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In This Review: Top 6 Picks | Buying Guide | How To Maintain a Cornhole Board | FAQ | Methodology
As one of America’s favorite backyard games, cornhole brings a little bit of friendly competition to backyard events like barbecues and pool parties. Cornhole sets range in price from around $60 to almost $400 depending on the materials used.
We reviewed a number of different cornhole boards, taking design, durability and price into consideration. With its handsome design and sturdy Baltic birch build, our top overall pick for the best cornhole board is the World Series of Cornhole Board Set. We picked sets that stood out in different categories to round out our list of the best cornhole boards.
Best Cornhole Board: Our Top 6 Picks
- Best Overall: World Series of Cornhole Board Set
- Most Customizable: CornholeAce Pro Cornhole Board Set
- Best for the Beach: Driveway Games Cornhole Set
- Best Traditional: GoSports Classic Cornhole Sets
- Best Design: Retro Woody Series Regulation Cornhole Boards
- Best for Kids: Franklin Sports Kids Bean Bag Toss
Compare Top Cornhole Boards
Product | Material | Portability Features | Regulation Size | Bags Included |
---|---|---|---|---|
World Series of Cornhole Board Set | Baltic Birch Plywood | Handles | Yes | No |
CornholeAce Pro Cornhole Board Set | Baltic Birch Plywood | Handles | Yes | No |
Driveway Games Cornhole Set | Laminate | Bag | No | 8 |
GoSports Classic Cornhole Sets | Engineered Wood | Bag | Optional | 8 |
Retro Woody Series Regulation Cornhole Boards | Mahogany | Handles | Yes | No |
Franklin Sports Kids Bean Bag Toss | ABS Plastic & Fiber Mesh | None | No | 6 |
Product | Material | Portability Features | Regulation Size | Bags Included |
Terms To Know for Cornhole Boards
- Material: The material of a cornhole board significantly influences its durability, playability, and weather resistance. High-quality materials, like premium wood or weather-resistant composites, ensure that the board withstands various environmental conditions and retains a smooth, playable surface over time.
- Regulation Size: Regulation cornhole boards measure 48’’ x 24’’. Using regulation size ensures consistency in play and prepares players for all levels of competition, from backyard fun to official tournaments. Smaller sizes are good for taking on the go.
Best Overall
Good for: The cornhole enthusiast looking to impress guests.
What Are People Saying About the World Series of Cornhole Board Set?
At the time of writing, there were no customer reviews of the World Series of Cornhole Board Set, but we will update this section as soon as feedback becomes available.
Most Customizable
Good for: The person who wants a conversation piece as a unique advertisement for their business.
What Are People Saying About the CornholeAce Pro Cornhole Board Set?
When we read customer reviews for this cornhole set, we found that customers were incredibly impressed with the quality of the printing, sturdiness of the boards, and the turnaround time from when they placed an order. The only criticism we noted was that the undersides and legs of the boards are unfinished.
“To start off, I did not expect these boards to be made and delivered as quickly as they were. Less than a week (only 6 days) from [the] point of ordering to receiving them. […] Secondly, even though they were made so fast, the quality is still impeccable. The design came out flawless. I seriously am astonished how well they were made, and how fast they got to me. 100% will be ordering all my future cornhole needs from this company. Can’t wait to get these boards out, and start tossing some bags!” — Rocky T. via Amazon
“Very well built! Two comments: top has a nice finish, but no finish on bottom or legs, so had to put a coat of poly on [the]entire underside. Also, boards are used on a concrete patio and when they had to be moved a couple inches, the front rail got chipped up due to vertical wood grain. Will have to patch and refinish and then put rubber feet on. Nevertheless, very happy with the quality.” — Greg D. via Amazon
Best for the Beach
Good for: Someone who wants to carry cornhole along in the trunk to play at the park or beach.
What Are People Saying About the Driveway Games Cornhole Set?
Customers who have played with this set are thrilled with its build and quality. Its portability is the standout feature that earns nearly universal praise. However, a few reviewers commented on the board’s unsteadiness.
“This bean bag game set is no joke! Beautifully built with waterproof bean bags and a waterproof seal on the actual boards. Love this product! I’ve always been a big bean bag toss fan so it’s amazing to have this set! I love the carrying case and ease of transport too!” — sk0ke via Target
“My family enjoys outdoor games when we go camping or hosting barbecues, and these are perfect for our game rotation! The bean bags are made with a sturdy fabric and the boards click together for easy, compact storage inside the carrying case. My biggest complaints are that the legs aren’t very sturdy and there’s a slight lip on the edges, which isn’t ‘regulation standard’ per my husband. But overall these are perfect for casual use and I’m so ready for spring to get some practice in!” — tayyyrenaee via Target
Best Traditional
Good for: Someone looking for an attractive bargain option for casual games.
What Are People Saying About the GoSports Classic Cornhole Sets?
We found that people are generally impressed by the quality of this set after ordering it for a special party or tailgating event. Unfortunately, a few reviewers have encountered mold issues when storing the boards in garages and sheds.
“This football corn hole game exceeded expectations! It is superbly crafted, graphics are excellent, and bean bags are large and well-filled. The zippered storage bag is well made and greatly appreciated. This was purchased for my grandson’s 3-year-old birthday party. The kids and adults loved playing it! Highly recommend this brand.” — JG via Amazon
“[…]The bag does not protect the contents from anything and will MOLD. I had this in my shed and use the game from time to time, but on the sixth month it was covered with mold — the boards on the back where the wood is is eaten up with white and yellow and literally being eaten through by the mold on the bottom. The red bags are beginning to deteriorate, and the blue I had to throw away immediately. Would have been better if this purchase did not come with a bag because then I would have stored it in something that would have protected it more also with it being kept in my shed. Even out of the elements this bag did nothing but destroy my boards…” — Emily via Amazon
Best Design
Good for: A serious cornhole fan looking for an “heirloom” board.
