Cornhole Bags Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Bags
When it comes to cornhole, it’s not just about tossing a bag onto a board. It’s about strategy, finesse, and finding the right bag that complements your playing style.
Choosing the best cornhole bag can seem daunting, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. I’ve created this cornhole bags buying guide to help you understand different aspects before you make a purchase.
Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense and gets you tossing like a pro.
1. Fabric and Feel: Comfort Meets Performance
One of the first things to consider is the fabric of the bag. Cornhole bags come in various materials, and each one impacts how the bag behaves on the board.
Duck Cloth Material for Cornhole Bags
A traditional choice, duck cloth is durable and provides a good balance of grip and slide. The material tends to be slower on the board compared to synthetic or slick-sided bags, which may not suit players looking for aggressive slides.
Duck cloth bags are great for outdoor games as they withstand wear and tear, but their slightly slower speed may not appeal to those who prefer faster gameplay.
Polyester Material for Cornhole Bags
Polyester is a great choice if you’re looking for speed. This material is slicker than traditional fabrics, allowing the bag to slide more quickly across the board.
Remember that while the faster slide is an advantage for some, it might make controlled throws a bit trickier, especially for newer players. But if you’re aiming for a bag that glides into the hole with little resistance, polyester is the way to go.
Dual-Sided Material for Cornhole Bags
Some cornhole bags have a unique design with two different materials on each side—one that’s slick for faster slides and one that’s slower for better control. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your throw based on your strategy.
Need to block your opponent’s shot? Use the slow side. Want a smooth slide right into the hole? Flip to the slick side. It’s like having two bags in one, adding a whole new level of strategy to your game.
Carpet Material for Cornhole Bags
Carpet Material Cornhole Bags are also dual-sided, meaning they have a slick-stick combination. Moreover, these bags have a unique texture that gives you more control over your throw. Unlike regular bags, carpet bags have a rougher side (yes, like a mini carpet!) that helps them grip the board and stop exactly where you want them. They also perform well in humidity.
The feel of the bag in your hand is just as important as the material. You want a bag that feels right, not too stiff or too loose. The right fill and weight balance will give you that “just right” feel.
Honestly speaking, if you want to improve your game, you have to go for dual-sided bags. They can help you learn almost all the necessary shots in cornhole.
2. Fill Matters More Than You Think
The inside of the bag might be hidden, but it’s crucial to how the bag performs. Different fills affect weight distribution, control, and durability.
- Corn-Filled Cornhole Bags: These are the traditional choice and give that satisfying “thump” when they land on the board. However, corn bags tend to break down over time, becoming less consistent in performance.
- Resin or Plastic Pellet Fills: These fills are more durable and less prone to wear and tear. They maintain their shape longer and provide consistent tosses game after game. Plus, they’re a bit more weather-resistant, so you won’t have to worry as much about humidity messing with your game.
If you’re playing regularly, go for the resin-filled cornhole bags—they offer long-term performance and stability.
3. Speed Ratings: Find Your Groove
This is where things get interesting. Cornhole bags typically have a speed rating, usually presented as two numbers (e.g., 3/7). One side of the bag is slower for controlled shots, while the other is faster for slick slides.
- Low-Speed Cornhole Bags (1-4): These bags are great for blocks, stops, and controlled placement. If you’re the type of player who likes to mess with your opponent’s game by laying down blockers, then this is your speed zone.
- High-Speed Cornhole Bags (5-10): For players who love to slide, these are your go-to. Perfect for fast games where you need the bag to zip across the board and into the hole. If you’re confident in your ability to control fast throws, high-speed bags are a fun challenge.
A good all-rounder would be a bag with a dual-speed rating of 4/7, giving you the best of both worlds—slow when you need it, fast when you want it.
4. Durability: How Long Will They Last?
Let’s face it, cornhole bags take a beating. Between constant tossing, sliding, and weather exposure, they need to be built tough. Look for bags with durable stitching and high-quality materials that can stand up to repeated use.
If you’re planning to play outdoors, check for weather-resistant options like resin-filled bags. These will last longer and perform better even in less-than-ideal weather.
5. Bag Weight: Find Your Sweet Spot
While the regulation cornhole bag weight is around 16 ounces, some bags can feel lighter or heavier depending on the fill and fabric. Finding your ideal weight is all about preference. A lighter bag can give you a bit more control, while a slightly heavier bag can improve your accuracy when sliding or pushing other bags into the hole.
