The pros and cons of Regulation size and Tailgate size

Tossing some corn-filled bags in the backyard with friends seems like easy summer fun. But when you go to buy a new cornhole set, you might get confused by the different sizes of boards available. We’re here to break it down so you can get the best boards for your style of play.

Size of cornhole boards

For professional cornhole, there are rules and regulations for the size of boards players can use. The standard size of tournament cornhole boards are 4 feet by 2 feet. Both the American Cornhole Association and the American Cornhole Organization use this size for their events. Even if you’re not trying to break into the pros, cornhole tournaments near you and most cornhole boards you come across will be that size. 

There are smaller boards, however, which lend themselves to tailgating, camping, and any other activity in which you have to transport two large pieces of playing equipment. Our tailgate size boards are 3 feet by 2 feet. This makes them smaller and lighter for carrying around. Think about how much more room you’ll have in your car for tailgate beverages and snacks!

Weight of cornhole boards

American Cornhole Organization also has a rule for the weight of the boards they use for tournaments: “Each board in a set should weigh no less than 25 lbs.” Our regulation size boards weigh 30 lb. each. Lugging 60 lb. of wood around a tailgate can get pretty tiring.

If you’re aiming for a light set, you’re going to find plastic versions and sets made with cheap materials. These are going to warp and break, and your overall playing time won’t last long. Our tailgate size boards weigh 20 lb. each. That’s much more manageable when you have a board in one hand a drink in the other. The difference in weight is caused by the sizes of our boards. And yet both sizes are made with quality materials that will last a long time.

Does the size of the boards affect gameplay?

Nope. The size of your cornhole boards will not affect the rules of cornhole. Whether you get regulation (tournament) size boards or tailgate size boards, you will still set them the same distance apart, use the same cornhole bags, and play by the same rules.

The only aspect that could differ is how YOU play the game. Your strategy could change with a different surface area size.

What is the difference in cost?

In the end, if you don’t care what size your boards are, you might care what they cost. Don’t get too excited when you find a “deal” – make sure you know what you’re paying for. Because you might be paying for it again next year to replace poorly made boards.

At Slick Woody’s, our regulation size boards cost more than tailgating size boards. That is simply due to the fact that they’re larger and use more materials. But you’ll still get the same premium quality of boards either way you choose.

Both sizes are constructed with Baltic birch, the smoothest, flattest plywood on the market. They also feature a crossbar in the back for added support, hidden hardware to keep the surface smooth, collapsible legs, and handles in the frame for easier transportation.

One primary difference is that the tailgate boards have 1/2" thick tops, while the tournament boards have 5/8” tops. Both sizes can be printed with any of our designs or customized with your artwork.

In the end, all of our cornhole boards are sturdy, smooth and long-lasting. You’ll get years of play and fun out of them. So, are you ready to go pro or are you gathering your friends for a game? Get a set of premium cornhole boards and start playing.