When it comes to disc golf, the type of plastic your disc is made from can have a big impact on how it feels, flies, and wears over time. Two of the most popular premium plastic blends from Innova are Star and Champion, each with its own unique characteristics that appeal to different types of players. Other brands have similar plastics, with similar characteristics. Whether you’re looking for more grip, extra durability, or something that beats in just right, understanding the differences between Star vs Champion plastics can help you make a more informed choice for your game.
Star Plastic Qualities
Star plastic is a premium blend known for its excellent grip and reliable durability. While it matches Champion plastic in toughness, Star offers a tackier feel that many players find easier to control—especially in cold or wet conditions. Discs in Star plastic generally fly similarly to their Champion counterparts but tend to be slightly less overstable. The softer, more flexible feel of Star plastic also makes it a favorite for players who like a bit of give in their grip. With its great balance of performance and feel, Star plastic delivers long-lasting consistency with enhanced control.
Champion Plastic Qualities
Champion plastic is built for durability and performance, featuring a firm, slick feel and a translucent look that stands out on the course. This plastic blend is often favored by players with faster arm speeds thanks to its added stability and resistance to wear. Champion discs tend to retain their original flight characteristics longer, even after heavy use. While they may be a bit stiffer and less grippy than Star plastic, Champion discs shine in terms of longevity and predictability, especially in demanding conditions or power throws.
Who Should Throw Star vs. Champion Plastic?
Star plastic is often a go-to choice for newer to intermediate players who are looking for a blend of control, grip, and durability. The slightly softer feel gives players a more confident hold, especially in damp or cold weather. The slightly reduced stability compared to Champion plastic makes Star discs a bit more forgiving, which can help developing players get longer, straighter flights without needing elite-level arm speed. That said, many advanced players also bag Star plastic for its reliable performance and beat-in potential.
Champion plastic, on the other hand, tends to appeal more to experienced players who throw with higher power and prefer a stiffer, more stable disc. The added firmness and overstability can help handle torque and wind better, making Champion plastic a strong choice for forehand throwers and big-arm backhand players. Because Champion discs hold their flight characteristics for a long time, they’re ideal for players who want consistency round after round, even in rugged course conditions.
Flight Differences Between Star and Champion
While both plastic types offer similar flight profiles right out of the box, there are subtle differences that can affect performance. Star plastic tends to break in a little faster, leading to a slightly less overstable flight over time. This makes Star discs a great option for players who like their discs to “season” and gradually develop more turn or glide as they wear in.
Champion plastic, by contrast, holds its stability longer and resists wear more effectively. Discs in Champion plastic often start out slightly more overstable than their Star versions and stay that way for longer. This makes Champion plastic ideal for players who want their discs to fly the same way for dozens of rounds without noticeable change. The stiffness of Champion plastic can also enhance skip shots and reduce flex during high-speed throws, which some players prefer for shaping precise lines.
Summary: Star vs. Champion Plastic
Choosing between Star and Champion plastic ultimately comes down to feel, grip, and how much change you want in your disc’s flight over time. Star plastic offers a great mix of grip and performance with a slightly faster break-in period, making it well-suited to players who like a disc that evolves with them. Champion plastic provides long-lasting stability and a firmer, more durable build that excels under power and in harsh conditions. Whether you’re looking for control and comfort or stability and endurance, both plastics offer top-tier performance. Like many things in disc golf, it’s just a matter of what feels better your hand and fits your skill and throwing style best.