It’s a good idea to test out a few different weights and see what feels most natural to you.
6. Pro vs. Amateur Cornhole Bags: What’s the Difference?
If you’re playing casually, any solid set of bags will get the job done. They’re typically made from durable fabrics like duck cloth or basic polyester and filled with corn or standard plastic pellets.
These cornhole bags are great for family games or backyard get-togethers—affordable, reliable, and simple to use. They’re perfect if you’re just starting out or playing for fun.
But if you’re serious about improving your game or even competing, you’ll want to invest in pro cornhole bags. These bags are usually:
- Smoother for consistent slides
- Filled with high-quality resin for long-term durability
- Designed with dual sides to give you flexibility during gameplay
Pro bags might cost a little more, but they’re worth it for the performance boost and longevity.
7. Break-In Period: Get the Right Feel Over Time
When choosing cornhole bags, don’t forget about the break-in period. New bags might feel a bit stiff or too slick, and that can throw off your game at first. But, over time, they’ll soften up and start feeling just right.
Some players speed this up by tossing them around or even giving them a quick wash. Others prefer to let them break in naturally through regular play. Either way, a well-broken-in bag gives you better control and accuracy. So, keep this in mind when making your choice! I have written 5 safe methods to quickly break in your new cornhole bags.
8. Humid Conditions and Bag Performance
When it comes to choosing the perfect cornhole bags, you’ve got to consider the conditions you’re playing in—especially humidity. High humidity can slow down the board, making your usual fast bags stick more than you’d like.
In sticky conditions, look for bags that are known for holding up in humidity. Dual-sided cornhole bags are a great option here, with one slick side to help counter the slower board.
For example, a faster cornhole bag with a rating of 8 on one side will give you that extra slide you need when the board isn’t cooperating. If humidity is a regular issue for your games, opting for resin-filled bags will help, as they tend to resist moisture better than corn-filled bags, giving you more consistent throws no matter the weather!
9. Style and Design: Play with Personality
Okay, this one’s a little more personal, but it still matters. Whether you’re into sleek, minimalist designs or want something that screams personality, the look of your cornhole bags can reflect your style. Some brands offer customizable bags, so you can have your own logo or color scheme on the bags.
While performance is key, why not look good while you’re dominating the boards? Imagine landing a four-bagger with bags that not only slide perfectly but also have your own design on them. Now that’s a statement!
Pro Tip When Choosing Cornhole Bags
Not sure which bag to choose? At a “blind draw” event—where players are randomly paired with different teammates—you’ll have the chance to try out a variety of cornhole bags. Since players bring their own bags, it’s a great way to test different materials, weights, and feels to find what suits your playing style best.
10. Pricing and Value for Money: Get the Best Bang for Your Buck
Now, let’s talk about price. Cornhole bags come in a wide range of prices, but how do you know if you’re getting good value? Here’s what to look out for:
Budget-Friendly (Under $30)
If you’re new to cornhole or just looking for a casual set to use at tailgates or barbecues, you can find solid bags under $30. Cornhole bags in this price range are typically made from durable fabrics like duck cloth or polyester and filled with resin or plastic pellets. While they may not have all the qualities of pro cornhole bags, they’ll get the job done for casual play.
I like this bag the most under $30.
Mid-Range ($30 – $50)
If you’re getting more serious about your cornhole game but don’t want to break the bank, the mid-range (30$-50$) price bracket offers excellent options. Bags in this range often feature dual-sided materials (for slick and slow play), high-quality fills, and better stitching.
They’re built to last longer and offer more consistency in your throws. But they might not be approved by American Cornhole League (ACL)
I like this bag the most between $30-$50.
High-End (Over $50)
At the top of the market, you’ll find professional cornhole bags that are designed for serious players. These bags are often used in tournaments and by pro players. They are regulation cornhole bags so expect top-notch materials, impeccable construction, and the best performance.
I like this bag the most over $50.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need the most expensive cornhole bags to play well. For casual games, a budget-friendly or mid-range set will do just fine. But if you’re serious about improving or competing, spending a bit more on a higher-end set is worth it.
The key is finding bags that fit your style, feel right in your hand, and perform consistently. Whether you’re blocking, sliding, or nailing airmail shots, there’s a bag out there for you.
Think about the material, fill, speed, and durability, and try a few different types. Soon enough, you’ll find the set that helps you hit those four-baggers like a pro!
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