If you're considering setting up a dartboard for outdoor play, choosing the right one is crucial. The weather and environment play a significant role in determining which type of dartboard will last and perform well. In this article, we will explore the best dartboards for outdoor use, focusing on non-electronic types like sisal, plastic safety, paper, soft magnetic, and velcro dartboards. We’ll also cover important accessories like stands and protectors to enhance your outdoor dart-playing experience.
Types of Dartboards for Outdoor Use
When choosing a dartboard for the outdoors, you’ll typically find two main categories: electronic and non-electronic dartboards. While electronic dartboards are popular for their interactive features, they are generally not ideal for outdoor use due to their vulnerability to weather conditions and moisture. Non-electronic dartboards, on the other hand, are more durable and better suited for outdoor environments.
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of non-electronic dartboards that work well outdoors.
Non-Electronic Dartboards for Outdoor Use
1. Sisal Dartboard
Sisal dartboards are the traditional choice for serious dart players. Made from natural sisal fibers, these boards are known for their durability and self-healing properties. However, they are not the best choice for outdoor use due to a couple of key factors:
Pros:
Durable and self-healing.
Offers a professional playing experience.
Cons:
Moisture sensitivity: Sisal boards are highly susceptible to moisture. If exposed to rain or high humidity, they can easily become moldy due to the natural fibers. This makes them less suitable for long-term outdoor use, especially in humid environments.
Heavy weight: Sisal dartboards are quite heavy, making them harder to move around or set up with a stand.
2. Paper Dartboard
Paper dartboards are lightweight and cost-effective, but they also have limitations when used outdoors.
Pros:
Lighter than sisal boards, making them easier to transport.
Affordable and easy to find.
Cons:
Moisture sensitivity: Paper dartboards are vulnerable to water damage, making them unsuitable for use in rainy or humid environments.
Fragility: They are not as durable as other types of dartboards and may wear out quickly when exposed to the outdoor elements.
3. Soft Magnetic Dartboard
Soft magnetic dartboards are a popular option for children’s games, but they are not ideal for serious outdoor play.
Pros:
Extremely lightweight.
Safe for children due to the soft magnetic darts.
Cons:
Small size: Soft magnetic dartboards are typically small, which may not provide an enjoyable playing experience for adults.
Prone to wind: Because of their light weight and soft materials, they are easily moved by the wind, making it difficult to maintain a stable game.
Limited play experience: Magnetic dartboards are not ideal for serious games due to their softer material and smaller size.
4. Plastic Safety Dartboard
Plastic safety dartboards are one of the most durable options for outdoor use. They are designed to withstand different weather conditions and offer a safer play experience.
Pros:
Weather resistant: Plastic dartboards are resistant to rain and moisture, making them a great choice for outdoor use.
Durable: These boards are less likely to suffer from weather-related damage, making them suitable for long-term use outdoors.
Safe: Plastic dartboards are often designed with safety in mind, making them a good option for families with children.
Cons:
While durable, plastic boards may not provide the same professional playing experience as sisal or paper boards.
5. Velcro Dartboard
Velcro dartboards are another option that can be used outdoors, especially for families with kids.
Pros:
Weather resistant: Velcro dartboards, often paired with soft darts or balls, are safe from moisture and easy to clean.
Portable: These dartboards are lightweight and easy to move, making them convenient for outdoor games.
Cons:
Toy-like experience: Most velcro dartboards are more suitable for children or casual play rather than professional-level dart games.
Limited durability: Over time, the velcro may wear out, especially with heavy use.
Comparison Table: Suitability for Outdoor Use
1 = Least Suitable ~ 5 = Highly Suitable
Dartboard Type | Weight | Moisture Sensitivity | Wind Sensitivity | Durability | Overall Rating |
Sisal Dartboard | 3 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 11 |
Paper Dartboard | 5 | 1 | 5 | 1 | 12 |
Soft Magnetic Dartboard | 5 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 13 |
Plastic Safety Dartboard | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 19 |
Velcro Dartboard | 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 17 |
Accessories for Outdoor Dartboards
Setting up a dartboard outdoors is easier when you have the right accessories. For example, finding a wall or flat surface to mount the dartboard might be challenging outdoors, so using a dart board and stand or dart board with stand is a good idea.
Dart Board and Stand: A stand allows you to set up your dartboard without needing a wall. This makes it easy to move your game from one spot to another. A dart board with stand can also be a more stable and portable option for outdoor use, especially if you're playing in areas without suitable walls.
Dart Board Wall Protector / Dart Board with Surround: If you’re worried about missed darts hitting the surrounding area, a dart board wall protector or a dart board with surround can provide the protection you need. These are typically circular and can be easily attached around the dartboard, helping to prevent damage to walls or other surfaces. Most models are modular, breaking down into smaller pieces for easy storage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dartboard for outdoor use comes down to considering the weather, ease of use, and durability. Plastic safety dartboards and velcro dartboards are the most practical options for outdoor play, as they are weather-resistant and easy to maintain. While sisal dartboards and paper dartboards might provide a better experience indoors, they aren’t suitable for the challenges of outdoor environments.
Adding accessories like a dart board with stand or dart board wall protector will make your outdoor dart experience even better, ensuring that you can enjoy your game anywhere.
If you’re ready to take your dart games outdoors, choosing the right dartboard and accessories will make a huge difference in your experience.
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