The Best Cornhole Boards and Buying Guide

Some of our best memories are of our friends and family games of cornhole in the backyard. We associate this game with cookouts and backyard fun, but many people play this game for sport. There is a professional cornhole league that plays at a competitive level. Much more competitive than your average family.

Whether you play professionally or enjoy an easy-going game of backyard cornhole, you could probably use a new cornhole board or set. There are a few things you should consider before purchasing cornhole boards. It is also important to keep in mind that some cornhole boards are better than others.

After extensive research, we’ve managed to come up with nine of the best cornhole boards. For your convenience, we’ve also curated a list of the most important considerations. We want to help you find the best cornhole boards.

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9 Best Cornhole Boards

The following nine cornhole boards and sets are some of the best cornhole equipment available. These boards are unique and feature many benefits to their owners. Each of these boards is high-quality and intelligently designed. However, it is up to you to determine which cornhole board fits your own unique preferences.

Go Sports Solid Wood Cornhole Board

This Go Sports cornhole board is made of solid wood. The boards are available in two different dimensions, four feet by two feet and three feet by two feet. These boards are sold in a set with eight, one-pound bags. 

The Go Sports solid wood cornhole boards are durable and easy to store. The legs retract to allow easy storage and carrying. The board is constructed from half-inch cabinet-grade plywood. This plywood meets ACA regulations. Both boards weigh in at thirty-eight pounds. 

One of the perks to this item is that the craftsmanship boards feature varnished, plain surfaces. This allows you to easily paint and design the board’s surface to your own preferences. This means that you can essentially create your own unique cornhole boards.

The set comes with two cornhole boards, eight all-weather bean bags, a carrying case, a bean bag tote, and a set of official cornhole rules.

Pros 

• The board is sold in a set that includes everything you need to play cornhole on the go.
• The varnished, half-inch grade plywood is one-half-inch thick, which promotes the best play. The bags will not bounce or slide off the board.
• The board is unfinished allowing you to completely customize the design of the boards.
• Two sizes allow you to play backyard cornhole or tailgate cornhole. 
• Its thirty-eight-pound weight is manageable and promotes easy carrying.

Cons

• The board will need to be finished yourself, otherwise, it will appear plain and boring.

Go Sports Cornhole Pro Regulation Cornhole Board

The Go Sports cornhole pro-regulation board is available in six options. The options vary in design and features. The three main designs are America, Black Edition, and Rustic. Each of these designs is available in the basic model, or in the LED lighting model.

Each of these cornhole boards come in a set that includes two, four-feet by two-feet, regulation sizes boards. The set also comes with eight cornhole bags that come in two different colors and a set of official cornhole rules.

These boards feature retractable legs and a simple one-fold design. This design allows the board to fold in half. There is a handle on the end of each board to allow easy carrying and portability.

Each of these boards is composed of a composite MDF surface with an aluminum frame. These materials allow the board to be durable and lightweight. The LED boards are powered by three AA batteries. These batteries can power the LED lighting for twenty-four hours.

Pros 

• The three unique designs are available with, or without, LED lighting.
• The boards come in a set that includes eight cornhole bags, and a set of official cornhole game rules.
• The boards feature retractable legs and a simple one-fold design for easy portability.
• The composite MDF surface and aluminum frame make the boards both durable and lightweight.
• The LED lighting is powered by replaceable AA batteries.

Cons

• The boards do not come with a carrying case.
• The one-fold design can make the boards deteriorate more quickly.

Tailgating Pros Cornhole Boards

Tailgating pros cornhole boards come into two different sizes. A four-feet by two-feet design allows you and your family to enjoy a friendly, or competitive, game of cornhole. The three-feet by two-feet design allows you and your friends to play tailgate cornhole. The size options improve the set’s versatility.

This set includes eight, regulation-size cornhole bags. You are permitted to choose two out of thirty-eight colors. You will receive four of each color. These bags weigh fifteen to sixteen ounces and are double-stitched to prevent ripping. The set also comes with a cornhole bag storage sack and a carrying case for the boards.

Tailgating pros also gives you the option of LED lighting. These lights can be added to the edges of the board and inside of the cornhole to optimize the playing experience. You can select the lighting color to personalize the board.

These tailgating boards are constructed from solid plywood. The boards are then finished with a clear varnish. This smooths out the surface and protects the wood. This varnish allows the boards to provide you with years of cornhole fun. The clear varnish is easy to paint or apply decals. This allows you to personalize the board and give it an awesome design.

The boards weigh roughly thirteen pounds each. Together they only weigh about twenty-five pounds. The carrying tote allows these portable boards to follow you wherever you go. The case also protects the surface from knicks and scratches that could occur when transporting the boards in your vehicle or truck-bed.

