When it comes to disc types, everyone knows that a putter and midrange are typically used for shorter distance shots, and that drivers are typically used for longer shots. But there are actually two types of drivers: fairway drivers and distance drivers. This blog will cover what the difference is between the two drivers, and when you should use them. Keep in mind that fairway drivers are often called ‘control drivers’ or ‘low-speed drivers’, and distance drivers are often referred to as ‘high-speed drivers’.
Before we get into the differences between the driver types, it’s always good to remind people that if you are newer to disc golf, pros and coaches recommend playing with putters and midrange discs while you are developing your form. Putters and mids will reveal form issues easier than drivers, so you are less likely to develop bad habits. Okay, let’s talk drivers!
Fairway Drivers vs Distance Drivers
There are two differences between fairway and distance drivers, and the two things are directly related. Those differences are disc speed and rim width. However, disc speed is primarily determined by rim width. The speed and rim size have important roles in disc golf, so let’s explore them more in depth.
Rim Width
The width of the rim, also called the rim thickness, is measured from the outside of the disc to the inner part of the rim. Fairway driver rim width ranges from approximately 1.6cm to 1.9cm. Since there isn’t an exact correlation between rim width and disc speed, that range can vary. Generally speaking, the wider the rim, the higher the discs speed.
Fairway
Since fairway drivers have smaller rim width, they are easier to grip and throw for newer players and people with smaller hands. The smaller rim also helps the disc skip less that distance drivers when it lands. However, a fairway driver will skip more than a midrange or putter. Knowing that can help you design your shot for what you need the disc to do.
Distance
The rim on a distance driver is typically wider than a fairway driver. The wide rim and narrow profile help it cut through the air better. On discs with extremely wide rims, it can be a challenge to grip the disc. That is especially true for people with small hands. As mentioned, higher-speed drivers are more prone to skipping and which should be considered when throwing a driver with a wide rim.
Disc Speed
Assigning a speed to a disc is not an exact science. Although the speed of a disc is related to its rim width, there is not an exact correlation between the speed and the width. Nor is there an exact line between fairway drivers and distance drivers. Some manufacturers rate their disc differently than others. Pretty much everyone agrees that speed 6-8 discs are fairway drivers. Speed 9 could go either way. And 10+ are always considered distance or high-speed drivers. Speed is the first number on the four digit disc golf number system.
Fairway
Another advantage for beginners throwing fairway drivers is that their lower speed means that people who don’t have good form down yet can still generate enough arm speed for the disc to fly like it should. Few beginners have the skill to throw distance drivers at the proper speed, and many of us picked up bad habits starting out throwing discs that were out of our skill set, and we picked up some bad habits because of it. By sticking with fairway drivers, we are more likely to be able to throw them properly.
Distance
If you do have the skill and arm speed to handle a distance driver, you can get some of your longest drives with this type of disc. The top pros regularly pull out distance drivers when they need to take a big chunk out of the total distance on a hole. If you aren’t capable of ripping a disc as fast as needed for a high-speed driver, you’ll be much happier and get more distance with a fairway driver.
When should these disc types be used?
Fairway Drivers
For less experienced players, a fairway driver will be the high-speed driver. Since they can’t handle a distance driver yet, the fairway driver will be the one they choose for the longest drives. The lower speed fairway drivers could even be used for longer utility shots, like throwing over or around trees or obstacles. More skilled players can use a fairway driver for control shots in the woods, longer upshots, and even as a driver off the tee for shorter holes. It is easier to control and shape than faster drivers. Plus the ground action is a little more predictable, giving players a wider range of comfortable shots.
Distance Drivers
For newer players, the distance driver is something that they should avoid until they improve their skills. Trying to alter their form just so they can get some decent distance will slow their progress toward becoming a better player. Just stick to slower speed discs until you have the speed necessary for faster discs. Once players achieve the skill for these high-level discs, they will unlock a variety of different uses for distance drivers. They can be used for bombs off the tee pad. They can be used as giant flex shots to get distance while avoiding obstacles. With the right disc, they can even achieve a lot of distance on the ground as rollers.
Summary
Now you understand the difference between fairway drivers and distance drivers. You also know when to use each of these valuable tools, and when to choose a different disc. This should help you as you pick the discs that are right for you and your current skill level. Happy hucking!
