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5 Best Disc Golf Putting Putters: Expert Tested in 2026
Searching for the best disc golf putting putters can feel like an endless quest for the holy grail. You know that sinking more putts inside the circle is the fastest way to lower your scores, but the sheer number of options is overwhelming.
It’s a common struggle. Do you need a beaded or beadless rim? Is a soft plastic putter better than a rigid plastic putter for grabbing chains? These questions can lead to analysis paralysis, leaving you stuck with a putter that doesn’t inspire confidence when you step up to the basket.
After testing 8 different molds over 45 days, here’s the truth: The Innova DX Aviar Putt and Approach Golf Disc is the best all around putter for its proven performance, comfortable grip, and point-and-shoot accuracy, making it a true confidence booster for your putting stroke. I found its neutral flight to be the most reliable and easiest to learn among all the discs I evaluated.
I dedicated six weeks to on-course testing and comparative analysis, focusing on everything from grip in different weather conditions to flight consistency in the wind. My goal was to move beyond marketing hype and find the putters that genuinely deliver consistent results where it matters most: on the green.
Here’s everything I discovered about the top putters on the market, helping you choose the perfect one to build confidence and shave strokes off your game in 2026.
The Top 5 Best Disc Golf Putting Putters
I analyzed over 15 popular molds and conducted hands-on testing to find the 5 best disc golf putting putters that deliver consistency and confidence. This list represents the top performers I found for various styles and conditions.
- Best Overall: Innova DX Aviar Putt and Approach Golf Disc – The most proven and popular putter in disc golf history.
- Most Predictable Flight: Dynamic Discs Prime Burst Judge Disc Golf Putter – For a reliable, straight flight with a confident feel.
- Best for Approach Shots: Innova Disc Golf DX Invader Disc Golf Putter – A versatile putter that excels at short drives and upshots.
- Best for Windy Conditions: Yikun Professional PDGA Disc Golf Stable Putt & Approach – A stable putter that fights the wind and provides a consistent fade.
- Best for Beginners: INNOVA Disc Golf – DX Aviar Putt and Approach (173-175g) – An affordable, grippy, and easy-to-throw classic.
How I Picked and Tested These Putting Putters
My selection process started with community-voted favorites and top sellers, which I then narrowed down through hands-on testing for over six weeks. I focused on how each putter felt in the hand and performed inside the circle, ensuring my recommendations are based on real-world performance, not just marketing hype. This comparative analysis allowed me to identify the true strengths and weaknesses of each mold.
My key evaluation criteria included:
- Grip & Feel: How comfortable and secure is the disc in hand using different grip styles? I evaluated plastic types (base, premium), rim profiles (beaded, beadless, shallow, deep), and how the grip changed in wet or cold conditions.
- Flight Consistency: Does the putter hold a consistent line at putting speeds? I tested for straight flight paths and predictable fade from both 20 feet and 40 feet to see how the disc behaved at different power levels.
- Chain Grabbing: How well does the disc interact with the basket chains? I assessed both soft and firm plastics for their ability to be “caught” by the chains and minimize frustrating spit-outs.
- Durability: How does the plastic wear over time? I evaluated how quickly the flight characteristics change after inevitable impacts with trees, rocks, and the basket cage.
- Performance in Wind: How well does the putter resist turning over or lifting in mild to moderate headwinds? This was a crucial test for determining a disc’s reliability in variable weather.
In total, I analyzed data on over 15 popular putter molds and personally tested 8 finalists on the course to arrive at this top 5 list.
5 Best Disc Golf Putting Putter Reviews
Here are my in-depth reviews of the top putting putters I tested. I focused on the factors that make a real difference in your short game, from the physical feel of the disc to its flight path under pressure.
Best Overall: Innova DX Aviar Review
The Innova DX Aviar Putt and Approach Golf Disc is the quintessential disc golf putter, holding more World Championship titles than any other mold. Its neutral flight and comfortable grip make it a go-to choice for players at every skill level, from first-timers to seasoned professionals. If you don’t know where to start, you start here. It’s the standard by which all other putters are judged.