What Are People Saying About the Retro Woody Series Regulation Cornhole Boards?
Our research revealed that customers are wowed by the craftsmanship of these boards, with most reviewers complimenting both the style and durability. The only complaint offered up by people who have purchased this set is that they wish bags would be included for the price.
“These are perhaps some of the highest quality boards I have seen. It reminds me of something that a woodworker would make for themselves. The boards are heavy, which I would expect with this quality. The finish is excellent. There are some little things that go the extra distance like magnets to keep the feet stowed. Very nice quality and very pleased with the boards!” — Scott Hunter via Amazon
“High quality wood boards. Beautiful pattern. 5/8″ thick deck. Magnets keep legs closed. Rubber stoppers on bottom of legs help keep boards in place on flooring/decking and also keep the wood dry on the grass. For the price, the boards should have come with a set of bags, even if they were lower quality ones. But other than that I couldn’t be happier with these!” — mrVine Voice
Best for Kids
Good for: Parents looking for cornhole boards for younger children.
What Are People Saying About the Franklin Sports Kids Bean Bag Toss?
Customers like that this is a scaled-down, beginner’s version of cornhole that’s perfect for little kids. It also gets praise for being easy to put together. However, a few reviewers found the design to be flimsy.
“This two-piece bean bag toss game was easy to set up, and so easy to enjoy! The 3rd graders at an 8 year-old-birthday party tossed around the bean bags for lots of fun. I highly recommend this to others, and age is limitless.” — Meg via Amazon
“Assembly was easy and game play was as expected. Do not put any pressure on the boards. It looks like the game is made from compressed particle board and may break easy. Word of advice — don’t let smaller children play on this (sitting, crawling, standing, jumping, etc.).” — Theodicus via Amazon
What To Know Before Buying a Cornhole Board
Like frisbees, badminton nets, or any type of backyard sporting equipment, a cornhole board needs to offer durability. While the design of a cornhole board looks simple on the surface, the craftsmanship holding everything together can greatly impact the performance and longevity of a board. The main factors to consider are below.
What material is best for a cornhole board?
If you’re looking for a regulation cornhole board as a serious player, then you’ll want to choose plywood. The American Cornhole Association (ACA) offers the following guidelines for boards: “Each cornhole board shall be 47½ to 48 inches long and 23½ to 24 inches wide, made of smooth plywood that measures at least ½-inch in thickness.”
Wood cornhole boards, like mahogany, offer beauty and durability, but they can be very heavy and may not meet regulations if you are looking for an official board.
Lower quality boards may be made of manufactured wood (MDF), plastic, PVC, or other materials. These tend to be lighter weight, making them easier to carry on the go, as well as more cost-effective. They make good options for beginners if you want to try out the sport before committing to a more expensive board.
How big should a cornhole board be?
A regulation cornhole board should be 48 inches long and 24 inches wide. Some people select smaller sizes because they value portability over being able to play by official rules.
What are the bean bags for cornhole typically filled with?
Traditional cornhole bags are made with corn filling, which is where the sport’s name comes from. However, many brands today use resin pellets to replicate the weight and feel of corn kernels.
What style do cornhole boards come in?
Cornhole boards come in a wide range of styles. Popular patterns include rustic designs, simple lines, beach-themed designs, and American flags. Some boards also have professional or college sports teams’ logos. You can even choose your own image and get a customized board created.
How To Clean and Maintain a Cornhole Board
Cornhole boards require proper upkeep to stay attractive and functional through the years. Outdoor use can cause mud, moisture, heat, and the elements to damage a cornhole board that isn’t properly protected. Here’s a guide to everything a first-time board owner needs to know.
Cleaning a Cornhole Board
When purchasing a boutique or high-end cornhole board, the manufacturer should provide precise directions for how to care for your board. Always defer to those directions first. However, the average board can be cleaned by wiping away dirt and dust with a damp cloth after each use. For stains and crusting, use warm, soapy water. Take care to dry it afterward so that the board doesn’t warp from the water.
Storing a Cornhole Board
Cornhole boards are at risk for mold. This is why storing them away from exposure to water and humidity is crucial. Wooden boards should also be stored away from sunlight to prevent fading or warping. The ideal place for storing a cornhole board is a cool, dry basement, garage, or rec room. Keeping a cornhole board in a shed is not recommended unless the shed has insulation and temperature control.
When purchasing a high-end custom cornhole board, it’s recommended to purchase a specialized wall mount. By keeping a cornhole board off the floor, you can protect it from water damage, mold, and pest damage. Elevating a cornhole board can also prevent it from being accidentally crushed. A board cover that has a protective foam layer that coats the board is also recommended for both storage and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornhole Boards
How does scoring in cornhole work?
Each bag that goes through a cornhole board hole is worth three points. Bags that land on the board are worth one point. “Ground” landings and bounces are worth no points. The first team to earn 21 points wins.
How many people do you need to play cornhole?
A cornhole game requires two teams consisting of two players each. However, if you are playing casually, you could play with a minimum of two people.
Where is a good place to set up a cornhole board?
Any flat, even surface is appropriate for a cornhole board. Grass, sand, concrete and carpets can all be used.
How far apart should cornhole boards be?
When following official cornhole rules, boards need to be placed 27 feet apart. The ACA recommends that for children, seniors, or people with limited mobility or physical impairments, you place the boards 12 to 15 feet apart.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of cornhole boards with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
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