Disc golfers are a quirky bunch, and the subject of disc colors is no exception. From bright neon to subtle earth tones, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to the colors of your disc golf discs. However, disc color matters when it comes to ending the disc loss dilemma.
While some players might prefer their favorite disc color (mine is green 🙁) often these tend to blend in with the natural surroundings. After misplacing a few favorites and praying to the disc golf gods for mercy, I now give up my intuition for a green disc and rather look for something that stands out like a beacon.
But what makes a disc color matter, and which are the best or the worst for ending the disc loss dilamma? Let’s dive in to find out which disc colors stand out from it’s surroundings and help you find your precious plastic.
DISC GOLF DISC COLOR MATTERS: GOOD, BAD, UGLY
Long have a I wanted to rant discuss the issue of disc golf disc color. A peculiar issue and topic that many of you have mentioned on various forums, asking disc golf manufacturers to take note, and pleaded with fellow disc golfers to restrain from supporting the bad: a noble but futile effort. So while there is a bit of humble humor in my words, be it known that it is served with a side of seriousness.
THE WORST DISC GOLF DISC COLORS
First, let’s talk about the worst disc colors: blue to green. It’s the bane of every disc golfer’s existence. Green discs are notoriously difficult to spot in the grass, making it nearly impossible to find a lost disc. Even worse is if they are transparent.
Blue is scientifically the hardest color to see as it requires more light energy for a response from the blue-violet cones in our eyes. This can be especially frustrating for newer players who are still getting used to the game and may lose a disc more frequently. If you’re looking to reduce the chances of losing a disc, steer clear of blue and green discs.
With that said, green is my favorite color, hence the thematic use of it all over DiscGolfDash.com. Oh sure, manufacturers make green discs because it represents the great outdoors. It’s actually one of the easiest colors for our eyes to see, never mind the fact that we live on a BLUE GREEN planet and green discs blend in like a chameleon on steroids. Genius. Practicality? Pfft, who needs that?
You might find use for a green disc during the fall season, if your course is covered in leaves from the bright orange to red spectrum it should contrast nicely. I have also had no problem finding a green disc that is used on a well manicured course such as NorthCove. But woah to the player that believes they can find it in the rough. That would be a task for a fool or foe.
If you are going to get a green disc, at least get one with a brightly colored stamp design…something that could catch the light and reflect its presence to your scanning eyes. But even then, pray that the disc lands upright and it’s a bright sunny day.
THE UGLIEST DISC GOLF COLOR / DESIGN
I love me some retro designs. Let the world overflow with visuals from the past, designs of graphical illustrations, peace, love, etc. etc. etc….but that Retro Burst in the Trilogy disc lineup, just ain’t cutting it. To be clear, I own a few Retro bursts discs…giving me the authoritative power to speak on its cringe worthy design (ha!)…so here it goes.
The retro burst design appears to be an attempt by large manufacturers trying to emulate popular custom disc dye “trippy” swirls and fancy concoction. While I applaud the notion, it just doesn’t hit the spot. The design is not only lacking in effect, but it’s lacking in hue…did someone turn down the opacity before going to print? Making this disc one of the hardest to find out in the field.
For instance I originally bought my Latitude 64 River with the retro burst design, in part thinking the design would help it stand out. But this was not the case…in fact, if you read my full review of the River (a disc I bag on the regular), you will see some nice pictures of it laying in the fairway. Note though, these pics, while they show the blue burst in all its glory, have been tweaked to bump the contrast, brightness, and vibrance, all in the name of helping it stick out. Thankfully, West Side, LT 64, and Dynamic Discs all offers several designs and colors for their discs, including the Retro burst…explore the Top Trilogy Discs in our article.
THE BEST DISC GOLF DISC COLOR FOR FINDING YOUR DISC
On the other hand, I have found the best colors for finding your disc are hot pink and bright yellow. These colors are easy to spot from a distance and are a great way to ensure that you’ll never lose your disc again. Whether it’s a busy park or a sprawling fairway, a hot pink or bright yellow disc will be impossible to miss.
While yellow can sometimes fade into the sunlight and blend with the fall leaves, I find it better than most other natural colors such as green, brown, or even red. But be sure its a bright yellow…that muted mustard ain’t going to cut it…in fact, it could be one of the worst colors depending on the type of grass your playing.
Honorable mentions could include black. Although it might fade into the shaded parts of a course, and for whatever reason discs with a black color are more rare in my opinion. Regardless, I have never had much worry about finding it when I fail to follow my discs’ final flying pattern. Which brings me to a few tips for beginners and friendly reminders for the seasoned player…
HOW TO AVOID LOSING YOUR DISC GOLF DISCS
Disc golf is a fun and challenging sport, but a common frustration among players is when their disc goes off course. To ensure a successful round, it’s important to learn how to properly throw and control your disc. However, below are some tips for when things just don’t go as planned.
- Keep your eye on the prize: one of the more practical habits you can get into, that will help reduce the lost disc dilemma, is keeping an eye on your disc until it comes to rest. While this may seem obvious, I often find myself turning my back to the disc upon nearing its end of flight pattern. Discs bounce, roll, and sometimes disappear into the landscape. Keeping your eye on it to the finish has greatly decreased my search and locate time.
- Playing with others, use a spotter: Courses that have dog-legged holes often make it difficult for you to see a portion of the fairway from your stance. While keeping safety in mind, having a partner as a second set of eyes can increase the chances of finding where your disc comes to settle.
- Utilize technology: there are some fancy schmancy tools out there like the MeepMeep tracker that utilize technology and can help you find discs. While I wouldn’t spend the money to apply one of these trackers to all of my discs, you might consider them for the more coveted units or custom dyed one-of-a-kinds. Also, consider these as gift for the disc golfer that has it all.
- Leverage the right disc at the right time: now I am not just talking about using a straight flyer for those mandos in an effort to avoid the dark and thick forest surroundings, but also to bag a floater. Something like the Innova Dragon is a must have to throw over the water hazard holes…this disc, while new to my arsenal, has saved me a handful of times already.
- Invest in a disc retriever: a must-have for regular disc golfers. You can read up about the different types of retrievers here, but honestly, for the low cost, it’s probably one of the more overlooked and yet valuable items a disc golfer can have besides a towel.
- Get better: an unbashful tip to promoting our articles that help you become better at disc golfing. In all seriousness though, read up on grip-lock and rounding and build your skill set with these tips.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DISC GOLF DISC COLOR?
Disc golf is a game that is meant to be enjoyed, and humor can be a great way to lighten the mood when things get tense. Some players like to have a bit of fun with their disc colors by choosing unusual or quirky hues. From tie-dye patterns to comic book heroes, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creative disc color and designs.
The best and worst disc golf disc colors are largely a matter of personal preference. Some players prefer bright, eye-catching colors, while others prefer a more subdued approach. Whether you’re looking for a way to reduce the chances of losing a disc or simply want to have a bit of fun on the course, there’s a color out there that’s perfect for you. So next time you’re picking out a new disc, take a moment to consider the color. It may not improve your score, but could help with the pocket book.
Cheers,
Corey
