Many people who are unfamiliar with cornhole have discovered this simple and fun game and have quickly learned that while the game may look simple, it definitely takes some skill to make a cornhole. The gear you use matters. From the boards to the bags. The best cornhole bags can have a major impact on your tosses. The bag’s design, material, and the type of filler can all hinder or improve how you throw.

This buyer’s guide includes all the information you need to choose a set of bags that can take your cornhole skills to the next level. I’ve also tried out several sets, narrowing it down to six sets that are quality all the way and the perfect choice for cornhole players of all skill levels. Below, you’ll see a comparison chart that includes each of the sets that landed on my list, their rating, and other important information.

Cornhole Bags Comparison Chart

Product	Filling Material	Bag Material	Weight	Rating
SPORT BEATS Cornhole Bags Shop On Amazon!	River Sand	Duck Cloth	15-16 oz
Play Platoon Cornhole Bags Shop On Amazon!	Sand	Duck Cloth	15-16 oz
JST Gamez Cornhole Bags Shop On Amazon!	Plastic Resin Pellets	Duck Cloth Microfiber	16 oz
GoSports Cornhole Bean Bag Set Shop On Amazon!	Synthetic Corn	Duck Cloth	16 oz
JMEXSUSS Corn Hole Bags Shop On Amazon!	Plastic Resin Pellets	Duck Cloth	10.4-11.5 oz
Play Platoon Cornhole Bags Shop On Amazon!	Plastic Resin Pellets	Duck Cloth Suede	15-16 oz

SPORT BEATS Cornhole Bags

Our Rating: (5/5)

These bags by Sport Beats are double-stitched and made out of thick duck cloth. The bags are filled with river sand and designed to handle all types of weather conditions. They also have ACL regulation dimensions, measuring in at six by six inches. The bags weigh in at fifteen to sixteen ounces. This set of eight bags are available in six color options and feature the type of durable design many cornhole players are looking for. However, there are some drawbacks to choosing bags that are filled with sand. For example, the bags range in weight by one ounce. This type of weight difference may not seem significant, but it can impact how you throw. Additionally, over time, the sand will begin to leak out of the bags. In terms of quality, these bags scored well, however, since their filling is not ACL regulation filling, I would not recommend training with these bags if you plan on entering a cornhole competition.

Conclusion

These premium bags by Sport Beats are perfect for those fun backyard tournaments with family and friends. Because the bags contain filler that’s not ACL approved, these bags should not be used for training purposes. Aside from the filling material, these bags scored well in a variety of areas including feel, durability, and overall quality.

Play Platoon Cornhole Bags

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

These bags are made out of durable duck cloth and feature a double-stitched design. They’re also labeled as weather-resistant and contain sand as the filling material. However, they are not considered waterproof, so the bags should not be submerged, which can cause the sand to leak out of the bags. This set of eight bags include four black bags and four red. The bags weigh fifteen to sixteen ounces and measure in at six inches by six inches. The set also comes with a large mesh carry bag, which makes it easy to keep all of your cornhole supplies together.

Conclusion

This set is covered by a lifetime replacement warranty that allows buyers to return their bags and have them replaced with a new set, free of charge.

These bags are perfect for some backyard fun, a game of cornhole on your next camping adventure or trip to the beach and feature a durable double stitched design that prevents the bags from bursting. Unfortunately, the filling material is not approved by the ACL, so, for training purposes, you may want to pass this set by. For pure recreational fun, these bags offer the type of weather-resistance and durability that most families are looking for.

JST Gamez Professional Cornhole Bags

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

These two-sided bags are made out of duck cloth and microfiber materials. The goal of the two-sided bag is to allow the player to choose a side based on their tossing goals. As an example, if you want the bag to slide on the board, you’ll choose the slick duck cloth side of the bag. Additionally, the bags are filled with ACL approved material, plastic resin pellets. These bags are waterproof and designed to easily handle the elements. That also means if you want to give your bags a good cleaning in the sink, you can. These bags weigh sixteen ounces and measure in at six inches by six inches.

Conclusion

The bag’s waterproof design is one of the biggest selling points. This means you can leave the bags out in the rain, wash your bags when they get dirty, and the filling material won’t get moldy or start to deteriorate. The two-sided design is also a big selling point, since it gives players more control over their toss. The bag’s durable design, combined with its all-weather filling, are just a couple of reasons why this set earned a reputation for quality.

