12 Cheap Outdoor Games But Exciting Ideas For Kids

 

 

Everyone loves a party. Especially an outdoor party. Looking for fun and affordable ways to spend time outdoors with family and friends? You don’t need to break the bank on fancy equipment or activities to have a great time. In fact, some of the most enjoyable and engaging outdoor games require little more than a ball, some space, and a bit of creativity. In this article, we’ll explore 12 cheap outdoor family-friendly games that will provide hours of fun and entertainment. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a picnic in the park, or just a day outside, these games are easy to set up, require minimal equipment, and offer numerous physical and mental health benefits. So get ready to unleash your competitive side and have some fun in the great outdoors!

Unfortunately, many people think outdoor parties are expensive – and that’s just not true. Here are some ideas for a memorable outdoor party. The ultimate list of cheap outdoor party games for the family to enjoy.

12 Cheap Outdoor Games

Backyard Badminton

Badminton is a simple game that doesn’t need a lot of space. Backyard badminton is a game that requires a net, racquets, and a shuttlecock. The game aims to hit the shuttlecock over the net and onto the opponent’s side of the court without them returning it. The game utilizes two or four players and is enjoyable for people of all skill levels. Backyard badminton is a fun and easy way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors with family and friends.

Frisbee Golf

Frisbee golf is a game similar to traditional golf, but instead of using a ball and clubs, players use a frisbee or disc to throw at targets such as baskets or poles. The game aims to complete the course with the fewest throws possible. Players take turns throwing the frisbee from a particular starting point and continue to throw until the disc lands in the target. Frisbee golf is a fun and low-cost activity for people of all ages and skill levels.

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a game where participants are given a list of items to find, often hidden in an area, such as a park, neighborhood, or house. The goal of the game is to find all the items on the list within a specific time frame. Scavenger hunts are for individuals or teams and are custom to suit the age and interests of the participants. The items on the list can range from common objects like leaves or rocks to more specific items like a red feather or a toy car. Scavenger hunts can be a fun way to explore the outdoors, promote teamwork, and develop problem-solving skills.

Horseshoes

Horseshoes is a classic outdoor game that involves throwing horseshoes at stakes set in the ground. The objective of the game is to throw the horseshoe in a way that it lands as close as possible to the stake or even encircle it. Players take turns throwing their horseshoes from a certain distance and score points depending on how close they get to the stake. The game requires one player or teams of two. The winner is the player or team with the most points at the end of the game. Horseshoes is a fun and easy game to play and create an enjoyable environment for people of all ages and skill levels.

Obstacle Course

An obstacle course is a series of challenges or obstacles that participants must navigate through. The obstacles can be anything from hurdles, cones, tunnels, balance beams, ropes, and more. The goal of the obstacle course is to complete it in the shortest amount of time possible. The course can be set up indoors or outdoors and can be entertaining for various ages. Obstacle courses can be individual or team-based. They are a fun and exciting way to improve coordination, balance, and agility and to promote teamwork and friendly competition. Obstacle courses are custom to suit different themes. Such as a ninja warrior course, a military-style boot camp, or a fun and colorful obstacle course for children.

Miniature Golf

You don’t have to spend a fortune on this game. It only requires a cheap set of plastic golf clubs and golf balls. The good thing about miniature golf is that you can make a lot of variations of the game.

Miniature golf is on a small course, usually made up of 9 or 18 holes. Along with obstacles such as windmills, water features, and other challenges that make the game more interesting. The game aims to hit a small ball into a series of holes in as few strokes as possible. Players use a putter to hit the ball, which is usually made of plastic or rubber. The course will be challenging yet fun for all ages and skill levels. Miniature golf can be played individually or in groups and is a popular activity for families, friends, and couples.

Backyard Volleyball

All you need for this fabulous game is a ball and a net. If you don’t have a net, don’t worry, you can improvise by using a piece of rope. You can play singles, doubles, or any number to suit the party. Backyard volleyball is a fun and active game. You can play in any flat, level area with enough space for a regulation-size court. Players go into two teams, and the game begins with a serve over the net.

The teams rally the ball back and forth over the net. Each team has three touches to get the ball over. Points come when the ball lands in the opponent’s court or when the opponent makes an error. The game continues until one team reaches the predetermined number of points or wins the set or match. The game can differ depending on skill levels by adjusting the net’s height or the game’s rules. It is a fun and social way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Remember to have fun and stay safe while playing backyard volleyball.

Balloon Darts

An easy-to-set game but very exciting to play, balloon darts will definitely make your party a blast. Balloon darts involve throwing darts at balloons attached to a board or wall. The game aims to pop as many balloons as possible by throwing darts at them. You can play Balloon darts individually or in teams. The game can be indoors or outdoors and differ to suit different themes, such as a carnival game or a birthday party activity. Balloon darts is a fun and safe game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and is a great way to promote hand-eye coordination and accuracy.

 

Lawn Twister

Lawn Twister is a fun and exciting outdoor game that is a variation of the classic game of Twister. The game is played by laying out a large plastic mat on the lawn with a grid of colored circles. Players take turns spinning a wheel or calling out instructions that specify which body part and color to place on the corresponding circle. The game gets more challenging as players try to balance their weight and avoid falling over while holding their positions. Lawn Twister is a game that all ages can play and is a great way to promote physical activity and social interaction. You can play at family gatherings, picnics, and other outdoor events and customize it to suit different themes and skill levels. Lawn Twister is a fun and entertaining way to get outside and enjoy fresh air and exercise.

Water Balloon Toss

Water balloon toss is a fun and refreshing outdoor game utilizing water-filled balloons. The game requires partners to stand a few feet apart, tossing a water balloon back and forth, and taking a step back after each successful catch. The game continues until one of the balloons breaks, and the team with the last unbroken balloon wins. Water balloon toss is a popular summer activity, especially for kids and families, as it provides a fun and fantastic way to beat the heat. It can be in a backyard, park, or open outdoor space. Water balloon toss can also be adapted to suit different ages and skill levels. Variations such as a water balloon relay or a water balloon fight can be added to make the game more challenging and exciting.

Capture the Flag

Capture the Flag involves two teams competing to capture the other team’s flag and return it to their own territory. The game utilizes a large field or open area, and a dividing line or neutral territory usually separates the two teams. Each team has an area where they hide their flag. The game’s objective is to successfully infiltrate the other team’s territory, capture their flag, and return it to their own territory without being caught by the opposing team. Players can get out of the game by being tagged by an opposing team member while they are in enemy territory, and the game ends when one team successfully captures the other team’s flag. Capture the Flag is a great game for promoting teamwork, strategy, and outdoor physical activity, and it can be customized to suit different ages and skill levels.

Cornhole

Cornhole is a popular outdoor game for two or more players. They take turns throwing bean bags onto a raised board with a hole in it. The game utilizes two boards at a set distance apart. The objective of the game is to score points by throwing the bean bags into the hole or landing them on the board. Points are based on where the bean bag lands and the first player or team to reach a certain score wins.

You can play Cornhole in various settings, including backyards, parks, and beaches, and it is enjoyable for people of all ages. The game is easy to learn and is customizable with different rules, board designs, and bean bag colors to add a fun and personal touch. Cornhole is a great game for socializing with family and friends while enjoying the fresh air and outdoor activity.

Cheap Outdoor Games Does Not Mean Boring

There you have it, 12 exciting games you can play at an outdoor party. Just because games are cheap doesn’t mean they will be dull. Cheap outdoor games can be just as fun and engaging as expensive ones. They often require creativity and ingenuity to make them exciting. Playing games outdoors with family and friends is a great way to bond and have fun. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple, inexpensive game – it can be just as entertaining as any other activity. You might even discover some new favorite games along the way!

 

How to Play Ping Pong (Table Tennis)

Image Source: Pixabay.com

Have you ever wanted to learn how to play ping pong (or table tennis as some call it)? Playing ping pong can be extremely enjoyable, but it’s unfortunate that it’s not a popular sport among many people. While many individuals may have tried playing the game on a table, few actually play it according to its official rules. Despite this, ping pong is a simple and fun sport to play, and all you need to do is follow these basic tips to start playing.

Learn the Importance of

Proper Grip

When people inquire about learning ping pong rules, they often want to play the game.

However, before you should play, there are some basic things you need. One of the important things is the grip. Without the right grip, your game is going to be flawed.

While there are all kinds of grips that you can practice the easiest to master is the pen hold grip.

You hold your bat between the thumb and the index finger, similar to the way you probably hold a pencil. While this grip might feel a little funny at first, it’s an excellent way to master the art of spin.

This grip is an option that will help build hand strength and gain better control over the ball for beginners.

Practice with Someone Who Knows Ping Pong Rules

Once you learn basic skills like how to grip the paddle, a lot of practice is necessary to truly get good at table tennis.

One of the best ways to practice is with someone who really knows the sport. Have this person “feed” you the ball in the right way so that you’ll get familiar with hitting it. Also, learn different positions and controlling the ball.

The more you do this and the more angles your helper as you try, the better you’ll get. Aim to practice thirty minutes or more each day if you are dedicated to mastering the game.

Understand How Scoring of the Game Works

In addition to getting the basics down and practicing regularly, you also have to really understand how scoring works.

Scoring

 A player scores a point when their opponent fails to hit the ball over the net and onto their side of the table. The first player to reach 11 points and be at least 2 points ahead of their opponent wins the game. If both players have 10 points each, the first to gain a 2-point lead wins. A match consists of the best of 5 games.

Scoring a Match 

The score starts at 0-0, with the server serving first. Each player serves for two points, then the other player serves. The server must serve the ball in such a way that it bounces on their side of the table first, then over the net, and finally on the opponent’s side. If the serve hits the net assembly (net, posts, and clamps), but still touches both sides of the table, it’s called a “let serve” and must be replayed. The receiver then attempts to return the ball over the net so it bounces on the server’s side.

If the server can’t return it, the receiver wins the point. If the server returns it, the receiver must hit it back so it bounces on the server’s side. Play continues in this way until either player fails to return the ball legally, and the other player wins the point. If a player wins a point, they add 1 to their score. In case of a 10-all score, both players will only serve 1 point each until the game is won. The score is announced with the server’s score first. In the final possible game of a match, the players must change ends when the first player reaches 5 points.

ping pong rules

Serving and Hitting

Serving

The service rules are designed to ensure that the receiver has a fair chance to see the ball and read the spin put on it by the server. The following rules must be followed during the serve:

  • The ball must always be visible to the receiver. 
  • The ball must always be behind the end line of the table and above the playing surface.
  • The ball must be thrown up vertically at least 16cm and hit on the way down.

Obstructing the Ball Obstruction occurs when a player touches the ball (with their bat, body, or clothing) when the ball is above the playing surface and traveling towards it, and has not yet touched their side of the court. It’s not an obstruction if the ball has passed over the end line, sideline, or moving away from the playing surface.

Hitting the Ball 

It’s legal to hit the ball with the fingers of the hand holding the racket or the wrist, but only one contact is allowed. Double hits are not allowed, so a player may not hit the ball with their fingers and then with their racket. A player may switch their racket between hands during the point, but it’s rare. Throwing the racket at the ball is not allowed. If a player drops their racket, they must pick it up to continue playing. The ball must be hit with a racket held in the player’s racket hand.

Once you understand and can follow scoring, you will find it much easier to play the game correctly.