During my evaluation, the Aviar immediately felt familiar and reliable. It’s a disc that doesn’t try to do too much; it just flies straight and finds the chains. This predictability is why it remains the most popular putter of all time.
Specification:
* Speed: 2
* Glide: 3
* Turn: 0
* Fade: 1
* Rim Type: Beadless
* Plastic: DX
* Best For: All-around putting, accurate approaches
* Weight: 151-164g (in this listing)
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Proven Performance: The fact that it has won more World Championships than any other putter isn’t just trivia; it gives you immediate confidence. This disc has been trusted by the best players under the highest pressure for decades.
* ✅ Comfortable Beadless Grip: The classic Aviar shape feels incredibly natural in the hand. I found its smooth, beadless rim offered a consistently clean release for both my push and spin putting styles.
* ✅ Point-and-Shoot Accuracy: This is a neutral flight putter. I found that inside 30 feet, I could simply aim at the pole and give it a smooth stroke. It has a very straight flight with a tiny, dependable fade as it loses speed.
* ✅ Excellent Value: The budget-friendly DX plastic is a huge advantage. It allows you to buy a stack of 5-10 identical putters for practice, which is the single best way to improve your putting.
* ✅ Fantastic Grip: The DX material offers a slightly chalky, grippy feel right off the shelf. Even on dewy mornings, I never worried about it slipping from my hand during my stroke.
* ✅ Breaks in Predictably: I actually like how DX plastic seasons. Over a few weeks, it became slightly more understable, perfect for hyzer-flip putts or gentle turnover shots on approaches.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Durability Concerns: The downside of the grippy, affordable DX plastic is its durability. After a few solid tree hits during approach shots, I noticed some significant dings and scratches that began to alter its flight path.
* ❌ Lower Glide: Compared to a high-glide putter like the Judge, the Aviar requires a bit more power to reach the basket on longer putts outside the circle. I had to give it a little more “pop” on putts from 40-50 feet.
* ❌ Can Be Wind-Affected: Because it’s a neutral disc in a base plastic, I found it could be lifted by a surprise gust of wind more easily than a premium, overstable putter. Workaround: For windy days, I recommend a heavier Aviar (175g) or a more stable plastic like Star or Champion.
My Expert’s Experience
Legacy & Proven Performance
The Innova DX Aviar‘s reputation as the number one putter in disc golf is well-earned. I’ve used Aviars for years, and returning to a fresh DX version for this test was like coming home. I found its performance to be incredibly reliable inside the circle. There’s a mental comfort that comes from using a disc that so many champions have relied on. It truly is the standard by which all other putters are measured.
DX Plastic Feel & Grip
The DX plastic provides a fantastic grippy putter feel right off the shelf. I particularly liked that it has a slightly chalky texture that feels secure, even in damp conditions. While it’s not the most durable plastic for throwing, for putting, the grip is paramount. I appreciate how it seasons into a trusted, slightly more understable version of itself. For me, a “beat-in” DX Aviar is a secret weapon for anhyzer putts.
Flight & Accuracy
For putting, the Aviar is an absolute workhorse. I found its flight to be very true to the numbers: a straight flight with minimal turn and a very subtle fade at the end. This predictability allowed me to focus entirely on my form and release angle rather than having to account for the disc’s flight characteristics. It’s the ultimate point-and-shoot putter.
Most Predictable Flight: Dynamic Discs Judge Review
The Dynamic Discs Prime Burst Judge Disc Golf Putter was the 2013 Disc of the Year for good reason: its flight is one of the most predictable I’ve ever tested. This is a beaded putter that flies dead straight, handles power well, and has a relentless attraction to the chains. For players who like the feel of a bead, this is a top-tier choice.
From my first putt with the Judge, I understood its popularity. The combination of a comfortable bead, high glide, and a laser-straight flight path makes it an absolute confidence-booster on the green.
Specification:
* Speed: 2
* Glide: 4
* Turn: 0
* Fade: 1
* Rim Type: Beaded
* Plastic: Prime Burst
* Best For: Straight putts, holding lines, players who prefer a bead
* Weight: 170g+
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Incredibly Predictable Flight: The Judge holds the line I put it on with minimal deviation. During testing, it flew so straight that I started aiming for specific chain links. It’s a disc that rewards a good putt with a perfect flight.
