If you’re serious about darts, then investing in one of the **top rated dartboard surrounds** is crucial to protecting your walls and flooring from errant throws. This article will guide you through the best options available, helping you choose the perfect surround to suit your needs and budget.
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Why You Need Dartboard Surrounds
Before diving into the best dartboard surrounds, let’s discuss why they’re so important. Simply put, they act as a buffer zone, preventing damage from missed darts. Without a surround, you’ll quickly find your walls riddled with holes, leading to costly repairs. A good surround also provides a more professional and enjoyable darting experience. They also improve your dart game, as the reduced fear of hitting the wall encourages you to go for more difficult shots. Investing in **dartboard protection** is always a good idea!
Furthermore, a dartboard surround enhances the aesthetics of your game room or dedicated dart area. It provides a clean, finished look that complements your dartboard and overall setup. No more unsightly holes or patches on your walls – a surround keeps everything looking neat and professional. Ultimately, it contributes to a more immersive and enjoyable darting experience.
What to Look for in Top Rated Dartboard Surrounds
Choosing the right dartboard surround can seem daunting, but focusing on a few key features will simplify the process. Here are the crucial aspects to consider:
- Material: The most common materials are high-density foam (EVA foam) and flocked fiberboard. EVA foam is durable, lightweight, and offers excellent protection. Flocked fiberboard provides a more traditional look and feel.
- Size & Coverage: Ensure the surround provides adequate coverage around the dartboard. Standard sizes are typically around 2-3 inches thick and cover a significant area beyond the board’s edge.
- Fit & Installation: Look for surrounds that are easy to install and fit snugly around your dartboard. Some surrounds simply slip over the board, while others may require mounting brackets.
- Durability: A durable surround will withstand repeated impacts and maintain its shape over time. Check reviews and look for materials that are known for their resilience. Consider how often you play – more frequent play will warrant a higher durability.
- Aesthetics: Choose a surround that complements your dartboard and room decor. They come in various colors and styles to match your personal taste.
Top Rated Dartboard Surrounds: Our Recommendations
Based on our research and user reviews, here are some of the best dartboard surrounds currently available:
Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 Dartboard Surround
The Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 surround is a popular choice among serious dart players. It’s made from high-density EVA foam, providing excellent protection and durability. It’s designed to fit snugly around the Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 dartboard, but it also works well with many other standard-sized boards. Its sleek, black design complements most dart setups. You might consider the Choose Best Dart Equipment to maximize your dart setup.
Pros: Excellent protection, durable, sleek design.
Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
Viper Defender III Dartboard Surround
The Viper Defender III is another top contender, known for its affordability and effectiveness. This surround is made from a robust EVA foam that effectively absorbs impacts. It’s also reversible, offering two color options (typically black and blue) to match your preference. It’s a great option for both casual and serious players. It offers excellent value for money, making it a popular choice.
Pros: Affordable, reversible, good protection.
Cons: May not be as aesthetically refined as some higher-end options.
Winmau Dartboard Surround
Winmau offers a range of dartboard surrounds, known for their quality and durability. Their surrounds are typically made from high-density EVA foam and feature a clean, modern design. Winmau surrounds are a popular choice among professional dart players and enthusiasts alike. They offer a premium feel and excellent performance.
Pros: High quality, durable, professional look.
Cons: Can be one of the pricier options.
IgnatGames Dartboard Surround
The IgnatGames dartboard surround presents a fantastic and stylish option for players looking to safeguard their surrounding area. Constructed from robust and shock-absorbent materials, it effectively absorbs the impact of errant darts, ensuring walls remain pristine. Its lightweight design makes installation a breeze, fitting securely around standard dartboards without any hassle. The IgnatGames surround is an excellent choice, combining protection and aesthetic appeal.
Pros: Easy installation, reliable protection, contemporary design.
