Howdy, fellow disc golf enthusiasts! As a seasoned pro with 13+ years of experience with disc golf, I’ve been fortunate to test out nearly every disc that’s hit the market. Today, I’m excited to share my Innova Sidewinder review with you.
When bridging the gap between novices and seasoned players, no disc does it better than this. We’ve all heard how great it is, but does it live up to its reputation?
Let’s find out! I’ll dive into detailed specifications, dimensions, and even customer reviews. So, whether you’re a newbie looking to try something new or an experienced player looking for a fresh challenge, this review is for you!
A Champion On The Green
- Speed: 9
- Glide: 5
- Turn: -3
- Fade: 1
Now, let’s decipher these flight numbers. With a speed of 9, the Sidewinder is moderately paced – it’s not the fastest kid on the block, but it certainly isn’t the slowest. This speed is matched with a glide rating 5, meaning it can cover pretty generous distances with minimal effort.
Moving on to the turn, rated at -3, this is fit for the significant high-speed turn. You can expect the disc to curve to the right when thrown with a right-hand backhand (RHBH) grip.
And lastly, the fade rating of 1. This is where it gets interesting – with such a low fade, it’s less likely to hook back to the left at the end. This could be a boon or a bust, depending on your style. Disc golfers who prefer a straight, predictable finish may find its minimal fade challenging.
In terms of stability, this offers a dependable under-stability. This makes it great for throwing anhyzers or tricky S-shaped paths.
Tight Performance In Your Plastic
- Diameter: 21.10 cm
- Height: 1.40 cm
- Rim Depth: 1.20 cm
- Rim Width: 1.80 cm
The Sidewinder’s physical characteristics are standard – something any disc golfer would look for in their bag. The diameter measures 21.10 cm, closely matching the average range of disc golf discs. There is nothing to be surprised about, but it is essential to note if you’re concerned with disc size.
Next, let’s talk about the disc’s height – 1.40 cm. This moderate height could deliver a good level of predictability, making the disc neither too liable to catch wind nor too dense to glide.
The depth of 1.20 cm can be a big dealbreaker for some. The shallowness allows for a comfortable grip and an easier release, which could be perfect for those with smaller hands or who prefer the handle to be less intrusive.
Lastly, the width is quite noteworthy. At 1.80 cm, you could expect a bit of an end-speed boost. The wideness often delivers more momentum and distance, which, coupled with its speed rating, could make for some impressive games.
Great For All Disc Golf Users
The Sidewinder is a versatile disc that benefits users across the board, from complete beginners to advanced disc golfers. Its quick turn and predictable glide make it an essential disc for maneuvering out of tricky spots and uncomfortable positions.
For those just starting with this sport, this can add distance without requiring a lot of arm speed. Like other reviewers, I found the Sidewinder an excellent disc for learning hyzer flip angles. It’s extremely forgiving and makes a great first-time roller disc.
Advanced users, too, find plenty of reasons to love this. Its controlled turn and reliable glide make it a fantastic pick for carving fairways in the woods or throwing dependable anhyzers.
The Sidewinder’s performance significantly depends on the plastic type you choose. DX plastic makes the disc incredibly flippy, while Champion and Halo Star provide more stability.
One reviewer noted that a baseline plastic can be the best bet for novices. As for myself, toss me a Halo Star anytime – I love the stable path and the consistent fade it provides!
This disc, considered one of the best Innova distance drivers to be made, has proven beneficial to everyone, from long turnover shots to distance rollers. But remember, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. Choose the plastic type that suits your level and playing style the most!
A Fantastic Distance Driver
The Sidewinder is primarily used as a fast-distance driver thanks to its predictable, quick turn and impressive glide. It can be called upon in various situations, whether it’s tight woods where preciseness is more important than speed or long open fairways where you aim to achieve maximum distance.
Other use cases for this disc are as follows:
Long Turnovers
The disc’s clear turn and fade ratings make it ideal for deliberate turnovers. Throw it flat, and you’ll watch it make a majestic arc in the sky. I once tossed it in a tight obstacle course, and it smoothly curved around the trunk of a massive tree to land close to the basket.
Driving in Woods
Its moderate speed and stable flight make it a reliable go-to for drives in those foresty areas, even in windy conditions. On these shots, focus more on control and accuracy rather than speed.
Long-Distance Rollers
Rolling throws that cover significant distances are its specialty. I struggled with perfecting my roller throw early in my disc golf journey. When I first tried it with this, I was amazed at its unwavering path, resembling its namesake’s slithering maneuver.
Remember, while this is great for these types of shots, its performance can vary greatly depending on your chosen plastic material. Always pick the best plastic type for your skill level and comfort.
Similar Discs
Discraft Heat
The Discraft Heat is a great, stable, understable driver with a slightly lower speed rating. I’ve found the Heat to provide a bit more control at the cost of a little distance. But just like the Sidewinder, it’s an excellent disc for newbies looking to up their distance game; you can’t go wrong with either!
Kastaplast Falk
The Kastaplast Falk is known for its fast turn and significant glide. However, the Falk has a bit more fade at the end of its path, which could make it more or less appealing based on your style. I’ve used the Falk frequently in tree-clad courses due to its consistency.
Latitude 64 Jade
The Latitude 64 Jade is another understable disc with similar numbers to the Sidewinder. It’s also designed to be easy for those new to the sport. In my experience, the Jade has a more pronounced high-speed turn, which can add extra curves to your throws.
While these discs share some characteristics, each has unique qualities that may complement or contrast. As always, the best disc depends on your personal preference and the demands of the course you’re playing.
Innova Sidewinder Review: Final Thoughts
The Innova Sidewinder is a staple disc for those of various skill levels. If you’re a newbie looking to improve your throw distance or an advanced professional craving consistent understable performance, this might become your new best friend.
That said, it’s worth noting that what makes this a great fit for some might prove challenging for others. Its significant turn and minimal fade might require a bit of getting used to, particularly for disc golfers who are more comfortable with stable to overstable discs.
Pros:
- Excellent for long turnover shots and out-of-the-box rollers
- Ideal for beginners looking to advance their drives
- Performs great in wooded situations with its high speed and glide
- Available in various plastics to suit different playstyles
Cons:
- Its unique flight path can be tricky for those used to discs with more fade, requires practice.
- Not the best option for dealing with strong winds – reviewers mentioned it struggling in such conditions.