Try Out Different Serves as

You Play

Different kinds of serves can be used in table tennis. No rule says one type of serve is “better” than the other, so keep that in mind as you play.

Also, try your best to vary your serves to throw your opponent off. And keep him guessing as to which move you are going to use next.

Some good serves to try include medium long serves, short serves, and pure spin serves, to name a few. You will find that if you can master and then mix up your serves, your opponent will have to keep guessing. About how best to match your ball, and you’ll probably have a much better chance at winning.

Switch Up Servers According to the Rules

One final thing to keep in mind as you play is when to switch up your servers.

The basic rule to remember is that each player gets to serve two points consecutively before switching. Keep in mind, though, that if the players ever get tied at ten points, the game will switch to each player serving one point. Then turn again.

Also, players should switch table sides after every game except during the final match. When players switch for each turn after one player has five points.

Following these ping pong rules, as well as the other tips presented here, will help keep your game “legal.” And will ensure that everyone gets a fair shot at winning this great game.

Featured Image via Pixabay

How to Rack a Pool Table Like a Pro

Pool is a game with many different variations, but one thing that stays the same is that a game starts with someone racking the balls. As a result, learning how to rack a pool table is essential for any player. Without racking the balls, you can’t play the game at all.

This is a game that is loved by millions of people around the world. It’s played in bars across the globe. Additionally, although it’s a popular recreational sport, there are lots of professional players that compete to be the best every year.

Although pool is very well known, it’s possible that you don’t know what it is. So before you learn how to rack a pool table, let’s cover that.

What Is Pool?

Before you learn how to rack a pool table, we’d like to make sure you know what the game is, so let’s get into it. Although you may think of it as a specific sport, it isn’t. Instead, pool is a classification of cue sports played on a table with six pockets that you try to knock balls into.

There are several variations of pool, but the most popular game is eight-ball. Eight-ball is the game you likely play at the bar with friends. But people play several other variations every day.

The History of Pool

Before we teach you how to rack a pool table, we’d like to talk about the history of pool a little bit. We think that understanding pool’s history is essential. So, we’ll share a little bit of that information with you before getting into how to rack a pool table.

There are records of some forms of pool dating back to the 15th century in Northern Europe. It originated as a game for royalty. Additionally, it started as an outdoor game that players played alongside croquet.

In the late 1600s, the cue was perfected and was more or less made into what we have today. Before then, you would hit the ball with something that resembled a mace. It was also around this time that chalk started to be used to increase friction between the cue and the ball.

Initially, the pockets were hazards that were supposed to make it more difficult for players to strike another ball. However, they were quickly changed to be the targets to hit the balls into.

Furthermore, although pool is now the name that categorizes many cue sports, it originated as a term that referenced betting. Billiard tables were another thing to bet on at horse racing events.

What Do You Need to Play Pool?

We’re almost ready to teach you how to rack a pool table, but there’s another thing we need to cover. We need to discuss what you need to play.

If you only plan on playing at the local bar, there isn’t anything you need to bring. All the equipment you’ll ever need is at the bar. However, if you want to set up a pool table at your home, there’s some equipment you’ll want to purchase.


Set of Aska L2 Billiard Pool Cue Sticks, 58″ Hard Rock Canadian Maple,…

  • 5 (Five) Pool Cue Sticks Set, One of Each – Black 21-Ounce, Blue 20-Ounce, Brown 19-Ounce, Green 19-Ounce, Red 18-Ounce.
  • Cue Length is 58″ (standard cue length). Canadian Hardrock Maple 29″ Shaft.
  • Stainless Steel 5/16×18 Joint

You will obviously need the pool table, the cue sticks, and the balls, but there are a few other things that you’ll want to purchase.

Firstly, you’ll want to get a cue case. This isn’t essential, but having a little extra protection for your cue could save you money in the long run.

Additionally, getting a cue cleaner might be necessary. Pool cues get dirty quickly, especially when you use chalk on it frequently. As a result, getting a cleaner will keep your cue from getting gross over time.


Iszy Billiards Pool Table Billiard Ball Set, Marble/Swirl Style

  • Grade A deluxe quality – 2 1/4″ regulation size and weight
  • Made of polyester resin – 6 ounce balls Marble / swirl style makes a great addition to a table
  • Price shown is for full set of balls including cue ball

Extra Accesories

You’ll also want hand towels available to you if you’re taking the game seriously. It’s easy for your hands to get sweaty when playing, and this can hurt your game. Having hand towels to wipe off your hands will undoubtedly be useful.

Lastly, if you’re playing in competitions, you’ll need some sort of pocket marker. In eight-ball, you need to call your pocket before you sink the eight ball.

Although in many situations you can get away with calling it verbally, having a pocket marker will settle any disputes you could have before they start. It’s also a rule of the American Pool Association for players to use a pocket marker.

How to Play Pool

As we mentioned earlier, there are several types of pool. As a result, before you can learn how to rack a pool table, you should know how to play the game. Here we’ll discuss five of the most popular types of pool.

American-style eight-ball

In this type of pool, the players use the standard 16 balls used in most games. One player breaks the balls. Once a player gets a ball into a pocket, they are assigned either stripes or solids, depending on which type of ball they got in the pocket.

Once the ball types are assigned, the players alternate shooting until one player gets all their balls into the pockets. If you get a ball in a pocket, you get to take another shot.

The one exception is the eight ball. The eight ball does not count as one of the solid balls. Instead, players pocket it last.

Once a player gets all their balls in, they need to sink the eight ball to win. If a player sinks the eight-ball before this, they lose immediately.

Straight pool

Straight pool is one of the variations of pool that takes the longest. In this game, the players try to get any ball on the table into a pocket. Players need to call the ball and pocket when they take a shot.

Each ball a player sinks is worth one point, and games are played to 100 or 150 points. As a result, the balls need to be re-racked several times in a game. This makes learning how to rack a pool table essential for straight pool.

Carom

Carom is very different from many other types of pool because there are only three balls. There is a white cue ball for each player and one red ball. Additionally, you play Carom on a pocketless table.

The goal of the game is to hit your ball off the red ball and your opponent’s cue ball in one shot. How many points you need varies from game to game, but the most common number of points to win is 50.

Snooker

Snooker has 22 balls in total. There is a cue ball, 15 red balls that are each worth one point, and six differently colored balls with an increasing number of points.

A snooker table is significantly larger than a standard pool table. It measures out to be 12 feet long and 6 feet wide. However, it still has six pockets like a standard table.

A game of snooker starts by the players pocketing any red ball. They then try to pocket the other numbered balls in ascending order. The player with more points at the end of the game wins.

English billiards

The final game we’ll be looking at is English billiards. This is another game where there are only three balls in play. There is a white cue ball, a yellow cue ball, and a red object ball.

When playing English billiards, there are three ways to score. Firstly, you get two points when a cannon happens. A cannon is when your ball hits both other balls.

Hitting your opponent’s ball into the pocket is also worth two points. Finally, hitting the red ball into the pocket is worth three points.

The player with the most points wins the game. The points can be different from game to game, but typically players will play to 300 points.

Learn How to Rack a Pool Table like a Pro

Now that you have a good understanding of pool and many of its variations. It’s time to learn how to rack a pool table. The first thing you do in any game of pool is rack the table, so it’s an essential skill to learn.

Eight-ball game

In an eight-ball game or any game that uses the standard 16 balls, you start the game by racking all the balls except the cue ball. You begin by placing the one-ball at the front of the rack. The front is also called the apex.

Next, you need to ensure that the eight-ball is at the center of the rack. The center is the third row from the top.

Once the eight-ball is in position, you should make sure that the bottom two corners are a stripe and a solid. It doesn’t matter which corner is which, but they need to be different.

Line it Up

Then you can place the rest of the balls in the rack randomly. It’s a common misconception that stripes and solids can’t touch, but this isn’t true. Stripes and solids can touch each other as long as you follow the instructions above.

Once you place all the balls, you should line the apex up with the middle diamond on the side of the pool table. The diamond should be about a quarter of the length of the table away from the edge. Sometimes the table will have a dot instead of a diamond.

Then, before you remove the rack, make sure you’ve packed the balls together tightly. Now you can gently lift the rack off the balls. If you’ve done this successfully, you’ve learned how to rack a pool table correctly.

Nine-ball game

Nine-ball games are rare, but if you ever play one, you’ll need to know how to rack a pool table for this game. Firstly, you’ll need a diamond-shaped rack instead of the usual triangle.

Like in the eight-ball game, you should place the one-ball at the apex of the rack. However, instead of the eight-ball, the nine-ball should be at the center. You can then set the rest of the balls in the rack randomly.

If you’ve followed the instructions above, you’ve successfully learned how to rack a pool table for a nine-ball game.

Straight

A traditional straight pool rack with the 1 and 5 balls at the bottom corners, and all other balls placed randomly

In straight pool’s first frame, the fifteen object balls are racked with the center of the apex ball placed over the foot spot. Traditionally the 1 ball is placed at the rack’s right corner and the 5 ball is placed at the rack’s left corner for visibility, though there is no such rule requirement. Other balls are placed at random and must touch adjacent balls.

The unique feature of straight pool is the racking that is played when one ball remains. These intra-game racks have a specific set of rules; when the rack is supposed to be replaced, if neither the cue ball nor the object ball remain in the rack area, the balls are replaced with no ball at the apex. At this point, the aim is to pot the remaining ball and carom into the pack of balls, allowing a shot on the next ball to continue the run. Additional rules apply when either ball is in the position where the balls would usually be racked.

Other Versions

As we stated above there are lots of different versions of this game. We didn’t cover cairom, snooker, or english billiards. These versions are different than standart 8 or 9 ball or straight, and some have different racking rules. Not all versions require racking, but if you try out a different version that does use a unique racking method, refer back to the above how to videos for help!

Get Started Playing Pool Today

Now that you’ve learned how to rack a pool table, you can get started playing pool today. You won’t need to waste time figuring out how to rack the balls every time you go to the bar. This way, you can spend more time playing and less time trying to figure out the rules. We hope this guide has been heplful to you as you embark on this journey and adopt this classy and refined game for people with taste.

What’s your favorite type of pool to play? Do you understand how to rack a pool table correctly? Let us know in the comments!

3 Best Pool Table Choices in 2023 | Reviews and Recommendations

What is The Best Pool Table for Your Money This Year?

As we all know, a game of pool is a relaxing social activity that people of all ages play and enjoy a lot.  Having a pool table in your own home will provide you, your family, and your friends with countless hours of fun. However, buying one requires some thinking and planning. This is a very significant purchase that you must approach carefully.  Pool tables can be expensive, and it is important to find one that is well-made and reasonably priced. Moreover, you need to consider space, lighting, accessories, etc. Finding the best pool table for the money is not an easy feat and it takes more than a quick Internet button-clicking operation to get it.

To help you find the best pool table for your home, this buyer’s guide will explain the most important considerations when choosing a table.  Then, we will suggest a handful of 8-foot pool tables that are both well-made and come with excellent value for money!

Things to Consider When Buying a Pool Table

Here are a few things to consider before purchasing your pool table for the home.

What is the best size for a pool table?

Pool tables come in a variety of sizes — from massive 10 x 5-foot carom billiards tables to tiny 3-foot pool tables designed for children.  Before choosing the size of your pool table, carefully measure your game room.  Remember that you must leave enough space around the table for people to play their shots.

