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There are at least half a dozen theories about the true beginnings of the game we call cornhole [1]. And there are many more names for this game. What we call it largely depends on where we’re from. Do you call it bean bag toss? Bags? Toss across? Dummy boards? Tailgate toss? Comment below and let us know!
But the “official” name for the game is cornhole. Did you know about the American Cornhole Association and you’re here looking for the best cornhole board designs? We have some to show you! Haven’t heard of the ACA? [2] After you play a few games with a regulation set at your next party you might just want to look into it.
The game rules are simple. Winning the game is not easy, though. It might take a bit of skill, or luck at first, but you’re guaranteed to have fun. Check out these cornhole board reviews and let us know which set you picked!
Our Top Pick
Tailgating Pros Rustic American Flag Cornhole Boards: Vintage NFL
- Every NFL team available – perfect for any fan!
- Even the corn bag filling is US-sourced, high quality
- Produced by a nearly 100-year-old company with pride
Our Favorite Picks for Cornhole Boards
- Tailgating Pros Rustic American Flag Cornhole Boards
- Himal Collapsible Cornhole Boards
- Lifetime HD Outdoor Cornhole Combo Set
- GoSports Solid Wood Premium Cornhole Set
- Victory Tailgate Regulation Cornhole Set
- GoSports Flag Series Wood Cornhole Set
- Driveway Games All-Weather Cornhole Set
- Zeny Aluminum Frame Cornhole Set
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Product |
Purchase |
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BEST Overall
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Tailgating Pros Rustic American Flag Cornhole Boards
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BEST Value 
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Victory Tailgate Regulation Cornhole Set – NFL Vintage Version
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BEST BUDGET 
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GoSports Flag Series Wood Cornhole Set
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Best Cornhole Board Reviews
Best Overall: Tailgating Pros Rustic American Flag Cornhole Boards
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′ (regulation)
- Board weight: 15 pounds each
- Board construction: wood
- Board top: laminated vinyl
- Bag material: duck canvas
- Bag filling: whole kernel corn
Rating
Description
Being regulation-sized, these cornhole boards offer a more realistic playing experience if you’re used to ACA regulations. ACA-sized or not, you’ll enjoy a fun game with beautifully designed boards displaying the American flag. The distressed look is a popular one and because it’s applied as laminated vinyl, it will stand up to years of use and the elements.
The board itself is constructed of high-quality materials, including galvanized bolts attaching the legs to resist rust when exposed to the elements. The frame is built of solid wood with a ½” plywood board on top which prevents bounce when playing.
Tailgating Pros offers 28 pre-made color combinations for the eight included bean bags. The stars and stripes combo is popular with this particular board design. Four camouflage colors and nearly 20 solid colors are also available. The 6″ x 6″ bean bags are made of durable 12-ounce duck canvas and are double stitched so they will last through years of heavy use. The more traditional whole kernel corn is used as the filling.
Pros:
- Nearly 30 bean bag color combinations available
- Carry case for boards and drawstring bag for bean bags
- Double-stitched duck canvas bag material
- Heavy-duty, galvanized hardware
Cons:
- LED light kit isn’t the best quality
- Laminated vinyl top is slippery – bean bags can slide
Best Value: Victory Tailgate Regulation Cornhole Set – NFL Vintage Version
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′
- Board weight: 62 pounds (each)
- Board construction: solid wood
- Board top: ½” cabinet-grade plywood
- Bag material: 10 oz. duck canvas
- Bag filling: whole kernel corn
Rating
Description
The Victory Tailgate brand are some of the best cornhole boards available. The NFL vintage version offers the same high-quality construction to strict standards but with beautifully designed tops. Each team’s design is digitally printed on the surface in a vintage fade that would look amazing at any backyard BBQ.
Looking to compete at an official American Cornhole Association (ACA) event?[3] These boards meet all regulation requirements so get practicing! The bags are also designed to ACA regulations of duck canvas and whole kernel corn. The canvas is triple stretched and double stitched so they will last through years of play. Victory Tailgate has taken care in designing the bags, making sure they coordinate perfectly with the board.
