Not sure exactly what disc golf is? You came to the right place! In this article, we’ll provide more details on the game and the discs used to play it.
What is disc golf?
Disc golf is very similar to traditional golf. However, instead of using a ball and a set of clubs, players use a disc that is similar to a frisbee. In fact, disc golf was born out of the frisbee craze.
Disc golf players throw the disc toward a metal basket with the goal of eventually getting it in the basket using as few throws as possible. Whoever completes the course with the fewest throws, or strokes, wins the game.
Each hole starts at the “Tee”. Think of the tee as the launchpad for the hole. Normally, it is constructed of concrete or wood and provides a solid footing for players to make their first throw. However, that will vary from course to course. Often the tee has a small plaque or sign nearby indicating the number and location of the basket or other useful information like obstacles or off-limit areas, but not always. As players progress towards the basket they often use different discs depending on the type of throws they need to make. For example, close throws that require precision are made with different discs than long throws. But more on that later!
Just like traditional golf, disc golf usually has 9 or 18 baskets, sometimes referred to as “holes”. Players begin at hole #1 and complete the course in order before ending on hole #18. Whoever completes the game, or “round”, using the least amount of throws is the winner.
disc golf discs
Disc golfers often carry a bag full of discs, just like traditional golfers who carry a bag full of clubs. Different discs have different flight characteristics with some being better for long throws and some, like putters, being best for short precise throws. Often, serious players will play with a backpack or cart with dozens of discs to cover every possible scenario. However, more casual players will often only carry a handful of basic discs for long, medium, and short-range throws.
Discs come in various colors and with various designs on them. However, this is mostly just a matter of preference and doesn’t have an impact on how the discs fly through the air. However, bright colorful discs are much easier to find after a throw than darker natural colored discs.
Disc Golf Rules
Disc golf has similar rules to golf and casual players should have no problem going to a course and understanding how to play a round.
For a complete guide to all the disc golf rules, check out our article!
Types of discs
There are 3 main categories of disc golf discs; driver, putter, and midrange.
Driver | Best for long throws where maximum distance is needed. Sharp edges and relatively thin and flat. |
Putter | Best for short throws, or “putts”, where maximum precision is needed. Rounded edges. Throws most like a traditional frisbee. |
Midrange | A mix between a driver and putter. Provides a balance of precision and control paired with medium distance. |
Driver discs are best for long throws, like the first throw off the tee. They normally have a sharp edge and are very thin when compared to a normal frisbee.
On the other hand, putters are best for short throws like the final throw, or “putt”. into the basket. They are thicker and more rounded than a driver disc and look more like a traditional frisbee.
Last, of all, midrange discs are a mixture of both and provide a balance of distance and control.
Discs will generally last for years but do get lost on occasion. If you find a disc with a phone number on it, it’s best to try to return it to the original owner.
disc golf courses
You’ll find a disc golf course at many local parks or recreational areas. There are currently over 7,000 disc golf courses in the United States alone and that number is only growing! Depending on where you live, it’s highly likely that there is a course within 15-20 minutes of driving.
Most courses have a sign near hole #1 that has a course map and maybe even a poster for the local disc golf league. So, if you’re unsure about how to get started in disc golf, that’s a great place to start! Local players will not only be familiar with the sport but will also know the ins and outs of the local course.
Playing a new course you’re unfamiliar with can be tricky! If there’s a map at hole make sure to take a picture of it! If you’re turned around don’t feel bad stopping and asking where the next hole is.
Advantages over traditional golf
Disc golf has many advantages over traditional golf. Most players will mention the price given that the vast majority of courses are free to play. Discs are also inexpensive to purchase and vary from $10 to $30 depending on the type of disc. So, with under $100 worth of discs, you’ll be ready to play for years to come at no additional cost!
Many people will also cite the disc golf community which is rapidly growing and incredibly welcoming to new players just taking up the sport. Chances are if you’re reading this article, that might be you!
How to Start Playing Disc Golf
Google “disc golf courses near me” and try it out! An app like UDisc can help you keep score and give directions to the holes on the course.
As for choosing discs, we recommend the Westside Discs Starter Set due to it having the most beginner-friendly discs.
Westside Discs Starter Set
3 beginner friendly discs and a mini! This is our top recommended starter set for beginners.
If you’d rather pick out each disc individually, check out our guide to the best disc golf discs for beginners.
Conclusion
Thanks for visiting the site and make sure to check out some of our other guides and gear recommendations before getting started. Disc golf has been growing in popularity at an incredible rate in recent years, and for good reason! Now that you have an idea of what disc golf is, make sure to grab a few discs and head to your local course!
