it matters most.

If you’re looking to upgrade your gear for competitive rounds, check out our full selection of disc golf baskets and disc golf discs.

Review This Disc

Posted on

Disc Golf Glide, What Disc Has The Most Glide?

disc golf discs wit best glide No ratings yet.

Discs With the Best Glide in Disc Golf

In disc golf, glide measures how well a disc stays aloft during flight. More glide means the disc carries farther with less effort. While speed and turn also affect distance, glide can make the difference between laying up short or reaching the basket. If you’re looking to maximize distance without extra power, choosing a disc with a high glide rating is a smart move.

Top Discs With High Glide Ratings

Innova Tern

The Innova Tern is a distance driver that pairs speed with glide. Its flight numbers are:

  • Speed: 12
  • Glide: 6
  • Turn: -3
  • Fade: 2

The Tern’s understability makes it friendly for newer players who want extra carry. It excels on hyzer flips, long flex lines, and wide hyzers once it’s seasoned in. Just note the wide rim (2.4 cm), which may take some adjustment.

Discraft Heat

HeatThe Discraft Heat is a popular control driver known for effortless distance. Its tall dome adds natural lift, giving it plenty of carry. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 9
  • Glide: 6
  • Turn: -3
  • Fade: 1

With a -3 turn and high glide, the Heat is perfect for hyzer flips and long turnovers. Players with slower arm speeds will especially benefit from how easy it is to push this disc down the fairway.

Innova Roadrunner

RoadrunnerThe Innova Roadrunner is a control driver with one of the most understable flight paths in Innova’s lineup. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 9
  • Glide: 5
  • Turn: -4
  • Fade: 1

The Roadrunner is a reliable option for beginners who want straight or turnover shots that stay in the fairway. More advanced players often use it as a roller disc. Its minimal fade makes it easy to control at lower speeds.

MVP Impulse

ImpulseThe MVP Impulse is one of the most beginner-friendly drivers from MVP. Designed with a comfortable rim and reliable turn, it gives players smooth, controlled distance. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 9
  • Glide: 5
  • Turn: -3
  • Fade: 1

MVP’s GYRO technology adds extra stability by concentrating weight in the outer rim, resulting in straighter, more consistent flights. The Impulse is a great stepping stone for players learning to shape distance lines.

Innova Sidewinder

The Innova Sidewinder shares similar numbers to the Roadrunner but offers slightly more resistance to turning. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 9
  • Glide: 5
  • Turn: -3
  • Fade: 1

This makes the Sidewinder more versatile, handling a bit more power before flipping over. It’s a great all-around driver for straight shots, turnovers, and long hyzer flips.

Prodigy D3 Max

D3 MaxThe Prodigy D3 Max is a fast driver with impressive glide for players who want maximum distance. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 13
  • Glide: 5
  • Turn: -2
  • Fade: 2

While newer players may find the rim wide and the speed demanding, it rewards developing arms with long, sweeping flights. It shines on hyzers and flex shots that need extra carry.

Discmania Mentor

The Discmania Mentor is a distance driver designed for beginners and developing players. Flight numbers:

  • Speed: 11
  • Glide: 5
  • Turn: -2
  • Fade: 2

The Mentor balances speed and control. Beginners can use it for learning distance drives, while experienced players can hyzer flip it for turnovers and long straight shots.

Why Glide Matters

Glide is one of the most important flight ratings when choosing a disc. More glide means:

  • Discs stay in the air longer, carrying farther.
  • Extra distance with less effort.
  • Better performance for players with slower arm speeds.

High-glide putters and midranges can give you extra carry on approaches and putts, while drivers with high glide add distance to your tee shots. Even 10–15 extra feet can make a difference in scoring over the course of a round.

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to the game, start with understable, high-glide discs like the Heat, Roadrunner, or Impulse. These will help you learn form while still getting distance. As your power develops, discs like the Tern, Sidewinder, or D3 Max will add variety to your bag. Choosing the right glide rating for your skill level can give you easier distance and a better chance of lowering your scores.

