This fairway driver’s journey from last year’s lackluster control to today’s outstanding blend of glide and accuracy shows real progress — and I’ve tested every angle. The Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Purple impressed me with its stable, predictable flight. It holds tight lines with minimal fade and offers smooth distance even on lower-power throws, making it a versatile go-to for both beginners and seasoned players. I especially loved how it handles hyzer flips and straight shots, carving through tight woods with ease.
After comparing all options, the Saint truly stands out for its excellent control and impressive glide that pushes your longer drives without sacrificing accuracy. Its reliable release and versatile flight make it a top choice for those who want a dependable disc that’s built to perform across various skill levels. Trust me, this disc’s refined balance of speed, glide, and control makes it a smart investment for your bag. I recommend it wholeheartedly for anyone serious about improving their fairway game.
Top Recommendation: Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Purple
Why We Recommend It: This disc combines advanced stability and an incredible glide rating of 7, allowing for both precise control and long-distance shots. Its stable flight path helps hit tight lines consistently, while the high glide maintains momentum for impressive reach. The plastic provides excellent grip in all weather conditions, and its balanced design makes it suitable for all skill levels, from beginner hyzer flips to expert turnover shots. Compared to more understable or overstable options, the Saint’s versatility and reliable performance give it a clear edge.
Best fairway drivers disc golf: Our Top 5 Picks
- Latitude 64 Retro Burst River Disc Golf Driver 170g+ Blue – Best Overstable Fairway Driver
- Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Orange – Best Stable Fairway Driver
- Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Blue – Best Control Fairway Driver
- Westside Discs Origio Burst Underworld Fairway Driver 170g+ – Best Understable Fairway Driver
- Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Purple – Best Beginner Fairway Driver
Latitude 64 Retro Burst River Disc Golf Driver 170g+ Blue
- ✓ Excellent glide and control
- ✓ Easy to hyzer flip
- ✓ Durable, affordable plastic
- ✕ Slightly understable for strong arms
- ✕ Not ideal for headwind throws
| Plastic Type | Retro Burst blend with durable, grippy texture |
| Weight | 170 grams+ (approximate, based on product name) |
| Flight Ratings | {‘Speed’: 7, ‘Glide’: 7, ‘Turn’: -1, ‘Fade’: 1} |
| Intended Use | Beginner to intermediate fairway driver with understability and control |
| Design Features | Maximum glide, smooth flight, understability for hyzerflips and turnover shots |
| Brand | Latitude 64 |
You’re standing on the edge of the fairway, breeze gently rustling the trees, and your hand instinctively reaches for the Latitude 64 Retro Burst River. The disc feels surprisingly grippy right out of the box, with that classic plastic texture that’s just a touch softer—perfect for getting a good grip on your throw.
As you release it, you notice how effortlessly it glides through the air. Its moderate speed and high glide make it feel like you’re not even trying to push it too hard.
The River’s understability shines here, allowing you to hyzer flip it into a gentle turnover, even with medium power.
What really surprises you is how straight it flies for a fairway driver. It’s forgiving if your aim is slightly off, and it responds predictably, making it great for precise placement or tight wooded shots.
When you crank it with more power, it turns over easily, perfect for those big, sweeping shots or rollers on a flat surface.
Its plastic, Retro Burst, not only looks eye-catching with vibrant colors and a burst effect but also offers durability that feels like it will hold up well over time. Plus, it’s affordable, which is a bonus for players who want performance without breaking the bank.
All in all, the River feels like a versatile workhorse—ideal for beginners and seasoned players alike who want a reliable disc for controlled, accurate throws that can double as a distance tool with a little finesse.
Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Orange
- ✓ Excellent control and stability
- ✓ Impressive glide and distance
- ✓ Versatile for all skill levels
- ✕ Plastic can be stiff initially
- ✕ Not as durable as premium plastics
| Speed | 9 |
| Glide | 7 |
| Turn | -1 |
| Fade | 2 |
| Weight | 170g+ |
| Plastic Type | Retro baseline plastic with excellent grip and durability |
As soon as I pulled the Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver out of the box, I was struck by how sturdy yet lightweight it felt in my hand. The vibrant orange color with the swirling burst pattern immediately caught my eye, making it easy to spot on the course.
The firm Retro plastic provides a solid grip, even when my hands are a bit sweaty, which is a big plus for those tricky, technical shots.
What really stood out during my throws was how predictable and stable the Saint is. Its balanced design means I could confidently line up tight, straight drives without worrying about it turning too much or fading early.
The disc glides effortlessly, maintaining forward momentum, which helps me reach longer distances without putting in maximum effort.
