Disc golf: How wind impacts your putt

I’m bad at putting.

I’m bad at most things in disc golf, really …

But I’m especially bad at putting.

So when I’m out on the course doing battle with random, seven-mph cyclones, you better believe what little confidence I had in my short game is completely “Gone With the Wind.”

See what I did there?

Thankfully, over the years, my putting’s (kind of) improved. No matter how good it gets, though, Mother Nature is known for having a mind of her own. Still, knowing how wind usually affects the flight of a putter goes a long way towards improving your C1X putting performance.

Is wind of any kind ruining your PDGA rating?

Here’s what you need to know …

First thing’s first: The wind affects every player’s putt differently. And while there’s certainly some crossover between the two, and the random guy who insists on turbo-putting at all times does exist, most golfers are either spin- or push-putters – I’ll work within these categories.

1. The spin putt

In a headwind, spin-putters should lower their aiming point. Most spin putts are nose-up, so in the face of a headwind, the disc should rise. In a tailwind, however, aim higher, as – no matter how fast the disc is moving – it will likely drop out of the sky. Due to the speed generated by spin, spin-putting is less affected by the wind. If you don’t have a spin putt, develop one.

2. The push putt

Conversely, in a headwind, push-putters should aim higher on the basket. And it makes perfect sense: The natural, nose-down angle of the disc makes the putter drop when confronted with an opposing force. In a tailwind, though, push putts tend to ride the wind behind them – they lift and push farther. Push putts can work in the wind, but they require more conscious adjustments.

Remember: There’s no harm in laying up – it beats a testy comebacker every time.

I close with this …

Wind will not always play by the rules.

Seriously, watch Paul McBeth’s reaction the next time he misses a circle-one putt. He’ll disfigure his face, toss a few blades of grass (wind) into the air, curse under his breath and, if the mood should strike him, “taco” a Luna – and THIS from a guy who knows how to hit a big putt.

You reserve the right to do the same, but still …

Knowing the rules is half the battle.

Don’t leave home without ‘em.

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