Disc golf is a fast-growing sport with a passionate community of players at all levels. One of the key components of any successful disc golfer’s arsenal is their putter. Unlike drivers or mid-range discs, which are often used for longer, more powerful throws, putters are primarily used for close-range shots and, of course, putting. While all putters may look similar, they vary significantly in terms of flight characteristics, feel, and purpose.
If you’re new to disc golf, understanding the nuances of putters and how to select the right one for your game can be overwhelming. This guide aims to demystify disc golf putters and provide you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.
- What is a Disc Golf Putter?
A disc golf putter is a type of disc designed primarily for short-range throws, especially within 30 feet (9 meters) of the basket. Compared to drivers and mid-range discs, putters have a rounder edge, a deeper rim, and tend to be slower in flight, allowing for more control and precision. These characteristics make putters ideal for approaching the basket and executing accurate putts.
While putters are typically used for putting, many players also use them for short approach shots or even drives in specific situations due to their stability and control.
- Types of Disc Golf Putting
Before diving into the types of putters, it’s essential to understand the different styles of putting in disc golf. Different techniques will influence which putter suits you best.
Spin Putting
Spin putting relies on generating spin to keep the disc flying straight and on target. The player uses a quick snap of the wrist and fingers to propel the disc with speed and rotation. Spin putters tend to prefer discs with a stable flight, as they need a putter that can handle the torque and maintain a straight line to the basket.
When to use spin putting:
• When there is a need for longer putts.
• In windy conditions, as the spin helps keep the disc stable.Push Putting
Push putting emphasizes more of a lofted shot with less spin. The motion is usually generated from the legs and a smooth, upward push of the arm, making the disc float gently toward the basket. Push putters often prefer less overstable putters, as they want a disc that can hold a straight line without much resistance to the loft.
When to use push putting:
• Shorter putts with accuracy and precision.
• Calm weather conditions.Straddle Putting
Straddle putting is a technique where the player stands with feet spread apart (in a straddle position) and extends the disc outward before releasing it in a forward motion. This style is particularly useful when obstacles, like trees or bushes, prevent a standard stance.
When to use straddle putting:
• When obstacles are directly in front of the lie.
• In situations where a more controlled, straight-line putt is required.Hybrid Putting
Hybrid putting combines elements of both spin and push putting, often incorporating aspects of both techniques to suit the player’s style. This is one of the more flexible putting styles and allows for a variety of adjustments in different scenarios.
When to use hybrid putting:
• When experimenting with different techniques to find what works best.
• In variable conditions where adaptability is needed.- Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Putter
With the basics of putting covered, let’s dive into the essential factors to consider when selecting the right putter for your game.
Stability
Stability refers to how much the disc will turn or fade during flight. Disc manufacturers rate discs on a scale from understable to overstable.
• Overstable putters resist turning over and typically fade left for right-handed backhand throwers.
• Stable putters have a straight flight path with minimal fade or turn.
• Understable putters tend to turn right (for a right-handed backhand throw) and are ideal for players with lower arm speed or those looking for extra glide.Plastic Types
Disc golf putters are available in various plastic blends. Some blends offer a grippier feel, while others provide more durability.
• Base plastics (such as Innova’s DX or Dynamic Discs’ Prime) offer excellent grip, especially in wet or cold conditions, but wear out faster.
• Premium plastics (such as Innova’s Champion or Discraft’s Z Line) are more durable and hold their flight characteristics longer but may be slicker in grip.Weight
Most putters range between 170-175 grams. Heavier putters tend to be more stable and reliable in windy conditions, while lighter putters can provide more glide and are easier to control for beginners.
Grip
The way a putter feels in your hand is crucial. Some players prefer a deeper rim, while others may find a shallow profile to be more comfortable. Testing a few different putters in your hand can help you determine which grip feels best.
Speed and Glide
Putters have lower speed ratings, typically between 1 and 3. Glide refers to how well a disc maintains its altitude during flight. A putter with high glide will stay in the air longer, making it useful for longer putts or approach shots.
- Types of Disc Golf Putters
Stable Putters
Stable putters fly straight without much fade or turn. These are great all-around putters for players who want predictability in their shots. Stable putters are often a go-to choice for beginners.
Overstable Putters
Overstable putters have a more significant fade and are ideal for windy conditions or players with faster arm speeds. These discs resist turning over, providing consistent, reliable fades toward the basket.
Understable Putters
Understable putters turn more to the right (for a right-handed backhand throw) and are easier to control for players with lower arm speed. These are great for players who want more glide or are looking for discs that require less effort to throw straight.
- Popular Disc Golf Putters and Their Characteristics
Here are some of the most popular putters in disc golf, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Innova Aviar
The Aviar is one of the most iconic and widely-used putters in disc golf. It has a stable flight with minimal fade, making it an excellent choice for all-around putting and approach shots. The Aviar comes in a variety of plastic types, allowing players to choose the grip and feel that suits them best.
Best for: Beginners and players looking for a reliable, straight-flying putter.
- Dynamic Discs Judge
The Judge is a popular choice due to its bead and slightly overstable flight. It provides great glide and a reliable finish, making it a solid choice for putting and short approach shots. The Judge has a firm grip and a consistent release, appealing to a wide range of players.
Best for: Players looking for a dependable putter with a slight fade at the end of the flight.
- Discraft Luna
The Luna, co-designed by professional player Paul McBeth, is a stable putter with a neutral flight. Its premium plastic offers durability and a smooth release, while the disc itself provides excellent versatility for both putting and driving.
Best for: Players who want a putter they can use for putting and driving off the tee.
- MVP Atom
The Atom is a popular stable putter with a low-profile design, making it ideal for players who prefer a shallow grip. It provides a very straight flight with minimal fade, making it excellent for precise putting and approach shots.
Best for: Players who like a clean, straight flight with a comfortable grip.
- Latitude 64 Pure
The Pure is known for its effortless glide and straight flight path. Its low-profile rim and flat top make it a favorite for players who prefer a shallower disc. The Pure is excellent for those looking to sink putts from longer distances or throw straight, accurate approaches.
Best for: Players seeking a putter that excels in longer-range putting and straight shots.
- When to Use Certain Putters in Different Situations
Selecting the right putter for different situations can significantly impact your performance. Here’s a breakdown of when to use specific types of putters:
• Overstable putters in the wind: When dealing with headwinds or sidewinds, an overstable putter is your best bet, as it will resist turning over and provide a reliable fade.
• Understable putters for finesse shots: If you need to float the disc to the basket or navigate through obstacles, an understable putter with more glide can help you achieve a softer landing.
• Stable putters for accuracy: For straightforward, controlled putts, stable putters are the go-to choice. These discs are reliable for consistent, straight flight paths with minimal fade.
• Low-glide putters for short putts: When you’re close to the basket (within 15 feet), you may want a putter with less glide to avoid overshooting the target.
• High-glide putters for long putts: For longer putts or approach shots, a putter with more glide will stay in the air longer, giving you a better chance to reach the basket.Conclusion
Choosing the right disc golf putter is a crucial part of improving your game, especially if you’re just starting. Understanding the differences in putting styles, putter types, and key factors such as stability, weight, and plastic types will help you make a more informed choice.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to putters. The best way to find the right one is to experiment with different discs and see what feels comfortable and delivers the best results for your game. As you gain more experience, you’ll develop a preference for the putters that match your style and the conditions of the course. Happy putting!