Escalade Sports, the parent company of Victory Tailgate, has a long history of producing high-quality products and offering exceptional customer service. Not an NFL fan? Grab your favorite NHL, MLB, or even college sports team cornhole set instead. There are even multiple designs for each and all are fully licensed.
Pros:
- High-quality, digitally printed design
- All NFL teams available
- Regulation-quality bags
- Bags match the design of the board
Cons:
- Boards are heavy
- No carry case included
Best Budget: GoSports Flag Series Wood Cornhole Set
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′
- Board weight: 38 pounds (total)
- Board construction: solid wood
- Board top: varnished ½” plywood
- Bag material: all-weather fabric
- Bag filling: recycled plastic pellets
Rating
Description
Whether you choose the beautiful Stars & Stripes or one of the equally gorgeous state flags, these GoSports wood cornhole sets are perfect for any gathering. Made to regulation size, it’s constructed of a solid wood frame with a ½” plywood board top. The design is screen-printed in a way that allows the natural wood grain to show through, giving it a unique, vintage appearance.
The bean bags are designed of a durable, all-weather fabric and filled with recycled plastic pellets. These pellets give a similar weight and feel to the traditional whole kernel corn but don’t break down over time and don’t rot if exposed to moisture. This fabric may not be as durable as duck canvas, however.
Considering its wood construction, the weight of these boards is very manageable. The included heavy-duty tote bag with long shoulder straps makes transporting these cornhole boards to your next party a breeze. The tote bag is the perfect way to keep the boards and bags together for storage as well while you plan the next event.
Pros:
- Built to regulation standards
- Mitered corner construction
- Natural wood grain shows through
- Heavy-duty tote bag with straps
Cons:
- Bags not as durable, can break open
Himal Collapsible Cornhole Boards
Specifications
- Board size: 3′ x 2′
- Board weight: less than 4 pounds (total)
- Board construction: elastic flat wire and fabric
- Board top: 300D poly fabric
- Bag material: 300D poly fabric
- Bag filling: Info not provided
Rating
Description
These cornhole boards easily pop into shape so you can start your game in just seconds! The elastic flat wire stretches the 300D poly fabric tight to create a strong, anti-skid surface for playing.
While playing outdoors, you can use the included plastic stakes to keep the boards in place, even on a breezy beach. If you aren’t able to use stakes or you are playing indoors, you can easily set an object inside the board to keep it in place.
Because the boards are smaller than most traditional cornhole boards and much lighter, the bean bags are smaller and lighter as well. They are about 3.5″ square and help make this game easy to store and carry. The boards, bags, and stakes all fit perfectly into the included case. It’s so small that it’s perfect to keep in a travel trailer or with your camping gear. You can even leave it in your trunk for last-minute outings. Are the kids bored? Let them set up the game themselves!
Pros:
- Full weight of set, when in carry case, is very lightweight
- Carry case is compact and portable
- 1-year extended warranty
- Highly durable 300D poly fabric is tear-resistant
Cons:
- Not the same experience as wooden boards
Credits: MyShirlzLife
Lifetime HD Outdoor Cornhole Combo Set
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′
- Board weight: 21 pounds (each)
- Board construction: powdercoated steel
- Board top: HD polyethylene (HDPE)
- Bag material: Info not provided
- Bag filling: Info not provided
Rating
Description
These “tables” from Lifetime Products transform into both cornhole boards and a ladderball game. The process to switch them is quick and easy which means you can keep the fun going non-stop. The legs of the tables are constructed of powdercoated steel for strength and durability. The solid tabletops are made of molded, heavy-duty polyethylene that is UV-resistant. It’ll last years without fading or cracking.
When used as cornhole boards, simply unfold the table and adjust the correct leg for the height of the board. The 6″ plug pops out to allow for the cornhole game. Grab the red and blue bean bags and you’re ready to play!
To set the tables up for the ladderball game, the tabletop will be face down on the ground. One of the table legs extends higher and has supports that create the “ladders.” You have six red and six blue ladder toss balls.