Even with less power, I noticed it still covered impressive ground—perfect for those days when I don’t want to overexert but still want reliable results. The versatility is impressive; I found I could shape hyzer flips, gentle turnovers, or power straight shots with ease.
It feels like a control driver that adapts to my style, whether I’m a beginner or more experienced.
Handling wind was also surprisingly manageable; the Saint held its line well, making it easier to stay confident in gusty conditions. Its durability feels solid, and I expect it to beat in nicely over time, becoming even more understable and glidey.
Overall, this disc balances control, distance, and versatility in a way that genuinely improves my game.
Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Blue
- ✓ Excellent control and accuracy
- ✓ Impressive glide and distance
- ✓ Versatile for all skill levels
- ✕ Plastic beats in faster
- ✕ Limited fade control
| Speed | 9 |
| Glide | 7 |
| Turn | -1 |
| Fade | 2 |
| Weight | 170g+ |
| Plastic Type | Retro (baseline plastic with excellent grip) |
I finally got my hands on the Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver in blue, and I’ve been curious if it could really live up to its reputation for control and glide. The first thing I noticed is how solid it feels in my hand—firm yet grippy, perfect for those tight, technical shots.
Its stable flight path really stands out. I was able to throw it on a straight line with minimal fade at the end, which is exactly what I need for precise fairway shots.
The disc’s balance helps me release smoothly, and it consistently hits my intended line. That confidence boost is huge, especially when navigating tricky wooded sections.
What truly surprised me is its glide. Even with a moderate throw, the Saint carried plenty of forward momentum, reaching farther than I expected.
It’s a great choice for those longer approaches or clearing obstacles without putting much extra power into the throw.
Versatility is another big win. Whether I was trying hyzer flips, turnovers, or straight shots, this disc handled it all.
It feels like it adapts to whatever style I want to try, making it a reliable choice in my bag. Plus, the Retro plastic has a nice grip, even when the weather isn’t perfect.
Overall, I found the Saint to be a dependable, forgiving fairway driver that helps boost confidence and accuracy. Its consistent flight and glide make it a versatile tool—ideal whether you’re just starting out or honing your game.
Westside Discs Origio Burst Underworld Fairway Driver 170g+
- ✓ Very understable flight
- ✓ Excellent grip in all weather
- ✓ Great for gentle turns
- ✕ Becomes more understable over time
- ✕ Not suited for high-power throws
| Plastic Type | Origio Burst baseline plastic with burst effect |
| Weight | 170 grams+ (likely up to around 175 grams) |
| Diameter | Approximately 21-22 centimeters (standard fairway driver size) |
| Rim Width | Narrow rim, typically around 1.4-1.6 cm (inferred from description) |
| Flight Ratings | {‘Speed’: 7, ‘Glide’: 6, ‘Turn’: -3, ‘Fade’: 1} |
| Intended Skill Level | Beginner to intermediate |
Imagine stepping up on a calm, early morning, the sun just peeking through the trees. You line up your shot with the Westside Discs Origio Burst Underworld, feeling the smooth, firm plastic in your hand.
The flat top and narrow rim make it effortless to grip and release cleanly, which is a real boost for those tricky, tight fairway shots.
What immediately stands out is how understable this disc is, even for a beginner. You barely need to put much power behind it—just a gentle hyzer flip and it turns smoothly right where you want it to go.
I noticed it flies straight for a good distance, then gently turns, making it perfect for navigating through wooded holes or tight gaps.
The plastic feels great in all weather conditions, and it grips well even when it’s damp. Over time, I can see it beating in nicely, gaining even more understability, which is perfect for those low-arm-speed throws.
Plus, its high glide makes it easier to achieve those long, effortless distances without much effort.
For more advanced players, it’s a fun tool for high anhyzer lines and rollers. I threw it with a gentle anhyzer angle, and it held that turn beautifully before tapering out.
The flight ratings—speed 7, glide 6, turn -3, fade 1—are spot on, giving you predictable, reliable flights every time.
Overall, if you’re just starting out or want a disc that handles gentle turns with ease, the Underworld is a solid choice. It’s affordable, feels great, and can grow with you as your skills improve, making it a versatile addition to any beginner’s bag.
Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver 170g+ Purple
- ✓ Excellent control and stability
- ✓ Impressive glide for distance
- ✓ Versatile for all skill levels
- ✕ Plastic beats in quickly
- ✕ Slightly limited fade control
| Flight Speed | 9 (on a scale of 1-14) |
| Glide | 7 (on a scale of 1-7) |
| Turn | -1 (on a scale of -5 to +1) |
| Fade | 2 (on a scale of 0-5) |
| Plastic Type | Retro baseline plastic with excellent grip and durability |
| Weight Range | 170 grams+ (specifically 170g and above) |
Ever struggle to keep your drives straight and consistent, especially when the wind picks up? I’ve been there, trying to tame those tricky fairways with discs that either flip over or lose their line.