Review This Disc

Posted on

Why Is Nose Down So Important In Disc Golf?

why is nose down important No ratings yet.

If you’re looking to add distance and control to your throws, paying attention to the angle of your disc is a game-changer. One of the biggest adjustments you can make is learning to release the disc nose down. It’s a small detail, but it has a major impact on how your discs fly.

In this guide, I’ll explain what throwing nose down really means, why it matters, how to recognize a nose-up release, and some simple ways to fix it. If you make this adjustment, I promise you’ll notice the difference in your game.

What Does Throwing Nose Down Mean?

Throwing nose down doesn’t mean aiming the disc at the ground. Instead, it means the front edge (the “nose”) of the disc is tilted slightly downward in relation to its flight path. This subtle tilt allows the disc to glide longer and fly more efficiently.

If your disc is consistently nose up, it will stall out, fade early, and cost you distance. That’s why nose angle is one of the most important fundamentals to master.

Why Do You Want to Throw Nose Down?

  • More distance: A nose-down release lets your disc cut through the air more efficiently.
  • Disc variety: Nose up throws make drivers, mids, and putters all fly a similar distance, which defeats the purpose of carrying different molds.
  • Cleaner flights: Discs maintain their designed flight path instead of stalling or fading too early.

If you want to maximize your distance drivers, such as the wide selection we carry here, a proper nose-down release is essential.

How to Tell If You’re Throwing Nose Up

Not sure if you’re guilty of nose-up releases? Look for these signs:

  • Your midranges and drivers fly about the same distance.
  • You struggle to get faster discs up to speed.
  • Your discs finish with a noticeable “air skip.”
  • You can clearly see the top of the disc during flight.

Common Causes of Nose-Up Releases

Here are the most common reasons players accidentally release nose up:

1. Forcing the Throw

Trying to muscle the disc instead of throwing smoothly can cause tension, poor reach back, and a nose-up finish. Relax and focus on form over power.

2. Arch-Shaped Pull Through

If your pull through follows an arch — high to low to high — you’ll almost always release nose up. The disc should move across a flat plane instead.

3. Incorrect Grip

A weak or unbalanced grip often leads to nose-up releases. If your thumb isn’t pressing firmly on top of the disc, your fingers underneath may tilt the nose upward at release.

How to Prevent a Nose-Up Release

Once you know the problem, you can fix it. Here are four adjustments that help produce consistent nose-down throws:

1. Extend Your Reach Back

Commit to a full, level reach back. Turning your shoulders away from the target and keeping your arm straight back sets you up for a smoother pull-through.

2. Keep Your Pull Through Level

Focus on pulling the disc straight across your chest on a flat plane. Keep your hand on the outside of the disc and your wrist locked. A slightly raised elbow can also help.

3. Strengthen Your Grip

Line the disc across your palm, wrap your fingers under, and press firmly down with your thumb. A strong grip keeps the nose angle steady. If you’re struggling, try flexing your wrist slightly down at release.

4. Practice With Slower Discs

Putters and midranges exaggerate nose-angle mistakes, which makes them excellent training tools. Check out our midrange discs or putters for building consistent form.

For a visual example, here’s a helpful video on the backhand power grip.

Final Thoughts

Mastering a nose-down release is one of the simplest ways to unlock more distance and accuracy. It won’t happen overnight, but with practice, you’ll notice your discs flying truer and farther. Focus on your grip, reach back, and pull-through — and before long, nose down will feel natural.

For discs that can really show off a proper nose-down release, check out our selection of fairway drivers and distance drivers. The right form and the right disc go hand in hand.

Review This Disc

Posted on

What Discs Are Legal & Illegal In Disc Golf?

legal vs illegal disc golf discs No ratings yet.

Disc golf is meant to be accessible and fun for everyone. If you’re playing casually—whether it’s at the park with friends or in your backyard—there’s no restriction on what kind of discs you can use. But when you step into competitive play, things change a bit. The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has specific rules about what makes a disc legal for sanctioned events.

Are There Banned Discs in Disc Golf?

