In terms of design golf discs have subtle differences which often make huge differences in flight patterns and on-course performance.
That said most discs look very much alike as well.
Even among putters few designs push the envelope too far.
One factor is most certainly the rather narrow design specifications of the Professional Disc Golf Association. The PDGA is basically the governing body of the sport, and while many tournaments may not be sanctioned by the body, most opt to use the organization's rules.
When it comes to disc design the PDGA seems to be holding design rules pretty tightly. I suspect as a newer sport there is a fear technological advancement could hurt the game if not held in check to some extent. There are for example flying rings, not so different from a disc that can toss hundreds of feet, so if controls aren't maintained courses could quickly need to be as large as regular golf, something that would be a detriment to a sport that at present can fit a course into some very small areas -- witness Patrick Park Disc Golf Course here in Yorkton.
Of course when you think of regular golf most clubs look the same, especially fairway irons.
Where great diversity comes in is with putters. There are golf putters with a myriad of head designs, not to mention some pretty wild concepts through the years with six-foot shafts and the like.
Disc golf has some greater diversity in putter design, although nowhere near the differences seen in real golf.
One PDGA approved putter which is certainly different is the Arrow from Aerobie discs.
The first thought that comes to mind when seeing the Arrow is that it is designed off a pie plate, a deep dish pie plate at that.
The design/look is radically different from any other putter I've thrown, and therein lies both its allure, and the reason many might shy from throwing it.
The Arrow feels different in your hand. With a profile twice as deep as most putters you have more to grip. For those who throw a putter with the index finger along the edge for greater control this disc is not as comfortable in hand.
Grip it like a mid-range and it feels good in the sense you have the deep rim to maximize the hand to disc quotient.
The Arrow is designed to be a straight flier, with limited fade, two highly desirable attributes when close into the basket. However, because it is designed differently, it is a disc which requires some getting used too, so spend some time at the practice basket.
But like all golfers, we disc players are always looking for an edge. That means looking to the radical designs and giving them a try.
In the case of the Arrow give it some time and you just might find an asset for your bag.
Check it out at www.aerobie.com
