What Do Disc Golf Flight Numbers Mean?

If you’ve ever picked up a disc and seen numbers like 9 | 5 | -2 | 2 stamped on the front, you’ve already encountered disc golf flight numbers. These four digits represent a disc’s expected flight characteristics — and understanding them can help you throw farther, straighter, and with more control.

Whether you're new to the sport or just looking to improve your game, this guide breaks down what flight numbers mean and how to choose discs that match your throwing style.

The Four Disc Golf Flight Numbers Explained

Flight numbers are a rating system (typically developed by Innova and adopted by many brands) that give players a general idea of how a disc will fly. These numbers include:

1. Speed (1–14)

• What it means: How fast the disc needs to be thrown to fly as intended.

• Higher number = Faster Disc, with the POTENTIAL to go farther... IF you have enough arm speed to get the correct flight out of the disc

• Lower number = Slower Disc. Lower speed discs may not go as far, BUT if you pick the correct Max speed for your arm, you're more likely to get consistent flights.
  
  Our Rule of Thumb:
  1) Measure you Maximum Distance Currently
  2) Divide this number by 33.3
  3) This New Number is (Generally Speaking) the Highest speed you should be attempting to throw. While this is an estimate, it gives you a good idea of where to start.
  
  

Example:

• If your Max Distance is about 300ft, Try sticking to 9 Speed or Lower Discs to achieve a more consistent Game.

🧠 Tip: Beginners often benefit from starting with lower-speed discs for better control and consistency.

2. Glide (1–7)

• What it means: How long the disc stays in the air.

• Higher number = more hang time and float

• Lower number = more precise and less affected by wind

Example:

• Glide 6 = great for long, effortless throws

• Glide 3 = useful for controlled approaches

🧠 Tip: Look for higher glide if you want more distance without increasing arm power.

3. Turn (+1 to -5)

• What it means: How much the disc turns right (for a right-hand backhand thrower) during the high-speed portion of the flight.

• More negative = more understable

• Positive or 0 = more stable or overstable

Example:

• Turn -3 = turns right easily, good for beginners

• Turn 0 or +1 = holds a straight or slightly left path under power

🧠 Tip: Understable discs (with more negative turn) are great for hyzer flips and long anhyzer lines.

4. Fade (0–5)

• What it means: How much the disc fades left (RHBH) at the end of the flight.

• Higher number = stronger fade (more hook at the end)

• Lower number = straighter finish

Example:

• Fade 0 = soft finish, lands straight

• Fade 4 = heavy hook at the end, ideal for spike hyzers or windy days

🧠 Tip: Use higher fade discs for dependable finishes or skip shots.

Example: What Does 9 | 5 | -2 | 2 Mean?

Let’s break it down:

• Speed 9: Fast fairway driver

• Glide 5: Good hang time

• Turn -2: Will turn right during flight (understable)

• Fade 2: Will finish with a soft left fade

➡️ This disc would be great for long, turning shots that gently fade back — ideal for intermediate players with developing arm speed.

How to Use Flight Numbers to Choose the Right Disc

Here’s a quick guide based on skill level:

🎯 Beginners:

• Speed: 6–9

• Glide: 4–6

• Turn: -2 to -5

• Fade: 0–2

Start with understable fairway drivers, mids, and putters that help you get the feel of flight without requiring a strong arm.

🏌️♂️ Intermediate Players:

• Speed: 7–11

• Glide: 4–6

• Turn: -1 to -3

• Fade: 1–3

You’ll benefit from more versatile discs that balance distance with control.

🥏 Advanced Players:

• Speed: 10–14

• Glide: 4–5

• Turn: 0 to -2

• Fade: 2–4

At this level, you’ll be choosing discs for specific shots and conditions, including overstable options for wind or forehand drives.

Final Thoughts: Flight Numbers Are a Guideline, Not a Guarantee

Flight numbers give you a great starting point, but remember — real flight depends on your throwing speed, form, wind, and disc wear. The best way to learn how a disc flies is to get out on the course and throw it!

Looking for beginner-friendly discs or pro-level molds sorted by flight numbers? 

We have Discs Sorted By Speed at:
www.elementaldg.com