Understanding Turn and Fade (and Why Some People Get Them Backwards)

If you’ve ever described a disc as “fading right” or “turning left” and gotten a confused look in return, you’re not alone. Turn and fade are two of the most misunderstood flight numbers in disc golf. Ironically, many players get them exactly backwards. Let’s clear the air and break down what these terms really mean, why they matter, and how to use them to your advantage. Turn: The Disc’s Initial Drift Turn refers to a disc’s tendency to veer to the right during the early part of its flight for a right-handed backhand throw (RHBH). This happens when the disc is flying at high speed and is often called high-speed…