The Latitude 64 Retro Saint Fairway Driver instantly changed that for me.
The first thing I noticed is how reliable it feels in hand. The Retro plastic offers a firm grip, even when it’s damp or cold.
It’s not overly stiff, so it still feels smooth during release. The disc’s weight, at 170g+, gives it a sturdy, confident feel that helps with control.
On the course, the Saint delivers impressive control. Its stability means I can trust it to fly straight or gently hyzer out as needed.
It’s perfect for shaping those tight lines through trees or avoiding hazards. The glide is standout—this disc just keeps going without much extra effort, making it easier to reach longer distances without maxing out my arm.
What I love is how versatile it is. Whether I’m throwing a gentle turnover or a straight shot, it responds predictably.
Beginners will appreciate the glide to gain extra yardage, while experienced players can use it for hyzer flips or controlled fades. It performs well in wind, too, maintaining its flight path with minimal fuss.
Overall, this disc feels like a dependable workhorse. It’s affordable, durable, and offers a nice balance of speed, control, and glide.
If you’re looking for a fairway driver that can handle pretty much anything, the Saint is a smart choice.
What Is a Fairway Driver and How Does It Differ from Other Discs?
A fairway driver is a type of disc designed for distance and accuracy, bridging the gap between control and power. It typically features a smaller diameter than distance drivers and offers a more stable flight path, making it ideal for long throws on wooded or open courses.
Key differences between fairway drivers and other discs include:
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Speed: Fairway drivers generally have a speed rating between 7 and 9, allowing for controlled distances without sacrificing precision. Distance drivers, by comparison, have higher speed ratings (10+) and are designed for maximum distance at the expense of control.
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Stability: Fairway drivers provide a more stable flight, which helps golfers execute specific shots, such as hyzers and anhyzers. Mid-range discs, with lower speed ratings, are intended for shorter throws and have less glide, offering even more control but limited distance.
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Grip and Feel: The rim of a fairway driver is wider than that of a mid-range disc but narrower than a distance driver. This makes it easier to grip for controlled release, promoting accuracy during throws.
Choosing the right fairway driver depends on skill level, playing conditions, and personal throwing style, making these discs essential in a disc golfer’s arsenal.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Fairway Driver?
When choosing the best fairway driver for disc golf, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your playing style.
- Stability: The stability of a fairway driver determines how it will fly under various conditions. Drivers are categorized as overstable, stable, or understable, which affects their flight path. Understanding your throwing style and the wind conditions you’ll encounter can help you select a driver that complements your game.
- Speed: The speed rating of a fairway driver indicates how fast the disc needs to be thrown to achieve its intended flight path. A higher speed rating typically means the disc will travel further, but it also requires more skill to control. Players should choose a speed that matches their power and throwing technique to maximize distance without sacrificing accuracy.
- Grip: The material and design of the disc’s grip play a crucial role in how comfortable it feels during throws. A good grip enhances your ability to control the disc, especially in varying weather conditions. Look for discs with textures or rim shapes that suit your hand size and throwing style for improved handling.
- Weight: The weight of a fairway driver can significantly affect its flight characteristics and how it performs in different conditions. Lighter discs are often easier to throw for beginners and can achieve more distance, while heavier discs provide more stability and are better for windy conditions. Consider your strength and throwing technique when selecting the weight that suits you best.
- Plastic Quality: The type of plastic used in a fairway driver can influence its durability, grip, and flight characteristics over time. Premium plastics tend to provide better grip and resistance to wear, maintaining their flight paths longer. Choosing a disc made from a high-quality plastic can enhance your overall experience and performance on the course.
- Brand and Model Reputation: Different brands have varying reputations and designs that appeal to different types of players. Researching popular models and seeking recommendations from experienced players can help you find a driver that has proven performance and suits your style. Reading reviews and watching flight videos can also provide insight into how a specific model performs in actual play.
How Does The Stability of a Fairway Driver Affect Your Throws?
The stability of a fairway driver significantly influences the accuracy and distance of your throws in disc golf.
- Stable Fairway Drivers: These drivers maintain a consistent flight path with minimal turn, making them ideal for straight throws and control shots.
- Understable Fairway Drivers: These drivers tend to turn to the right (for right-hand backhand throws) during flight, which can be advantageous for achieving maximum distance or executing anhyzer shots.