Not only are these tables fun for indoor or outdoor get-togethers, but they also have many everyday uses as tables. Set them up for crafting, a family meal, and so much more.
Pros:
- Innovative 3-in-1 design
- High-quality construction
- All game pieces included
- UV protected HDPE
Cons:
- Ladder toss balls can separate from string
GoSports Solid Wood Premium Cornhole Set
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′
- Board weight: 38 pounds (total)
- Board construction: solid wood
- Board top: varnished ½” plywood
- Bag material: all-weather fabric
- Bag filling: recycled plastic pellets
Rating
Description
GoSports is well known for making some of the best cornhole boards and they have many options available. However, their premium set is top of that list for a few reasons. The frame is made of pine and the board top from ½” plywood that’s been varnished for a strong, durable surface. You won’t see any bounce here!
This particular set has no design features. You can leave it that way for a natural look or you can customize the board any way you would like with paint or decals.
The GoSports premium cornhole set comes with 8 bean bags so you can start playing right away. Additional bags are available in a wide variety of colors and designs. The company doesn’t just have bean bags though. Cases and totes make it easy to take your game with you wherever you go. Don’t forget to grab the score caddy accessory as well. It keeps score as well as your drinks.
Pros:
- Solid wood construction
- Plastic pellet filling (doesn’t break down like corn)
- Ready to use out of the box
- Smaller 3′ x 2′ size available as well
Cons:
- Heavier weight makes transportation more difficult
- Would have to create a design yourself
Driveway Games All-Weather Cornhole Set
Specifications
- Board size: 4′ x 2′
- Board weight: 18 pounds (each board)
- Board construction: waterproof plastic
- Board top: waterproof plastic
- Bag material: all-weather canvas
- Bag filling: plastic pellets
Rating
Description
These cornhole boards are perfect for those who love to play at the beach or anywhere they are exposed to high humidity. Made of durable, waterproof plastic, this original design allows you to play almost anywhere. With storage built into the underside of the boards, you won’t be searching for your lost bags. The bright red color is exciting and fun no matter where you play!
Even more innovative than the boards, the bean bags are designed with a heavy canvas that resists weather damage. The plastic pellet filling is resistant to both moisture and pests. Even if you store the boards for the winter, you can rest assured they’ll be ready to play when you need them.
Some buyers have recommended that you add extra support under the boards when playing for more stability. Driveway Games is a US-based company founded in 2004. They focus on quality lawn games, water toys, and tailgating gear. They stand by their products with local and responsive customer support.
Pros:
- Completely waterproof set (both boards and bag)
- Built-in storage for the bags
- Moisture- and pest-resistant bean bags
- Relatively lightweight for portability
Cons:
- Legs may not be supportive enough on their own
Zeny Aluminum Frame Cornhole Set
Specifications
- Board size: 3′ x 2′
- Board weight: 15 pounds (total)
- Board construction: aluminum
- Board top: MDF
- Bag material: polyester
- Bag filling: info not provided
Rating
Description
A tailgate sized cornhole game is perfect when space is at a premium. This 3′ x 2′ set from Zeny fits the bill. The aluminum frame design is super lightweight. If you are packing a travel trailer or RV and weight is important, this might be a good option. When both boards and all eight bean bags are stored in the carry bag it weighs just about 23 pounds which makes it one of the lightest sets available.
Don’t want to use the carry bag? That’s okay! Both boards latch together on the sides and there’s a handle built into the frame. This is a unique feature compared to other cornhole boards we’ve seen.
Another feature that contributes to the light weight are the boards themselves. They are made of MDF. It can bounce when the game gets competitive and some players have said they think it’s a little loud. However, if it’s more about portability and a fun game with friends, the Zeny board is ideal.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Portable design with handles
- Fold-and-lock legs
Cons:
- MDF board top is a little thin, loud
Conclusion
…the Victory Tailgate Regulation Cornhole Set. While we featured the NFL vintage version, they have several other designs available for NFL teams that are all fully licensed. These cornhole boards don’t just look amazing, though. They are built with superb quality and for both serious cornhole competitors and backyard players alike.