You might also want to check out our guide on how to match your room size with a pool table. As we said on that occasion, the size of the room, the table, what type of pool you want to play, the size of the cues, the number of people playing at the same time at that table, the furniture you already have in the room, and even the floor type matter. You need to consider all these factors before you decide to go hunting for the best pool table brands available on the market.

Pool Table Sizes Depending On What and How You Play Pool

If you are going to be playing pool competitively, choose either a 9-foot by 4.5-foot or 8-foot by 4-foot table.  These are the officially approved pool table dimensions from the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA).  However, billiards and snooker players often compete on larger tables.  There are certain advantages associated with pool tables of different sizes:

Smaller pool tables (7 feet or shorter):

  • An excellent choice if you have children that you want to teach and play with inside the house or players with mobility problems
  • Easier for beginners to learn on
  • Games can sometimes require more strategy because the balls are sharing a smaller space
  • Ideal for some traditional British pool games like Bank Pool and 1-Pocket.

Larger pool tables (8 feet or longer):

  • Better for common American pool games like Ten-ball
  • More challenging and demanding of players
  • Better for anyone wishing to play competitively

Most home pool players consider 8-foot pool tables to be the “sweet spot” in terms of size.  They are suitable for competitive play but don’t take up a substantial amount of space in your games room.  Children can also play on a table of this size, which is useful for families.

Pool Table Construction

Check the material and construction of the table bed

The pool table bed is the flat playing surface of the table.  Most high-quality pool tables use slate for the bed.  Slate is a type of rock that can be carved in large, flat segments.  It is very durable and remains perfectly flat for many years if the table is treated well.

Some modern tables use slatron — a man-made surface constructed from resin-reinforced fibers. Slatron is 20-times denser than particleboard and lighter than slate.  Cheaper tables may use timber for the beds, which are prone to warping if exposed to moisture.

Consider the pool table legs

The legs of the pool table must be very sturdy and well-built to support the heavy weight.  Well-constructed legs are particularly important for slate tables, because of the substantial weight they carry.

Also consider, some pool tables come on wheels. This is ideal if you have a place to store your pool table when you are not playing. Some might think that wheels are tacky, and not conducive to the elegant appeal of such a sophisticated game like pool. That being said, there is an undeniable convenience in having such a large and heavy piece of furniture on wheels.

Make sure the frame uses strong materials

Having a strong frame is essential for the longevity of your table.  If the table frame begins to fail, your expensive slate top can warp, crack, or become uneven.  A high-quality frame will use wood or metal with cross beams to support the top.  The number of beams used in the table will depend on the size of the table and the number of slate pieces used to form the bed.  You can ask the manufacturer of a table for more information on the frame’s construction.

Durable cushions

The pool table cushions surround the bed.  They are typically made from synthetic materials or natural gum rubber.  The quality of the cushion material will determine how reliably balls bounce off the table cushions.  Ideally, choose a natural material over a synthetic one — natural materials are usually better at retaining their elasticity over time.

Pool Table Extras

Pool table accessories

You should also consider the types of accessories that come with the pool table.  Some tables include pool balls and cues while others are “barebones” tables. Often, pool tables come with cues and balls, but they don’t normally come with a rack to hold those items when they are not in use. Some players like to keep a table cover over their pool table when it is not in use. This could be to keep dust out, for aesthetic purposes, or to use the table for other things when not playing. Either way, this might be an option for you too. Consider these additional costs that come from accessories when purchasing the table. You can check out our guide on the best pool cues to help you play like a pro or ask for recommendations from your seasoned pool-playing friends.

Best Lighting

Now, this is a tricky one, as you do not want to design and build a pool bar, but add a pool table in one of your house rooms. However, the fact that you have some light in the room does not mean you will benefit from all the advantages pool table lights have to offer. If you are serious about creating a pool-friendly space in your home, pool table lighting is crucial. Here are some tips on how to pick the best pool table lights!

  • Your ceiling lamp will not probably do, so consider investing in a pool table light shed set.
  • Call a professional electrician to install the pool table lighting before you bring in the pool table itself to the room. You need to make sure your electrical system supports such lights, the installation is risky if you don’t have the skills, and you do not want to have the table first, only to realize you need to break and fix your ceiling over the new pool table.
  • Make sure you install the pool table lights at the right height. You don’t want to bump into them with your head or hit them with the cue.
  • Remember how a few rows above we said you should first fix the lights and then bring in the table? We will say it again, as you need to make sure the lights are centric to the table and you don’t have to worry about odd shadows or poorly lit areas on or around the table.
  • Now it’s time to also answer the above question regarding what is the best lighting for a pool table. Look for pool table lights able to generate 60 watts. If you feel that such bulbs are too powerful for your eyes, make them 40 watts. The main idea here is to enjoy not-too-bright and not-too-dim light at the same time.

Didn’t we say that creating a pool parlor in your home was not an easy challenge?

Now that you know how to go about these logistical and administrative issues, it is time to see the best pool tables for the money you can enjoy this year!

The Best Pool Table For the Money in 2022

The following pool tables have an excellent build quality and are guaranteed to give you years of great performance.

MD Sports Billiard Table with Included Game AccessoriesMizerak Donovan II 8′ Billiard TablePlaycraft Charles River 8′ Espresso Slate Pool Table w/ Leather Drop Pockets
Style:
Multiple Styles
Style:
Modern cabinet design
Style:
Classic
Table Bed:
Wood
Table Bed:
Slate or Slatron
Table Bed:
Slate
Felt color:
Slate Grey
Felt color:
Red
Felt color:
Black
Manufacturer:
MD Sports
Manufacturer:
Escalade Sports
Manufacturer:
Playcraft

MD Sports Billiard Table with Included Game Accessories – 7.5′

pool table

This pool table has a modern design with sleek metal legs and a timber frame.  This sleek appearance makes this table suitable for any high-end games room.  The silver and black is beautiful together and it has been manufactured with exceptional attention to detail.

Playfield is made of 18 mm thick laminate felt, ensuring strength, durability and a flat roll; the aprons, rails and base are made of sturdy medium-density fibreboard (MDF)

The MD Sports Titan Billiards Table is constructed with K818 specification wood bumper guards for a consistent bounce and standard style drop pockets for an authentic look

The bed consists of three pieces of thick slate covered in 35% wool and 65% polyester felt.  The pockets are traditional parlor style.  The pockets are deep enough to hold 2 balls.

It is a sturdy table that looks beautiful.  The MD Sports Modern Billiard Table comes with all of the accessories you may require including 1 set of official balls, 1 table brush, 1 wooden triangle, 2 wooden pool sticks, and 2 chalk cubes.


Mizerak Donovan II 8′ Billiard Table

pool table

The Mizerak Donovan II has a very sleek and modern design.  It features a polished black cabinet with chrome accents and red felt.  This design would be at home in the most technologically advanced games rooms.

The bed is available as slate or slatron.  The 3-5/8” rails are made from K66 nose rubber, which gives the table a consistent rebound.  This rail material will provide you with many years of regular use.  The pool table legs include legs levelers, which are useful if your home has a slightly uneven floor.

The Mizerak Donovan II comes with a range of accessories including 2 cues, billiard balls, triangle rack, felt brush, and chalk.


Playcraft Charles River 8′ Espresso Slate Pool Table w/ Leather Drop Pockets

pool table

The Playcraft Southport has a traditional pool hall design that all experienced pool players will instantly recognize.  This table is commercial quality, meaning all components are highly durable and designed for constant use.

This table features a 1” Brazilian slate bed that is honed to 1/1000th of an inch.  This level of accuracy makes the table perfect for competitive players.  The slate is well supported on all sides by Playcraft’s intelligently designed sub-frame.  The table’s frame is covered in beautiful Cherry timber and has Cabriole legs with carved ball and claw feet. This table is a great choice for pool players who are slightly more serious about their pool playing.  It has been designed to stand up to the rigors of everyday use and will give a homeowner many years of use.


How to Install a Pool Table?

Now that you have the best pool table for the money and your playing needs, it is time to install it, isn’t it? Well, to help you out with this task, here is a video on how to assembly and install a pool table.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a full size pool table?

The most common size for a pool table sold in the United States is 44 x 88 inches. Or, at least, that’s the standard size for non-tournament pool tables. As for the standard tournament-sized table, that usually falls in the range of 50 x 100 inches.

Is a 6 foot pool table too small?

Most players will prefer an 8-foot or 9-foot long table, but a 6-foot table can work great as well. Six-foot tables are great for tighter playing spaces, so you should really consider one if your home isn’t all that big. Professional players might not like these smaller tables, but they work just fine for casual players and people who are just beginning to learn how to play pool in real life.

Are slate pool tables better than wooden ones?

While heavier and more expensive than wood, slate ensures that the play surface remans smooth and level. Wood, as well as table tops made from synthetics, can warp quite easily. Because it is so durable and known to last, many manufacturers will provide a lifetime warranty for a slate pool table.

How far does a pool table need to be away from the wall?

You should install the pool table in the center of the room to leave as much space around it as possible so you won’t have trouble scoring tricky shots. The bare minimum distance that the table needs to be away from the wall is five feet. Anything less than that, and your experience will be greatly hindered.

Can you move a pool table without taking it apart?

You can move it as long as the distance is short and you’ve got some people to help you out. We also recommend furniture sliders if you plan on moving the table without taking it apart since it can leave scratches on the floor.

If you dont mind being a little unclassy, there are pool tables that come on wheels for easy mobility. These are not manny players first choice, but can be helpful if you are in a situation where you will often need to relocate your table.

Final Thoughts

Now that we presented you with our guide on how to buy the best pool table for your home and needs, together with our top three choices of 2022, it is time for you to do some sharing as well. First, do you know what is the best way to level your table? In case you don’t, we have a quick guide for you. If you do and you have done it before, we’d love to hear some tips, tricks, and advice from seasoned players!

So, this was our guide on getting the best pool table this year, for the money, and for your needs. Make sure you put aside some budget, not only for the table itself, but also for the lighting, accessories, the electrician maybe, and other unforeseen expenses. We hope this helped. In case you have other questions regarding pool tables, the pool game itself, or how to buy pool accessories, feel free to leave us your comments in the section below!

How Much Room Do You Need for a Pool Table? | What You Need to Know

How much room do you need for a pool table? Well, it depends on a lot of factors. Many people love the idea of having a nice game room, and pool tables are a staple of a good game room. They’re big and unwieldy, though. If you’re wondering how much room do you need for a pool table, take heart. There’s an excellent way to figure this out before you even purchase your table.

Speaking of pool tables, we have a refined selection of best pool tables to buy this year. However, it is crucial to consider the pool table dimensions relative to your room before you get your hands on the table itself.

How Much Room Do You Need for a Pool Table?

How much room do you need for a pool table? Well, it depends. You have to ask and answer a lot of questions before you can determine how much room you need.

Things like table size, the type of games you want to play, the length of the cues you use, and more, all factor into deciding how much room you need for your pool table.

Table size

The first and probably most obvious consideration is table size. Pool tables come in several different sizes. In the United States, standard pool tables come in 3 sizes: 3.5 by 7 feet, 4 by 8 feet, and 4.5 by 9 feet.

There are also oversized tables, so you might want a table that’s listed as 7-feet+ long. That would be an oversized 7-foot table. You’ll mostly find 7-foot, 7-foot+, and 8-foot tables in homes.

You can also get 10-foot and 12-foot-long tables, but you don’t often find these in houses simply because there’s no room.