GoSports Cornhole Bean Bag Sets

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

This is a set of four bags that are available in sixteen color options. These are also two-sided, so you can perfect your throw and up your defense by choosing the side that will boost your performance, shot by shot. The bags are filled with synthetic corn, which is weather-proof and offers that authentic feel that you get with bags that are filled with real whole kernel corn. Because the bags are filled with synthetic materials, they can get wet and can even be submerged, without the fear of rot or mold growth.  The bags are also regulation weight and size.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for pro-quality training bags, this set is a great buy. The filling, size, and weight are all ACL approved, so you can train like a pro for an upcoming tournament. Additionally, their durable design makes them a great choice for the kids.

These bags are made out of heavy-duty duck cloth, with a double stitched design. The bags themselves are totally weatherproof, so they will last season after season. Additionally, this set of four is also covered by a one-year warranty against tears.

JMEXSUSS Weather Resistant Standard Corn Hole Bags

Our Rating: (4.5/5)

These bags from JMEXSUSS are weather resistant, thanks to the plastic resin pellet filling material. The plastic pellets improve the bag’s durability, eliminating issues such as rot and mold, a common problem with corn filled bags. Each bag is double stitched and covered in thick duck cloth, which is the go-to material for this type of bag. The bags themselves have a weight range of 10.4 ounces to 11.5 ounces and measure in at 5.8 by 5.8 inches. This is not ACL regulation size or weight. Pro-quality bags typically weigh 15-16 ounces and measure in at 6 by 6 inches. So, these bags should not be used for training purposes, since they can potentially negatively impact your throw quality, due to the major difference in weight. Buyers can choose from ten different color combos and store the bags in the included carrying bag when a game is over.

Conclusion

The biggest drawback for some potential buyers is the lower weight and the smaller design. Of course, these bags will work just fine for some fun backyard cornhole tournaments, but the serious player, one who is training for a tournament, will want to avoid these bags due to the significant difference in weight. Overall, the bags themselves are durable and feature a double stitched design that can prevent a bag from breaking open upon impact. The lighter weight will make it easier for children to toss these bags and aim accurately, so this set can also be a great choice for families with smaller children.

Play Platoon Professional Cornhole Bags

Our Rating: (4/5)

These two-sided cornhole bags feature one side that’s made out of duck cloth, with the opposite side made out of suede. The different materials will allow a player to choose which side to utilize during a throw, based on their goals, such as whether they want the bag to slide, knock another bag out of the way, or use a trick move, such as airmail. The bags have been double stitched to improve their durability, preventing a bag from breaking open if it’s hit by another bag or lands wrong on the board. These bags are filled with plastic resin pellets, so they’re considered all-weather. This means that they can handle rainy conditions or a thorough cleaning, without the filling material becoming moldy. Buyers can choose from eight different color combinations for a more custom cornhole setup.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a set of durable, two-sided bags, then this set is a great buy. Aside from their durable double stitched design, their filling material also helps to improve the lifespan of this set, since the materials will not rot or get moldy if they’re washed or rained on. These bags are perfect for both adults and kids and include a carrying bag, so you can keep all of your cornhole gear together and neatly stored.

Cornhole Bags Buyer’s Guide

If you’re just learning how to play cornhole, then you may not know that the bags are just as important as the cornhole board itself. Why? Because the bags you use can affect your toss, and your playing strategy in general. Because of this, it’s important to do a little research to find the type and style of bag that works with how you play the game.

Many people are surprised by the many options of bag size, design, type, and filling material available, all of which can have an impact on how you play the game and how your bag lands. This buyer’s guide will go over these differences, to learn how design, seam type, filling material type, and bag material can all impact your toss and which style is the best.

ACL Approved Filling Material-Plastic Resin

The American Cornhole League’s guidelines require players in a tournament to only use bags that are 6 inches by 6 inches, with a weight that ranges from 15.5 up to 16 ounces. According to cornhole rules the league also doesn’t allow bags that aren’t filled with plastic resin pellets. This type of filling is approved because it’s considered an all-weather filling material. This material won’t expand, change in weight when wet, and it won’t leave residue behind on the cornhole boards. Additionally, this filling won’t break down over time like some other types of fillers. Resin is available in different textures and sizes which can add to the feel of a bag. Resin pellets are the pro filling material of choice because they provide a consistent throwing experience. The best thing about this filling material is that you can wash the bags, without damaging them. You may not have even considered washing your cornhole bags, but once you play in rainy or muddy conditions, you’ll be glad you chose the standard plastic resin pellets.

