Disc Golf Discs Generally come in three varieties.

Drivers: Designed for maximum distance, these discs typically are very stiff, and have a sharp, aerodynamic edge, and usually have a very shallow lip. They are the most difficult discs to control, because they are more sensitive to the way you release the disc.

Mid-Range: Designed for long, controlled shots. They typically have a less aerodynamic edge, and have a deeper lip than a driver, which makes them more comfortable to throw. Unfortunately, even the longest throwers cannot throw a mid-range disc beyond the 300' mark.

Putters: These discs are designed for short, straight shots and are the least aerodynamic discs, but usually feel the most comfortable in your hand due to their deep lip. Putters also come in many varieties of plastic from stiff to gummy to flimsy.

The categories of Driver, mid range and putter really only describe the "speed" of the disc. There are MANY other attributes that make a disc what it is. Because of this, companies make DOZENS of varieties of Drivers, mid-ranges, and putters.

Innova, for instance, uses FOUR individual ratings to rate a disc.



So, to make a long story short, you can purchase different discs for different types of shots.

It gets worse!

In addition to all the different types of discs available, each type is available in different weights, as well!

Discs come in a variety of weights, generally from 150grams all the way up to 180 grams. The heavier the disc, the better it will hold up to strong winds. The lighter the disc, the more apt it will be to glide farther and gain additional distance. There are some disc golfers that carry multiple weights of the same disc in their bag!

FINALLY, discs are also available in different types of plastic. Innova and Discraft have their own varieties, and have their own feeling:

Innova DX Plastic: basically the cheapest plastic. Its not very durable - if you hit a few trees, the plastic will dent and ding, and over time discs fly differently due to being misshapen.

Innova Pro Plastic: This is more durable than DX plastic, and maintains its flight characteristics better over time. In addition, there is a lot of added grip, its much easier to throw than DX plastic

Innova Champion Plastic: This is the ultimate in durability. It lasts forever. It also flies slightly more stable than DX and Pro versions. It isn't particularly grippy, however.

Innova Star Plastic: This is the best of both worlds -- Grippy, Ultra durable discs. Its like the mercedes of the disc golf disc!

Discraft has similar varieties --
Discraft Pro-D (Similar to DX)

Discraft Elite-X (Similar to Pro)

Discraft Elite-Z (Similar to Champion)

Discraft ESP (Similar to Star)

Discraft FLX (a very flexible, durable disc. It flexes easily, hence the name. It does not, however, lose its shape easily.)

Some great beginner discs that I would suggest a new disc golfer to buy would be some of the following:

Beginner "All Around" Disc: If I had to recommend a single disc for a person to throw during every single shot, it would be:

Innova Coyote


Beginner Drivers: All of the following would be great starter drivers. You should look for lighter weights, if you can find them (160-165gram range). They have the tendency to stay straighter as you develop your throw. By the time you are throwing much, much farther, you will still be able to keep these discs in your bag for turnover (right hook) shots.

Innova Valkyrie


Innova Roadrunner
Innova Sidewinder
Discraft Stratus
Discraft XPress

Mid-Range Discs: As mentioned, I think one of the best all around discs is the

Innova Coyote

Other excellent choices are:

Discraft Wasp

Innova Roc

Discraft Buzzz


Putters: I use an Aviar, which is a popular choice. There are many other putters, and it really is all about personal preference. Putters are more about how they feel for you in your hand than how stable they are or how they fly. If you can fire away putts with it comfortably, thats all that matters.