People also generally use tables that big for different kinds of billiards than that which we use standard pool tables. Unless you want to learn and specialize in those games, you don’t need a 10 or 12-foot table.

What kind of pool do you want to play

However, depending on the type of pool you play in, if you have space, you may well want a table that’s 4.5 by 9 feet.

Why? Bigger tables help you better hone your skills. If you have space and money for a 4.5 by 9-foot table, get that, especially if you want to break into a competitive or professional pool.

Also, you will want a table with regulation proportions, which is any pool table that’s exactly twice as long as it is wide. So if you don’t have space or money for a 9-foot table, a 4-foot by 8-foot table or 3.5-foot by 7-foot table will still give you the proper proportions.

Cue length matters

Pool cues are generally anywhere from 48 to 58 inches long. If you’ve ever played pool in a crowded pool hall or bar and had problems with hitting walls or other people with your cue while setting up and taking your shot, you know how irritated you get when you don’t have enough space.

Now, imagine having that problem in your otherwise perfect game room. How are you going to enjoy yourself if you’re always trying to avoid the walls?

Not only do you need to account for space the table itself requires, but you also need to consider the length of your longest cues.

Measuring your space

Now really, how much room do you need for a pool table? You know all the factors for the table and your game, so now it’s time to measure your space.

Take the measurements of the surface of your ideal pool table and add twice the length of your longest cue. For a table with a playing surface of 50 inches by 100 inches and a cue length of 58 inches, you’ll want to use this equation:

  • It’s 50 + 58(2) x 100 + 58(2). You should get 166 inches and 216 inches, respectively. Divide each number by 12, and you’ll get a minimum space of 13.83 feet by 18 feet.
  • Keep in mind that’s the absolute minimum space you’ll want for a pool table with a playing surface of 50 inches by 100 inches, which is generally a 4.5-foot by 9-foot table.
  • You probably want more space than that if you can. Something like 15 feet by 19 feet would work better for a table that size.

Also, you might have a tight corner unless you can place your table in the center of the room. That’s where you’ll usually just use a shorter cue.

There’s a reason people tend to locate their pool tables in finished basements or other designated rec rooms. They require a lot of space.

The key is ensuring you’ve got the maximum amount of space available to actually play. One tight corner isn’t going to ruin your fun, but tight spacing on most sides will.

What about other furniture in the room?

foosball

What else is in the room? Other game tables, like a foosball table? Your dining room table? A home theater? Maybe just a secondary living room or your regular living room?

You can move things like other game tables around to accommodate your pool table. You can move standard furniture around, too.

If you need to, you can rearrange the whole room, so long as everything in it is mobile.

However, things like home theaters and other amenities are built-in features of your house. You can’t move those around to accommodate your table.

Keep that in mind when you’re measuring your space.

Think about how many people will play

two men playing billiards

Do you frequently have guests over who would use the table? How much room do you need for a pool table if you typically have a lot of people playing?

Your guests want to have fun and be comfortable. If you’ve ever played pool with several others in a crowded place, we’re sure you’re aware of how annoyed you can get.

So take that into account as well. You may find you have to go down a table size for it to fit where you want it.

What if the table is for your kids? You can get a smaller, shorter table for them. If they’re the ones who will use it the most often, that gives you more flexibility in your space.

In all cases, though, you should be very mindful of the space you really have available in your house for a pool table.

Other considerations and frequently asked questions

You have a few other things to think about before you buy a pool table, too.

  • Moving the table through your house
  • Light fixtures
  • Floor décor

We talked about these issues when we presented you with the best pool tables to get this year. Pool table lighting and having enough space to move around your room are crucial aspects you need to consider even before measuring the table or the room.

As FAQs go, before we wrap up this article, let’s take a look at some of the answers people want the most when it comes to creating a pool room in their homes!

What size room do you need for a 7ft pool table?

The ideal size room for a 7ft pool table depends on the cues you want to use. So here are some pool table dimensions in relation to the pool cues’ length and room size to determine what works best for you:

  • 7ft pool table with 48″ cues – the room should be about 13′ x 16′;
  • 7ft pool table with 58″ cues – the room should be about 14′ x 17′.

The most significant consideration besides finding out how much room you need for a pool table is how you’ll get it where you want it.

You have to get it through your door, around corners, and possibly up or down some stairs.

Hallways and interior doorways play a significant role, too. When you’re taking your measurements, measure everything through which you’ll have to move the table to get it where you want it.

Keep in mind the fact that even if the legs of your pool table come off, you still have to move the entire tabletop through these areas and around obstacles. So before you purchase your table, do your best to ensure you can get it into and through your house.

Nowadays there are many pool tables that come on wheels for easier storage and movement. If you get a table with wheels the width of that table is more important than ever. It would be a shame to buy a mobile table just to discover it won’t fit through any doorways.

Light fixtures

You’re most likely going to ensure you have proper overhead lighting before you buy a pool table.

But what about wall fixtures? That matters, too. If you have light fixtures on your walls, you need to take those into account when measuring your space. And if you’re still working on your area, install your light fixtures before you measure the space for the ta

You might have the coolest area rugs or other décor on the floor where you want your pool table to go, too.

However, if it doesn’t have a non-slip underside or you haven’t put a non-slip pad underneath, you might find yourself in some trouble. Be sure your rugs don’t slip on your flooring before you bring your pool table home.

If all of this seems like too much for an answer to, “How much room do you need for a pool table,” you can always call an expert to come and take a look.

Search for a business that specializes in moving and placing pool tables. They’ll not only be able to accurately measure your space, but they’ll also be able to evaluate doorways, stairways, and more, to see if you’re going to have problems getting the table into your space.

How far should be a pool table from any wall?

It is a matter of common sense to place the pool table in the center of your newly created pool room. Make sure you have at least 5 feet distance from the table (margins and corners) to any wall. This space should be lengthier than 5 feet in case you have some cool tricks on your sleeve and you want to show them to your guests. In any case, a minimum of 5 feet around the table to all corners should be enough to allow you to play pool and position your cue so you don’t hit the walls.

What is the most popular pool table size?

In most pool bars, halls, and tournaments, the standard pool table is the 9ft one. However, it might be a tad larger for your living room or basement. If you consider remodeling a room for pool games, you should choose a 7ft pool table. You could also go for the 8ft type, but you need to get the room sizing perfectly. Here are the ideal room size dimensions in case you want to bring home an 8ft pool table:

  • 8ft pool table with 48″ cues – the room should be about 14′ x 17′;
  • 8ft pool table with 58″ cues – the room should be about 14′ x 18′.

Can you install a pool table in a carpeted room?

Technically, hardwood floors are the best ones for a pool table and its players. If you leave the carpet, you will have to adjust it frequently,  not to mention vacuum and clean it regularly. On the other hand, floors with rugs also work well with pool tables as they protect the floors from traffic, bumps, balls falling on the floor, and all other accidents.

So How Much Room Do You Need for a Pool Table? Bottom Line

pool table in the living room

How much room do you need for a pool table? Like so many other things, it depends. The size of the table you want, the lengths of your cues, the number of people you want playing, and your overall space, all factor into how much room you need.

And remember, you don’t have to figure all of this out yourself if you don’t want to. You can find experts who will help you answer “how much room do you need for a pool table,” and even help you move it into your house.

Another option you could consider is getting a dual-use table. There are many different game tables that can be used for pool, then add a top piece and the table can be used for puzzles, board games, or card games. If you are willing to dedicate a space in your house to a pool table, it might as well be for multiple uses! This pool table, for example, can be used for pool, air hockey, and ping pong. A table like this might just make the sacrifice of space feel a little bit more worth it in case you weren’t already convinced you should give up the space.

Regardless of the direction in which you go, just keep in mind that you need a lot of room, even for a small pool table. However, you’re now equipped to figure out just how much space you need. So if a pool table is what you’re after, now you know how to be sure you have the space for it. Just remember that playing pool is not as easy as it seems! Check out our guides on how to rack a pool table like a pro, how to buy and install the best pool table for the money, and what cues are the best to boost your game!

Have questions or ideas? Do you want to play pool at home this year and want to learn more about organizing the room? Let us know in the comment section below! Also, tell us more about your experiences with choosing and installing a pool table in your home!

7 Best Golf Clubs Reviews

Farther, higher, and straighter. Those qualities are what every golfer looks for in a golf club.

Unfortunately, golf is not as easy as it may look on TV, especially if you are using mediocre golfing gear. While every golfer wants to hit some lusty shots, it’s sometimes difficult because they are using the wrong golf clubs. A set of clubs that aren’t well suited to your needs can greatly impact your performance and are often a point of frustration for many people.

It is, therefore, important to find the right set of clubs that will give you the much-needed precision and distance. We hope this list can serve as a starting point for anyone who’s in the market for a new set of golf clubs. So without farther ado, here are the best golf clubs you are likely to come across:

Check Our Best Frisbee Golf Baskets

Here’s Our Full Reviews of the 7 Best Golf Clubs!

Callaway Apex Pro


Callaway Golf 2018 Men’s Rogue Irons Set (Set of 5 Total Clubs: 6-PW,…

  • 360 Face Cup + VFT for more Ball Speed
  • MIM’d Internal Standing Wave for Optimal Flight and Control
  • Urethane Microspheres for Great Feel

Callaway has put all its experience, expertise, and advanced technology to create the latest set of the Apex Pro.

The head is made from a mixture of carbon and steel to create a smooth and supple feel no matter the shot you are playing. Long clubs have heavier slugs for explosive distances while short irons have no extra weight added to them to give you a light, comfortable feel when playing short chip shots.

These irons are generally made for low and mid handicappers. Mid handicapper can easily improve and take their gameplay to the next level while low handicappers (who miss the ball from time to time) will finally get the precision they’re looking for from these golf clubs.

PROS

  • forged clubs

  • latest technology

  • excellent grips

CONS

  • not for left-handed

  • costly

  • not for beginners

Wilson Ultra


Wilson Golf Men’s Ultra Complete Package Set, Right Hand

  • Super game improvement design focuses on generating more distance for beginner golfers
  • Large 460cc Titanium matrix driver uses hot face and low center of gravity to launch the ball off the Tee
  • Large sweet spot irons feature perimeter weighting for improved performance on off center hits

The construction of this club is just remarkable – the combination of a hollow body and an L-face design allows you to hit the ball farther and higher. It also has a Tungsten placed at the toe to improve Moment of Inert (MOI) and lower the center of gravity.

Additionally, the Titleist 718 AP2 has a cracking feel to it that will definitely boost your gameplay. The sound made when you make a shot is also satisfying. This model is basically a high-forgiving golf club with excellent accuracy.

If you are thinking of spending your money on this beauty, you won’t be disappointed.

PROS

  • improve MOI

  • accurate

  • great iron works

CONS

  • poor customer service

  • costly shipping

  • expensive for beginners

Callaway Steelhead XR


Callaway Golf STEELHEAD XR 7 Iron, Steel Shaft, Regular Flex, Right

  • The next generation of our industry-leading 360 Face Cup technology increases ball speed on both center hits and…
  • Our soft, steel-infused Shock Eliminator Technology absorbs unwanted vibration for great feel, and helps lower the…
  • The new Hollow Bore-Thru hosel design saves significant weight that’s strategically repositioned in the head to create…

The Steelhead XR clubs are the perfect combination of traditional and modern, and the result is a wonderful set of good-looking clubs with great power and exemplary performance. Callaway brought back to life the classic golf club shape, but with new technology.

