Cornhole is a fun game for everyone – from absolute beginners in the backyard to serious tournament players. The right cornhole bags make a huge difference in control, feel, and playing fun. In this guide you’ll discover which types of bags exist, what to look for when choosing, and which set best suits your level and playing style.
At Wicked Wood Games you’ll find bags for every level: from standard bags to true pro bags used at competition level.
Key points when choosing Cornhole bags
- Standard Cornhole bags: basic option for casual play and beginners.
- Stick & Slide bags: double-sided (one sticky, one sliding side) for more strategy.
- Premium Cornhole bags: better fabrics, resin filling, and higher durability.
- Comp bags: meet official competition standards for weight and size.
- Pro Cornhole bags: top segment for serious and professional players.
Types of Cornhole bags
There are different types of cornhole bags, each with its own feel, speed, and tactical possibilities. Below is an overview by type, with direct examples from the Wicked Wood Games range.
1. Standard Cornhole bags (beginners)
Standard bags are ideal for beginners and recreational play. They are sturdy, forgiving, and easy to throw. Often filled with corn or plastic pellets and with a neutral speed, so you can calmly build up your technique.
Perfect for in the garden, at the campsite, or as a first introduction to cornhole.
2. Stick & Slide Cornhole bags (double-sided)
Stick & Slide bags are double-sided: one side slides easily (fast side), the other side slows down and “sticks” (slow side). This gives you much more control over:
- blocking the opponent,
- stopping precisely before the hole,
- or intentionally sliding toward the hole.
These bags are perfect for players who already master the basics and want to play more strategically.
View Stick & Slide Cornhole bags »
3. Premium Cornhole bags
Premium bags are intended for players who want both quality and durability. They use more modern fabrics and often a resin filling, which means they:
- retain their weight better,
- are less affected by moisture,
- and remain consistent for longer.
Ideal for fanatical players who play regularly or want to start playing tournaments.
4. Comp Cornhole bags (competition ready)
Comp bags are developed for competitive play. They meet the official requirements for size, weight, and material set by cornhole organizations. They are designed for:
- consistent performance under pressure,
- frequent use during tournaments,
- and good control on official cornhole boards.
Do you play tournaments regularly or want to seriously train towards competition? Then comp bags are a logical next step.
5. Pro Cornhole bags (top segment)
Pro bags are the absolute top segment. They are used by professional players and in major tournaments. These bags combine advanced fabrics, resin filling, and a well-thought-out design for maximum control, rotation, and consistency.
Examples of pro-level bags you can find at Wicked Wood Games:
- AllCornhole GameChanger
- AllCornhole Slide-Rite
- Wicked Wood Pro Bags (such as the GameChanger variants)
Materials of Cornhole bags
The fabric of a cornhole bag has a big influence on how it behaves on the board. Speed, grip, durability, and weather resistance all depend on the chosen material.
Duck Cloth (classic)
Duck cloth is a sturdy cotton canvas fabric and is widely used in standard and recreational bags. Advantages:
- durable and wear-resistant,
- neutral slide speed,
- ideal for beginners and casual play.
Suede (slow side)
Suede is often used as the “slow side” on double-sided bags. It offers more grip and slows the bag down on the board.
- perfect for block shots,
- stays in place more easily,
- handy on slick boards.
Microfiber & hybrid fabrics
Premium and pro bags often use microfiber blends or special synthetic weaves. These provide:
- consistent speed, even with intensive use,
- less stretch and shape loss,
- better performance in changing conditions.
Blended synthetics (Pro bags)
The most advanced pro bags use specially developed synthetic fabrics with a very precise balance between grip and slide. They are made for players who want to perfect roll shots, curve shots, and airmails.
Filling of Cornhole bags
Besides the fabric, the filling is also important. It determines the weight, balance, how the bag reacts to wind and moisture, and how long it lasts.
Corn kernels (traditional)
- classic cornhole experience,
- natural feel and “crunch”,
- can absorb moisture → becomes heavier and may mold if stored poorly.
Resin (plastic pellets)
- does not absorb moisture,
- keeps the same weight,
- durable and dimensionally stable,
- perfect for intensive and outdoor play.
Hybrid filling
Some premium and pro bags use a mix of different pellet sizes:
- better balance point,
- more control on roll shots,
- smoother landing and less bouncing.
In most serious tournaments you’ll see almost exclusively bags with resin filling, because of the consistent performance in all weather conditions.
Speed ratings: how fast does a cornhole bag slide?