Corn

Bags filled with whole kernel corn offer a more flexible, comfortable feel, compared to bags filled with synthetic materials. These bags are also very affordable and are the original bags of the game.

If you’ve ever played with corn filled bags before, then you may prefer them over bags with synthetic filling materials. Why? Because of the corn dust. Corn filled bags just feel better to toss and the dust that the whole kernel corn produces can even help the bags to play better and slide better. Sure, the dust can be messy to deal with, especially when it lands all over your cornhole boards, but many old school cornhole players swear by this type of bag.

Synthetic Corn

Synthetic corn is different from plastic resin pellets as far as the shape goes. These bags are designed to provide the best of both worlds by offering a filling material that can handle getting wet without becoming moldy or rotting, while also providing the traditional feel of whole kernel corn filled bags.

Sand

You might also come across a set or two that’s filled with sand. Despite the fact that the weight of these bags is often more than what you’ll get with bags filled with corn or plastic pellets, many people love the feel that sand filled bags offer and their excellent flexibility. Just keep in mind that this type of filling material isn’t approved by the ACL, so, if you’re training for an upcoming tournament, I recommend only training with bags that have ACL approved filling material. Training with a bag that’s heavier can have a huge impact on how you throw, especially when you switch to a lighter bag, one that’s filled with plastic pellets.

Additionally, over time, these bags will lose their weight, as small particles of sand seep out of the fabric. Older sand filled bags can also start to leak each time you throw one, so you’re also looking at sand all over your cornhole boards.

How Filling Material Can Impact Performance

Cornhole bags can be filled with a variety of materials, including corn, beads, and pellets. Most bags you’ll come across will weigh fourteen to sixteen ounces. What makes up the bag’s weight is what makes one set very different from another. The bags can contain different fillers and can be made out of different fabrics. These variables can have an effect on how well or poorly you toss.

Resin Pellets Versus Corn

If you’re new to the game and just learning to play, then you’re probably surprised to learn that not all cornhole bags are filled with corn. Corn filled bags is how the game got its name, so it makes sense that all bags should have whole kernel corn filling. These corn filled bags are usually made out of duck cloth. Using corn as a filler has its advantages and disadvantages. The corn filling does work to make the bag more flexible and more comfortable to hold. This will allow you to try out different types of throws. The dust from the corn can eventually make its way onto the board, which can create a slippery surface for sliding bags. Additionally, this organic material is loved by all types of insects and wildlife in general. Storing the bags properly can deter wildlife and bugs from accessing the corn.

Another big drawback of corn filling is mold. If the bags get wet and remain wet for too long, mold will start to grow.

Resin is much different. These bags are a great choice if you want a bag that can handle rainy, wet conditions, and one that won’t attract bugs and wild animals. The pellets won’t break down or grow mold if they get wet.

Material

There are many different types of materials to choose from, including twill, canvas, microfiber, and synthetic suede. The material used should be humidity, heat, water, and break resistant.

The most popular material option is canvas, also referred to as duck cloth. Duck cloth is a type of plain-woven, heavy fabric that’s made out of cotton. Most bags that you’ll find on the market are made out of this material because of its ability to slide easily on the boards, in addition to its reputation for durability. The material is also easy to clean.

Cornhole Bags with Lights

These bags can add another element of fun to an inning, especially if you’re playing after the sun has set. If you don’t want to throw in the towel just yet and you want to keep your home tournament going, then using cornhole bags that have LED lights along the seams, is a great choice. If weight is a concern, rest assured that most manufacturers will keep the regulation cornhole bag weight in mind, so you won’t find bags that weigh more than sixteen ounces, even with the lights. However, considering the manufacturer has to take the weight of the lights into account when filling the bags, they probably don’t have the same amount of filling that a traditional bag does. This may negatively impact your throws. Keep this in mind if you want regulation style bags.

Two-Sided Bags

Two-sided bags are very popular because they offer a couple of different throwing styles. One side of the bag will be made out of microfiber material, which reduces sliding, while also making it much easier to stick the bag to the board. The other side of the bag will be made out of a cotton twill, which provides max sliding.

When you make the upgrade to two-sided bags, you’ll feel a difference in how you play immediately. These bags are the same type that the pros use. While traditional backyard corn filled bags are nice to throw, if you want to train competitively, then you need to think about defense and your playing strategy. You’ll need to think of more offensive plays you can use, such as airmails and pushing bags out of your way. If you want to throw a two-sided bag, with the suede side down and the bag flat, it will grab the board, slowing down with more friction. You can also place the bag slick side down if you want less friction and more momentum so you’re able to push one of your other bags in the hole. Training with these bags will allow you to play using the same types of strategies that the pros do.

