Thought Space Synapse Disc Golf Disc Review | Fairway Driver

An Introduction to Thought Space Synapse

Disc golf has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Once seen as a niche sport, disc golf is now played by millions of people across the world. As the sport has grown, so too has the technology and variety of disc golf discs. One of the leading disc manufacturers in the world of disc golf is Thought Space Athletics.

Thought Space Synapse is one of Thought Space Athletics' flagship disc golf discs. The Synapse has quickly become a top seller and is used by many professional disc golfers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Synapse, examining its design, flight characteristics, and usage to see why it has become a go-to disc for so many players.

Thought Space Athletics Company History

Thought Space Athletics was founded in 2012 by a group of disc golfers passionate about taking disc technology to the next level. Based out of New Jersey, Thought Space has pushed the envelope on disc design and worked closely with professional players to develop discs that perform consistently in any condition.

Some of Thought Space's most popular original discs include the Mantra, Pathfinder, and Ethos. The company also produces discs in partnership with pro players like the Scott Stokely Comet and Nikko Locastro Hades. Thought Space uses premium plastics and focuses extensively on disc consistency during the manufacturing process.

Synapse Design

The Synapse was released in Thought Space's premium plastic blend called Ethereal. The disc features a streamlined profile and a rounded nose. The Synapse is considered a fairway driver or control driver, with a flight pattern that is versatile but also beginner friendly. It has speed rating of 7, glide rating of 5, turn of -1, and fade rating of 2.

Thought Space founder Scott Papa worked extensively with pro player Simon Lizotte to design the Synapse. Lizotte wanted a disc that was slightly understable but flew very straight when thrown flat. The Synapse handles torque well and has a thin profile that fits comfortably in smaller hands.

The Synapse is best thrown by players with moderate arm speeds. Advanced players can utilize the Synapse for turnover shots or rollers. But the disc has found popularity as a go-to fairway driver for recreational players learning how to maximize control and consistency.

Synapse Flight Characteristics

When thrown on a flat release, the Synapse will exhibit a straight flight path that holds its line very well. The disc has enough stability to fight wind without turning and burning. Synapse throws landed on an anhyzer release will demonstrate gradual turning action, allowing the disc to hold the angle longer before fading.

The Synapse performs particularly well for turnover shots. Thrown with anhyzer, the disc turns throughout flight and finishes with minimal fade. This makes the Synapse an excellent choice for carving shots around obstacles and corners.

Another flight characteristic that makes the Synapse beginner friendly is its tendency to hold nearly any line when thrown flat. Whether using backhand or forehand form, the Synapse resists unwanted turn when thrown with spin and velocity. This accuracy lets beginners feel confident unleashing drives down tight fairways.

Best Uses for the Synapse

The Synapse performs well both off the tee and as an approach disc. The combination of speed 7 and glide 5 gives the disc good distance potential. When used as a driver, the Synapse flies straight down tunnels and tight gaps. It also makes an outstanding roller disc that flips over easily and rolls a long way.

For approach shots, the Synapse sits down softly and sticks on landing. It can shape a variety of lines from medium range thanks to the -1 turn rating. Pro players like Simon Lizotte utilize the Synapse frequently for controlled upshots near the basket.

Beginners also find great utility in the Synapse. The disc provides nice distance without giant flare skips on errant throws. The Synapse allows beginners to attack shorter holes off the tee without fear of major turnover issues.

Premium Plastics

Thought Space produces the Synapse in its Ethereal plastic blend. Ethereal has a grippy, soft feel with superb durability. It also displays tremendous coloring with bright, vivid stamps. The plastic took 2 years to develop and features a complex mixture of polymers and additives.

In addition to standard Ethereal, Thought Space offers special plastic blends for certain editions. These include sparkle Ethereal and swirly Ethereal which have color shifting, pearlescent looks. There are also various lightweight Ethereal plastics at weights like 150-155g for younger players.

Popular Synapse Models

The standard Synapse comes in a few main variants. The overstable Slab is a Synapse with a flat top profile for added stability. The understable Splice features a domey top to achieve effortless turn. Thought Space also produces the Synapse in an X-Out cosmetic second configuration at a discount.

There have also been a range of special edition Synapse releases with unique stamp designs. The Lux Link Edition features an iridescent foil stamp. Milky Way stamps showcase cosmic space imagery. And the Fluid Dyed Edition has a tie-dye style swirling pattern.

Synapse in the Pro Game

In addition to Simon Lizotte's extensive use during the disc's design, many other pros bag the Synapse. Top pros like Eagle McMahon, Calvin Heimburg, and Nikko Locastro utilize the Synapse for accurate drives and mid-range shots.

Paige Pierce and Catrina Allen are among the female pros who depend on the Synapse. Paige considers it one of her most consistent flying discs. The Synapse is also popular on the touring junior disc golf scene as an ideal disc for younger arms.

The Synapse's straight flight gets put to the test in windy tournaments like the MVP Open where it performs admirably. For pro players, the Synapse delivers control for tight lines and can withstand power throws on long open holes.

The Synapse's Rising Popularity

In just a few short years, the Thought Space Synapse has become a top seller and go-to disc for many players. With its neutral flight and excellent glide, the Synapse provides versatility for a wide range of shots.

Top professionals appreciate the Synapse for its shot-shaping ability and wind-fighting reliability. Amateurs find the disc easy to control and a big boost to consistency. The Synapse is also an ideal disc for junior players progressing in their skills.

Thought Space found the perfect balance of stability and forgiveness with the Synapse. This combination of performance and accessibility looks to keep the Synapse near the top of disc golf bags for years to come.

FAQs

What plastic types is the Synapse available in?

The main plastic for the Synapse is Thought Space's premium Ethereal blend. They also offer special editions like sparkle and swirly Ethereal plastic.

What is the flight rating for the Synapse?

The Synapse is speed 7, glide 5, turn -1, and fade 2. This makes it a versatile fairway driver good for straight shots.

Who is the Synapse disc good for?

The Synapse is an excellent disc for beginners, amateurs, and professionals. It provides control for younger arms but handles power well.

What shots is the Synapse used for?

The Synapse excels at straight tunnel shots, turnovers, rollers, and controlled approaches. It's a very straight flyer with nice glide.

Why has the Synapse become so popular?

The Synapse's versatility, consistency, and quality make it a go-to option for all skill levels seeking accuracy and control.