For recreational play, any disc is fair game. But for PDGA-sanctioned tournaments, discs must meet certain criteria. Most importantly, the disc must not be significantly modified after manufacturing in a way that changes its flight characteristics.

Here are the most common reasons a disc might be considered illegal in competition:

  • Heavily sanded or reshaped edges that change aerodynamics
  • Excessive coatings or substances added to the disc
  • Lack of a clear identifying mark on the bottom of the disc
  • Added visual aids (e.g. LEDs, chalk, paint) used outside of approved night or snow play

If your disc gets scratched or dinged during play, it’s okay to lightly sand it to smooth it out. But anything more than that can be considered an illegal alteration.

What Makes a Disc PDGA-Approved?

Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) approved as Associate Member of  WFDF | WFDFIn competitive play, only PDGA-approved discs are allowed. Manufacturers must submit their molds to the PDGA and pay a certification fee. If the disc passes testing, it becomes approved for sanctioned tournaments.

You can usually tell if a disc is legal by checking for a “PDGA Approved” stamp on the disc or by referencing the official PDGA Approved Disc List.

These rules aren’t just about fairness—they also preserve the standard shape and feel of discs across brands. If you’re shopping for discs, especially for tournament use, stick to reputable brands listed in our disc category pages.

Can You Fix a Damaged Disc?

Is it possible to repair this? : r/discgolf

Yes—but only with light repairs that don’t change the disc’s flight significantly. Here are a few PDGA-friendly ways to restore a disc:

1. Use Heat to Reshape

If your disc is warped, you can leave it in the sun, submerge it in hot (not boiling) water, or press it flat under something heavy to help it return to shape.

2. Lightly Sand the Edges

If your disc has minor nicks or sharp spots, a gentle sanding with fine-grit sandpaper is allowed. Avoid reshaping or sharpening the edges—it must remain true to its original design.

3. Try a Nail File

A standard nail file can help clean up burrs or rough plastic. This is especially useful if the disc has hit pavement or trees. Keep the fix minimal—just enough to make the edge smooth again.

Should Casual Players Worry About This?

Not really. If you’re just out for fun, no one is checking whether your disc is PDGA-approved. But if you’re planning to join a league, C-tier, or local tournament, it’s smart to make sure your discs are legal.

You’ll find a wide range of putters, midranges, distance drivers, and fairway drivers that are all PDGA-approved in our store.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what makes a disc legal is part of growing as a disc golfer. Most of the time, it’s common sense: don’t drastically change your discs, don’t play with sharp edges, and always mark your discs.

When in doubt, stick to discs from known brands and check the PDGA approval list. That way, you can play confidently—whether you’re out on the weekend or stepping up to your first sanctioned event.

Review This Disc

Posted on

Can You Play Disc Golf With a Regular Frisbee?

can you play disc golf with a regular frisbee No ratings yet.

Almost everyone has tossed a frisbee at some point. They’re a backyard staple, easy to throw, and often found tucked away in a closet or garage. But what happens if you bring that same frisbee to a disc golf course? Can you actually play disc golf with it? The short answer is yes — but it comes with some tradeoffs.

Frisbees vs. Disc Golf Discs

While a frisbee is technically a “disc,” it’s not designed with disc golf in mind. Modern disc golf discs are built to fly faster, farther, and more accurately than a standard catch frisbee. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences:

Shape

  • Frisbees: Rounded edges with a deep rim, making them floaty and easy to catch.
  • Disc Golf Discs: Sharper, more aerodynamic rims that cut through the air for distance and control.

Size

  • Frisbees: Larger diameter, thinner plastic, and lightweight feel.
  • Disc Golf Discs: Smaller, compact, and heavier — designed for precision throws.

Speed & Flight

Why Play Disc Golf With a Frisbee?

Even with those disadvantages, there are a few good reasons you might try a frisbee round:

Testing the Game

If you’re brand new to disc golf and don’t want to buy discs yet, a frisbee can be a fun way to sample the game. Once you’re ready, a budget-friendly starter set will make a huge difference in your experience.

Adding a Challenge

Playing with a frisbee limits your distance and accuracy, which makes the course harder. Some players do this intentionally as a fun challenge or training tool.