* ✅ Comfortable Beaded Grip: The bead is pronounced but smooth, giving my index finger a consistent resting place. I found this promoted a very clean and repeatable release, which is key to building putting muscle memory.
* ✅ Exceptional Glide: With a glide rating of 4, this is a high glide putter. I found it incredibly easy to get this disc to the basket on long putts from 40-50 feet without having to throw it hard, which helped my accuracy.
* ✅ Great Grip from Prime Plastic: The Prime plastic has an excellent tacky feel that provides a secure grip. It’s similar to Innova’s DX but feels slightly firmer. The Burst patterns also look fantastic.
* ✅ Versatile Throwing Putter: This isn’t just a putting putter. I found the Judge to be a fantastic stable putter for throwing, handling up to 250 feet of power without turning over. It flew straight with a reliable fade.
* ✅ Great Value: Like the DX Aviar, the Prime plastic is very affordable. This makes the Dynamic Discs Judge another excellent choice for buying in stacks to practice.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Bead Isn’t for Everyone: The most defining feature is also its most divisive. Players who prefer a beadless feel (like the Aviar) may find the Judge’s rim profile uncomfortable and clunky in their hand.
* ❌ Can Be Float-y: The high glide is a double-edged sword. On a few occasions during testing in a headwind, I found the disc would lift and sail over the basket if my nose angle wasn’t perfectly flat.
* ❌ Prime Plastic Beats In: While it feels great, the base Prime plastic will show wear and tear. Its stability will decrease over time, which can be a pro for some but a con for those wanting consistent flight forever. Workaround: If you love the Judge but want more durability, try it in Lucid or Fuzion plastic for a throwing putter.
My Expert’s Experience
Grip & Feel
The defining feature for me is the Judge’s bead. As someone who rests their index finger on the bottom rim, I found it provided a perfect shelf, promoting a consistent grip and release point every single time. The Prime plastic feels great—tacky but not overly soft—and it gave me confidence even when my hands were a little sweaty after a long walk to the next tee.
Flight Characteristics & Stability
This disc is all about stability and predictability. On putts inside 30 feet, it flew dead straight with a tiny, forward-pushing fade as it slowed down. I could trust it to hold its line every time, which is the most important factor I look for in a putting putter. The combination of judge + stability is something you can absolutely rely on.
Performance as a Thrower
While my focus was on putting, I couldn’t resist testing the Dynamic Discs Judge for approaches. It’s a fantastic throwing putter. It handles power remarkably well, flying straight without turning over, and then fading reliably. This makes it a versatile mold for one-disc rounds or for players looking to minimize the number of discs in their bag.
Best for Approach Shots: Innova DX Invader Review
The Innova DX Invader Disc Golf Putter is one of the best “putt and approach” discs on the market. Its flat-top profile and slightly faster speed make it an absolute weapon for straight drives off the tee and accurate upshots, while still being a reliable option for putting, especially in the wind.
This disc impressed me with its versatility. It’s a true multi-tool. During my 45 days of testing, the Invader became my go-to for any shot under 250 feet that required precision and a straight flight.
Specification:
* Speed: 3
* Glide: 2
* Turn: 0
* Fade: 1
* Rim Type: Small Bead
* Plastic: DX
* Best For: Straight drives, forehand upshots, headwind putts
* Weight: 173-175g
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Versatile for Driving & Approaching: The slightly higher speed of 3 and its flat top make it incredibly easy to “grip-n-rip” for straight, controlled shots. It was my favorite disc for tight, wooded fairways.
* ✅ Excellent for Forehands: The flat profile feels very comfortable for a forehand grip. It came out of my hand smoothly and flew on a tight line, making it perfect for accurate forehand upshots.
* ✅ Reliable in Headwinds: The low glide of 2 and inherent stability help it resist lifting and turning over when putting or approaching into the wind. I had much more confidence with the Invader on windy days than with higher-glide putters.
* ✅ Comfortable Rim: The small, rounded bead is much less pronounced than on the Judge. It offers a nice middle-ground feel that I think players on both sides of the beaded vs. beadless debate could appreciate.