Pros 

• The set includes eight cornhole bags, a cornhole bag storage sack, and a carrying case for the boards.
• The eight cornhole bags come in over thirty colors, you get to select two opposing colors.
• You can opt for LED lighting around the edges and the cornhole.
• The clear varnish protects the board from damage and allows for a smoother surface.
• The plywood is plain and easy to paint or decorate with decals. This allows you to personalize the set and show off your own unique preferences.
• The boards weigh about twenty-five pounds and are easy to transport in the carrying case.
• The selection of two sizes allows you to play either backyard cornhole or tailgate cornhole.

Cons

• The surface will need to be finished.

Slick WOODYS Signature Cornhole Set

The Slick Woody’s signature cornhole set comes with eight cornhole bags. Four of the cornhole bags are black. The other four are grey. The boards feature an attractive and unique appearance. The design is sturdy and high-quality. These signature cornhole boards by Slick Woody’s are durable and provide long use.

The board’s five-eighths-inch baltic birch plywood tops are beautiful. These tops are extremely smooth, allowing for optimal cornhole play. The hardwood frames promote the board’s longevity and allow you to enjoy their use for years to come.

The legs of the signature cornhole board retract for easy storage and portability. The surface is unique as it is composed of laminated vinyl. This allows you to play the game the same regardless of the temperatures and weather conditions. 

The board’s design is created from UV inks. This prevents the design from fading after long hours in the sun. The best news is that this board is one-hundred percent made in the USA.

Pros 

• The set includes two boards and eight cornhole bags.
• The board is both unique and attractive.
• The design is sturdy and high-quality.
• The five-eighths-inch baltic birch plywood is both beautiful and smooth to play on.
• Hardwood frames promote long-term use.
• The use of laminated vinyl surfaces allows the game to stay the same regardless of temperature and humidity.
• UV ink prevents fading from sun exposure.
• The board is made in the USA.

Cons

• This set is pricey.
• The set does not include a carrying bag.

Plastic Cornhole Boards by Legit Sports

Legit Sport’s plastic cornhole boards are ideal for camping and parties. These boards are incredibly lightweight. They are one of the most portable boards on the list. However, they are also the least durable.

The boards come with eight cornhole bags. These bags are red and blue. The stitching is very precise. This excellent stitching reduces the risk of the bag’s tearing. The stitching improves the cornhole bag’s durability and quality.

Because this cornhole board is so lightweight, it is extremely easy to carry. To improve the board’s portability, the board is designed to fold down into a smaller size. The lightweight aspect of this board comes from its use of plastic. The use of plastic also allows the board to be water-resistant and weather-proof.

We would not recommend painting this plastic board, but the white surface would be perfect for decals. You can completely personalize this board with your favorite NFL team’s decals or your alma mater’s mascot. The choice is yours and the possibilities are endless.

Pros 

• These boards are lightweight and easy to carry.
• The boards come with eight durable cornhole bags.
• The boards fold down to a smaller size.
• The plastic surface is both water-resistant and weather-proof.
• Decals will stick to the surface very easily.

Cons

• The board is somewhat expensive considering the materials used.
• Plastic is not nearly as durable as plywood.

GoSports Regulation Size Wooden Cornhole Boards Set

GoSports regulation-size wooden cornhole boards are made of one-hundred percent solid wood. The pinewood frames and mitered cornered joints provide you with authentic cornhole play. 

The smooth wooden tops allow for easy painting and customization. You can add decals to the stained finish for a personal, authentic, and rustic appearance. Or you can paint over the finish with your favorite NFL team’s colors.

This cornhole board set comes with two high-quality cornhole boards and a carrying case. This case allows you to easily carry the boards with you wherever you go.  

Pros 

• These regulation-size wooden cornhole boards are made of one-hundred percent solid wood.
• The smooth wooden tops allow for easy painting and customization.
• The set includes two cornhole boards and a large carrying case.

Cons

• The bags are sold separately.
• This is a pretty standard cornhole board.

Backyard Champs Portable MDF Cornhole Boards

This Backyard Champs portable MDF cornhole board offers an aluminum frame. The materials used to construct these cornhole boards improve the board’s durability. The night-black surface is smooth, but not slippery. This prevents the cornhole bags from sliding all of the way down and off the board.

This cornhole set comes with eight blue and red cornhole bags. They each weigh about one-pound and are composed of all-weather fabric. This prevents them from becoming ruined when they get wet. 

Unfortunately, this set does not come with a carrying case. But, the boards are very lightweight and portable. The legs fold in to allow for easier storage and carrying. The aluminum frame promotes durability and long-term use.

Pros 

• The MDF cornhole board offers a sturdy aluminum frame.
• The aluminum frame promotes durability and long-term use.
• The attractive all-black finish is smooth but not so smooth that it is slippery.
• The set includes eight cornhole bags that are red and blue.
• The cornhole bags are composed of all-weather fabric.

