When it comes to distance drivers, two of Innova’s heavy hitter rivalries are the Innova Shryke vs Wraith.
I’ve been bagging both of these discs for several years, so let’s dive into which one is right for your game.
Innova Shryke Overview
The Innova Shryke is a high-speed distance driver that combines substantial glide with a manageable high-speed turn. Here are its flight numbers:
- Speed: 13
- Glide: 6
- Turn: -2
- Fade: 2
Who is it best for?
- Beginner to intermediate players searching for significant distance gains.
- Experienced players wanting a disc for long turnover shots or tailwind drives.
- Diameter: 21.00 cm
- Height: 1.70 cm
- Rim Depth: 1.20 cm
- Rim Width: 2.30 cm
The Shryke is a versatile driver suitable for various throwing styles and conditions, renowned for its predictable flight path and balanced stability.
Innova Wraith Overview
The Innova Wraith is a stable to overstable distance driver trusted by players worldwide. Its flight characteristics are:
- Speed: 11
- Glide: 5
- Turn: -1
- Fade: 3
Who is it best for?
- Players advancing from fairway to Innova distance drivers.
- Those with foundational power looking for a stable flyer.
- Diameter: 21.10 cm
- Height: 1.40 cm
- Rim Depth: 1.20 cm
- Rim Width: 2.10 cm
The Wraith serves admirably in all weather conditions, especially when stability is paramount.
Flight Number Comparison Chart
| Disc | Speed | Glide | Turn | Fade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shryke | 13 | 6 | -2 | 2 |
| Wraith | 11 | 5 | -1 | 3 |
In-Depth Performance Review
Shryke In-Depth Review
The Shryke is celebrated for its high-speed stability paired with a minimal low-speed fade. Beginners often find that its wide rim and comfortable grip help them achieve distances they previously couldn’t. For intermediate players, the Shryke allows for a variety of shots, including hyzer flips and turnovers.
In calm conditions, its -2 turn helps the disc shift right (for RHBH throwers) before its gentle fade kicks in, lending itself to shaped shots through tighter fairways. When thrown into a headwind, it maintains a straighter path with a reliable finish.
You can check out my picks for the top overstable Innova discs here.
Repeated use will gradually decrease the stability, offering even longer turnovers or controlled rollers. Critics of the Shryke point out its sensitivity to wind, citing a tendency to drift in crosswinds or turn over in strong headwinds.
Players have reported the Star plastic to retain its initial flight characteristics longer, making it a preferred choice. The Shryke is a true distance workhorse in any disc golf bag and can be the confidence booster for those looking to impress in long-drive situations.
Wraith In-Depth Review
The Wraith’s reputation as a versatile and dependable Innova distance driver stems from its balanced flight numbers. It’s a driver that stands up to power without flipping over too quickly. In contrast to the Shryke, the Wraith’s moderate glide and stronger fade cater to players who prioritize control over pure distance.
When launched with power, the Wraith achieves a smooth s-curve flight, suitable for navigating tree-lined fairways or contending with headwinds. A beat-in Wraith can serve expertly as a maximum distance mold for advanced throwers while still maintaining a predictable finish.
Read Next: The 8 Best Disc Retrievers
It’s often compared to the Destroyer, being described as its more controllable sibling. This quality, along with the satisfaction of a firm fade, makes the Wraith a reliable choice for consistent hyzers and flex shots alike.
Its stability is often applauded, with players noting that even as the disc wears, it seldom becomes overly understable, instead finding a sweet spot for controlled distance shots. Particularly in Champion plastic, users appreciate the Wraith’s longevity and the confidence it instills on the tee.
Overall, the Wraith remains a classic pick for a wide range of playing skills, offering a stable flight path with controllable distance potential.
Which Disc Is For You?
Innova Shryke: Ideal for gaining extra meters from tee to green, the Shryke is a guiding force for newer players and a diverse tool for experts. With exceptional glide and a forgiving turn, it’s designed to maximize distance with less powerful throws. Choose the Shryke for its easy handling and impressive airtime capabilities.
Innova Wraith: The Wraith is a bastion of control for those transitioning to powerful drives, offering a blend of distance and precision. Its stability shines in various wind conditions, making it a top pick for intermediate and advanced players. If controlled power and reliable finishes define your play, the Wraith is your go-to disc.
If you liked this comparison, check out my Innova Boss vs Destroyer and Wraith vs Destroyer review!
