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Putting putter vs throwing putter: do you need both?

By Adam ScottPublished 2026-09-10 · Updated 2026-10-05

White and purple Innova Halo Nexus Aviar Putt & Approach disc

You can start with one putter for both putting and throwing. Buy a separate throwing putter when you want a different flight or want to keep your basket putter dedicated to putting. You do not need two molds on your first day.

The job changes the selection

Role	What to evaluate	Starting example
Putting at the basket	Comfortable grip and clean release	Aviar
Low-fade approaches and short throws	Line and finishing movement	Proxy
Throws needing more finish	Whether the fade helps reach the landing area	Envy

These are role-based recommendations, not an exhaustive ranking. The model records link their manufacturer sources. Axiom describes both Proxy and Envy as putt-and-approach discs; Innova's Aviar is also a putt-and-approach model. Sources checked September 10, 2026.

Choosing your basket putter

Start with the grip. Use your normal putting motion and check whether the disc leaves your fingers cleanly. Our starting pick in this collection is a DX Aviar for someone who wants a beadless putter, but comfort is a good reason to choose another model. If you like a bead under your fingers, see Aviar vs Judge. Rim depth is part of that comfort, too. Latitude 64 suggests the Mercy for players who prefer a deeper putter.

If you are unsure where to place your fingers, our illustrated disc golf grip guide compares a putting control grip with grips for throwing the same putter.

Flight numbers do not score how well a putter will fit your hand. Do not keep replacing your putter based on small rating differences before you have a repeatable routine.

If budget is tight, use the same disc for approaches and putting while you learn. A dedicated putting disc is an option, not a rule.

Choosing a throwing putter

Now evaluate the shot rather than only the hand feel. Choose a target with a clear landing area and note whether the finishing curve helps or hurts.

Between Proxy and Envy, start with Proxy for less rated fade and Envy for more. Our direct comparison explains the model-page reference and why checking the selected plastic still matters.

Other brands make putters for both ends of that choice. Dynamic Discs says its Deputy (3 / 4 / -1.5 / 0) allows easy turnover flights at faster speeds and straight flights at low speeds. Discraft says the Challenger (2 / 3 / 0 / 2) is overstable enough to take a good amount of snap on approaches.

We love the Proxy and use our shorter-range discs around 60 metres and in. We have not documented which plastic we putt with, and our distance is not a benchmark for other players.

When to buy a second disc

A second disc makes sense when you can name the difference you want. Perhaps the disc you like at the basket finishes too strongly on your usual approach, or your throwing disc's grip is not your preferred putting grip.

It can also be the same mold in another version. Check the exact product rather than assuming the shared name guarantees the same feel.

A simple practice split

Practice putting from a comfortable distance, then practice short throws in a clear area. Our guide on how to putt in disc golf covers the putting stance, aim point and a short distance ladder. Keep separate notes: clean release and repeatability for putting; starting line and finish for throwing.

This gives you two useful decisions. “I like it as a putter but want another approach shape” is much clearer than “I need a better putter.”