A disc golf disc’s flight characteristics are quantified using a standard numbering system representing speed, glide, turn, and fade. These four numerical values, typically printed on the disc itself, provide a concise profile of the disc’s expected behavior in flight. For instance, a disc with values of 5, 5, -2, 1 suggests a moderately fast disc with good glide, a tendency to turn slightly right (for a right-handed backhand throw), and a gentle fade back to the left at the end of its flight.
Understanding these metrics allows players to select discs appropriate for their skill level and the specific demands of a course or shot. This system facilitates informed disc selection, contributing to improved accuracy and distance. The historical development of this standardized system has significantly advanced the sport, enabling more precise communication about disc performance and promoting objective comparison between different models.
