At a certain point in your cornhole playing career, you’ll notice two distinct cornhole bag types: corn and resin.
Traditionally the game is played with corn-filled bags, which you throw into a hole.
Hence the name, ‘cornhole’.
However, as the game has developed over the years, the bag has been updated.
Many new cornhole kits come with resin-filled bags.
This may seem like just a subtle difference, but the bag type can seriously affect the quality of play of some cornhole enthusiasts.
So, which is better, corn-filled bags or resin-filled bags?
Corn-Filled Cornhole Bags
If you’ve played cornhole for a number of decades, corn-filled bags are likely the only option for you.
Cornhole was invented by corn farmers, who filled bags with the one material they had a large supply of – corn!
Filled with whole-kernel corn, these bags have a distinct feeling to them.
If you’re a cornhole traditionalist, switching to resin-filled bags may simply not be an option for you!
The pros of corn-filled cornhole bags
The pros of corn-filled cornhole bags include:
Minimal bounce
While resin-filled bags may be prone to bouncing on the board, corn-filled cornhole bags are less likely to bounce once they hit the cornhole board.
This is considered an advantage when playing cornhole.
Wears in overtime
Through continued use, corn-filled bags tend to wear in.
This is due to the corn gradually breaking down, giving the bag a more sturdy feeling overall.
Many cornhole players prefer this sturdiness for gameplay, as it makes the bags easier to grip.
Creates corn dust
Corn dust is created as the corn breaks down.
Whenever you throw a well-used corn-filled bag at the board, you’ll likely see some dust escaping.
While this may be considered a drawback for some, the dust helps the bag to slide better when on the board.
Cheaper
Although they may be harder to find nowadays, most corn-filled bags are sold cheaper than those filled with resin.
The cons of corn-filled cornhole bags
The reason resin-filled bags were introduced was to resolve many of the following cons:
Can grow mold and mildew
When damp, mold and mildew can thrive inside a corn-filled bag.
Rain can speed up the molding process, which is why corn-filled bags aren’t recommended for all weather.
Some modern bags contain freeze-dry corn, which can limit mold.
Damp corn-filled bags tend to develop a smell after a while, partly thanks to the mildew that can thrive inside.
In order to reduce the risk of mold forming, you’ll have to keep your corn bags in a sealed container.
BUGS!
If you use your corn bags heavily – especially in wet conditions – you may find your bags infested with bugs.
Corn weevils hatch eggs in any area where mold and mildew thrive.
A damp corn-filled bag makes perfect living conditions for several bugs.
Resin-Filled Cornhole Bags
If you’re looking for a new cornhole set today, the bags that come with it will likely be resin-filled.
These bags contain small plastic resin beads, which are more durable than traditional cornhole bag filling.
The pros of resin-filled bags
While some cornhole purists will argue opting for resin fill doesn’t provide the same play experience, there are many benefits of resin over kernel corn.
This includes the following:
Weather resistant
These bean bags can be used in all weather, and are unlikely to develop mold and mildew.
They can also be stored more flexibly than bags featuring a corn filling.
Durable
Although some may prefer the broken-in feeling of a well-used corn-filled bag, resin-fill bags are definitely more durable.
Some players prefer resin as they stay the same.
The resin inside does not break down over time, which maintains the shape and also ensures they remain dust-free.
Minimal dust
Although dust is arguably a good thing, too much dust can be dangerous.
Resin bags create minimal dust, so are therefore safer.
The cons of resin bags
The drawbacks include:
Don’t slide as well
Being dust-free, bags featuring plastic beads do not slide as well.
They bounce
The plastic beads cause the bags to bounce on cornhole boards, which isn’t ideal for the game.
eXPENSIVE
Most modern cornhole sets come with resin bags and are all priced higher than traditional sets featuring corn kernels.
Bad for the environment
One drawback of resin-based bags is that they are worse for the environment than corn.
Similarities Between Resin and Corn Filled Bags
While there’s a lot that makes them different, there are several aspects of both bag types that makes them similar.
For example:
Cornhole bag weight
All cornhole bags should be between 15 to 16 ounces.
Whether you’re playing professionally or just for fun, you’ve got to ensure that all bag types are the same weight.
The weight is essential for throwing and also for sliding.
Regardless of what bag type you’re using, your cornhole bag won’t be much use if it is either under or overweight.
Cornhole bag size
Ideally, your cornhole bags should be 6 inches by 6 inches.
To ensure a fair game of cornhole, you should ensure that all cornhole bags are the same size.
Cornnhole bag material
While the bag filler can be different, the outer fabric that makes the bag itself should be the same.
Professional cornhole bags are made using one side duck cloth material and a microfiber cloth material on the other side.
While the duck cloth side allows the bag to slide easier on the board, the microfiber side allows the bag to make an immediate stop.
On cornhole bags found in more basic game sets, you may find that both sides of the bag are made using duck cloth.
A heavy cotton fabric, duck cloth is a highly durable material.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between resin and corn, it’s a matter of personal preference.
Both allow you to play cornhole successfully, but each has its own benefits.
While corn bags may slide better and have a better feel overall, plastic resin bags are more durable and weather resistant.