Innova Archangel Disc Golf Review
The Innova Archangel, not to be confused with Arch Angle, is a great distance driver for beginners. This under-stable disc helps compensate for the natural tendency to curve hard to the left (for right-handed back hand throws). With a glide rating of 6, this disc will sail for great distance. It has a high turn rating at -4, and very minimal fade (1). It is one of only two discs with a speed rating of 8 that Innova makes, putting at the low end of distance drivers.
The Archangel has a great sticky grip, and is easy to throw straight. If you need to turn right, but don’t have the forehand shot down the Archangel is a great disc for Anhyzer shots. This disc doesn’t have a thick rim, so isn’t a great disc for forehand shots.
Best of all, this great Frisbee comes in the cheap DX plastic, you can buy it for less than $9. Good discs at an inexpensive price equals win-win.
The Innova Archangel, not to be confused with “Arch Angle,” is a fantastic distance driver designed especially for beginners and intermediate players. This understable disc is known for helping new throwers correct the common issue of early hyzer fade to the left (for right-handed backhand throws).
With a flight rating of Speed 8, Glide 6, Turn -4, Fade 1, the Archangel provides excellent distance with effortless control. Its high glide rating (6) ensures long, smooth air time, while the heavy turn (-4) makes it extremely easy to throw straight or with an S-curve even for players with low arm speed.
H2: Why the Innova Archangel Is Ideal for Beginners
One of the biggest challenges new disc golfers face is keeping their disc from fading too early. The Archangel solves this by offering:
✅ Understable flight for straighter beginner shots
✅ High glide for maximum air time
✅ Minimal fade for soft landings
✅ Speed 8 rating – easy to handle compared to faster drivers
✅ Affordable DX plastic – often under $9
Because of its turn -4 rating, it’s incredibly easy to throw long anhyzer shots or S-curves without requiring advanced form or high arm speed.
H2: Throwing Performance – Backhand vs Forehand
H3: Backhand Throws (RHBH)
The Archangel excels for right-hand backhand throwers, especially those who struggle with early fade. When thrown flat or with a slight anhyzer, it flips up and glides straight for impressive distance before a gentle fade.
H3: Forehand Throws (RHFH)
This disc is not ideal for forehand throws due to its narrow rim and flexible DX plastic, which may not offer the best grip for sidearm players. It’s more suited for backhand dominant players.
H2: Perfect for Anhyzer and Turnover Shots
If you’re still developing your sidearm shot, the Archangel is an excellent choice for anhyzer throws. Simply release it on a slight angle, and it will naturally turn right (RHBH), making it perfect for navigating wooded fairways or right-curving holes.
H2: Comfort and Grip
The Archangel features a thin rim, making it easier for smaller hands or beginners to grip securely. The DX plastic provides a sticky, tacky hold, even in light moisture. While DX isn’t the most durable, it beats in quickly, making it even more understable and easier to throw.
H2: Pros and Cons of the Innova Archangel
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Excellent for beginners | DX plastic wears quickly |
| Easy long-distance throws | Not ideal for strong arms |
| High glide for max distance | Not great for forehand |
| Great turnover and anhyzer disc | May become very flippy when worn |
| Very affordable price |
H2: Who Should Use the Innova Archangel?
| Skill Level | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Beginners | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect |
| Intermediate (light arms) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Advanced players | ⭐⭐ Utility disc |
| Power throwers | ⭐ Understable roller disc |
For advanced players with high arm speed, the Archangel may flip too much and work better as a roller disc.
H2: Flight Path Overview
🌀 Type: Understable distance driver
📏 Flight Pattern: Easy flip-up → gentle right turn → minimal fade
🎯 Best Shot Types: Straight distance, turnovers, S-curves, rollers (when worn in)
🌬️ Not ideal in headwinds due to its understability
H2: Pricing and Value
Best of all, this beginner-friendly disc comes in affordable DX plastic, often priced below $9. For new players building their bag on a budget, this is one of the best entry-level drivers for learning proper form and increasing distance.