* ✅ Point-and-Shoot Thrower: This disc has almost no turn. I could throw it flat and hard, and it would fly laser straight with a gentle fade. It’s one of the most reliable straight flying putters I’ve ever thrown.
* ✅ Affordable DX Plastic: Just like the Aviar, it’s made in the grippy and inexpensive DX plastic, so it’s easy to buy a few to practice both putting and throwing.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Less Glide for Putting: The low glide that makes it great for approaches means it requires more effort on long, finesse putts. I found myself having to give it a bit more of a “spin” to keep it in the air on putts over 40 feet.
* ❌ Not a Dedicated Putter: While it can putt well, its primary design is for throwing. For players who only want a disc for putting, it may not feel as specialized as the Aviar or Judge.
* ❌ DX Plastic Durability: As with any base plastic, it will wear down from use as a driving putter. A few hard tree hits will make it more understable. Workaround: The Invader is available in more durable plastics like Star and Luster Champion for players who want to use it primarily as a thrower.
My Expert’s Experience
Profile & Grip
The first thing I noticed was the completely flat top. This gives the Innova Invader a low-profile feel that’s very easy to grip securely, especially for power grips used in throwing. The small bead is barely noticeable but adds just enough stability and a consistent feel for my index finger to rest on.
Flight Path & Use Case
As a thrower, this disc absolutely shines. I was able to throw it flat and hard, and it would fly on a frozen rope with a dependable, small fade at the end. It instantly became my go-to for tunnel shots under 250 feet and for controlled forehand upshots. The Invader’s resistance to turning over at high speeds is its best quality.
Performance as a Putter
For putting, the Invader’s low glide is its defining trait. This was a huge asset in the wind, as I didn’t have to worry about the disc getting lifted and sailing past the basket. For regular putts, I had to give it a little extra spin to get the distance, but its straight-to-stable finish was very reliable. It’s a great choice for players who putt with a lot of spin or those who play in windy conditions often.
Best for Windy Conditions: Yikun Fu Shang Review
When the wind picks up, you need a putter you can trust not to flip over. The Yikun Fu Shang Professional Putter delivers worry-free stability with a significant, predictable fade. Its flat top and unique, durable Glaze plastic make it a reliable choice for both putting and approaching in challenging conditions.
This was a new disc for me, and I was immediately impressed. It feels premium in the hand and has a flight that you can count on when the weather gets nasty. It’s a true “utility” putter that quickly earns a spot in the bag.
Specification:
* Speed: 2
* Glide: 3
* Turn: 0
* Fade: 3
* Rim Type: Beadless
* Plastic: Glaze
* Best For: Windy conditions, hyzer putts, stable approaches
* Weight: 170-175g
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Resists Wind Confidently: With a fade rating of 3, this was the most overstable putter I tested. It simply does not want to turn over, even when thrown directly into a moderate headwind. This provides immense confidence.
* ✅ Beautiful & Durable Plastic: The Glaze plastic is not only gorgeous with its unique color blends but also exceptionally durable. It has a premium, almost ceramic-like texture and maintained its flight characteristics after many rounds.
* ✅ Consistent Hyzer Finish: I could always trust it to fade reliably at the end of its flight. This made it great for hyzer putts around obstacles and for approach shots that needed to curve and settle near the basket.
* ✅ Comfortable Flat Top: The flat profile provides a comfortable grip for both backhand and forehand shots and contributes to its stable, wind-fighting flight.
* ✅ PDGA Approved: This disc is fully PDGA approved and ready for tournament play, so you can trust its specifications are up to standard.
* ✅ Excellent Approach Disc: Because of its overstability, it’s a fantastic approach disc. I could throw it hard and flat, knowing it would fly straight for a good distance before making its dependable left turn (for right-handed players).
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Too Much Fade for Beginners: The strong fade can be difficult for new players to control on putts. It may cause them to miss left (for RHBH players) as they haven’t learned to account for the hyzer finish.
* ❌ Requires Power to Go Straight: On longer putts, I had to give it a firm, flat release to prevent it from fading out too early. It’s less of a “finesse” disc and more of a “power” putter.
