5 things you can use as a kneepad on the disc golf course

Disc golf isn’t roller-derby.

So why would a disc golfer need a kneepad?

Well, discs don’t always come to rest in the most convenient or easy-to-reach places. Sometimes, whether it be for a pitch-out, approach or putt, throwing from a knee is the least difficult way to advance the disc. Naturally, having a kneepad in your bag will make this easier to accomplish.

A literal kneepad like this will work.

But you can get creative, too.

As long as you adhere to PDGA Rule No. 813.02D, that is:

“An item such as a towel or a pad may be placed under a supporting point, as long as it is not greater than one centimeter in thickness when compressed.”

In accordance with the above, try these on for size:

1. A disc

You should have a few of these on your person. And if you don’t, you’ve got bigger problems on your hands than getting your knee dirty during a tricky putt. To take advantage of this method, mark your lie. Then, flip a disc upside-down and place your knee atop it before throwing.

An inverted disc isn’t the most comfortable of kneepads, as it acts as more of a shield than a pad. But it’ll do a dynamite job of preventing dirt, sticks and pebbles from sticking to your knee.

Ouch.

2. A towel

If you’re obsessed with dry frisbees, you’ve got five backup towels in your bag at all times. And a Towch. And a Disc Raptor. And any other kind of moisture-sucking device, for that matter.

Unlike the upside-down golf disc, a towel is comfortable.

The downside, though?

If you’ve ever dropped a towel, you know it’s a magnet for all kinds of forest-floor crap, especially if of the micro-fiber variety. I’d also note that the aforementioned Disc Raptor is practically a pillow for your knee, and – in addition to drying discs – is designed for this purpose.

I love mine.

Click here to read my review of one.

3. A jacket

Because of the rule cited at the top of this article, you’ll need to make sure you use your coat, jacket or hoodie without inadvertently creating a stool for your knee. To avoid a violation, don’t roll or fold it before placing it under your body – just use what’s necessary to get the job done. For example, limiting yourself only to a hood, sleeve or pocket for padding will suffice.

This is effective, but my guess is that you brought a jacket with you to use – or potentially use, at least. Grinding it into the ground under the weight of your body is a solid way to get it dirty. So if you’re in a pinch, the jacket’s not a bad option. But if you can use something else, do it.

4. An actual kneepad

These exist.

They’re just as pointless as DiscDots, but that’s not stopped disc golf’s more entrepreneurially minded from seeing if they can carve out a money-making niche for themselves in the sport.

I guess if you’ve got extra space in your bag and nothing to fill it with, owning one might not be the worst idea on Earth. But if you’ve not got the spare cash necessary for this kind of purchase, don’t feel pressure to get one. Because as you can see, virtually anything can make this happen.

5. A stress-foam mini

Two birds. One stone.

Ingenious.

Green Splatter: The Infinite Discs Stress Mini

I say that, because the Infinite Discs Stress Mini is a mini marker, as well as a kneepad. Granted, you can’t use it for both at the same time, otherwise – foot (knee) fault. But for most situations, it’s a mini. And when you need a kneepad, it’s there in the clutch. And it’s dirt-cheap, too.

* Honorable Mention: Going straight knee-to-ground with things is a way to intimidate others.

No, you won’t need a kneepad often. But when you do, you’ll be glad you have one. Deep in the woods, I’ve used them to throw random, get-out-of-jail forehand rollers. But most of the time, my kneepad sees action on the putting green – it’s saved me strokes on multiple occasions.

Perhaps it’ll do the same for you.

Always have one handy.

Have anything to add? Take to X to let us know – we’ll actually (for real) get back to you.

Editor’s Suggestions:

Real quick, if you happen to buy something through a link in this article, there’s a chance we’ll get a small share of the sale. It’s how we keep the lights on. To learn more, click here.