With a huge sweet spot, it is quite impossible to miss the ball.

This makes it an excellent choice for both mid and high handicappers. And when you do hit the ball, except nothing but precision and distance.

PROS

  • absorbs unwanted vibration

  •  increased ball speed

  • affordable price

CONS

  • not for low handicappers

  • less adjustability

  • low versatility 

Callaway Steelhead XR

Cobra Golf King RADSPEED Driver

  • Radial Weighting Technology-Radial Weighting is the strategic placement of weight relative to the CG to optimize…
  • CNC Milled Infinity Face-An infinity edge face design expands the milled area by 95% to…
  • Thin-Ply Carbon Crown-The Carbon Wrap Crown system features a new carbon fiber…
  • Lighter T-Bar Chassis-A refined T-Bar speed chassis design is 7 grams lighter, giving…
  • Extreme Front Weighting-The Radspeed Driver frame features 28g positioned as forward as possible (16 g of fixed weight…

It is hard for manufacturers to attain both good looks and performance in one golf club. But Cobra King’s RADSPEED driver delivers on both fronts.

With a incredibly low launch and spin, fast ball speeds, this club is an amazing driver. The light T-bar chassis makes the head remarkably stable while also being light enough to keep the majority of the weight close to the face. By crafting as much of the head out of carbon fiber as possible Cobra king was able to avoid detracting from the discretionary weight of of it’s Radial Weighting Technology.

Taking all of this into account, it’s no surprise many experienced golfers pick this club over other drivers.

PROS

  • good looks 

  • extreme forgiveness

  • great performance

CONS

  • fragile shaft

  • no pop off face

  • costly for beginners

xE1 Sand Wedge


xE1 Sand Wedge & Lob Wedge– The Out-in-One Golf Wedge, Pitching and Chipping Wedge…

  • OUT-IN-ONE SAND WEDGE; The xE1 wedge has high loft and a unique AutoGlide Sole that make it easy and automatic to escape bunkers in one…
  • ELIMINATE FAT SHOTS; Say goodbye to embarrassing chunked pitch and chip shots. It’s practically impossible to…
  • SAVE STROKES INSTANTLY, LITTLE PRACTICE REQUIRED; Thanks to the xE1’s unique design…
  • LEGAL FOR TOURNAMENT PLAY, 1-YEAR MANUFACTURER WARRANTY…

The xE1 Wedge made by Autopilot is a club that gets some bounce in it’s shots. While other golf clubs may work well as generalists, this club excels at allowing for a quick recovery when stuck in a less than ideal spot. Crafted with a steep 65 degree loft, the xE1 allows for you to make a clean escape from bunkers and roughs. Paired with its high spin stopping the ball dead when landing, it makes for a perfect addition to any golfers collection.

One of the biggest selling points and most known qualities of this club is its ability to nearly eliminate fat shots entirely. Thanks to its wide sole, the xE1 glides almost effortlessly across the ground without digging into the ground. It’s truly no wonder why so many golfers recommend this club.

PROS

  • less fat shots

  • not heavy

  • affordable

CONS

  • not an all around club

  • cast not forged

  • short pitch

Odyssey White Hot OG Putter


Odyssey Golf 2021 White Hot OG Putter

  • Odyssey White Hot OG Putters feature the original White Hot formulation, feel, sound and performance in…
  • This classic name is synonymous with legendary performance and the unique…
  • Available in a premium stepless steel shaft or our Tour proven, multi-material Stroke Lab shaft…
  • Both of these stock options are precisely fitted with a gray DFX Rubber Grip for a…

Odyssey’s White Hot OG Putter is a line of clubs with 20 years of history behind it. The original series set a new standard for the industry regarding putters. The name alone fills many experienced golfers with nostalgia and those new to the sport with intrigue.

There are a number of options to pick from regarding heads with this line up. All of the heads in the White Hot OG Putter series are equipped with their famous White Hot inserts, these golf clubs provide superior sound. The two part urethane technology creates audible feedback proportionate to how hard the ball is struck.

Inserts aside, there are also two different shafts to pick from. A classic steeples steel shaft and one with their Stroke Lab design that maintains perfect weight distribution by make the top most portion of the shaft using graphite. Both shafts come with a curved rubber pistol grip that helps keep the head aligned when you use it.

With all of these features and innovations, its obvious why these putter are a classic looked back on fondly.

PROS

  • impressive precision compared to similar products

  • wide range of shaft and head styles

  • great weight distribution

CONS

  • short

  • small grip

  • costly for beginners

Pinemeadow Excel EGI Hybrid


Pinemeadow Excel EGI Hybrids (Men’s, Right Hand, Graphite, Regular Flex)

  • BIGGER SWEET SPOT: All hybrids feature a nice balance of weight throughout…
  • GRAPHITE SHAFT: Hybrids are equipped with a Pinemeadow Graphite shaft. The…
  • HEADCOVER: All hybrids come with a headcover to protect your club while it…

Hybrids tend to act as jack-of-all-trades in your arsenal, and the Pinemeadow Excel EGI Hybrid is perfect example of that.

Because of it’s center of gravity being lower and farther back, the Excel EEGI Hybrid’s height and distance make it an excellent golf club for hitting of the tee. Taking into account that it’s weight being more evenly dispersed across the face makes it incredibly accurate, it’s understandable as to why so many players have one ready to go in their bags.

PROS

  • good price for quality

  • consistent

  • good height and distance

CONS

  • heavy

  • fragile shaft

  • not good for beginners

How to Choose the Best Golf Clubs

Whether you’re investing in your very first professional golf set, or upgrading from your current one, then it’s important to know what exactly to look for in the best golf clubs.

Budget

This is one of the most important aspects to purchasing new golf clubs. If you’re purchasing from the top brands, then it can turn out to be quite an expensive investment.

Be realistic, especially if you’re new to golf and this is your first set. Set a budget that works for you. You can always upgrade later on, but you don’t want to waste money on something that you may not end up using very often.

Weight

Don’t forget that you’ll have to carry your golf clubs around with you, unless you’ll be using a caddy or golf cart.

If you will be carrying them around, make sure you don’t choose clubs or a bag that are too heavy for you. You don’t want to be so exhausted that you can’t even play the game.

Size

Golf clubs aren’t made to fit everyone perfectly. Make sure you get measured properly, and choose the correct length.

Set

It’s important to determine how many clubs you need and what kind you should be buying. Both of these depend on your playing level and handicap.

Be sure to determine where you’ll be playing and what the conditions are like before choosing a set.

Types of Golf Clubs

The aspect of a golf club that truly sets them apart from each other is the head. They will come in various sizes, shapes, and weights. Let’s take a look at the different types at golf clubs.

Iron

Iron clubs allow you to make long and short-range shots. You can also use these from the tee to right before you make the green. This makes irons versatile.

Irons also give you a wide range of strengths and striking speeds.

Wood

Woods are also known as drivers. These will be the largest heads in your set of golf clubs.

If you need power and distance when teeing off, then woods are your best bet. They are very aerodynamic.

Wedge

There are actually two types of wedges, sand or pitching. A sand wedge will give you what you need to get out of the bunkers. A pitching wedge will help you get onto the green.

Hybrid

A wedge is a more recent development, but they’re a very popular choice. They are especially popular with beginners.

Hybrids combine the features of irons and woods, so you’ll be able to carry around fewer clubs.

Putter

The putter is used on the green, and is used to strike the ball into the hole. Depending on your skill level, this will either be a blade putter or a mallet putter.

Final Thoughts: Which Golf Club is Right for You?

With these golf clubs, you can be sure of better shots and improved gameplay. Your performance on the course will always start with the type of golf club you are using. So, choose carefully!

Featured Image via Pixabay

Knock Knock Jokes For Every Occasion

Knock knock jokes. A classic form of comedy that has withstood the test of time. Knock knock jokes can be witty, silly, groan-inducing, or even weirdly romantic. While you might not see some of the top comedians on Netflix telling knock knock jokes you may find having some of these in your back pocket for a quick laugh is always a good strategy to break the ice.

Best of all, with knock knock jokes, there’s not much to memorize. The jokes follow a simple structure where only the last two lines ever change. Once you can tell one knock knock joke, then you can tell them all!

Ready to learn a few jokes?

Let’s dive in!

Romantic Knock Knock Jokes

You probably never dreamed of telling a romantic knock knock joke, did you? While these jokes aren’t going to make your crush suddenly fall in love with you they might get them to crack a smile, and everyone knows a smile is a fast lane to someone’s heart. You may have to say some of these out loud before they make sense.

Heartwarming:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Olive.”

  • “Olive who?”

  • “Olive you.”

The kiss:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Al.”

  • “Al who?”

  • “Open this door and Al give you a kiss.”

How are you?:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Hawaii.”

  • “Hawaii who?”

  • “I am great! Hawaii you?”

Boyfriend:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Disguise.”

  • “Disguise who?”

  • “Disguise your new boyfriend.”

Eye Rolling Knock-Knock Jokes

The One About the Cow:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Cows go.”

  • “Cows go who?”

  • “No, silly. Cows go ‘moo.’”

The One About the Owl:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Owls say.”

  • “Owls say who?”

  • “Yes they do.”

Another Cow Joke:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Interrupting cow.”

  • “Interrupting…”

  • “MOO!”

The sad one:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Boo.”

  • “Boo who?”

  • “Don’t cry. It’s only a joke.”

Candice comes to visit:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Candice.”

  • “Candice who?”

  • “Candice door open or not?”

Goat:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Goat.

  • “Goat who?”

  • “Goat to the door and find out!”

Stick up!:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Razor.”

  • “Razor who?”

  • “Razor hands up! This is a stickup!”

No Bell:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Nobel.”

  • “Nobel who?”

  • “No bell! That’s why I knocked!”

 

The Unique Jokes You Haven’t Heard

The thing with knock knock jokes is that there are a lot that get reused over and over again. Chances are someone has heard some of the jokes above.

If you really want to blow their socks off with a knock knock joke then try one of these more unique ones below. You will get a laugh and introduce someone to a classic new knock knock joke that they can tell their friends.

Moving On:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Billy.”

  • “Billy who?”

  • “Billy began to cry as he realized his ex-wife had truly moved on and forgotten about him.”

Tank You:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Tank”

  • “Tank who?”

  • “You are welcome!”

Little Old Lady:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Little Old Lady.”

  • “Little Old Lady who?”

  • “Cool! I didn’t know you could yodel!”

Bless You:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Etch.”

  • “Etch who?”

  • “Bless you!”

Don’t waste my time:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Doorbell repairman.”

  • “Doorbell repairman who?”

  • “Listen, I’m busy. Do you want your doorbell fixed or not?”

Beets:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Beets.”

  • “Beets who?”

  • “Beets me!”

Butter:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Butter.”

  • “Butter who?”

  • “Butter let me in!”

Says Who:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Says.”

  • “Says who?”

  • “Says me! That’s who!”

Hip-hop jokes:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Daisy.”

  • “Daisy who?”

  • “Daisy me rollin, they hating…”

You can then sing “Ridin Dirty” by Chamillionaire as long as you feel comfortable.

Grammar is important:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “To.”

  • “To who?”

  • “To whom…”

The more you can condescendingly emphasize this punchline, the better.