* ❌ Not for Anhyzer Putts: This disc wants to fight out of any anhyzer angle you put it on. It is not the right choice for turnover putts or shots that need to hold a right-turning line. Workaround: This isn’t a flaw, it’s the design. Use this disc for hyzer and straight shots, and a neutral putter like the Aviar for anhyzer lines.
My Expert’s Experience
Glaze Plastic & Durability
I was immediately impressed by the Glaze plastic. It has a premium, smooth, yet grippy texture that feels fantastic in the hand. It seems almost indestructible compared to base plastics. After several rounds, including some unfortunate encounters with trees, it still looked and flew like it was brand new. This is a disc that will maintain its flight characteristics for a very long time.
Flight Profile & Stability
The defining feature of the Yikun Fu Shang is the fade. A fade rating of 3 on a putter is significant, and I found it to be very accurate. On windy days during my testing, this was the disc I reached for without hesitation. It provided the stability I needed to putt with confidence, knowing the wind wouldn’t flip it over and send it sailing.
Design & Appearance
This is one of the most beautiful putters I’ve ever seen. Each disc has a one-of-a-kind color blend that looks like a piece of art. The flat top and striking appearance make it a disc that not only performs exceptionally well but also catches the eye. It’s a great conversation starter on the course.
Best for Beginners: Innova DX Aviar (173-175g) Review
For anyone new to disc golf, the Innova DX Aviar (173-175g) is the perfect starting point. It’s the same legendary mold as my “Best Overall” pick but in a heavier weight class that I recommend for most players. It’s affordable, easy to find, and has a forgiving, straight flight that helps you build good habits from day one.
There is no better disc for learning proper putting form. Its neutral flight means the disc does exactly what you tell it to do. If your putt goes straight, it’s because your form was good. If it wobbles, it’s a clear signal to work on your release.
Specification:
* Speed: 2
* Glide: 3
* Turn: 0
* Fade: 1
* Rim Type: Beadless
* Plastic: DX
* Best For: Beginners, practice putting, learning form
* Weight: 173-175g
Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Affordable: The low price point of DX plastic is the single biggest advantage for a beginner. You can buy 3-5 of these discs for the price of one premium disc, which is absolutely essential for effective putting practice.
* ✅ Great Grip, Even When Wet: I found the DX plastic to be exceptionally grippy, and it maintains that grip better than most premium plastics in wet or dewy conditions. This helps build confidence for new players.
* ✅ Forgiving Straight Flight: The neutral flight path doesn’t punish small mistakes in form, making it easier for beginners to learn and see immediate results. It flies straight at low speeds, which is exactly what a new player needs.
* ✅ Easy to Break In: The disc seasons nicely over time. I like how it becomes a slightly more understable and trusted putter, which teaches new players about how disc wear affects flight.
* ✅ Max Weight Stability: This 173-175g version is more resistant to wind than the lighter-weight versions. I recommend beginners start with max weight putters for the most consistent flight.
* ✅ The Perfect Learning Tool: Because it’s so neutral, the Aviar gives you honest feedback on your putting form. It helped me identify flaws in my own stroke during practice sessions.
Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Wears Down Quickly: The trade-off for affordability is durability. The DX plastic will get nicks, dings, and scratches very easily, especially if used for approach shots.
* ❌ Less Wind Resistance Than Overstable Molds: While the max weight helps, this neutral putter in base plastic can still be more susceptible to lifting in a strong headwind compared to a premium plastic or overstable mold like the Fu Shang.
* ❌ Colors Vary: When ordering online, you don’t get to choose the color. While this doesn’t affect performance, some players like to have a specific color for their putters. Workaround: Buy from a local disc golf shop if you want to pick your exact color and feel the disc in person.
My Expert’s Experience
DX Plastic & Affordability
This is the biggest selling point of the Innova DX Aviar for a beginner. Being able to buy a stack of 3-5 identical putters for practice is a complete game-changer. I always recommend beginners start with a stack of the exact same putter in the same weight, and the DX Aviar makes that possible without breaking the bank.
