Selecting the Best Disc Golf Putter for Beginners
Let’s face it—starting out in disc golf can feel like stepping onto another planet. So many discs, so many plastics, and so many opinions! But when it comes to choosing your first putter, the good news is: it doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. Your putter is your most-used disc, so let’s find one that helps you sink more putts with less stress.
Think of your putter as your compass. It helps you find your direction on the green, whether you're tossing from the tee pad or closing in on the chains. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes a great beginner disc golf putter, what features to focus on, and how to make a smart, affordable choice that fits your hand and your game.
💡 What Actually Makes a Great Beginner Putter?
If you're new to disc golf, you're not just looking for any putter—you want one that’s easy to control and feels natural in your hand. Most beginners benefit from neutral to slightly understable putters. These discs hold a straight line and help reduce unwanted fade (especially helpful for right-handed backhand throws).
The key isn’t just flight—it’s feel. A putter that feels good builds confidence. Pay attention to the rim depth, whether it has a bead (a small ridge), and the overall texture. A comfortable grip leads to smoother releases—and more putts that stick.
Tip: Don’t overthink it. If it feels good in your hand, that’s a great sign you’re on the right track.
Quote: “Comfort breeds confidence, and confidence makes chains sing.” — Nate Sexton, 2017 USDGC Champion
💸 Why You Don’t Need an Expensive Putter
Let’s bust a myth: Price doesn’t equal performance—especially for putters. In fact, most pros practice with low-cost base plastics because of their grip and control. Fancy premium plastics may look great, but they’re not essential for putting success.
Base plastics like Innova DX, Infinite D-Blend, or Discraft Pro-D are ideal for beginners. They have a slightly tacky feel, are easy to grip, and cost around $10–$12. That low price means you're less stressed about losing one—and more focused on building skill.
Tip: Get two identical putters in base plastic. Practice with both to build muscle memory and confidence.
Stat: According to Infinite Discs’ customer reviews, base plastic putters hold a 4.5+ average rating for grip and control across all skill levels.
🧽 Soft vs. Firm Putters: What’s the Difference?
This comes down to personal feel. Some players love soft, flexible putters that grip the chains and absorb impact. Others swear by stiff putters for a cleaner, more consistent release.
- Soft Putters: Great in cold weather and less likely to roll away if you miss. Try MVP Electron Soft or Gateway’s Soft Sure Grip.
- Firm Putters: Preferred for crisp, confident releases. Popular models include the Discraft Luna and Axiom Envy in firm plastics.
Tip: Test both. Whichever one makes your putts feel smoother is the right choice.
Quote: “Disc golf is feel first. Find a putter that feels like an extension of your hand.” — Sarah Hokom, World Champion
✋ The Role of Grip and Texture
A slippery disc is a confidence killer. For beginners, grippy, chalky plastics are a game-changer. They help you hold the disc loosely and still release it cleanly—less wobble, more accuracy.
Top grip-friendly plastics include DX, D-Blend, R-Pro, and Electron. Avoid ultra-slick blends (like Champion or Z plastic) until you’ve developed consistent form.
Tip: On hot or humid days, keep a towel nearby and stick to putters with matte or chalky finishes for better grip.
Stat: 70% of beginner players surveyed by Disc Golf Reviewer reported improved consistency with base plastic putters over premium blends.
⚖️ Beaded vs. Beadless: What’s Better?
Ah, the great bead debate! A bead is a small ridge at the bottom of a disc’s rim. Some players like the extra stability and grip it offers. Others prefer a smooth, fast release from beadless putters.
Beaded: Better grip, slightly more fade. Examples: Innova Aviar (Big Bead), Infinite Alpaca.
Beadless: Smoother release, faster feel. Examples: Discraft Luna, MVP Anode.
Tip: If you're not sure, start beadless. It’s usually more comfortable for new players learning touch and release timing.
Quote: “The perfect putter is the one you stop thinking about.” — James Conrad, 2021 World Champion
⚖️ Ideal Weight and Stability for New Players
Beginner putters should usually be in the 170–175g range. Heavier discs handle wind better and stay on line more reliably. Lighter discs might glide farther, but they can get pushed around outdoors.
Stick with straight-flying or slightly understable putters. These offer better control and predictability at lower arm speeds. Great starter options include:
- Infinite Discs R-Blend Alpaca
- Discraft Fierce
- Axiom Proxy
- Dynamic Discs Deputy
Tip: Don’t chase overstable putters. Let the disc do the work while you develop your form.
🏆 Practice > Plastic: The Real Secret to Success
Even the world’s best putter won’t help if it’s sitting in your bag. The real key? Repetition. Pick a putter that feels good and stick with it.
Practice 15–30 putts a day from 15 to 25 feet. Focus on release angle and follow-through. Over time, your putter becomes part of your hand—and the basket starts looking bigger.
Tip: Keep at least two identical putters in your bag or backyard basket. Reps build rhythm.
Quote: “You don’t find confidence. You build it—one putt at a time.” — Ricky Wysocki, 2x World Champion
🚀 Final Thoughts: Confidence is King
The best disc golf putter for beginners isn’t the most expensive or the most hyped—it’s the one that feels right, flies straight, and gives you confidence. Stick to affordable, grippy base plastics, experiment with softness and bead style, and ignore what the pros are throwing for now.
Keep it simple, trust your hands, and put in the reps. Once you find a putter that clicks with your style, your putting game will improve fast—and you’ll understand why seasoned players always say:
“It’s all about the feel.”