Light vs Heavy Discs – Are Heavier Better?
The short answer is no. Disc weight is highly dependent on the shot you need to execute and on the player’s skill-level. Lightweight discs are usually recommended for kids, women and beginner-level players, who tend to have slower arm speed. But if you are an experienced player, you should look for heavier discs because they tend to have better stability and the tendency to maintain the desired flight path.
Here are some recommendations you should consider when choosing between weights:
- If you are choosing disc’s weight, stay between 160g – 180g;
- Keep putters & midranges heavy (close to max weight);
- Learn from your disc flight;
- Use different weights for different shots.
Does The Weight Of A Disc Golf Disc Matter? Conclusion:
- Wind resistance greatly reduces the added distance from lighter discs (i.e. not a substantial increase);
- Lighter discs with more overstability achieve more distance;
- Accuracy is more important than distance when choosing weight;
- Feel & comfort is most important when choosing between minor weight differences.
Check out the JustDisc – JD video here – Does the weight of a disc golf disc matter? VIDEO BREAKDOWN:
1- Testing Method/Introduction;
2- The Distance Effect;
3- Why Do Long Distance Competitors Use Much Lighter Discs?
4- The Accuracy Effect;
5- How Do You Know What Weight To Throw?
6- Conclusions/Final Thoughts.
Do Lighter Discs Fly Farther?
Yes. Generally, you’ll see lighter discs flying a greater distance due to two main reasons. One – The lighter weight of the disc helps the player to generate more arm speed, which translates into more distance. Two – Lightweight discs are usually more understable and will flip over more, resulting in longer airtime = added ditance.
But this might not be the case in a headwind. Because of the weight of the lighter discs, they are not as stable and reliable as the heavier ones.
In addition, the current Disc Golf Distance World Record thrown by David Wiggins Jr., was also achieved by throwing a 154 gram Innova Boss. Hence, I would say that lighter discs fly farther in some conditions. But I personally prefer using max weight discs due their ability to handle wind.
For beginners and slower arm speed players, ideally, a disc should weigh approximately 160-170 grams because that gives the best stability with the greatest distance coverage.
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Are Heavier Discs Easier To Throw?
No, heavier discs are not easier to throw if your arm speed isn’t fast enough. This is because heavier discs must be thrown with more power to cover greater distances. However, it’s worth noting that you get a much better flight path and stability if you throw a heavier disc. Furthermore, heavier discs are more stable and can handle wind.
Disc golf discs come in a vast range of weights to cater to players of all skill levels. Deciding on the proper weight of your disc is crucial to uplifting your game and getting accurate throws with minimal efforts
How Heavy Should My Disc Golf Driver Be?
If you are just a beginner or a junior player, your distance drivers should be in lightweight category, meaning discs weighing under 165 grams. But if we speak about experienced and advanced-level players, they usually use 170+ grams discs, especially on moderately windy days.
Looking for the best disc golf discs for beginners? Check out this list!
Check out the list of the Best Disc Golf Discs for Kids & Juniors. Click here!