FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING CORNHOLE BOARDS
You might be asking yourself, "What should I look for in cornhole boards?". Let's start with determining your needs. Where will you be playing and what skill level are you at? Does Quality of boards really matter? Are there features included with the boards? When taking all these factors into consideration, finding the perfect set will be much easier!
Where Will You Be Playing?
Are you going to be playing casually at the beach that you need a lightweight, easy to travel set or are you pracating to sharpen your skills for playing in tournaments? Since there are many options available in all sizes and quality, this is a good starting place to determine what type of boards you are shopping for. There are plenty of inexpensive travel sets out there perfect for a family trip to the beach to have some fun. For those more series about the game and want to play by the official rules then you should definitely consider professional cornhole boards set to practice and play on. By using regulation size boards, you are practicing on what will be used at competitive tournaments, blind drawas, etc.
What are the specs of regulation cornhole boards?
The American Cornhole League defines regulation boards in their 2021-2022 rules with the following criteria:
- Boards shall be made of wood for use in ACL sanctioned events. The most common types are birch and oak.
- Boards shall have a finished coat that features a smooth texture.
- Boards must measure two feet wide and four feet long, with a ±1/4 inch tolerance.
- The hole must be 6 inches (±1/8 inch) in diameter, centered width-wise.
- The center of the hole must be 9 inches (±1/8 inch) from the back edge of the board
- Boards must have a minimum top layer thickness of ½ inch with cross-section support, or ¾ inch without cross-section support.
- Boards must have a weight of at least 15 pounds.
- The front edge of the board should be raised between 2.5 and 3.5 inches above the ground.
- The top of the board should rest 12 inches above the ground (±1/2 inch).
Does The Quality Of Boards Really Matter?
The short answer, yes. The type of material used to build the boards, how stable they are and what finishes are used can make a huge impact on game play. If you want top quality, pro cornhole boards, you will find they are generally made of baltic birch wood. Baltic birch wood is extremely strong, weather resistant and utilizes 11-13 of core layers glued together in alternating directions preventing warping over time. This gives a heavy, quality board needed for minimal bouncing during game play.
While considering the framework of the boards, many professional grade boards will have an added support brace under the board. Having the additional brace is ideal as it eliminates any extra bounce or vibrations you may have when the cornhole bag lands on the boards.
UV Graphic Printing is also something to consider when thinking about the finished product. UV printing uses ultraviolet light to cure ink as it is printed creating a vibrant, high-quality, weather-resistant, fade-resistant finish which is then sealed for extended use.
Are There Extra Features Included With The Boards?
As you shop you will find that some boards come with added features or accessories. Are they necessary? Not really. But it is something to consider as you are making your choice. Foldable legs, in my opinion, make storage and travel much easier as the boards can then lay flat. Another feature that I would consider really beneficial is having a built-in scorekeeper. This eliminates the need for a separate scorekeeping system and can help keep the peace when it comes to game scores.
If you are looking for professional tournament-style cornhole boards, check out these which offer regulation spec built, Baltic-birch, UV printed boards that have an added anti-bounce brace, foldable legs, AND a built-in scorekeeper!
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