If you’re like many crokinole enthusiasts, you’ve likely found yourself scrolling through social media or browsing online for crokinole boards. One question that often comes up is, “How do I choose the right crokinole board, and where should I buy it?” While this blog won’t tell you where to purchase a board, I will share some valuable insights on how to select the perfect one for your needs.
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| How to Choose the Right Crokinole Board |
Why Crokinole?
Crokinole is more than just a game; it’s an experience. The tactile joy of flicking the discs, the strategic depth, and the camaraderie it fosters make it a beloved pastime for many. Whether you’re an avid player or a newcomer, choosing the right crokinole board is key to ensuring your experience is enjoyable and long-lasting.
It’s important to note that you don’t need a professional-grade board to enjoy hours of fun. No matter which board you choose, the game itself offers plenty of excitement for players of all ages. This is the core approach I take when talking about crokinole – it’s all about having fun!
That said, you will feel a noticeable difference when playing on a handcrafted crokinole board made with high-quality materials versus one bought from a big-box retailer. But before you rush out to buy an expensive board, take a moment to think about your needs and what you want out of your crokinole game.
What Are Your Options in Crokinole Boards?
Crokinole boards come in a wide range of prices and materials. At the time of writing, you can find boards in major retailers ranging from $90 to over $900 CAD, depending on the materials, size, and accessories included. Boards can be made from woods like walnut, beech, maple, and even plastic or cardboard. The discs themselves can be crafted from wood, plastic, or resin.
Some boards come with minimal accessories—just the board and a set of 24 discs. Others are bundled with everything you could think of, from carrying bags and point trackers to Lazy Susans and extra bumpers. But don’t let the accessory overload overwhelm you; you don’t need everything to have a great game of crokinole.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Crokinole Board
Now, how do you decide which board is right for you? Let’s break it down.
1. The Age and Usage of Your Players
If you have young children who might use the board as a racetrack for their metal cars, investing in an expensive, high-quality board might not be necessary. On the other hand, if you’ll only be playing on holidays, during camping trips, or when family visits, there’s no need to splurge on a professional-grade board. Budget-friendly options can still provide plenty of fun.
2. Aesthetic Appeal vs. Functionality
Some people prefer a crokinole board that doubles as a work of art. You can find “photo boards” featuring beautiful designs, like mountain scenes or wolves howling at the moon. While these boards may look great hanging on the wall, keep in mind that overly intricate designs can sometimes distract from the game itself. If you opt for a custom design, make sure it doesn’t interfere with gameplay.
3. DIY Crokinole Board: For the Handyman
If you’re a carpenter (or just love a good challenge), why not try building your own board? There are plenty of free and paid tutorials online, with step-by-step instructions to guide you. Before you dive in, though, check the dimensions of the design plans carefully. Some DIY boards are 24 inches (60.96 cm), but if you’re aiming for a tournament-size board, you’ll want one that measures 26 inches (66.04 cm).
4. Investing in a Competitive-Quality Board
If you plan to join a crokinole club or participate in official tournaments, it’s worth investing a little more in a quality board. A good option is a maple wood board, topped with a smooth veneer that ensures consistent play. You’ll also want brass pegs with rubber bumpers and a round shape, as these are the standards for competitive play. Expect to pay between $350 and $450 CAD for a tournament-ready board.
5. The Essential Accessories
As for accessories, you don’t need anything fancy to have a fun game. The essential pieces are two sets of 12 discs (in different colors) and a way to keep score. While additional accessories like point trackers or carrying bags might be nice, they’re not necessary for a great game.
What to Look for in a Quality Crokinole Board
When shopping for your crokinole board, consider the quality of its construction, size, and design:Materials: Opt for durable hardwoods like maple or birch for longevity.
Size: The standard size for competitive play is 26 inches (66.04 cm), but smaller options are available.
Thickness: A thicker board offers better stability and durability.
Smooth Surface: Look for a board with a friction-free, smooth surface that ensures precise shots.
Design: The design should enhance the board’s aesthetic appeal and complement your gaming environment.
Take the time to research various manufacturers, read reviews, and visit gaming conventions or local retailers if possible. Seeing the boards in person and testing their playability can make a world of difference.
Recreational vs. Competitive Crokinole
One of the most important factors in choosing the right board is whether you plan to play recreationally or competitively. If you’re not interested in tournaments, you might be just as happy with a more affordable board. But if you’re aiming to compete, you’ll need a high-quality, tournament-grade board that meets certain specifications.
Competitive play requires serious practice, participation fees, and the time to travel to tournaments. If you don’t foresee yourself dedicating that level of commitment, recreational crokinole might be a better fit. You can always try competitive play later on if you change your mind!
Round vs. Octagonal Crokinole Boards
Round boards are the gold standard for competitive play. They provide consistent shot accuracy, with equal distance from your finger to the disc at any point on the shooting line. Round boards are also the official choice for most crokinole clubs and tournaments.
On the other hand, octagonal boards offer a unique design and may be more visually striking. They can be a conversation starter but are less common in official settings.
I will be writing a blog post soon comparing round and octagonal Crokinole boards. Stay tuned for a detailed exploration of the differences and advantages of each shape!
Starter Boards: Worth It?
Some beginners may consider purchasing a “starter” crokinole board, thinking it’s a temporary solution until they upgrade. However, I recommend skipping the starter board. A high-quality board can serve both beginners and seasoned players. You’ll learn the game on a solid surface and avoid spending money on two boards in the long run.
Conclusion
Choosing the right crokinole board is a personal journey that depends on your preferences, usage, and budget. Whether you’re a competitive player, a casual enthusiast, or someone looking for a board that doubles as art, there’s a crokinole board out there for you. By considering factors like quality, size, design, and accessories, you can ensure that your board enhances the fun and enjoyment of this timeless game.
So take your time, do your research, and most importantly, enjoy the game!
Join the Discussion: Have you played crokinole before? Share your experience in the comments below!
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