Idaho:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Ida”

  • “Ida who?”

  • “I think it’s pronounced Ida-HOE.”

Change Up the Format

Knock knock jokes usually follow a typical format, but there are some that deviate from the usual style. These jokes are great for catching people off guard and putting a unique twist on the typical knock knock joke.

You will keep people on their toes with these jokes.

Flip the script:

  • “I have a great knock knock joke but you have to start.”

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

This is the part where they stare at you until they realize what you have done.

Two in one:

  • “Why did the chicken cross the road?”

  • “Why?”

  • “To get to the village idiot’s house. Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “The chicken.”

This is the part where they stare at you until they realize what you have done.

Finish Your Own Jokes

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Control freak. Okay, now you say, ‘control freak who?’”

Fruit Salad:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Banana.”

  • “Banana who?”

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Banana.”

  • “Banana who?”

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Banana.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Orange.”

  • “Orange who?”

  • “Orange you glad I didn’t say banana?”

Control Freak:

  • “Knock knock.”

  • “Who’s there?”

  • “Control freak.”

  • “Contro…”

  • “This is the part where you say “control freak who?’”

Try Creating Your Own

If you enjoyed those jokes then try sitting down and writing some of your knock knock jokes. The style is simple to emulate and, who knows, you could create the next classic knock knock joke that gets told for years to come.

Featured Image via Pixabay

18 Team Building Games and Activities That Don’t Suck

You may play any number of games and do team-building exercises in the office, and each of these exercises will help your team learn to work together while having fun. You are creating an environment in the office that is a bit more playful than normal, and you will notice that all the different parts of the office may learn to work together using these activities. You may drag your workers out of the office for team building exercises, or they may play these games at their desks. Make them as much fun as possible, and your workers will look forward to this process.

List of Team Building Games

#1: Blindfolded Dodgeball

You can play this game with any number of people you like, but you must have an even number to participate. You will split your office into pairs, and the pairs will play the game together. Your teams will have one person who can see and one person who is blindfolded. The person who is blindfolded has the ball, and they will throw the ball at other groups. They get their direction from the person who can see, and the team that manages to avoid being hit is the winner. This is an easy way to learn to communicate, and it helps your staff learn how to shorten their communications to the most-effective words. You may set a timer, or you may play short games until one team is left standing.

#2: The Book

The book is a common item in the office, and you will place it in the middle of the office where everyone may access it. Anyone who has grievances in the office may bring them to the book. Anyone who has ideas may bring them to the book, and you may check the book to learn how your staff is communicating. They will learn to settle their differences quickly simply because they must be civil in the book. You will settle differences quickly, and you will avoid entanglements that could cause your company to lose much of its productivity. Try the book to help your staff talk, and it may go by the wayside when they all learn how to talk to one another. These team building exercises for work are ongoing for all the people on your staff.

#3: Three Truths One Lie

One of the funniest team building games out there with simple rules: you will write down three truths and one lie on a piece of paper, and the people in your group must figure out which one is the lie. This is a fun ice breaker for the office, and it is a simple game to play because you may sit around a desk. You will get to know the people around you, and you will have fun trying to figure out what the lie is. You will laugh with the people who are sitting around the desk, and you will find that the people in the office learn funny things about one another. This is a bonding experience that will make your work more fun, and you may laugh quite a lot about the things you learn. You may play this game for as long as you want, or you may challenge your team to do it as fast as possible.

#4: Desk Product Logo

Creating a logo and slogan for a random product on your desk is a fun game for your office staff to do. You may put your staff in pairs or trios, and you will find that the people in each group will be quite creative. They will build a new product logo and slogan for this random item, and you will hear wild ideas that you may use in your business going forward. You should not cast aside anything that could be considered the next best idea from your business, and you will learn about the creative minds of the people in your office. This is a simple game to play, and you may do it on a timer in just a few minutes.

#5: Draw Blind

Team building activities for work and communication games are fun only when there is an element of surprise of stress involved. There are many different people who may play this game, and you are free to break your office into as many different teams as you need. The person who is drawing must draw blindfolded, and they are told what to draw through descriptions. Their teammates will tell them what lines and curves to draw, and they will see if they can get close to what the actual image should be. You may play this game in lightning rounds that only take a few minutes to play, or you may play this game as part of your lunch break. Bring food in for everyone, and you may play this game for as long as you like. All you need is a whiteboard, markers and an imagination.

#6: Don’t Step There

This is the classic lava game you may play with the people in your groups, and you may designate tiles on the floor that are hot lava. The people on each team must cross the room, and you will find that they must come up with creative ways to cross the room. They cannot simply jump from one tile to another, and all the people on each team must cross. You may leave the game with no time limit, or you may ask them to complete the game in half an hour. You may make the game even more difficult with every round, and you will find your staff members doing quite a lot of interesting things to cross the room.

#7: Be Resourceful

You may start a short game with your staff members that requires them to be resourceful. You may force the people in the office to make a phone call without a phone, or you may ask them to close a deal without your email account. You must come up with ridiculous tasks for them to complete, and you will learn who works well under pressure and who does not. There are certain people in your office who will perform well simply because you gave them a hard task to complete, and you will find that there are a number of people who cannot do tasks like this. You may send certain people on difficult jobs based on their performance in this game, and you may send other people on simple tasks because you do not want to stress them out. This is a clever way for you to learn how all the people in your office work.

#8: The Traditional Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are quite a lot of fun, and there is not a person in the office who will not enjoy this task. The games may be created for a number of purposes. You will find that you may send your staff on a scavenger hunt for information that is required for your business, or you may send them on a scavenger hunt for information about their colleagues. You may learn quite a lot about the people who work in the office because they are hunting for particular pieces of information, and you will find that the staff members get to know one another simply because they have sought out this information.

The scavenger hunt is quite a lot of fun because you may send your staff on this hunt for the balance of the day, and you may ask them to do this work quickly. You may go so far as to ask your staff to complete the hunt without a phone or computer, and you may choose to ask your staff to find something physical in the building. You may not realize how much time it takes to find some of these things, and you will learn who works the fastest after you have asked everyone to complete these assignments. It is quite important for you to ensure that you have a scavenger hunt that produces good information for the business, and you must be certain that your staff is motivated to finish it. Offer prizes for the winners, and you will learn quite a lot about everyone who works for you.

#9: Do This With One Question

This is one of the most-interesting games you may play in your office, and you will test the problem-solving skills of everyone in your office. You will tell your staff to complete a task in one question. You may think that the tasks are quite hard to finish because they have so many moving parts, and you will find that the task may be completed by someone who maximizes their one question. You may not realize how someone works until you learn which question they ask, and you will watch them complete this process in a team. You need to have a few different people working on the same task, and you will watch teams in your office work together on this game. They will complete a difficult task using one question, and you will be shocked at what they are capable of.

The question game may take only a few moments, or you may give the staff until the end of the day to get the job done. You will find that there are a number of different things your staff members may do during the day to win, and you will learn of a number of creative solutions that were used. You may learn something new from the winning person or team, and you will find that they are asking interesting questions. You want to see who is the most-efficient at using their time, and you will learn who knows how to communicate with others.

This is especially effective on a sales team because a salesman may only ask so many questions before they annoy the customer. Ask your staff to play this game to improve their conversion rate.

#10: Silence

Nonverbal communication is far more effective than verbal communication, and you will find that the office becomes more efficient when your staff is not speaking. They must learn how to communicate with one another in unique ways, and you will find that they are quite good at learning how to speak to one another when they are not allowed to talk. This is a game of gestures, and it helps your staff cut down on the noise in the office. Your office may be quite a loud place, and you will find that the staff is more efficient. They are getting work done that moves the business forward, and they are using less energy. Someone who is not talking during the day will get more done, and you will reduce the noise in the office to a level that is quite low.

The silence game may be tied to other games that your employees are playing. Asking your staff to do their work in silence is a way to value body language, and your staff will learn that the silence they maintain helps them focus. Concentration will improve in the office, and you will see your teams communicate better because they have been asked to be silent. There are quite a few different people who will learn how to use their words less, and you will see your office grow quieter every day imply because you played once game that asked your staff to stop speaking. Play the game all day, play the game for five minutes or use silence as part of another game.

#11: Dream Trip

Dream trip is the perfect activity for a staff that wants to daydream a bit. You are doing much more than taking a dream trip, and you will find that team building activities such as this will help you only when your staff must solve problems. You will start with a dream trip that someone on your staff would love to take. They will show you the trip as they envision it, and you will ask your staff to book the trip in five minutes or less.

There are many complications to get through, and you will find that your staff goes into action hoping to move as fast as possible without wasting any time. This is the game that lets you learn something about the people on your staff, and it is the game that will help you learn how your staff works. The people who complete the tasks will be asked to take a number of steps to get the job done, and you will learn which person is most-capable to complete certain jobs.

#12: Lily Pads

Lily pads is a game that is much like the lava game from earlier. You may play this game with questions at each pad, or you may ask your staff to make their way across the room using only the lily pads. You must ensure that you have taken the time set up a game that does not take much time. You may want to limit this game to an hour so that your staff may get back to work, and you will teach them something about your company or their jobs when they are jumping from one lily pad to the next. You may play this game across your office, or you may play it in the break room. You are asking your staff to participate in something that is fun for them, and you are giving them a good time that cannot be replicated.

#13: Dining Room Challenge

The dining room challenge is a game that allows you to use your lunch break as a team-building exercise. The dining room challenge is quite a lot of fun for people in the room because it allows you to learn about the people who work with you. The dining room challenge is a game where you ask everyone in the room to order for the person next to them. These people are trying to get as close to their preferred meal as possible, and you will see who comes the closest. It is fun to know what someone would order ina. Restaurant, and your team will grow closer simply because you all know these simple facts about each other.

#14: What’s in My Coffee

What’s in my coffee is a game that helps you place coffee orders in the morning, but you play it much like the dating game. You are guessing what your partner puts in their coffee, and they have it written down on a card. They will reveal their favorite things to put in coffee, and you will learn who is the closest. This game only takes a minute, but it is one of those team building exercises that anyone can do. You are allowing to learn more about one another, and you will find that someone in the office is ready to take everyone’s coffee order.

#15: Tug Of War

Tug of war is easy to play with one rope and the length of your office. You need to split your office into two teams, and you will find that they are prepared to fight to the death in some cases. The people who are in your office working every day are learning how to work together through the games you have them play, and this game will give you a number of opportunities to learn how they work in teams. You are learning just as much as your staff, and you will find that they are willing to work very hard to pull a flag across a line. This may seem like a simple game, but five minutes of tug of war will go quite a way to building your team.

#16: Exercise Challenge

The exercise challenge is a simple way to get your staff to get in shape. The people that work for you may be tasked with walking so many miles per week, or you may ask them to go on a run as a team. You are building a group that knows how to work together, and team building exercises for work that get everyone into shape are worth every second they take. You may send everyone off for a walk during lunch, or you may give everyone a pedometer to see who walks the farthest during the week. This is a fun challenge that sees your employees comparing themselves to others, and they will have fun trying to be the person who walks the farthest.

#17: Once Upon a Time

This game might be more on the silly side, but builds cohesion none the less. The idea is simple, get the team to work together to make a story. Gather everyone around in a circle and chose someone to start. The first person start by saying “Once upon a time” then the next person clockwise makes up a sentence. Going around the circle one by one everyone adds a sentence to the story. After everyone has gone once around the circle, make the game a bit more difficult by changing to rule to: adding only a single word to the story. An example would be, “the”, “girl”, “was”, “sent”, “to”, “Tokyo”, “for”, “work”. This game is simple, fun, and gets everyone involved. This works great as a team building game, but also as an icebreaker!

