Types of Disc Golf Baskets
People often ask what the difference is between all the baskets they see online. Truth is, not all targets are built for the same purpose. Some are made for permanent courses, others for practice or travel. Here’s how they break down.
1. Permanent Course Baskets
These are the ones you find cemented into the ground at a course. They’re heavy-duty, weatherproof, and meant to stay put for years. You’ll see models like the Innova Discatcher Pro 28 →, DGA Mach VII →, and Dynamic Discs Veteran →.
They’re the standard for PDGA-approved courses because they’re consistent and catch reliably. They’re also expensive and built to stay in one place.
2. Portable Baskets
Portable baskets are for players who want to move their target around. They’re made with lighter steel and detachable bases. Options like the MVP Black Hole Pro → or Dynamic Discs Recruit → are solid examples.
They’re not as heavy or as firm as permanent baskets, but they still feel close enough for practice and club events.
3. Foldable or Travel Baskets
These are made for convenience. They collapse down for easy transport and setup. The Innova SkillShot → and DGA Mach Lite → are two of the most popular. They’re not as sturdy or as forgiving, but they’re perfect for the backyard, camping trips, or casual putting sessions.
4. Practice or Home Baskets
These are hybrids between course and portable models. They use full-size chains but without the permanent mounting. A good pick if you want a realistic feel without digging holes or pouring concrete.
5. Mini and Novelty Baskets
Scaled-down targets for fun or for mini disc leagues. Great for the shop, office, or basement — anywhere you can’t fit a full-size target.
What Is the Best Catching Disc Golf Basket?
For pure catching performance, nothing beats a permanent course basket. The heavier chains handle impact better and reduce bounce-outs. Portable and foldable baskets are convenient, but they simply can’t absorb the same force.
Among permanent baskets, which one catches “best” really depends on how you putt. Players with a firm, straight putt tend to like models such as the DGA Mach X → or Mach 10 →. Those thick chain configurations are designed to stop a disc that hits hard in the center.
Players with a softer release often prefer something like the Discatcher Pro 28 →. It’s more forgiving for light putts that don’t carry as much spin or power.
One subtle factor many players don’t notice is how some baskets favor a particular side. On a few models, the inner chain pattern tightens more on the “strong” side for right-handed players — the side where a hyzer putt naturally fades in. That same layout can be a disadvantage for left-handed players, since their putts approach from the mirror side and may slip through more often.
So, what’s the best catching basket? The one that matches your putting style. But in general, permanent course baskets with full-weight chains always provide the truest catching experience.