R-Pro plastic is an ideal baseline polymer.
That’s how I see it, at least.
And before you chime in with your K1, Star, Lucid or Italian-blend takes, do keep in mind those are premium plastics. Needs differ from golfer to golfer, but by and large, they perform better. Blind of brand, of the baseline plastics made available for purchase, R-Pro is quality.
First, here’s what R-Pro isn’t …
- It’s not firm.
- It’s not durable.
- It’s not good-looking.
- And it’s not for everybody.
It IS for me, though.
By no means is it the most influential of selling points, but R-Pro discs are easy on the wallet. For example, it’s not uncommon for a Sockibomb Slammer to set a buyer back somewhere in the ballpark of 23 bones. And it’s (often) not even a premium-plastic putter. Depending on the retailer, however, conservative estimates have R-Pro Pigs running $10 less – that’s a steal.
Next, while still a baseline plastic, I’ve found R-Pro discs to beat well, without ever being ruined in a single round. I’ve personally shattered a few DX Rocs; I’ve never had something like that happen with an R-Pro Rhyno. So yes, R-Pro stuff beats, but it’s got some longevity, too.
Remember: The “R” in “R-Pro” stands for “rubber.”
They hit and constrict, but then pop back into place.
It’s a winning formula.
R-Pro discs are also great in any kind of weather: Hot, cold, dry and wet – it’s all good. I’m the kind of golfer who stays with the same molds and discs year after year. A creature of habit, not having to switch out my approach discs when the temperature dips below freezing is a plus. Bendable and grippy in the spring and summer, yet firm and reliable in the fall and winter.
One plastic. Any season.
Sign me up.
And lastly, R-Pro frisbees season and cycle beautifully. I’ve done this numerous times with Rhynos. You wouldn’t think a flip-to-drift Rhyno would be a thing, but with R-Pro plastic and some patience, it very much is. I’m also experimenting with Pigs in this department – click here.
Due to the natural give of the plastic, you don’t see many high-speed discs outfitted in the R-Pro stuff – they’re just not as comfortable to throw. You’re mainly looking at approach putters and midranges: The Pig, Dart, Xero, Rhyno and Aviar all have loyal, amateur followings.
* Note: David Wiggins Jr. threw 1,108 feet with an R-Pro Boss, though – that happened.
I used the word “amateur” for a reason …
If you’re a do-as-the-pros-do-or-die disc golfer, R-Pro won’t work. While a member of Team Innova, Ricky (sometimes) carried an R-Pro Pig, but it was usually the stiff Pro Tour Series Pigs with his name on ‘em. Since his departure, Bradley Williams now bags virtually the same disc.
And that’s the extent of high-profile R-Pro usage, really …
Please commit the following to memory:
Stiff Pro ≠ R-Pro
R-Pro might work for you …
It might not.
If you’re new to cycling baseline plastic or have tried in the past, but never loved the process, take an R-Pro disc (or two) out for a test-drive. Given the time, R-Pro discs have the potential to boost your approach game – or to at least add a new layer to it. See if you’re missing out …
Quite literally, it won’t cost you much.
Have anything to add? Take to Twitter to let us know – we’ll actually (for real) get back to you.
Editor’s Suggestions:
- Disc golf: Throwing putters is overrated
- Gripe No. 26: Demanding ‘no spoilers’ on disc golf social
- Disc golf: Why taking a break might be best for your mental game
Real quick, if you happen to buy something through a link in this article, there’s a chance we’ll get a small share of the sale. It’s how we keep the lights on. To learn more, click here.
I was a big R-Pro Pig fan, but after they became a mix and to me they seem much domier, I can’t throw them forehand that good any more. That’s why I made the switch to the Elite Z Zone with Paul McBeths name on it. I can throw them farther with less wobble and with them being dumpier, I can shape shots better off of a flex line.
You could also go the “Get Freaky” route and get the best of both worlds on that Zone …
Premium plastic, but with the “give” of an R-Pro polymer 🙂
(hard to go wrong with a Zone, obvi)
I am a true noodle arm, but 4 years ago when I only had my starter pack, I decided I needed an overstable approach disc. I bought an R-Pro Rhyno and soon tacoed it off many nearest available trees. It magically turned into a chain grabbing wonder of an approach disc that I can throw the most beautiful baby anhyzers with from 50 to 150 feet. It isn’t overstable and it isn’t understable, it is just buttery and seeks the basket. When my friends see me pull it out they are resigned to me having a tap in at worst. Thinking of purposefully smashing my R-Pro Pig into a few trees to see if I can duplicate the effect. It is definitely the most thrown disc in my bag other than my putter. And it is ugly. Started out white and now it looks like a 20 year old pair of tighty whities. But nothing feels more comfortable in my hand.
Love the Rhyno.
Love the Pig, too.
It’s weird, because I prefer the FEEL of the Pig, but the FLIGHT of the Rhyno.
The answer?
Beat the snot out of an R-Pro Pig.
Problem solved. Haha.