The four numerical values assigned to a specific disc model represent its intended flight characteristics: speed, glide, turn, and fade. These metrics offer a standardized system for understanding how a disc is likely to perform when thrown, providing a useful comparison tool across different models and manufacturers. For example, a high-speed driver might have values of 14, 5, -1, and 3, indicating rapid flight, considerable glide, a tendency to turn slightly right (for a right-handed backhand throw), and a strong, predictable fade back to the left at the end of its flight.
Understanding these metrics is essential for disc selection. Players can choose discs tailored to their throwing power and preferred throwing style. This system contributes to the strategic depth of disc golf, enabling players to select the optimal disc for each shot based on distance, obstacles, and desired flight path. The evolution of disc design and the refinement of flight rating systems have played a crucial role in the growth and professionalization of the sport.