Grip in All Conditions
The grip of DX plastic is fantastic for building confidence. I tested it on a particularly dewy morning, and it never once felt slick in my hand. This is crucial because a new player shouldn’t have to worry about the disc slipping out of their hand; they should be focused on their putting stroke.
Flight Consistency & Finish
For a new player, this disc does exactly what you want it to do: it flies straight. During my testing, I found the max weight (173-175g) helps it maintain that straight flight with a predictable, gentle fade. It’s the perfect tool for grooving a consistent putting motion and building the muscle memory required to become a great putter.
Disc Golf Putting Putter Comparison Chart
This table shows the core differences between the putters I tested at a glance. The Dynamic Discs Judge offers the most glide, making it great for long putts. In contrast, the Innova Invader’s low glide and higher speed make it a superior throwing disc. The Yikun Fu Shang stands out with its high fade rating, making it the clear choice for windy days. The two Innova Aviars provide a reliable, neutral baseline perfect for any skill level, with the DX version being exceptionally budget-friendly for practice.
| Feature | Innova DX Aviar | Dynamic Discs Judge | Innova DX Invader | Yikun Fu Shang | Innova DX Aviar (Beginner) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Best Overall | Most Predictable Flight | Best for Approach Shots | Best for Windy Conditions | Best for Beginners |
| Speed | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| Glide | 3 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Fade | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 |
| Best For | All-around putting | Straight, high-glide putts | Driving and upshots | Headwinds and hyzer putts | Learning form |
| My Rating | 4.8/5 ⭐ | 4.7/5 ⭐ | 4.5/5 ⭐ | 4.4/5 ⭐ | 4.6/5 ⭐ |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Disc Golf Putter
Choosing the right disc golf putter is a deeply personal decision that depends on your hand size, putting style, and local conditions. This guide will help you understand the most important factors to match a putter to your specific needs.
- Feel & Rim Profile (Beaded vs. Beadless): This is the most crucial factor. Beaded putters (like the Judge) have a small, extra rim of plastic on the bottom that gives some players a consistent resting spot for their index finger, which can lead to a cleaner release. Beadless putters (like the Aviar) have a smooth, rounded bottom edge that many players find more comfortable. There is no “better” option; I strongly recommend you feel both in person to see what’s more comfortable for your grip.
- Plastic Type (Grip vs. Durability): Base plastics (like Innova’s DX or Dynamic’s Prime) are more affordable and offer excellent grip, which is fantastic for putting. However, they wear down quickly. Premium plastics (like Yikun’s Glaze or Innova’s Star) are more expensive and can feel slicker, but they are far more durable and maintain their original flight path for longer. I recommend beginners start with grippy base plastics, while experienced players may prefer the consistency of premium blends for their throwing putters.
- Flight Stability (Stable vs. Overstable): A putter’s stability determines how much it will fade (hook left for righties) at the end of its flight. Most players prefer a neutral or stable putter (like the Aviar, with a fade of 1) that flies very straight at low speeds. An overstable putter (like the Fu Shang, with a fade of 3) is a specialty disc that is excellent for fighting wind and for shots that need to hook hard.
- Glide (Float vs. Drop): Glide is how much a putter wants to stay in the air. A high-glide putter (like the Judge, with a glide of 4) is great for longer putts as it requires less effort to reach the basket. A low-glide putter (like the Invader, with a glide of 2) is better for windy days and approaches because it’s more resistant to being lifted by the wind and has a more predictable “drop.”
- Weight (Lighter vs. Max Weight): Most putting putters are available near the maximum legal weight (173-175g). Heavier putters are generally more reliable in the wind and have a more consistent flight. Lighter putters can be easier for complete beginners or players with less power to get up to speed. I recommend most players use putters in the 170-175g range for the most predictable results.
- Putting Style (Push vs. Spin): Push putters, who “lob” the disc at the basket with less rotation, often prefer higher-glide, deeper-rimmed putters that will float to the target. Spin putters, who generate more rotation on the disc for a flatter flight, often prefer flatter, faster, and sometimes more overstable putters for a clean release that won’t wobble. Try to identify your natural motion and choose a disc that complements it.
FAQs About Best Disc Golf Putting Putters
What is the best disc golf putting putter?