Seams

You’ll come across bags that have traditional pointed corners and rounded corners with no visible seam on the outside. According to the pros, there’s really no significant difference here, in terms of how one style of corners will impact throws. The bag’s final seams should have a piece of anchor fabric with reverse stitches. On the top edge of the bag, there should also be a basting stitch. These stitch styles will prevent the bag from breaking.

Stitching

Stitching is usually done using a type of polyester thread. There are single and double stitched bags available. Obviously, double-stitched is a better option, since these bags are considered more durable and can prevent a bag from bursting open if it gets hit by another bag or as it hits the board. The stitching can be zigzag or straight.

Color Options

If you’re looking for a bag that can improve your throw, then color options probably aren’t at the top of your list. However, if you want a custom looking setup, it can be fun to choose a set that’s in the same color as your favorite football or basketball team. You can also match the color of the bags to the existing décor of your basement, patio, or game room.

Waterproof/Weather Resistant

If you normally set up your cornhole boards in the backyard and leave them out during the summer, then make sure you choose bags that are made out of waterproof or water-resistant materials. This will include purchasing bags that come with waterproof filling materials. If you buy bags that have corn filling, you’ll need to dry them out as quickly as possible, since mold can start to grow on whole kernel corn that’s been wet for a day or two.

If you normally play indoors, or you put your gear away at the end of the night, a waterproof design may not matter as much. However, bags that are waterproof can be washed in the sink or even in the washing machine.

Filling Volume

As I mentioned earlier, most bags that you’ll come across will have a weight that can range from fourteen ounces up to sixteen ounces. The filling material used should fill the bag, not leaving much space at the top. There should also be minimal air in the bag. You can check the bag’s volume by holding the bag out horizontally.

Durability

The material used should be resistant to breaks, punctures, and tears. It should be able to easily handle impacts without splitting. Bags that are made out of duck cloth and filled with plastic resin pellets have a reputation for being the most durable.

Price

Buying a new set of cornhole bags is an affordable upgrade and one that will have a major impact on your performance. Fortunately, even the family on a tight budget should have no trouble finding a set that’s high-quality and affordable. You can find sets available in prices that range from $20 to $35. The type of bag material and filling material often impacts the cost of a set.

Care and Maintenance

Are your bags caked in mud, or seriously dirty from last season’s never-ending cornhole tournaments in the backyard? Don’t worry, you may not have to throw them out. If you have bags that are filled with an all-weather material, such as the plastic resin pellets, then you can give your bags a good bath and they’ll be as good as new.

Before you clean your bags, make sure you carefully inspect them. If you have corn filled bags, then you won’t be able to wash them, since the corn can become moldy during the drying process. If the bags have any tears or if they’re losing filling, then you’ll need to toss them out and replace them.

If your bags are in good condition, just dirty, then you can follow the steps below to keep your bags in great condition.

• Start by filling up the sink with hot soapy water. You can use Dawn dish soap for this job.
• Place the bags in the water and allow them to soak overnight.
• In the morning, scrub each side of the bag lightly, using a soft bristled cleaning brush or a rag.
• Rinse the bags well to ensure you remove all of the soap
• Lay a towel down and place the bags on a flat surface to dry. You can also use your dish drying rack.
• Remember, these cleaning instructions are only designed for bags that are filled with the plastic resin pellets. Corn filled bags cannot be submerged in water. If you think your corn filled bags are still salvageable, you can try cleaning them up using a damp microfiber cloth, then set them outdoors to dry on a flat surface. They must dry quickly to avoid mold growth.

Final Thoughts

Each diehard cornhole player will have their own personal preference, in terms of the type, filling material, and style of bag they use. However, it’s important to keep in mind that each type offers a different performance, and this can be crucial to an inning.

While cornhole may seem like a simple game, there are still many things you can do to improve how you throw, and that includes using only the best cornhole bags. The type of bag you use can affect how your bag lands, how much it slides, and how well it sticks. It can also improve how you throw since bags that contain certain types of filling material can provide a consistent toss. The products on my top six list each have what it takes to improve your throwing style and your overall performance. With this guide and the products that are included here, you can easily choose a set that works with your throwing style and your throwing goals.