The American Cornhole Association® (ACA) sets the official cornhole board dimensions. Regulation cornhole boards are tournament-legal and meet the specifications and standards set by the ACA. These boards ensure fair gameplay and an authentic experience.
So, what are the official cornhole board dimensions?
The board top dimensions are 23½–24 inches x 47½–48 inches, with a thickness of ½–⅝ inch. The hole diameter is 6 inches (+-¼ inch), and the top of the board to the center of the hole is 9 inches (+-¼ inch). The sides of the board to the center of the hole is 12 inches (+-¼ inch). The front standing height is 3–4 inches, and the rear standing height is 12 inches.
Now that you know the official cornhole board dimensions, you’re ready to set up your own regulation-sized cornhole boards. Stay tuned for the next sections, where we’ll dive into how to play cornhole, court layout, equipment standards, and more!
How to Play Cornhole
Cornhole is a popular outdoor game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. Played with two or four players, the objective is to toss cornhole bags into the hole on a cornhole board to score points. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play cornhole:
- Set up the cornhole boards: Place the cornhole boards 27 feet apart for adult play. For kids, seniors, or physically impaired adults, the distance can be adjusted closer together, typically between 12 and 15 feet.
- Decide on teams: Divide players into two teams, with one player from each team positioned at opposite ends of the boards.
- Decide on scoring: Determine whether you’ll be playing to a specific score, such as 21, or if you’ll be playing a predetermined number of innings.
- Alternate turns: The team that tosses first can be decided by a coin toss or any other fair method. Players from each team take turns tossing their cornhole bags towards the opposite board.
- Score points: The scoring is based on where the bags land. A bag that lands on the board earns one point, and a bag that goes into the hole earns three points. Bags that touch the ground or fall off the board do not count.
- Cancelation scoring: After both teams have tossed their bags, the team with the higher score in that inning subtracts their opponent’s score from their own. The difference between the scores is the number of points that team scores for that inning.
- Continue playing: The game continues with alternating turns until one team reaches or exceeds the predetermined score to win the game.
Playing cornhole is a fun and social activity that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re playing in a backyard, at a tailgate party, or in a tournament, understanding the basic rules of cornhole and practicing your technique can enhance your playing experience.
Court Layout and Equipment Standards
In order to play cornhole, it’s important to have a properly set up court with the right equipment. Let’s take a closer look at the court layout and the specifications for the cornhole boards and bags.
Cornhole Court Dimensions
The cornhole court should be a level rectangular area that is 10-12 feet wide and a minimum of 40-45 feet long. This provides ample space for players to throw the cornhole bags and move around the court.
Pitcher’s Box
At each end of the court, parallel with and on both sides of the boards, there are designated pitcher’s boxes. These boxes are rectangular in shape, measuring 4 feet by 3 feet. Players must stand within the pitcher’s box when throwing their cornhole bags.
Foul Lines
There are two sets of foul lines on the cornhole court. For open adult play, the foul lines are set at a distance of 27 feet from the front edge of the cornhole boards. For junior play, which is for children 12 and under, the foul lines are set at a distance of 12-15 feet from the front edge of the boards.
Cornhole Board Specifications
The cornhole boards used for regulation play should adhere to specific specifications. The standard dimensions for the boards are 47½ to 48 inches in length and 23½ to 24 inches in width. The hole on the board should have a diameter of 6 inches. The image below illustrates the dimensions of a regulation cornhole board:
Cornhole Bag Specifications
The cornhole bags used in official play must meet certain specifications as well. Each bag should be made from two fabric squares that measure 6¼ x 6¼ inches. The bags should be filled with plastic pellets or corn feed, and each bag should weigh approximately 14-16.25 ounces.
By following these court layout and equipment standards, you can ensure a fair and enjoyable game of cornhole. Now that we have covered the essentials, let’s move on to exploring the pros and cons of regulation size cornhole boards.
Pros and Cons of Regulation Size Cornhole Boards
Regulation size cornhole boards offer a range of benefits and considerations that every player should take into account when deciding on their preferred playing experience. Let’s explore the pros and cons of these boards:
Pros:
- Authentic Playing Experience: Regulation size cornhole boards provide an authentic and professional playing experience, making them the go-to choice for serious players and tournaments.
