Cornhole Bag Speed Numbers: Ultimate Player’s Guide
Cornhole bag speed numbers are critical to mastering the game, whether you’re a casual player or a competitive pro. Understanding these ratings—how they’re measured, what factors influence them, and how to choose the right bag for your play style—can elevate your game. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into every aspect of cornhole bag speed numbers, backed by industry insights, manufacturer charts, and expert recommendations.
What Are Cornhole Bag Speed Numbers?
Cornhole bag speed numbers quantify how “fast” or “slow” a bag slides on the board. These ratings typically range from 1 (stickiest) to 10 (slickest) and are assigned to both sides of a dual-sided bag. For example, a bag labeled 6/9 has a slow side rated 6 and a fast side rated 9.
Key Terminology
- Dual-Sided Speeds: Most professional bags feature two distinct speeds for strategic play (e.g., pushing or blocking).
- Resin Fill: The material inside the bag (e.g., Power Grip, Battle Blend-1) that affects flexibility and speed consistency.
- Flop Rating: Describes how “floppy” a bag becomes after breaking in, influencing its hole-friendliness.
- ACL Certification: Ensures bags meet professional standards for tournaments.
Factors Influencing Cornhole Bag Speed
Speed numbers aren’t static—they’re influenced by multiple variables:
1. Material Composition
- Fabric: Microsuede (faster) vs. duck cloth (slower).
- Resin Fill: Firmer fills (e.g., BB-1) reduce flop and increase control, while looser fills (e.g., Power Grip) enhance slide.
2. Environmental Conditions
- Humidity: Sticky boards slow down bags, while dry conditions increase speed.
- Temperature: Cold weather stiffens resin, reducing flexibility.
3. Bag Design
- Profile: Traditional rounded bags (firmer) vs. Emerald Cut (floppier, hole-friendly).
- Break-In Period: New bags feel rigid but soften with use, altering speed dynamics.
Cornhole Bag Speed Chart: Popular Brands Compared
Below is a curated table of speed ratings for top bags, synthesized from manufacturer charts and player reviews:
| Brand | Bag Model | Slow Side | Fast Side | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BG Cornhole | Assassin | 6 | 9 | Balanced for control/slide |
| BG Cornhole | Viking | 4 | 7 | Ideal for humid conditions |
| Killshots | AK47 | 4 | 9 | Aggressive push potential |
| Brotherhood | Steel Rain | 5 | 8 | High flop for hole sinking |
| Gladiator | King Cheetah | 8 | 10 | Ultra-fast tournament choice |
| Cornhole Addicts | GameChanger | 7 | 10 | Versatile for all conditions |
(For a full list, visit Brands’ websites.)
How to Choose the Right Speed for Your Game
1. Assess Your Play Style
- Beginners: Opt for moderate speeds (e.g., 5/8) to balance control and adaptability.
- Blockers: Use stickier slow sides (4–6) to anchor on the board.
- Sliders: Prioritize fast sides (8–10) for aggressive pushes.
2. Consider Tournament Standards
ACL-certified bags like Gladiator’s King Cheetah Pro VIII or BG’s Assassin ensure compliance with professional guidelines .
3. Factor in Local Conditions
- Humid Regions: Lower-speed bags (e.g., Viking 4/7) prevent over-sliding.
- Dry Climates: Higher-speed bags (e.g., Witcher 7/9) maximize slide potential.
Myths vs. Facts About Bag Speeds
- Myth: “Higher speed ratings always mean better bags.”
Fact: Speed must align with your strategy. A 9/10 bag might excel in dry tournaments but fail in humidity . - Myth: “Breaking in a bag ruins its speed.”
Fact: Proper break-in (e.g., tossing, kneading) optimizes flop and consistency.
Pro Tips from the Experts
- Mix and Match: Pair a fast-side bag (e.g., Sorcerer 5/9) with a sticky-side bag (e.g., Mercenary 4/9) for tactical versatility.
- Check ACL Updates: Speed charts evolve yearly—stay updated via manufacturer sites.
- Test Before Buying: Use interactive quizzes (like personalized cornhole bag selector tools) to find your perfect match based on playing style.
Conclusion
Mastering cornhole bag speed numbers is a game-changer. By understanding resin fills, environmental impacts, and strategic pairings, you can tailor your gear to dominate any board. Always cross-reference manufacturer charts to stay ahead of the competition.
Final Takeaway: Speed isn’t just a number—it’s your secret weapon. Choose wisely, practice relentlessly, and let the bags fly!