Many modern bags have a speed rating per side: a “fast side” and a “slow side”. The scale often runs from 1 (very slow) to 10 (extremely fast). The higher the number, the easier the bag slides over the board.
| Type of bag | Slow side rating | Fast side rating | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 5 | 5 | Beginners / recreational |
| Stick & Slide | 3–4 | 7 | Advanced players |
| Premium | 5 | 8 | Fanatic / competitive |
| Pro | 4–5 | 8–9 | Professional tournament players |
Do you often play on fast boards? Then choose a bag with a somewhat lower fast-side rating. If you play on rough or damp boards, a higher fast side can actually help. View the collection of cornhole bags to compare different speed profiles.
Which Cornhole bags fit your playing style?
Not every player throws the same way. Choose bags that match what you like to do most in the game.
Hole-hunter (scoring in the hole)
- Focus on 3 points per throw.
- Choose bags with a fast fast side (8–9).
- Resin filling for tight, straight flights.
Blocker / control player
- Wants to hinder the opponent with blocking bags.
- Slow side with speed 3–4 (suede or strong grip material).
- Ideal for advanced and tournament players.
Curve & roll shots
- Uses spin to roll past or over other bags.
- Hybrid fabrics and resin filling for optimal rotation.
- Usually Pro or Comp bags.
Airmail specialist
- Goes straight for the hole without landing on the board first.
- Compact, resin-filled bags for predictable flights.
- Fits well with professional cornhole bags.
In doubt? Start with a good Stick & Slide set – then you can try both control and scoring with one type of bag.
Best Cornhole bags by level
Beginners
For beginners we recommend simple, reliable bags with a neutral speed. The Wicked Wood Games Custom Color bags are a perfect start: affordable, sturdy, and available in different colors.
Wicked Wood Custom Color bags »
Advanced players
If you’re ready for more control and strategy, Wicked Wood Games Pro Bags GameChanger are an excellent choice. These double-sided Stick & Slide bags make it possible to alternate between sliding and stopping.
Wicked Wood Pro Bags GameChanger »
Also check out our full range of professional cornhole bags for even more options.
Professional & tournament players
For serious tournament players we offer, among others, the AllCornhole GameChanger and AllCornhole Slide-Rite 2023. These are bags from the highest category, designed to perform consistently under pressure.
Discover the full collection of Wicked Wood Games cornhole bags to find the perfect set for your level and playing style.
Maintenance & lifespan of Cornhole bags
With proper maintenance, your bags will last much longer and keep performing better.
- Let bags dry after getting wet: if you play on wet grass or in light rain, let them dry at room temperature.
- Do not wash in the washing machine: this can damage the fabric and seams.
- Store in a dry and dark place: don’t leave them in a damp shed or in direct sunlight.
- Use a fixed set on tournament boards: that way your speed ratings remain predictable.
Learn more about playing Cornhole
Bags are only one part of your game. Do you want to improve your technique, rules, or strategy? Then also check out:
Conclusion: how to choose the best Cornhole bags
The best cornhole bags for you depend on your level, playing style, and environment. Beginners are best off with standard or Custom Color bags, advanced players move on to Stick & Slide or Premium bags, and tournament players choose Pro bags with specific speed ratings.
Feel free to try different types as you get better. The more you play with quality bags, the faster you’ll progress.
Ready to upgrade your cornhole game? Check out our complete Cornhole sets or shop directly in the Cornhole bags collection.
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Cornhole bags
1. How heavy should Cornhole bags be?
According to the most commonly used competition standards, official Cornhole bags weigh about 16 oz (around 450 grams). Small differences are possible, but make sure all bags in a set have the same weight.
2. Which is better: corn or resin filling?
Corn gives a traditional feel, but can absorb moisture and break down over time. Resin (plastic pellets) is more durable, does not absorb moisture, and keeps playing consistently for longer. For tournaments and intensive use, resin is usually the best choice.
3. Do I absolutely need double-sided (Stick & Slide) bags?
Not necessarily. Beginners can easily start with standard bags. If you want to play more tactically – blocking, controlled stopping, or extra sliding – then double-sided Stick & Slide bags are a big added value.
4. When should I replace my bags?
If the fabric becomes thin, seams come loose, the filling feels clumpy, or the bags differ greatly in weight, it’s time for a new set. If the bags have also become much slower or much slicker than originally, that can be a reason to upgrade as well.
5. Which bags do you recommend for my first tournament?
For a first tournament, Premium or Comp bags with resin filling are a safe choice. For example Wicked Wood Pro Bags GameChanger or similar Stick & Slide models from our professional bags collection.