Going Old-School

Disc golf actually began with frisbees before specialized molds were introduced. Using one today is a throwback to the sport’s roots.

Tips for Playing Disc Golf With a Frisbee

If you’re going to give it a shot, here are a few tips to make your round smoother:

  • Don’t worry about others: Most players won’t care what you’re throwing.
  • Throw with less power: Frisbees can’t handle the same speed as golf discs and will turn over if thrown too hard.
  • Plan for extra glide: Frisbees float more, which can send them sailing past your target.
  • Expect less accuracy: Unlike stable disc golf molds, a frisbee tends to wobble and drift.
  • Mind the wind: Frisbees get pushed around easily. Keep your throws lower and flatter.
  • Use hyzer: Releasing on a hyzer angle often produces the straightest flight with a frisbee.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can play disc golf with a regular frisbee. It won’t replace a true disc golf disc, but it’s a fun way to try the game, mix up a casual round, or appreciate the sport’s origins. If you enjoy it and want to take the next step, upgrading to a set of disc golf starter discs will quickly improve your distance, control, and overall experience on the course.

Review This Disc

Posted on

What is the Story Behind DGA Midnight Flyer Discs?

No ratings yet.

Every so often, DGA Disc golf releases a disc golf disc called the Midnight Flyer Disc. To me, that disc seemed quite boring, it’s just a glow in the dark disc on it with a boring stamp of a number on it. But it actually has a pretty cool history in terms of disc golf, so now I can see why it has a history and why you should care.

The Original Glow in the Dark Disc

All 8 Midnight flyer dga discs

In the nocturnal realms of disc golf, one series stands out for its luminous legacy—the DGA Midnight Flyer series. Born in July 1978, the Night Flyer marked a significant milestone as the first disc explicitly crafted for disc golf by the Disc Golf Association (DGA). Priced at a modest $5 or $6, this glow-in-the-dark wonder utilized the Wham-O 40 mold.

Originally envisioned as a quartet, the Night Flyer’s popularity prompted the DGA to expand its horizons, transforming it into an eight-disc set. However, the Night Flyer’s trajectory took an unexpected turn with a trademark dispute, leading to its untimely discontinuation after approximately 1,000 discs.

From the ashes of the Night Flyer rose the Midnight Flyer in 1979. This successor boasted an enhanced phosphorescent glow, reaching 40–45%, a significant leap from its predecessor’s 18%. Crafted in various molds by both Wham-O and DGA, each adorned with identical hot stamps, the Midnight Flyer began to carve its own luminescent path in the disc golf cosmos.

August 1979 witnessed the introduction of the trademark band, adding a distinctive touch to the Midnight Flyer lineage. The series embraced evolution, incorporating diverse molds, hot stamp colors, and in 1981, the introduction of colored glow plastic, featuring captivating hues like pink and green.

As the years unfolded, the Midnight Flyer series continued its evolution, welcoming the player line below the number, a spectrum of colored glow plastic options, and additional designs like the iconic “DGA Approved” graphic. The series expanded its horizons further with the introduction of the Midnight Flyer mini and the Pocket Pro marker discs.

The modern era of the DGA Midnight Flyer series, celebrating its 35th anniversary, witnessed a limited run of 1,000 Squalls with #1, paving the way for subsequent numbers in the following years. The Split band trademark remained a consistent symbol of this luminary series.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, the Midnight Flyer etched its name in disc golf history. Three world distance records bear witness to its prowess, while it played a prominent role in the 1979 Wham-O $50,000 disc golf tournament.

In the realm of disc golf, the DGA Midnight Flyer series remains a radiant beacon, illuminating the journey of the sport through its innovative designs, pioneering glow-in-the-dark features, and historical significance. As the Midnight Flyer continues to soar, its glow transcends time, captivating both enthusiasts and newcomers alike with its timeless radiance.

Source: Flying Disc Museum

If you’re interested in getting the latest Midnight Flyer #7, the Sail, check out InfiniteDiscs.com

Review This Disc