Discmania C-Line. Innova Star. MVP Disc Sports Neutron. Discraft Z-Line. What does it all mean? Until one starts playing disc golf regularly, it’s not always easy to know where to begin. Is base plastic better to start with? What about Premium?
Let’s talk types of plastic.
Base Plastic
The term “base” usually refers to lower-grade plastic that is inexpensive to produce, yet affordable to purchase. The plastic can feel soft or firm, and is more vulnerable to damage than premium plastic. However, base plastic is very popular for short distance shots, especially with putt and approach discs. For example, putters made with base plastic typically adhere to chains better, as they are less slick.
Pros
- Inexpensive and easy to replace
- Cost-effective way to try different discs
- Ideal for putting
Cons
- Shorter life span, less durability
- May not retain its intended flight path
Base Plastics to Try
- Discmania Active Base and D-Line Flex 2
- Prodigy ACE Line BaseGrip and 300
- MVP Disc Sports Electron
- Kastaplast K3 Line
- Clash Discs Hardy
- Innova DX
- Dynamic Discs Classic
Premium Plastic
Although there are many variations, discs made with premium plastic are generally top-of-the-line and quite durable. They are more expensive but also retain their initial flight numbers, ultimately extending the discs' lifespan.
However, the feel of premium plastic is generally not as coarse as base plastic, so it may tend to slide through basket chains when putting. For instance, a lot of professional players will use premium plastic off the tee and in the fairway, and base plastic for putting.
Pros
- High durability
- Longer life span for the disc
- More overstable
- Enhanced grip
Cons
- More expensive
- Not ideal for putting
- Slick in the rain
Premium Plastic to Try
- Discmania C-Line, S-Line, and Active Premium
- MVP Disc Sports Neutron, Plasma, Proton
- Prodigy Disc 400 and 500
- Kastaplast K1 Line
- Clash Discs Steady Plastic
- Discraft Z Line, ESP, Big Z
- Innova Halo, Star, GStar, and Champion
- Dynamic Discs Supreme, Lucid, Fuzion
The Bottom Line
While this is a short introduction to different types of plastics, there are tons of nuances and feels. There are also limited runs, special releases for touring players, and unique plastic blends geared to look more aesthetic. Every disc golfer has their own preference, it’s just about finding out what works best!