Most people know it as “cornhole.” But while the vernacular of the game is mostly universal others know it as “the bags game.” Just like depending on where you are from it’s either “soda” or “pop.”
Bags Game vs. American Cornhole
If you are from the East Coast or the South, chances are you know this game well as “cornhole.” However, moving further to the West, specifically in Chicago and the Great Lakes, you easily know the game as “bags.”
It has become a point of pride for many professional players to tout where they are from by the name used to describe the game. While the name of the official sport is Cornhole it doesn’t matter how you refer to the game as long as you are having fun!
The game has grown in such popularity over the last five years that it’s now being floated around as a possible Olympic sport!
Whether you call it “cornhole” “bags game,” or “bag yards game,” it’s great to have a refresher on how to play the game as the backyard game grows in popularity.
Back to the Basics
First things first, let’s start with the correct bags game distance. You want to find a nice flat surface in your backyard, beach, or parking lot. Next, set up your bags game boards to be facing each other 27 feet apart from the front edge of each bags board.
Whether you are playing with two people or four people the next step, is to pick which side of the board you will throw from. If you are playing with a partner your partner will line up directly across from you on the other board.
Bags game rules determine a throwing area where you will toss the bags. If your foot crosses the board line when you throw that throw will not count. Our bags game pitch pads are perfect for designating the throwing area and indicating the throwing lines.
After designating your teams and throwing area the next step goes as follows.
- Determine which person goes first (for example, ask what cornhole bags are filled with and the first to answer goes first).
- Next, take turns throwing bags with your opponent.
- A tossed bag cannot touch the ground. If it hits the ground and bounces on the board, remove the bag before any other bag is thrown.
- When all eight bags have been tossed, add up the score.
Bags Game Rules
- One bag on the board = one point.
- A bag that goes in the hole is worth three points.
- After everyone has thrown their bags, add up the points and compare them to your opponents.
- Equal points cancel each other out and only one team can score per round.
How To Win: Different Variations
- Like the name of the game (some prefer "cornhole" others “bags game”), there are different variations on how you can win.
- Some people play where the first team that reaches 21 points wins the game.
- Others like to add a strategic twist where a team has to hit 21 points “exactly.” If you go over, your score goes back down to 11 points.
Bags Game Equipment
To have a thoroughly enjoyable bags game experience it’s important to have the right equipment. A quality bags game board and bags can make all the difference and take your playing experience to the new level.
Does the perfect bags game set exist? Here at Slick Woody’s we believe so and will show you why we are #1 in the industry with our boards and bags.
- For professional cornhole players there are rules and regulations for the size of boards players can use. The standard size of tournament cornhole boards are four feet by two feet.
- At Slick Woody’s, our regulation size bags boards cost more than our tailgating size boards. That is due to the fact that they are larger and use more materials. Both have the same premium quality you expect from Slick Woody’s.
- The regulation size bags board gives you the feel of playing like the pros. They prefer these boards because they have less bounce for the bags.
- In the end, all our bags boards are sturdy, smooth, long lasting and will take your bags game experience to the next level.
Check out this informative video that shows how our quality boards are constructed:
Bags
When it comes to different types of bags it’s important to know what you are buying. Whether you’re looking for bags that can be washed and get a little wet, a set of the original bags, or want to take your bags game to the next level with premium bags we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at the different types of bags and what works for you.
Classic Corn Filled Bags
Our classic corn filled bags are a throwback to the origins of the game and are the best value on the market. These bags are filled with real whole kernel corn feed, are made in the USA and are official regulation size.
The corn-filled cornhole bags are made from a durable 10 oz. duck cloth that allows for optimal sliding and durability.
These bags are sold in half sets which include four bags. We offer sets so you have the opportunity to mix and match your colors. You can also come back and buy the bags in half sets if you don't want to replace a whole set of bags.
All-Weather Resin Filled Pro Bags
These All-Weather Resin Filled Pro Bags are often considered to be the top rated bags on the market. The pro bags offer a player multiple throwing options and the most durable filling out there. The bags are filled with plastic pellets that do not break down over time. This allows for the same consistent throwing experience every time you use them.
These bags are dual-sided to offer two different types of throwing styles: the “stick” and the “slide” side.
The white side of the bag is made of a microfiber material that allows you to stick the bag to the board much easier and reduces sliding.
The colored side of the bag is made of cotton twill and allows for maximum sliding. You can’t beat the performance options theses bags provide in different situations during a game of cornhole.
Because these bags are “all weather,” there is no worry if they happen to get a little wet. Whether it’s from the weather or because you want to wash your bags, you do not need to worry about damaging or affecting their performance.
Check out more information in the video below:
All-Weather Light Up Bags
If you haven’t played a night bags game, you are missing out! Upgrade your cornhole game with the ability to play at nighttime with these cornhole accessories.
A set of All-Weather Light Up Bags can be the perfect addition to any gathering that is going into the night. Not only do these bags allow you to play when the sun goes down, but your friends and family will admire the flare and entertainment these light up cornhole bags have to offer.
Combining the All-Weather Light Up Bags with a set of our Slick Woody’s cornhole board lights can make for the ultimate nighttime playing experience.
Bags Game Pitch Pads
While watching the pros on T.V., you might have noticed that they throw from a “launch area” or “pitch pad.”
These allow your gameplay area to remain clean, which is good for your bags and boards. It also designates a throw line, so you know not to cross when throwing your bags.
Our pitch pads are tear resistant and made with a durable and flexible PVC. The pitch pads are sold in pairs, and you can customize them just like you do our bags boards!
Bags Game Tips
Throwing: Try putting arc into your throws to prevent bags from sliding off the board at a consistent rate. A smooth throwing motion will help develop muscle memory and ensure a consistent throw each team.
Playing surface: A firm surface is best for playing the bags game. Make sure you clear the area of all debris that may distract you while playing the bags game. Grass and sand are perfect spots to play the game when not playing on an indoor surface.
Taking care of equipment: Make sure to store your boards in a dry area where they won’t get wet. This will ensure lasting quality. Our bags game carrying and store cases are the perfect way to keep your boards safe and protected.
At Slick Woody’s we are your home for lasting fun. Whether you call it “cornhole” or “the bags game” we are your one stop shop for having the most fun with friends and family. Find your new cornhole board and start playing today!