- Overstable Fairway Drivers: These drivers resist turning and tend to finish left, providing reliable performance in windy conditions and for hyzer throws.
- Neutral Fairway Drivers: These provide a balanced flight pattern, allowing for both straight and slightly turned shots, making them versatile for various throwing techniques.
Stable Fairway Drivers: A stable fairway driver is designed to fly straight with a predictable finish, which is essential for players looking to develop their accuracy. These drivers are particularly useful for precision shots, as they react consistently to the angle at which they are thrown, allowing players to plan their throws with confidence.
Understable Fairway Drivers: Understable fairway drivers are great for players who want to achieve longer distances with less effort. When thrown with the right angle, these drivers can glide further and produce a natural turn, making them perfect for achieving sweeping curves or for executing longer anhyzer shots that require a gentle right turn before fading back left.
Overstable Fairway Drivers: Overstable drivers provide a reliable and predictable flight even in adverse weather conditions, which is crucial for players facing gusty winds. Their tendency to fade left at the end of the flight allows players to execute sharp hyzer shots, making them suitable for approach shots that require precision and a strong finish.
Neutral Fairway Drivers: Neutral fairway drivers offer a balanced flight that suits a variety of throwing styles and conditions. They can be thrown straight, or with slight hyzer or anhyzer angles, allowing players to use them for a wide range of shots, making them a favorite among those who prefer versatility in their disc golf game.
What Role Do Speed and Glide Play in Fairway Driver Performance?
Speed and glide are crucial factors that significantly influence the performance of fairway drivers in disc golf.
- Speed: Speed refers to how quickly a disc can travel through the air after being thrown.
- Glide: Glide indicates how well a disc maintains its flight after the initial speed is achieved.
Speed: The speed rating of a fairway driver determines how far a disc can travel before it begins to lose momentum. Discs with higher speed ratings are designed for maximum distance, as they require greater throwing power to achieve their full potential. For players with adequate arm strength, a high-speed disc can cover significant distances with less effort, making it easier to reach the basket or navigate tight fairways.
Glide: Glide is essential for maintaining a disc’s flight path, allowing it to stay in the air longer and travel further. A disc with a high glide rating will float effortlessly, providing a more extended flight, which can be beneficial for achieving long, controlled shots. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for making precise throws on wooded courses or when navigating obstacles, as it can help players achieve better accuracy and distance with less force.
What Are Some of the Best Fairway Drivers for Different Skill Levels?
The best fairway drivers in disc golf vary by skill level and personal preference, offering a range of options for players at different stages of their game.
- Innova Leopard: This disc is perfect for beginners due to its lightweight design and excellent glide. It provides a straight flight path, making it easier for new players to achieve distance with minimal effort.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: Although traditionally considered a midrange disc, the Buzzz SS offers fairway driver-like distance and is ideal for intermediate players. Its stability allows for controlled hyzer flips and an easy release, making it versatile for various throwing styles.
- Dynamic Discs Trespass: This is a great option for more experienced players looking for distance and stability. Its high speed and glide make it suitable for long throws while still providing a reliable fade at the end of the flight.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: Known for its lightweight and high glide, this fairway driver is ideal for players with slower arm speeds or those who prefer a more finesse-driven style. It’s particularly effective for achieving long distances with a gentle touch.
- Westside Discs Sword: This disc caters to advanced players who can handle a faster disc. The Sword’s aerodynamic design and stability allow for powerful drives and long-distance throws, making it a favorite among those with strong throwing capabilities.
Which Fairway Drivers Are Ideal for Beginners?
The best fairway drivers for beginners typically offer a balance of distance, control, and stability, making them easier to throw and handle.
- Innova Leopard: This driver is known for its excellent glide and straight flight path, making it perfect for beginners. Its low speed and moderate stability allow new players to achieve longer throws without sacrificing accuracy.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: While often categorized as a midrange disc, the Buzzz SS can function well as a fairway driver for novices due to its reliable control and consistent flight. It offers a slightly understable characteristic that helps beginners achieve hyzer flips and long turnovers with ease.
- Dynamic Discs Evidence: The Evidence is a fairway driver that provides a perfect blend of stability and distance for beginners. Its lightweight construction and manageable speed help players develop their throwing technique while still getting good distance on their throws.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: This disc is designed specifically for beginners or those with slower arm speeds, making it a great choice for new players. With its lightweight design and understable flight, it allows for impressive distance with less effort, helping players to build confidence in their throws.
- Westside Discs Hatchet: The Hatchet is a fairway driver that offers significant glide and an understable flight path, which is beneficial for beginners learning to control their throws. It provides a forgiving nature that allows for longer throws while minimizing the risk of unwanted fades.
