Beginner's Guide to What You Need to Play Disc Golf

Disc golf acts like hiking with a specific purpose. It involves throwing a plastic disc into a metal basket in the fewest throws possible. The sport is accessible, affordable, and incredibly addictive for people of all ages. 

Staring at a wall of colorful golf discs can be intimidating for a newcomer. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to hit the course in under five minutes.

3 Disc Golf Discs You Need to Start                          

The most common mistake beginners make involves buying a high-speed driver immediately. This error usually leads to frustration and time spent searching in the bushes. Choosing the right disc for each shot is far more important than owning every high-speed option. You only need a functional trio of disc golf disc types consisting of a putter, a mid-range, and a fairway driver.

The Putter 

This is your most important disc. It has a narrow rim, is specifically designed for lower speeds, flies straight, and has a disc weight of 174.3 g. You will use this for shots within 100 feet and for finishing the hole. Because it requires less power, disc golfers can focus on clean releases instead of arm speed. 

The Mid-Range Disc             

The workhorse of your bag offers more distance than a putter but maintains high control. It is perfect for navigating tight wooded fairways and rewards smooth form.  

The Fairway Driver 

Unlike wide-rimmed distance drivers, these lightweight discs are manageable for beginners. They provide good distance without requiring professional-level arm speed.

While fairway and distance drivers may look similar on the shelf, fairway disc golf discs are built for accuracy, not raw speed, and they fly farther than putters and mid-range discs.   

Quick Disc Comparison

How to Read Flight Numbers  

If you look at a golf disc, you will likely see four numbers printed on the front. This is the flight path rating system. It tells you how the disc is designed to fly based on flight numbers.   

Manufacturers generally offer baseline and premium plastic types. Baseline is grippy and cheap, but beats up quickly, while premium plastic is slicker, expensive, and nearly indestructible.

For beginners, baseline plastic is often better. The superior grip helps with release consistency. This control is vital when learning proper form.

Core Gear Items for Disc Golfers

Once you have your plastic, a few essential accessories will improve your quality of life on the disc golf course. You do not need a pro-tour setup to enjoy playing disc golf. These items bridge the gap between a casual toss and a serious hobby.      

• Disc golf bag: Carries discs, water, a towel, and snacks efficiently.

•  

• Rangefinder: Gauges shots to help with disc selection and speed up play.

•  

• Grip helpers: A chalk bag for sweat and a microfiber towel for mud.

•  

• Practice basket: At-home reps equal faster progress on the putting green.

Having a dedicated bag rather than a generic backpack keeps your discs organized and prevents them from warping over time. It also provides a specific spot for your towel, allowing you to dry your grip instantly.

How to Dress for the Disc Golf Course

While you can play disc golf in jeans, functional performance wear will drastically improve your range of motion. At Sports Gear Swag, we specialize in moisture-wicking apparel with poly knit, poly mesh fabrics, and more. You can choose from custom short-sleeve shirts for sunny weather. For colder days, we offer custom hoodies to keep you warm.

We also provide high-quality custom polo shirts suitable for league play. Because we cater to teams, you can take advantage of bulk discounts. This is perfect if you are starting a local club.
             

4 Smart Upgrades for Your Disc Golf Game             

Once you are hooked, you might want to look at upgrades that make long days on the course more comfortable. These are not mandatory for day one. However, they are great investments as you improve.

• Cart: Saves your back by rolling your gear; often doubles as a portable seat.

•  

• Mini marker discs: Used to mark your lie. These are fully customizable through SGS’s quick-ship program.

•  

• Telescopic retriever: Pays for itself the first time you rescue a disc from a water hazard.

•  

• Hydration kit: A squeeze bottle and a pouch for energy chews keep you fueled.

Tackle longer courses comfortably once the basics feel second nature. If you are playing tournaments or two rounds in a day, hydration is vital. Energy management becomes just as important as your throwing form.

Start Disc Golf Easily and Affordably

Getting started in disc golf is simple, affordable, and rewarding. With just three disc golf discs, a reliable bag, and comfortable apparel, you can hit the course and start improving right away. As you gain experience, small upgrades like a retriever, mini markers, or a cart will make your rounds more enjoyable and efficient.   

At Sports Gear Swag, we offer a wide range of custom disc golf apparel designed to keep players and teams ready to play in stule. Our selection includes custom short-sleeve shirts for sunny days, cozy hoodies for cooler rounds, high-quality polo shirts perfect for league play, and team apparel available with bulk discounts for local clubs. Shop our disc golf apparel today and gear up for your next round in comfort and style!