#18: Sales Challenge

The sales challenge is the last on the list, and it is a challenge that will see your staff vying to be the person who reaches a sales goal the fastest. You will see these people work quite hard on new selling tactics, and you will notice that they are increasing their productivity in the process. You may learn a new sales technique that is helpful for the office, and you may put your staff in teams. Someone on each team may give their teammates a better selling strategy, and they will work hard on that strategy hoping to win. This may go on for a day, a week or a month. You may allow the employees to do the challenge alone, and you will find that certain people have a gift for sales while others do not.

Team Building Games Final Thoughts

These team-building activities and team building games will take your business or group quite a long way going forward. You may show your workers and peers how to function as a team, and they will learn about each other as you send them more games to play. Put each of these 18 games in a rotation, and you will never bore the people who work for you or those you want to come together. They will happily play along, and they will learn something new every time you roll out a new game or activity. This is your opportunity to learn about the staff while they learn about themselves. Make sure you check out our list of 51 team icebreakers as well as our list of indoor team building games.

Featured Image via Pixabay

Inflatable Games

Summer is here and, if you’re like every other parent, you’re looking for fun stuff to do with the kids. Well, worry no more! Some of the best and easiest games to play are inflatable, making them not only lightweight and ideal but also easy to tote and store.

Whether you want to enjoy the great outdoors or you’re looking for something to do in a large indoor space, inflatable games don’t require any additional props, and no table will be needed.

Inflatable games are perfect for family reunions, picnics, camping trips, parties, family game night, or just for keeping the kids entertained during the summer break.

We’ve taken some time to do the research and we found 10 of the best inflatable games that you might want to consider for your summer fun.

#1 Inflatable Dice


GoSports Giant 2 Foot Inflatable Dice for Dice Games | Jumbo Size with…

  • GIANT SIZE Dice inflate to giant 2′ x 2′ x 2′ size
  • SUPERSIZE ANY DICE GAME Bring extra fun to any dice game with these jumbo dice
  • RAPID VALVE INFLATION Inflate and deflate each die in under a minute

Wouldn’t it be fun if you could play a game of dice outside? With these inflatable dice, you can!

This set of six sturdy vinyl dice stand at 12-inches tall and comes in blue, green, red, yellow, orange, and purple.

The dice are versatile enough that they can be used for any cool dice game; help the kids with color recognition or play math games; you can even use them for team building activities.

Pull the family together for a competitive game of yard Yahtzee and watch these dice in action.

You’ve never played Yahtzee before? No problem, here’s how you play:

Supplies:
Rules:

The rules of this game are simple enough that everyone can play.

Using only five of the six dice, the first person rolls the dice. The idea is to fill in all the spaces on your score card. For example, you will try to roll all ones, twos, threes, fours, fives, and sixes. If you roll all five of one number you will get a Yahtzee giving you 50 points! You will also want to try for three or four of a kind, full house, small and large straight, and a chance when you have nothing else to keep.

Each person gets three rolls, and with each roll, they can keep what they want and roll the rest or throw them all back in and try again. The last roll counts because you will have to take a score, so make sure it’s a good one!

#2 Intex Inflatable 36″ Giant Tire Tubes


Intex Inflatable 36″ Giant Tire Tubes for Swimming Pool/Lake/Ocean (6…

  • Get on the road to summer fun with the Intex giant tire tubes
  • Great for lakes, pools, rivers, the ocean or anywhere on the water
  • Designed for 1 adult rider on each tube

Although these 36-inch inflatable tire tubes are designed for the water, that makes them tough enough to also use in an obstacle course.

If you’re planning an event for the younger kids, you might want to consider setting up a safe obstacle course. Set up these six sturdy tires and let the kids run through them just like the grown-up obstacles except these tires won’t cause any bruises.

You can also incorporate them into a relay race by giving each team a tire and making them roll it to the line and back.

If you wish to use these tires for their intended purpose then you will need to know that they are designed for one adult rider on each tube and no one under 9 years old should use them in the water.

#3 Bumper Balls


Bumper Balls 2 Pack, Inflatable Body Zorb Ball, Bubble Soccer Balls

  • [Durable & Long-term Use] The 2pcs bumper balls are made of high-quality & thickening 0.9mm PVC, durable, waterproof, non-toxic and odorless. human bubble ball featured with excellent wear resistance and tear resistance, designed for long-term use.
  • [Suitable for Children and Adults] The zorb balls supports weight to 240 lbs, which suitable for a wide range of age groups and fitness levels, both adults and kids can enjoy to bounce, flip, roll over and bump together freely.
  • [Safe & Ergonomic Design] Equipped with 2 handles and 2 adjustable shoulder straps, the player can tightly grab it to keep inside. The body bubble balls will give your body enough protection.
  • [Easy to Use] Our inflatable bumper balls can be easily inflated by electric pump or air pump in 3-5 minutes.(Pump is not included) The bumper ball can be deflated and it is collapsible and super convenient to carry.
  • [For Various Places] Widely used in backyard, park, beach, playing center. Playing games like Bubble Soccer, Bull rush and Last One Standing. Adult supervision is required while children using these human hamster balls.

Bring your sparing to a whole new level with this inflatable game.

This game provides hours of outdoor fun for all ages with this durable high quality thick bumper balls.

Consider playing with these tournament style at your next family reunion. Make matchups and fight against one another. Draw a circle on the grass. The first one to fall or step out of the circle loses. Then pit the winners against one another until you have an ultimate champion.

Set a time limit or set a certain amount of games to finalize the scores, you can mix up the variations however you want. Parents can compete against the kids or let the boys compete with the girls at the next birthday party.

No matter which way you choose to play, this game will sure to be a hit!

#4 Jumbo Inflatable Ring Toss


Inflatable Ring Toss Game by Gamie

  • HAVE A BLAST: This mega fun ring toss games includes (5) 15” tall inflates, (5)” diameter flexible rings, and (5) sturdy neon carnival rings. This makes one of the most fun outdoor and indoor games for kids and adults, and is perfect for adding a carnival feel to any party.
  • FUN AND CHALLENGING: This is that inflatable ring toss game your family will never grow tired of. Not only does it work as one of the best indoor & outdoor yard games, but the inflatable bases and rings can all float, allowing you to place them in a pool and create a water ring toss game that will make for hours of incredible fun.
  • IMPROVES MOTOR SKILLS: The aiming nature of these outdoor lawn games hones the little ones’ motor skills and dexterity, improving their hand-eye condition all while having an incredible blast. These carnival games for kids also encourage them to get out of the house and get active.
  • STAYS IN PLACE: The (5) 15” tall inflates are weighted with bean bags to keep them standing sturdily upright whether placed on the ground or floating on water. And with the set designed in vibrantly bright shades, these carnival party games will add some cheer to any setting.
  • ENJOY QUALITY FAMILY TIME: The whole family can get in on the action and create fond memories alongside all the fun. These fun games for kids and adults can accommodate 2-5 players and are suitable for players aged 4 and up. Click ‘Add to Cart’ now!

You don’t need to go to the carnival to win a game of ring toss when you can play it right in your backyard!

Gather the kids and get the grandparents for a competition against the generations.

It’s simple to play and lightweight to handle. Split everyone into two teams. Each person gets to take turns with their opponent throwing their rings. Score 5, 10, 15, 20, or 25 points by ringing the target. Ring the center and get 50 points!

You can be creative with the points especially when playing with small children. If no one makes a ring, give the person closest 5 points. You can also cancel each other out by ringing the same target as your opponent. There are so many creative ways to play ring toss.

#5 Inflatable Limbo Summer Party Game


Inflatable Limbo Summer Party Game

  • Limbo Party Game includes: 2 inflatable poles (5.75ft), 1 inflatable limbo stick (6ft), a patch kit, and instructions
  • For best results, fill the entire base with either water or sand. Do this by using the larger valve on the bottom -…
  • Make sure that the posts are inflated all the way so that the pegs along the sides can support the stick

At some point in your life you’ve probably done the limbo or at the least, you’ve watched it. Why not incorporate it into your next birthday bash?

You no longer need a broomstick, and everyone can participate because this inflatable set will stand alone.

It comes with a 6-foot inflatable stick that hooks onto two inflatable poles. Just add water or sand to the base of the poles for added security and you’re all set! This game even comes with a patch kit just in case someone gets a little rough.

Once you have the game set up, crank up some limbo dance music and start the line. With the stick placed on the very top rung of the poles, each person must go one at a time through the poles without touching the stick. When everyone has been through once the stick is lowered to the next rung and each person takes another turn through. The dance continues with the stick being lowered each round. If a person touches any parts of the stick or poles, or they fall to the floor, they are out. The last person left in the limbo wins.

This party game offers everything you need to keep the crowd excited.

#6 Zastic! Giant Inflatable Kick Darts Soccer Ball Board Game


Zastic! Giant Inflatable Kick Darts Soccer Ball Board Game

  • ⚽ A PERFECT CHOICE: Looking for a way of making sure your little ones spend some quality time outdoors instead of countless hours in front of the computer? Engage the whole family in a wonderful activity with this kick darts game!
    🎯 PREMIUM QUALITY MATERIALS: This dart board for kids is made with superior quality, highly durable 12-gauge vinyl and sturdy, leak-free valves guaranteed to withstand the test of time even with hyperactive kids!
    ⚽ WHAT’S INCLUDED: This outdoor darts game includes everything you need for a user-friendly, complete and fun experience, with an inflatable dartboard measuring 6′ 10″ x 4′ 3″ x 6′ 6″, 4kick balls that stick to the target plus a convenient air pump!
    🎯 ENHANCED STABILITY: Unlike similar products on the market, this dart board for kids features an innovative design which allows you to fill the base with water, ensuring optimal stability of the board and high resistance for powerful kicks!
    ⚽ A THOUGHTFUL PRESENT: Order this outdoor play equipment as a wonderful present idea for your kids’ birthday, name day, Christmas or other special occasion and make sure they enjoy a fun outdoor activity with their friends or loved ones!

This inflatable floating game is constructed with a heavy gauge vinyl with a speed safety valve. It includes two blue and two red balls that can be thrown or kicked onto the target of the 6’10 x 6’6x playing surface.

Get your family together and play teams. Red team and blue team. Take turns kicking your teams ball onto the surface and take down your scores. Whichever team scores the most points wins!

This game can be anchored and played in any backyard.

#8 Dom CE510 Giant Get Knotted Inflatable Game


DOM Giant Get Knotted Inflatable Game, Set Includes Game Mat, 8 Stakes…

  • Game includes 1 giant 10′ x 10′ size playing mat
  • 2 giant inflatable dice
  • Latex free

Similar to the game of Twister, this game can be played outdoors with up to thirty people.

The 10 x 10-foot playing mat is covered in bright colors and the two giant inflatable dice make this game a hoot.

Just spread the mat out onto the ground. Each person starts by standing in front of two colors. Someone on the sidelines should be chosen to roll the giant dice. One die reveals a body part and the other die reveals the color. At that point, each person must follow the directions of the combined dice. When a person falls to the ground they are eliminated. The last person standing wins the game. It’s as simple as that and fun to play.

