Flex Shot vs. Hyzer Flip in Disc Golf: Which Shot is Right for You?

Disc golf players often debate the merits of the Flex Shot versus the Hyzer Flip. Both techniques are essential in a disc golfer’s arsenal, but when should you use each? In this guide, we’ll break down both shots, their mechanics, and when to incorporate them into your gameplay.

Flex Shot vs. Hyzer Flip: The Ultimate Disc Golf Showdown

Disc golf is a game of strategy, where the right shot can make or break your score. Two common techniques, the Flex Shot and Hyzer Flip, are often confused but serve different purposes. Let’s dive into the mechanics, advantages, and best uses for each shot.

What is a Flex Shot?

A Flex Shot is a throwing technique in disc golf where the disc is thrown on an anhyzer angle (angled away from the body for right-handed throwers) but has enough fade to “flex” back toward the intended target at the end of its flight. This technique requires a disc with overstability (meaning it has a tendency to fade left for right-hand backhand throwers).

How to Throw a Flex Shot

• Step 1: Choose an overstable disc.
• Step 2: Release the disc at an anhyzer angle (angled upwards and away from your body).
• Step 3: Allow the disc to turn right (for RHBH players) during its initial flight and “flex” back left as it slows down.

When to Use a Flex Shot

• Tight fairways: The Flex Shot is excellent for navigating narrow or wooded fairways.
• Maximum distance: It allows you to cover more ground by manipulating the disc’s full flight potential.
• Windy conditions: Overstable discs handle wind well, making the Flex Shot a reliable option in gusty weather.

What is a Hyzer Flip?

The Hyzer Flip is another essential technique in disc golf, particularly useful for straight-line shots. It involves releasing an understable disc on a hyzer angle (angled towards the body), which causes the disc to flip up to flat and fly straight or slightly turn.

How to Throw a Hyzer Flip

• Step 1: Choose an understable disc.
• Step 2: Release the disc at a hyzer angle (angled downwards and toward your body).
• Step 3: Watch as the disc flips up to flat and glides straight with minimal fade at the end.

When to Use a Hyzer Flip

• Tunnel shots: The Hyzer Flip excels in tight, straight fairways, especially with obstacles on both sides.
• Long, straight drives: When you need to cover a long distance with minimal turn or fade, the Hyzer Flip is your go-to.
• Calm conditions: Understable discs tend to struggle in windy conditions, so save the Hyzer Flip for calmer days.

Flex Shot vs. Hyzer Flip: Key Differences

Which Shot Should You Use?

A hyzer flip involves throwing the disc with a hyzer angle (the disc is tilted downward on the outside edge) so that it flips up to flat and potentially turns slightly to the right. This throw utilizes an understable disc’s natural tendency to turn over when thrown with power.

Choosing between a Flex Shot and a Hyzer Flip depends on the course layout, wind conditions, and your personal strengths. Here’s a quick guide on when to use each:

• Use a Flex Shot if you’re navigating obstacles, need distance, or are dealing with windy conditions. Its overstable nature and unique flight path make it ideal for controlled curves.
• Use a Hyzer Flip when you need precision on straight shots, particularly in calm conditions. The Hyzer Flip’s ability to turn understable discs into straight flyers can help you stay on course, avoiding fade or turn.

Comparing Flex Shot and Hyzer Flip

Aspect	Flex Shot	Hyzer Flip
Initial Angle	Anhyzer	Hyzer
Flight Path	S-Shaped	Straight or Slight Turn
Disc Stability	Overstable or Stable	Understable
Ideal Use	Distance with obstacle navigation, wind	Straight distance shots, tight fairways
Wind Conditions	Moderate wind	Tailwind

How to Practice Both Shots

To master both the Flex Shot and Hyzer Flip, practice is key. Here are a few tips to refine each throw:

Hyzer Flip: Use lighter or more understable discs. Practice flipping the disc up from a hyzer angle and maintaining a straight flight path. Adjust your release to control how much the disc turns.

Flex Shot: Use overstable discs and practice on open fields where you can see the full flight path. Focus on the initial anhyzer release and watch how the disc flexes back.

Conclusion: Flex Shot or Hyzer Flip?

Both the Flex Shot and Hyzer Flip are powerful tools in disc golf, but each serves a different purpose. By mastering both, you’ll become a more versatile player, ready to tackle any course layout.

If you’re looking to improve your disc golf game, practice both shots regularly and understand when to use each for optimal performance. Whether you’re navigating a tight tunnel or sending your disc on a long-distance flex, these techniques will elevate your skills on the course.