The game of darts is undoubtedly one of the oldest and most beloved pastimes across the globe. Its simplicity and accessibility make it an ideal way to unwind and have fun with friends and family, while also providing an excellent opportunity for improving our accuracy and hand-eye coordination. However, in order to enjoy this game to its fullest, one must have the right equipment, and a dart backboard is undoubtedly a crucial part of that.
A dart backboard is essentially a target onto which darts are thrown. It is an essential piece of equipment that not only protects your walls from damage but also provides an accurate and safe surface for your darts to land on. The traditional dart backboard is made from a variety of materials including cork, sisal, and magnetized steel. Cork is a popular choice as it is durable, lightweight, and relatively inexpensive. However, sisal is considered to be the best material for backboards due to its high density and self-healing properties.
A dart backboard is an essential piece of equipment for anyone who wants to enjoy the game of darts. With its durable materials, accurate scoring system, and self-healing properties, it provides the perfect surface for improving your skills and having fun without the risk of damaging your walls. The game of darts may seem simple, but with the right equipment and practice, it can be an exciting and challenging activity for players of all levels.
How We Choose
We looked at a variety of different factors when deciding which backboards to recommend. We made sure that all of our picks have high-quality construction, so they'll last for years to come. We also considered the various safety features that are important in a dartboard backboard—things like blade containment and shatter resistance. Additionally, we took into account the size and weight capacity of each board so you can find one that fits your needs. Finally, we made sure to find models from a range of price points so you can find one that fits your budget.
Viper by GLD Products Defender III Extended Length Dartboard Surround Wall Protector, Black, One Size
The Viper Defender III Extended Length Dartboard Surround Wall Protector is a great option for protecting your dartboard against damage. It's made from high-quality foam, which is both sturdy and attractive.
This protector will fit boards up to an impressive 8.2 square feet in size, so it'll work with most standard dartboards you come across. The board itself sits on top of the foam, keeping your darts safe from any knocks or bumps while still allowing you to see the board clearly underneath. This means that if you want to use this protector with a smaller board, it will sit flush against the wall and look like part of the décor rather than a protective device.
The foam used in this product is thick and high-density, providing a good amount of protection without being bulky or heavy. It also comes with all necessary mounting hardware and tools for easy installation - though we found it easiest to install by hanging it using its included suction cups rather than drilling holes into the wall (which would be required if you were hanging it using screws).
Dart-Stop 29-inch Professional Dart Board Backboard, Octagonal | Wall Protector | Dartboard Surround Black
The Dart-Stop Gran Board is a great way to play darts without having to worry about damaging your wall. The board itself has been engineered to be sturdy enough to take the impact of a dart hitting it, while the backboard is cushioned and designed to absorb any bounce-outs.
The board comes with an easy-to-follow mounting kit that includes all the necessary hardware, making installation quick and simple. It also comes with clear instructions on how to hang the board so you don't have to figure out how to use the recessed bracket yourself.
Viper Defender II Backboard & Sisal/Bristle Steel Tip Dartboard Bundle Backboard Surround Only (No Dartboard)
The Viper Defender II Backboard is a great option for anyone looking to protect their dart board from damage. This sisal-backed steel tip dartboard comes with a high-density v-foam backing, which provides plenty of cushioning and protection for your board.
The 1" thick foam is designed to absorb impacts without damaging the surface of your board. The black velvet surface also helps to reduce wear and tear so that you can enjoy years of use from this dartboard. It's easy to install, requiring no additional bracing or mounting hardware, making it perfect for beginners who want an affordable way to protect their investment while they learn the game.
This board comes with a 5" square of protection and fits any standard 18" bristle dartboard - making it compatible with most other boards on the market today. Overall, this is a great option for new players or those looking to replace their old board without spending too much money at once on equipment needed for darts games.
Target Darts Corona Vision Dartboard Lighting System
The Target Darts Corona Vision Dartboard lighting system is a great option for anyone looking to quickly and easily illuminate their dart board. This light ring features 360 degree LED lights that offer no shadows, making it easy to see your throw line even in low-light conditions. The lighting system also comes with magnetic feet that make installation quick and simple, allowing you to get back on the board in seconds.
The light ring attaches directly to your board without the need for additional tools or hardware, which makes this an ideal option for those who want to take their setup with them on the road. It's also built using robust materials that can withstand direct hits from stray darts - so you won't have any issues if you're playing a bit rough!
This lighting system by Target Darts is compatible with all cabinet sets and surrounds, so it's great if you're planning on taking your setup on tour or just traveling around the country. Overall this is a great option for anyone looking to play at night or in darker rooms - especially if they don't have access to an outdoor facility!
Dart-Stop 36-inch Professional Dart Board Backboard, Round | Wall Protector | Dartboard Surround Burgundy
If you're looking for a high-quality dartboard that can stand up to the rigors of frequent use, then look no further than the Dart-Stop Wall Board. This board is made from sturdy 3/4 inch thick wood and features metal reinforced mounting points for easy installation and wobble-free hanging.
The board itself is also engineered to perform, with 1 inch thick padding providing plenty of cushioning to prevent damage to your wall or flooring surface. The padded edges help keep stray darts off the wall as well, so you won't have to worry about damaging your home décor with those inevitable misses. And since this board comes pre-installed with a recessed metal bracket for quick wobble-free mounting, all you have to do after installing it is hang it using the keyhole slot on the back - there's no need for additional hardware or tools required here.
In addition to its great looks and durability, this dartboard also has some excellent performance specs as well. With a regulation height of just two measurements (1 foot 9 inches), this board will allow you to easily set up in any space without taking too much room away from your TV or other entertainment center. It's also symmetrical which means that regardless of which side you install it on, both sides will be identical in terms of design and size - making it suitable for use by both right-handed and lefties alike. Finally, we should note that while this product does come pre-assembled at an affordable price point, it was crafted in America by skilled craftsmen using only quality materials – ensuring that even if something were to go wrong down the road – you'll be getting a quality product every time when you purchase this one!
Dart Backboard FAQs
What Are Dart Backboards Made From?
A dart backboard is a device that stands behind the thrower and catches their darts when they miss their target. They are usually made from either plastic or rubber, although there are some models on the market that use inflatable materials.
Dart backboards can be purchased without any scoring systems, or with electronic scoring options. Some dart boards also come in ‘folding' versions, which makes them more portable and convenient to store away when not in use.
Do Dart Backboards Damage The Dart Tip?
It depends on how often you're hitting the board. Some people like to test every throw, and that can add up after a while. If you do this regularly, your dart tips will eventually become dull. The board should have a soft covering on it to protect your dart tips from rubbing against the hard surface below, but many boards don't include this feature. You can purchase dart tip protectors online or at specialty stores if you play in groups with players who tend to hit their darts too frequently. It's also smart to check your darts periodically for any nicks or cracks that could indicate they need replacing.
Do I Need A Dart Backboard For Soft Tip Darts?
While many people use dart boards for both soft tip and steel tip darts, there are some important differences between the two types of boards that you should know about before buying.
Soft-tip darts have round plastic tips, while steel-tip darts have sharp metal points. Soft-tip boards are made with a layer of fabric behind the surface to cushion the impact of the dart after it lands. The thickness and type of fabric used in a board can also affect how well its backlights shine through.
While soft-tip boards will work with either type of dart, they're best suited to soft darts because they blunt the tips to prevent damage. You can still play on these kinds of boards using steel-pointed darts, but doing so could damage them over time.
Conclusion
If you play darts a backboard is a good idea for wall protection, especially if drinks are involved!