Don’t get stuck in the middle of a bad twist!

#9 Jumbo Inflatable Bowling Set


Giggle N Go Kids Bowling Set Indoor Games or Outdoor Games for Kids

  • HILARIOUS OUTDOOR GAMES FOR KIDS, perfect indoor or outdoor games for family or kids party games. it’s lightweight and easy to carry. wonderful games for kids to play and uses no electricity. this giant inflatable bowling set is sure to get your kids off the couch, get some exercise, and develop their hand/eye coordination, balance, and some friendly competition
  • SAND WEIGHTED BOTTOM, yes, thats right, our flat sand weighted base provides just enough weight to keep the pins standing even in light wind while playing some lawn games, but not too much to prevent them from being knocked over when struck by the ball
  • MADE IN A STRONGER QUALITY PVC, customer satisfaction is always our number 1 priority, so a high quality PVC was chosen to make our giant bowling set. whether you love to play indoor games or outdoor games, its most important to us that our kids inflatable toys exceed your expectations
  • BOWLING SET INCLUDES 6 giant inflatable bowling pins measuring 27″ tall, and one inflatable bowling ball measuring 24 ” in diameter, all made of durable PVC plastic. our kids outdoor toys also includes a repair patch and hand pump
  • Giggle N Go, customer satisfaction is our number 1 priority. All Giggle N Go products come with a 1 year product replacement warranty.

This giant game provides ten 27-inch high inflatable PVC pins and one 45cm inflatable ball. The pins offer extra stability with their clever cardboard bottoms.

Set this game up outside and play it just like any other game of bowling. Each player will compete for the most points by taking turns knocking down the pins. It can be played the standard way of bowling by throwing the ball twice on each turn and using the scoring system adding up strikes and spares, or just simply keep score tallying up how many pins each person knocks down.

This game will be a surefire hit at your next family outing!

With these nine inflatable game choices, you shouldn’t have any problem finding the right ones that will please every member of the family. Check out these other great outdoor games.

Featured Image via Pixabay

Best Cornhole Boards

Cornhole is a fun, simple game that can be played by two to four players of any ages. The game consists of throwing corn-filled bags at special boards with a hole in it to score points by landing bags on the board or through the hole. The great thing about this game is that it can be played almost anywhere. If you have two people, a board (although four are recommended), bags, and a flat surface you’re ready to go.

Maybe you want to get your own board to play while tailgating or for entertainment while having a BBQ in your backyard. The good news is that acquiring the equipment you need is easy. There are many manufacturers of boards and bags, and you can choose from a ton of designs. This article will go over the best cornhole boards out there to help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s go!

Viva Sol Bean Bag Toss Game


Viva Sol 2’x4’ Bean Bag Toss Game Includes 2 Premium All-Wood Bean…

  • Premium All-Wood, Bean Bag Toss Boards – Regulation-Size (2’ x 4’)
  • Portable with Folding Legs, Nesting Boards, and Heavy-Duty Rope Handle
  • Thick Metal Legs Add Stability and Store Under the Board for Portability

The first board on our list is one that is composed of high-quality materials and an aesthetic that is sure to be loved. This offering comes with two boards, both of which are all-wood and regulation size. It’s beautiful, sleek design gives a classy and professional feel to an otherwise low barrier to entry game. You also get eight bean bags, along with a carrying bag to transport them in. The boards themselves are pretty attractive with a light walnut wood used throughout.

As far as portability goes, these boards do what they need to do. The legs of the boards detach and can be stored underneath, then the boards themselves nest together to be carried by a rope handle. So, essentially, you have everything stored in between the two boards while you take them wherever you need to go. However, being all wood, they may be a bit heavy so keep that in mind if you choose to purchase this particular set. Heavy, in this case, however, is a show of their high quality.

These boards are made for outdoor use but are not entirely waterproof. It’s suggested that you store them indoors to keep them from getting weathered. It seems that with the wooden boards these will be durable and able to stand up to abuse. In addition, if you prefer a board that isn’t covered in decals, this is a beautiful choice that is likely to be loved.

PROS

  • Two-tone all wood design is high-quality and aesthetically pleasing

  • Underside of board features a pouch to store bean bags

  • Portable by virtue of rope handle, folding legs, and nesting board design

  • Regulation size board which is preferred by many players

CONS

  • This board is not waterproof, so it will need to be stored somewhere safe

GoSports Cornhole Bean Bag Toss


Go Pong CornHole Bean Bag Toss Game Set, Football Edition

  • TAILGATE SIZE: Full corn hole set includes 2 ‘tailgate’ size (3 feet x 2 feet) corn hole boards, 8 all-weather…
  • EVENT DAY FAVORITE: Hours of fun with friends and family at tailgates, holiday weekends, cookouts, campsites, and more
  • STURDY DESIGN: Features composite MDF surface with high-strength aluminum frame that is durable for play yet lightweight…

GoSports is the second brand we recognize with a set that includes two boards, eight bean bags, and a carrying case. These boards are made with high strength aluminum frames, along with a water-resistant MDF (medium density fiberboard) surface. These boards come in a variety of styles, but the one we’re focused on resembles a football field. It’s green and white, with an end zone that allows for decals. That means you can get a sticker that represents your favorite team in order to customize your board. However, other designs include red and blue, original, American flag, and even a light-up edition.

These boards fold up flat and come with a carrying case with handles. In addition, these are rather lightweight and easy to carry. That said, they are a bit smaller than regulation. However, if you’re playing at home casually or bringing you board to a tailgating event, the size is actually an asset. You can easily use them in the bed of a truck and moving them from house to new location isn’t likely to be stressful. These are the perfect boards to use for travel games and events. Just right for the party goer and activity planner.

The bags that come with the boards are made from premium duck cloth fabric with an all-weather fill. This is a type of fabric made to block the wind and avoid snagging and tearing. These bags are likely to last a long time, no matter how often you use your new corn hole boards.

PROS

  • Water resistant surface leads to higher durability

  • Customizable end zones so you can represent your favorite team

  • Includes a carrying case for easy portability

  • Fully customizable with team decals

CONS

  • Smaller than regulation for more comfortable tailgating, but some prefer regulation

Driveway Games All Weather Bean Bag Game


Driveway Games All Weather Cornhole Set. Regulation Corn Toss Boards &…

  • ALL WEATHER CORNHOLE GAME SET – This cornhole game set includes 2 weatherproof regulation-size cornhole boards (2×4…
  • WEATHERPROOF – Waterproof cornhole boards won’t warp in humidity or rain, unlike wooden corn hole boards. Use on any…
  • ALL-WEATHER CORNHOLE BAGS – Includes 8 regulation-size (6 x 6 inch), official weight (14 oz) cornhole bean bags….

Driveway Games brings all-weather cornhole boards in a variety of colors. The boards are the official size and come with carrying handles for easy transport. The boards also include a built-in locking bag storage area. You can get them in white, bright pink, and vibrant orange. These are likely to be popular for those who play at night or for people who have less than perfect vision. Their solid colors are a perfect canvas for any decals or stickers you, your family, and your friends.

In addition to the two boards that you get with this set, you also get eight bags which comes in two colors. The game set also comes with instructions for setup and instruction for playing the game. Just as with the boards, the bags are all-weather, making it a great game for playing no matter the weather outside.

This game is made to be friendly for all ages, and the boards are eye catching for young eyes. You will likely have no problem getting the children to join in on a game once you pull out the boards and explain the simple instructions for play. This board set is perfect for beginning players. Your entire family can get in on the action and have a fun, new hobby for family night.

PROS

  • Comes in various colors, including orange or pink for eye-catching play

  • All weather design and construction makes caring for boards easy

  • Carry handles and bag storage make for easy transport

  • #1 selling all weather bean bags come with boards

CONS

  • Those used to wood boards may need to get used to new board material

GoSports Cornhole Pro-Regulation LED Bean Bag Toss


GoSports LED Light Up Cornhole Set, Regulation Size

  • BUILT IN LED RINGS: Take the fun of cornhole from day to night for more fun and challenging gameplay at the flip of a…
  • REGULATION SIZE: Full cornhole set includes 2 regulation size (4 feet x 2 feet) cornhole boards for authentic gameplay,…
  • EVENT DAY FAVORITE: Impress guests and entertain for hours into the night at tournaments, tailgates, holiday weekends,…

If you’re looking for something a bit different than the traditional corn hole board, GoSports brings the LED light-up edition. This game set comes with two boards, each of which is regulation size. It also comes with LED rings, eight bean bags, as well as instructions for playing corn hole.

This system is rather lightweight and has features to make it portable. The boards fold in half to transport them quickly, as well as offering two legs that fold out for play or under for storage. The bags are also lightweight but durable and made from all-weather duck cloth. You won’t need to upgrade in order to play. Just set up the boards, pull out the bags, and enjoy a game.

With the LED lights, you’ll find something new and unique in this set of boards. The lights are rings that go around the holes in the board, with 38 LEDs on each board. If you end up in a late night game and don’t want to stop, you can just stick on the lights and keep going as long as you want. It will make it easier to play when it’s dark if you don’t have other lights available. If you are looking to modify your board and feel up to the challenge, you could replace these LED lights with others that you can program when you score!

PROS

  • Built in LED rings allow easy and fun night play

  • Comes with eight high quality, official bean bags

  • Regulation size board that can be folded for portability

  • Water resistant surface for durability and use in any weather

CONS

  • Does not include a carrying case, so one may need to be purchased

Custom Cornhole Boards American Flag


GoSports Regulation Size Solid Wood Cornhole Set – American Flag…

  • 100 percent SOLID WOOD: Premium handcrafted boards with oak surfaces, varnished with American Flag graphics that allow…
  • REGULATION SIZE: Full cornhole set includes 2 regulation size (4 feet x 2 feet) cornhole boards for authentic gameplay,…
  • PATRIOTIC FUN: Vintage inspired oak cornhole boards varnished with the American Flag – the Stars and Stripes design is…

Custom Cornhole Boards brings a unique type of board to the market with hand build boards made in the United States. The set comes with two boards, a set of eight bars and an instructional card. These boards are delivered fully assembled and are ready to play right out of the box. No worrying about assembling here, you can get a game going as soon as you get your package.

These boards do come in regulation size and have been ACA certified. They are constructed from white spruce/SPF wood with a half inch birch plywood top. The holes are drilled by laser template and have a pocket hole design that hides screw holes on the back of the boards. These boards are meant to be durable and are likely to last you a very long time. The materials used are high quality, and the company makes them specifically for long term use.

The design on this particular board is that of an American flag, allowing for a bit of patriotism to show through in every game. It’s a rustic design that mainly features red, white, and blue with stars on the top half and stripes on the bottom half. Those who want to show off their USA spirit will likely enjoy the combination of American style and USA artistry that these boards bring.

PROS

  • Hand built wooden boards made in the United States

  • Boards are made from elite grade wood and materials

  • Regulation size boards that have been ACA certified

  • Folding legs for easier transportation

  • Laser cut holes with high-quality birch wood

CONS

  • Quite substantial, may not be easy to transport

There you have it! If you are ready to get your game on at a professional level, these regulation corn hole boards are right where you need to start! We have hand picked our favorites, the best, and the top rated boards you can find online. Consider playing tournament style at your next backyard barbeque just to show off your new spiffy boards!

Thanks for checking out the best cornhole boards. Make sure you check out our other fun games.