Cons: While robust, it might not offer the same level of protection as some of the thicker, premium surrounds for very heavy use.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
When selecting **dartboard surrounds**, size and fit are paramount. You need a surround that adequately covers the area around your dartboard to protect your walls effectively. Most surrounds are designed to fit standard-sized dartboards, but it’s always best to double-check the dimensions before purchasing.
Consider the thickness of the surround as well. A thicker surround will generally provide better protection, especially if you tend to have a lot of stray darts. Also, make sure the surround fits snugly around your dartboard. A loose fit can compromise its effectiveness and make it more likely to shift during play. Some surrounds come with mounting brackets to ensure a secure fit. Also, consider if you need extra accessories to ensure perfect dartboard alignment.
Installation Tips for Your New Surround
Installing your new dartboard surround is usually a straightforward process, but here are a few tips to ensure a smooth installation:
- Read the instructions: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before beginning installation.
- Clean the area: Make sure the area around your dartboard is clean and free of debris.
- Align the surround: Carefully align the surround with your dartboard before securing it in place.
- Use mounting brackets (if necessary): If your surround comes with mounting brackets, use them to ensure a secure fit.
- Test the fit: Once installed, test the fit by throwing a few darts to make sure the surround is securely in place.
Maintaining Your Dartboard Surround
To keep your **top rated dartboard surrounds** in good condition, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Clean regularly: Wipe down the surround with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the material.
- Protect from sunlight: Avoid exposing the surround to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause fading.
- Repair minor damage: If you notice any minor damage, such as small tears or dents, repair them promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your dartboard surround and keep it looking its best. Even something as simple as regular cleaning can help prevent the build-up of dust and dirt, which can degrade the material over time.
The Impact of Dartboard Surrounds on Your Game
Investing in a dartboard surround isn’t just about protecting your walls; it can also positively impact your game. A surround provides a visual boundary that helps you focus on the target. It can also reduce distractions and create a more professional and enjoyable darting environment. In turn, this reduces stress while playing, improving your technique.
Furthermore, a surround can boost your confidence. Knowing that your walls are protected allows you to take more risks and experiment with different throwing techniques. This can lead to improved accuracy and consistency over time. Don’t underestimate the psychological benefits of having a safe and secure darting setup. Also, don’t forget the value you can get from Budget vs Premium Darts Compared.
Beyond Protection: Other Benefits of Dartboard Surrounds
While the primary function of a dartboard surround is protection, it also offers several other benefits:
- Noise reduction: Surrounds can help dampen the sound of darts hitting the board, which can be especially helpful if you live in an apartment or have sensitive neighbors.
- Professional appearance: A surround adds a touch of professionalism to your dart setup, making it feel more like a legitimate game room.
- Enhanced focus: The visual boundary created by a surround can help you focus on the target and reduce distractions.
Alternatives to Traditional Dartboard Surrounds
While EVA foam and flocked fiberboard surrounds are the most common options, there are also some alternatives to consider:
- Cork boards: Cork boards can provide decent protection, but they may not be as durable as EVA foam or flocked fiberboard.
- DIY solutions: Some people choose to create their own dartboard surrounds using materials like plywood or foam padding.
- Dartboard cabinets: Dartboard cabinets offer protection and storage, but they can be more expensive than traditional surrounds.
Ultimately, the best alternative depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the level of protection you require, and the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Always check for **quality dart equipment** options.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Dartboard Surround for Your Needs
Selecting from the **top rated dartboard surrounds** is an investment in protecting your home and enhancing your dart-playing experience. By considering factors such as material, size, fit, durability, and aesthetics, you can find the perfect surround to suit your needs. Whether you opt for a high-density foam surround like the Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 or a more affordable option like the Viper Defender III, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying countless hours of darting fun without worrying about damaging your walls.
Don’t wait any longer to protect your walls and elevate your dart game! Research the options, read reviews, and choose a dartboard surround that meets your needs and budget. You’ll be glad you did. So, start playing, protect your walls, and get started improving your game today!
Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.