- Sturdiness and Durability: Built to meet official standards, these boards are crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring enhanced sturdiness and durability.
- Smooth Playing Surface: Regulation boards feature a smooth playing surface, allowing cornhole bags to glide effortlessly for optimal performance.
Cons:
- Transportability: Regulation size cornhole boards can be larger and heavier compared to smaller boards, making them less convenient to transport. Consideration must be given to transportation logistics, especially for players who frequently move or travel with their boards.
- Space Requirements: These boards occupy more space, which may be a limitation for individuals with smaller playing areas or limited storage options.
- Higher Cost: Regulation size cornhole boards come at a higher price point compared to smaller boards. However, this cost can be seen as an investment for serious players who value the quality and authenticity of the playing experience.
Ultimately, the decision to choose regulation size cornhole boards depends on individual preferences and goals. If you prioritize an authentic playing experience and are willing to make adjustments for transportation and space requirements, regulation boards are an excellent choice.
Why Would Anyone Want Tailgate Size Cornhole Boards?
While regulation size cornhole boards offer an authentic playing experience, there are several reasons why someone might prefer tailgate size cornhole boards. These smaller boards have their own unique advantages that make them a popular choice for casual play and social gatherings.
Pros of Tailgate Size Cornhole Boards
- Lighter and more compact: Tailgate size cornhole boards are significantly smaller and lighter than regulation size boards. This makes them easier to store and transport, allowing you to take them on picnics, camping trips, or tailgating events without much hassle.
- Fits in a car: Unlike larger regulation boards, tailgate size boards can fit in the front seat or trunk of a car. This means you can easily bring them along to any outdoor gathering or event, enabling you to enjoy a game of cornhole wherever you go.
- Cost-effective: Tailgate size cornhole boards are usually less expensive than their regulation counterparts. If budget is a concern and you’re looking for a fun and affordable outdoor game, these smaller boards are a great option.
Cons of Tailgate Size Cornhole Boards
While there are numerous benefits to choosing tailgate size cornhole boards, it’s important to consider their limitations as well.
- Less authentic playing experience: Tailgate size boards may not provide the same level of authenticity as regulation size boards. If you’re a serious cornhole player looking for a competitive experience, you may prefer the regulation size boards.
- Limited playing space: The smaller dimensions of tailgate size boards may restrict your playing area, especially if you’re used to the larger regulation boards. This can impact your strategies and techniques, as you’ll have less room to work with.
Despite these drawbacks, tailgate size cornhole boards remain a popular choice for recreational play, family gatherings, and casual outings. They offer convenience, affordability, and the opportunity to enjoy the game in various outdoor settings.
How Does Icing in Hockey Relate to the Dimensions of a Cornhole Board?
One might wonder, what is icing in hockey and how does it relate to the dimensions of a cornhole board? Well, both involve precise measurements. In hockey, icing is determined by the puck reaching the goal line, just as cornhole boards follow specific dimensions for regulation play. Accuracy is key in both sports.
The Real Deal – Choosing the Right Boards
When it comes to choosing cornhole boards, quality and reputation are key factors to consider. For the most authentic playing experience, regulation size boards are highly recommended, especially for serious players. These boards meet official specifications and standards, ensuring a consistent and professional gameplay.
Personalized cornhole boards have gained immense popularity among enthusiasts. They offer a unique and customized touch, allowing players to showcase their own designs and creativity. Whether it’s your favorite sports team logo, a family name, or a special design, personalized cornhole boards add a personalized touch to your game.
Alongside the boards, investing in high-quality cornhole bags is crucial. These bags should meet regulation size and weight specifications, providing the right feel and performance during each toss. Having the right cornhole accessories enhances your overall playing experience and ensures fairness in the game.
Ultimately, the choice between regulation size and tailgate size boards depends on your personal preferences and the intended use of the boards. If you’re a serious player looking for an authentic experience, regulation size boards are the way to go. However, if you prioritize portability and convenience for social gatherings or tailgating events, tailgate size boards may be a better fit. Consider your needs, desires for customization, and the level of competition you’re aiming for when making your decision.