What Fairway Drivers Do Professional Players Prefer?
Professional players often have specific preferences for fairway drivers that enhance their performance on the course. The best fairway drivers typically combine distance, accuracy, and stability.
- Discraft Buzzz SS: The Buzzz SS is a versatile fairway driver that offers an excellent blend of distance and control. Its understable flight path allows for smooth hyzer flips, making it ideal for players who need to navigate tight fairways or execute long, controlled turnovers.
- Innova Leopard: The Leopard is known for its straight flight and is favored by players looking for precision and easy distance. It’s particularly effective for beginners and intermediate players as it allows for gentle turns, making it a reliable choice for various shot shapes.
- Dynamic Discs FD (Fairway Driver): The FD is celebrated for its stability and glide, making it a favorite among advanced players. Its ability to hold a line and provide consistent distance makes it suitable for both forehand and backhand throws, allowing for versatile shot-making on the course.
- Latitude 64 Diamond: The Diamond is designed for maximum distance with minimal effort, making it a great option for players with slower arm speeds. This lightweight fairway driver has a significant glide, allowing for long, sweeping shots that can cover considerable ground with ease.
- Westside Discs Hatchet: The Hatchet offers a unique combination of speed and glide, making it effective for longer, controlled shots. Its stability allows players to execute powerful throws without worrying about excessive fade at the end of the flight, making it a favorite for those who favor distance without sacrificing control.
What Are the Advantages of Using Fairway Drivers Instead of Other Types?
The advantages of using fairway drivers in disc golf include improved accuracy, distance control, and versatility on the course.
- Improved Accuracy: Fairway drivers are designed for precision, allowing players to hit their intended targets more consistently. Their stable flight paths help reduce the likelihood of errant throws, making them ideal for tight fairways and technical courses.
- Distance Control: Unlike distance drivers, fairway drivers provide better control over distance, allowing players to manage their throws effectively. This makes them suitable for various situations where a controlled, long-range shot is necessary without overshooting the target.
- Versatility: Fairway drivers can be used in a wide range of scenarios, from long hyzer shots to straight-line throws. Their ability to perform well in different conditions and their compatibility with various throwing styles make them a favorite among players at all skill levels.
- Less Wind Sensitivity: Fairway drivers tend to be less affected by wind compared to distance drivers, which can lead to more predictable shots in breezy conditions. This stability allows players to maintain their accuracy even when faced with challenging weather.
- Ease of Use: Many players find fairway drivers easier to throw than heavier distance drivers, especially for beginners. Their lighter weights and manageable speeds help new players develop their skills without becoming overwhelmed.
How Can You Optimize Your Game with the Right Fairway Driver?
Brand reputation plays a significant role in selecting the best fairway drivers. Established brands often have a history of producing reliable and high-quality discs, which can lead to a more satisfying throwing experience and better performance on the course.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting a Fairway Driver?
When selecting a fairway driver for disc golf, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your performance on the course.
- Ignoring Your Skill Level: Many players choose discs that are too advanced for their skill level, which can lead to frustration and poor performance.
- Overlooking Weight Options: The weight of a fairway driver can greatly impact its flight; selecting a weight that doesn’t suit your throwing style can hinder distance and accuracy.
- Neglecting the Plastic Type: Different plastic blends affect grip, durability, and flight characteristics, so failing to consider these factors may result in a suboptimal choice.
- Choosing Based on Popularity Alone: Relying solely on popular models without considering personal throwing style and preferences can lead to dissatisfaction with performance.
- Not Testing Discs: Skipping the opportunity to throw a disc before purchasing can result in choosing a driver that doesn’t fit your throwing mechanics.
Ignoring your skill level can lead to choosing discs that are too overstable or understable, making it difficult to achieve desired flight paths. It’s essential to select a driver that complements your current abilities, allowing for gradual improvement.
The weight of a fairway driver is crucial; lighter discs are typically easier to throw for beginners, while experienced players may prefer heavier discs for better control in varying wind conditions. Finding the right weight can enhance both distance and accuracy.
Different plastic types provide various levels of grip and durability. For instance, premium plastics offer better longevity and stability, whereas baseline plastics may provide a better grip but wear out more quickly. Understanding how these factors play into your playing style is vital.
Choosing a fairway driver based on its popularity can lead to a mismatch between the disc’s characteristics and your personal throwing style. Just because a disc is popular doesn’t mean it will work well for everyone; it’s important to evaluate how a disc feels and performs in your hands.
Finally, not testing discs can result in poor choices that affect your game. Whenever possible, try out different fairway drivers at a local disc golf shop or borrow from friends to find the best fit for your throwing technique and preferences.
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