Cons

• The boards are not as sturdy as some of the others on the list.
• The set does not include a carrying bag and the boards have no handles.

ACA American Cornhole Association Official Cornhole Boards

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This cornhole board meets all official ACA regulations. The board features a patriotic design of the American flag. This board is available in the regulation size of four-feet by two-feet, as well as a tailgate size of three-feet by two-feet. 

This is the only cornhole board created by the cornhole’s governing body. The ACA, or American Cornhole Association, is a trusted source. You can count on the board being the highest quality. 

The set includes eight cornhole bags. Four of these bags are red and white striped, and the other four are blue with white stars. The set also comes with an American Cornhole Association drawstring bag.

These cornhole boards are ideal for a fun game of backyard cornhole or a competitive and professional game of cornhole. Each board is personally tested and signed off on by a professional ACA cornhole player.

The board’s surface is made of half-inch thick, baltic birch plywood. The frames are made up of a cabinet-grade poplar. These materials are used to ensure that these cornhole boards are of the highest quality. The frames feature an easy to grasp handle.

Pros 

• These boards meet all of the ACA regulations.
• The cornhole set is available in a regulation size and tailgate size.
• The manufacturer is a trusted source.
• Each board is personally tested and signed off on by a professional ACA player.
• The board’s surface is made of half-inch thick, baltic birch plywood.
• The cabinet-grade poplar frame is durable.
• The board features an easy-to-grasp handle.

Cons

• The boards are somewhat heavy.
• The set does not include a carrying case for the boards.

Himal Collapsible Portable Corn Hole Boards

This Himal collapsible cornhole board is extremely portable. The boards feature an exclusive and unique design that is not used by any other company. This is the most lightweight option on the list. 

The boards are easy to assemble after some sticking and unfolding. They are even easier to store by unsticking and refolding. The board is composed of strong, elastic flat wire. This promotes the board’s lightweight and fun gameplay. 

The 300D poly fabric is extremely durable. The anti-skid treatment handles the issue of the bags sliding off the board. 

This is the most cost-effective board on the list. The entire set costs roughly thirty-five dollars and comes with eight cornhole bags, cornhole pieces, and a carrying bag. 

Pros 

• This is the most cost-effective cornhole board.
• The board is unique and sure to attract attention.
• The boards are easy to assemble and store.
• The set is extremely lightweight and portable.
• The fabric is durable and prevents excessive sliding.
• The set includes eight cornhole bags and a carrying case.

Cons

• The top seems kind of bouncy.
• The material is not as durable as wood.

5 Things to Consider When Buying Cornhole Boards

There are five aspects of a cornhole board that you need to consider before making your purchase. These aspects play a large role in determining the quality, durability, and uses of the cornhole board. These five things to consider are materials, surface, design, dimensions, and appearance.

Materials

Cornhole boards are created from a variety of different materials. These boards are often made from plastic or wood. But, they are sometimes made from other materials as well.

The best cornhole boards are often composed of wood. There are some kinds of wood that make some cornhole boards better than others.

Surface

The surface of the cornhole boards should be smooth. Plastic is naturally pretty smooth, but wood boards are not. During the creation of the boards, the wood is often sanded down.

In some cases, the surface may need more work than that. It may need to be painted or stained. Semi-gloss paint works best. This type of paint ensures that the bag will slide across the board. But, the bags will not slide so much that they overshoot the whole.

Design

There are two main styles of cornhole boards. The first style features a closed base. The sides are closed with wood or plastic slats. With this style, the bag will need to be reached out of the hole.

In the second style, the sides are left open. This type of cornhole board stays up due to two legs in the back. These boards are much easier to store. It also easier to retrieve the bags that slide into the hole.

Dimensions

It is important to note the dimensions of the cornhole board. There are two dimensions commonly found in the design of these boards. The first dimension is the regulation-size of four-feet by two-feet. 

The second dimension is tailgate-sized at three-feet by two-feet. It is important to note the use of the board. A tailgate-sized board is generally lighter and easier to carry. But, a regulation-size board is the most common and generally preferred.

Appearance

You definitely want to consider the appearance of the board. Your friends, family, and yourself will be using these boards for years to come. A basic board is nice because you can design the board yourself. 

But many people prefer to buy boards that are completely finished, with the design already applied. Common designs of cornhole boards are NFL team and college team logos, and the American flag.

Cornhole Boards FAQ

How far apart is cornhole?

If you are like most people, your cornhole experience is limited to your friends and family throwing bags across the yard. This friendly competition is fun, but far from professional. Unless your family is the competitive type, it is likely that you don’t measure the distance between the cornhole boards.

