Why Innova Is a Smart Choice for New Players
Innova makes a wide lineup of discs, and many of their molds come in beginner‑friendly plastics. Their brand category is well represented on Altitude Disc Golf: check out the Innova Discs category page to see what’s currently in stock. Because of their variety and availability, Innova is a great place for new players to start building a dependable bag.
My Top Picks for Beginner-Friendly Innova Discs
Distance Driver: Innova Valkyrie
If you’re itching to throw a driver early on, the Innova Valkyrie is a safe bet. With ratings around Speed 9 / Glide 4 / Turn −2 / Fade 2, it’s more forgiving than most distance drivers.
- Understable—great for slower arm speeds that would struggle with rigid discs.
- Provides glide and distance, especially in tailwinds or turnover shape lines.
- As your arm speed improves, Valkyrie can still be useful for finesse drives and long turnovers.
Fairway Driver: Innova Leopard
The Innova Leopard is a staple in many beginner sets. With ratings ~ Speed 6 / Glide 5 / Turn −2 / Fade 1, it’s well suited for new players seeking reliable control with extra distance potential.
- High glide and understability make it easier to get distance without overpowering.
- Advanced players also use it for turnover lines or rollers.
It’s frequently included in beginner sets and is often easy to find.
Midrange: Innova Stingray
The Innova Stingray is one of my favorites for a beginner mid. With specs near Speed 4 / Glide 5 / Turn −3 / Fade 1, it leans understable and offers lots of glide.
The - Shallow rim helps with a consistent, comfortable release.
- Works nicely for turnover lines, approach shots, or even rollers for newer players.
Putter / Approach: Innova Aviar
The Innova Aviar is arguably Innova’s most iconic mold—and for good reason. Its flight (~ Speed 2 / Glide 3 / Turn 0 / Fade 1) is dependable, straight, and user-friendly.
The - Excellent for putting, upshots, and short drives.
- All skill levels use it, so it’s a disc you’ll likely keep in your bag long term.
How I Chose These Discs
When picking beginner discs, these traits mattered most to me:
- Understable or neutral stability: Easier to control and less likely to fight your throw.
- Good glide: Helps maximize distance even with less arm speed.
- Comfortable rim and feel: Shallow rims help with grip and consistency early on.
Weight, Plastic & Tips for New Players
Start Lighter
For drivers and midranges, I often recommend going lighter—especially for beginners, juniors, or lighter players. A 160–170g disc is easier to throw and control than a max‑weight version. Over time, as your arm develops, you can transition upward.
Plastic Choices That Help
Here’s how I guide new players on Innova plastics:
- DX plastic — Great grip, breaks in quickly, and cost‑effective for putters or practice discs.
- Star / GStar — Balanced grip and durability. Good “workhorse” plastics for most throws.
- Avoid overly stiff or overstable plastics early on — Champion or deluxe blends tend to resist your form and may “fight back” when you don’t have perfect technique yet.
Expectations & Progress
As you improve, you’ll want to mix in more stable discs. But starting with discs you can control helps build confidence. The Valkyrie, Leopard, Stingray, and Aviar give you a smooth learning curve without frustrating behavior.
Final Thoughts
Innova’s lineup is robust, and starting with beginner‑friendly molds gives you space to grow. Pick one disc from each role (driver, fairway, midrange, putter) with these traits in mind, and you’ll already have a strong core. Over time, explore more molds as your distance and consistency improve.
Stay curious, test new lines, and let your bag evolve naturally. Throw well out there!