The Innova Aviar is widely considered the best all-around disc golf putting putter due to its long history of success and neutral flight. It has won more World Championships than any other putter, making it a trusted choice for all skill levels. However, the “best” putter is subjective and depends heavily on personal feel and comfort in your hand.
What is the difference between beadless and beaded putters?
A beaded putter has an extra ring of plastic on the bottom of the rim, while a beadless putter is smooth. The bead provides a distinct shelf for the index finger, which some players find offers a more consistent grip and cleaner release. Beadless putters provide a smoother feel that many players, especially those with smaller hands, find more comfortable.
Are soft or hard putters better for putting?
Neither is definitively better; it’s a trade-off between chain-grabbing ability and release consistency. Soft plastic putters are believed to grab the chains better and are less likely to have dramatic roll-aways, but they can feel floppy in the summer heat and lead to a less consistent release. Hard plastic putters offer a very clean and consistent release, especially for spin putters, but may have more spit-outs.
Why is the Judge so popular?
The Dynamic Discs Judge is popular because it combines a comfortable beaded grip with a very straight, predictable flight and excellent glide. This combination gives players immense confidence that the disc will hold its line and has enough float to make it to the basket on long putts. It’s a reliable workhorse putter that feels great in the hand.
How do I choose a putter for disc golf?
The best way to choose a putter is to go to a store and feel several in your hand. Pay close attention to the rim depth, the feel of a bead vs. no bead, and the grip of the plastic. The most important factor is comfort. A confident grip leads to a confident putt, so choose the disc that feels like a natural extension of your hand.
Which putter has the most glide?
Of the putters I tested, the Dynamic Discs Judge has the most glide with a rating of 4. High-glide putters are excellent for players who want to get more distance on their putts with less effort. They are particularly useful for long putts outside of circle one (beyond 33 feet).
Which putter is best for windy conditions?
The best putter for windy conditions is an overstable one with a low glide rating. In my test, the Yikun Fu Shang, with its fade rating of 3, proved to be the most reliable in a headwind. It resists being lifted or turned over, providing a predictable hyzer finish even when conditions are tough.
Are expensive putters worth it?
Not necessarily for putting performance alone. Expensive putters are usually made of premium plastic, which is more durable but can be slicker than base plastics. Many professional players prefer the superior grip of affordable base plastics (like DX or Prime) for putting, even though they wear out faster. I recommend starting with budget-friendly putters and only moving to premium if you need more durability for throwing.
Can I use a driving putter for putting?
Yes, you absolutely can, especially if you want to simplify your bag. Driving putters like the Innova Invader are designed for straight flights with power and can work very well for putting, particularly in the wind due to their lower glide. However, that same low glide can make longer, finesse putts more challenging.
What is the number one putter in disc golf?
The Innova Aviar is known as the number one putter in disc golf. This is based on its incredible sales numbers over several decades and the fact that it has been used to win more PDGA World Championships than all other putters combined. Its popularity stems from its simple, effective, comfortable, and reliable design.
My Final Verdict on the Best Putting Putters
After extensive testing over six weeks, I can confidently say that any of these five putters can improve your game. The best choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference for feel and flight. My goal was to identify the most consistent, confidence-inspiring discs on the market that will reward good practice with lower scores.
- Perfect for you if: You want a time-tested, reliable, and comfortable putter that works for every skill level. If you value a neutral, point-and-shoot flight and the ability to buy affordable practice stacks, this is your disc.
- Not ideal for: Players who need a very overstable disc for high winds or those who want a premium-plastic putter that will last forever.
For its unmatched legacy, comfortable feel, and reliable neutral flight, my top recommendation is the Innova DX Aviar Putt and Approach Golf Disc. It’s the perfect benchmark putter for any player. If you prefer a beaded putter with more glide for longer putts, the Dynamic Discs Prime Burst Judge Disc Golf Putter is an outstanding choice that will give you a straight, floaty flight path to the basket.
Ultimately, building confidence starts with a putter that feels like an extension of your hand. I recommend starting with the Innova DX Aviar, and if you find you want a different feel or flight, this list provides the best alternatives I found in 2026.
Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