These boards are heavy, but don’t let that turn you away. If you won’t be transporting them very often or if you will have help when you do transport them, then the weight won’t be a problem. And you know that the boards are built of solid materials that can stand up to plenty of games over the years!
Our Overall Pick
Tailgating Pros Rustic American Flag Cornhole Boards
Features of the Best Cornhole Boards
For every set of cornhole boards we reviewed for you, we provided important information about their features. Knowing their size, weight, and construction materials is important. It’s just as important to know the size and materials of the bags. Even if you aren’t headed to an ACA-sponsored event, you want to know what to expect when your boards arrive.
The Boards
Size
The American Cornhole Association rules state that a board should be 47.5-48″ long and 23.5-24″ wide. This “regulation size” is also the most common size found in backyards and at events with family and friends. The ACA has guidelines for how big the hole should be and where it should be located on the board. If you need a regulation-approved set, make sure the center of the hole is located 9″ from the top edge and is perfectly centered side-to-side.
The smaller “tailgate size” is shorter and measures 3′ x 2′. It’s a little easier to transport and the smaller size usually means that it weighs less. This can be more convenient for traveling, camping, or for younger kids.
Weight
The weight of wooden cornhole boards is usually a good indication of their quality. The ACA only allows wooden boards to be used in regulation play. You can see from our reviews above that even though the Victory Tailgate and GoSport Premium boards are both rated fairly high, the better boards weigh a bit more. Victory Tailgate has used the best wood for cornhole boards which is cabinet-grade birch, although many other types of wood work very well.
If you aren’t too worried about the best cornhole board for ACA competition, then you may consider weight the other way. Boards that are too heavy may be difficult to move outside when needed and then back indoors. If you need to transport them away from your home, this could be difficult with heavier sets.
Construction Materials
The ACA also has some guidelines when it comes to the construction materials of regulation cornhole boards. The cornhole board top needs to be made of smooth plywood that is at least ½” thick. Many of the sets that we reviewed meet this requirement. However, the surface should be smooth and not slippery. For example, the laminated vinyl on the Tailgating Pros set would be too stick as it allows bags to slide back off the board.
The best paint for cornhole boards is semi-gloss exterior latex paint. If you plan on designing your own boards for a custom look, the GoSport Premium set is perfect as the natural varnished finish allows you to do just that.
The Bags
Size
Cornhole bags, by ACA standards, should be 6″ x 6″ square and weigh between 14 and 16 ounces. Traditionally, the bags were made of duck canvas and filled with whole kernel corn. These are still the most popular used by competitors. However, the American Cornhole Association now allows All Weather Cornhole Bags that are made of different fabric and filled with plastic pellets so long as they meet the size and weight requirements and have been approved.
When not playing competitively, the size and weight of the bags aren’t quite as important. As long as all eight bags (four for each player) are all similar, then the game will be fair for everyone. Smaller boards usually come with more appropriately-sized bags.
Fabric
ACA-regulation bags are usually made of canvas or other durable fabric. Because canvas works so well and these bags stand up through many years of intense competition, a lot of brands now use those same fabrics when making their own bags, even if they aren’t up to other ACA standards.
Even if not playing competitively, you want the fabric to allow the bag to “stick” to the board. If the fabric is too smooth, then the bag could just slide right off the end of the board when it’s tossed. Or, once it lands on the board, it could slide back toward the player. Either way, the player loses a point if the bag doesn’t stay on the board.
Filling
Whole kernel corn is the more traditional bag filling. While many competitive players still prefer this, it does have a couple disadvantages. It can start to break down over time, as the bags impact the board hundreds if not thousands of times. This can affect how they act when they are thrown as time goes on. The corn can also start to rot if it’s exposed to moisture, ruining the bags.
Recycled plastic pellets are now becoming more common. Not only are they more durable but they are also moisture- and pest-resistant. This bag filling is now also accepted by the ACA.
For more outdoor sports and board games option, check out our homepage leisurehead.com and our detailed buying guide for the best pinball machine as well.
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