In a professional cornhole game, the boards are placed exactly twenty-seven feet apart. This ensures that the game is difficult and entertaining while also being fun. This measurement should be taken from the front of one cornhole board to the front of the other board.

What kind of wood is best for cornhole boards?

The type of wood used to compose a cornhole board does not matter so much. The more important consideration is the wood’s thickness. We recommend using half-inch thick plywood. This ensures that the bag does not bounce right off the board. 

Birch plywood is generally an inexpensive option. Maple plywood is more expensive, but the wood is of better quality. The overall best wood for a cornhole board would be maple plywood that is about a half-inch thick.

What is the best way to seal cornhole boards?

The best way to seal a cornhole board is with a poly, clear coat. This does a few things. The first thing it does is creates a smoother surface. The poly, clear coat also protects the wood from damage. It preserves the wood and fills in any dents and scratches. Another thing that this seal does is retain the paint’s design and colors.

What are the best professional cornhole boards?

Go Sports creates some of the best professional cornhole boards. The American Cornhole Association offers an official cornhole board that features an American flag design. Custom cornhole boards are also another great option. 

These custom boards can be created following the professional cornhole board guidelines. This makes a custom board a unique and personal professional cornhole board.

What are the specs for an official cornhole board?

An official cornhole board must meet certain criteria. This criterion is related to the size, design, and materials used to create the cornhole boards. An official cornhole board must be forty-seven and one-half to forty-eight inches long and twenty-three and one-half to twenty-four inches wide. The board must also be one-half to three-quarter-inch in thickness.

There is even a regulation weight. A regulation weighted cornhole board is pretty heavy. Each board must weigh no less than twenty-five pounds. 

The hole in the board must be six inches in diameter and centered approximately nine-inches from the top of the board. The front of the board should be three to four inches above the surface of the ground. The back of the board should rise up to a foot off the ground.

The wood must be completely smooth to avoid any rough spots. This allows the cornhole bags to glide across the board’s surface. Even the hole should be smoothed out to prevent bags from ripping.

As you can see, a lot of considerations must be made in the manufacturing of a cornhole board. Though the material is not specifically stated in the regulations, a heavier wood would have to be used to reach the regulation weight.

How do you win a game of cornhole?

In America, most people know how to play cornhole. At least they know how to play the way they were taught. But, there are specific rules outlined by the ACA. These rules include how to win a game of cornhole.

The official rules state that the first team to hit a score of twenty-one wins the game. In backyard cornhole, most families play cornhole a different way. If the opposing team goes over twenty-one points, they return to fifteen points.

This score is calculated in the following way. Each bag in the hole is worth three points. Each bag on the board is worth one point. But, only one player will win points each turn. This is because the points are canceled out.

If the first player lands a bag in the hole, then the opposing team member lands a bag in the hole, the points are canceled out. There may be rounds where neither team earns points.

What is a foul bag?

There are a few instances where a throw will be considered a foul bag. This happens most often if the player steps over the invisible line. This line goes across the ground on both sides of the board. The line runs even with the end of the board. So, if you step in front of the board, you are throwing a foul bag.

Another example of a foul bag is any bag thrown from the opposite side of the cornhole board. Each player is assigned a certain side of the board. All of their tosses must be made from that side. 

Any bag that hits the ground is a foul bag. This is the case even if the cornhole bag bounces off the ground and lands on the board. It also counts if the bag somehow manages to slide into the cornhole.

Will the game become ruined if left out in the rain?

In some cases, yes, the board will become ruined if left out in the rain. Even if you have the best board on the market, consistently leaving the board out in the rain will take its toll. The board will begin to deteriorate.

However, a high-quality cornhole board should be able to survive a few accidental rain showers. Certain materials will improve the board’s resistance to water damage, but eventually, all wood will warp under frequent water exposure.

How can I tell if the board is high-quality?

A high-quality board will meet the ACA regulations regarding cornhole boards. These boards meet certain size and weight specifications that most high-quality cornhole board manufacturers follow. 

The materials used to create the board also determine whether the cornhole board is high-quality, Wooden boards are by far the best boards to use. These boards are more likely to meet the weight requirements, plus the material is more durable.

High-quality cornhole boards will feature a water-resistant finish that prevents excessive sliding. The board should be smooth and allow for easy gameplay. The board should also be a specified thickness to prevent the bags from bouncing off the surface.

Are all of the accessories necessary?

The only things necessary to play cornhole are boards and bags. The rest of the accessories are just extra. However, they are nice to have. Some people have cornhole scoreboards. These can be beneficial if your family is consistently asking what the score is.

Another beneficial accessory is a carrying bag. Having a carrying bag for your cornhole set is very helpful. The first thing it does is increase the cornhole set’s portability. The second thing that the bag does is protect your board’s surface when transporting it in your trunk or truck-bed.