What is a dartboard surround?
When the dart misses the dartboard, the frustration often extends beyond losing points – damaged walls and furniture can be the result. To prevent this, the dartboard surround comes into play.
Definition & Protective Effect
A dartboard surround, as the name suggests, is a protective ring that surrounds your dartboard and serves as a reliable barrier to shield your walls from misguided throws. Typically designed in a round shape, it fits snugly around a steel-tip dartboard and requires no elaborate fastenings – installation is quick and easy.
Most dart surrounds are made from lightweight yet robust foam or rubber. These materials have been specifically chosen for their ability to absorb impact energy and safely catch stray darts, preventing damage to both the walls and the darts themselves.
The term "surround" encompasses various types of dartboard protection devices, including wall protectors, cork boards, and backboards. It represents a professional alternative to traditional backboards, as it offers complete 360-degree protection and does not just cover the area behind the board. This design is particularly valuable in both private and competitive settings, where missed throws are common and wall protection is essential.
Fashion & Practicality
In addition to their protective function, a wall protector often also enhances the appearance of the playing area. Firstly, brands like Winmau, Target and One80 produce surrounds in various colors, from classic black to bright colors such as red, green and blue. Our popular One80 Plain PU Surround is available in both black and colorful variants to suit different player preferences.
And many models feature integrated scoring areas, sponsor logos or decorative borders. Ideal for home game rooms, pubs and tournaments, a dartboard surround is both a practical and stylish upgrade. It preserves your walls while maintaining a clean, tidy playing environment.
Why is this perfect for home, club or pub?
For home: Here, aesthetics and ease of use are crucial. A foam surround with a wood look blends seamlessly into the living environment and simultaneously protects the wall from scratches. It can also be easily removed if the dartboard is not needed.
For the club: In an environment where the game takes place daily, durability is paramount. PVC panels and a sturdy metal frame provide the necessary protection against frequent impact forces and can be quickly wiped clean – a big plus for high foot traffic.
For the pub: A pub combines both requirements: it wants a robust system that still fits the rustic flair. Here, a surround made of robust wood-imitating PVC with a metal frame is the ideal solution. It is hard-wearing, easy to clean and creates an atmospheric ambiance.
Conclusion
When choosing a surround, you should consider its thickness, diameter, and mounting compatibility to ensure it fits your dartboard and space. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player – investing in a high-quality surround is an easy way to extend the life of your walls and concentrate on the game with a clear conscience.
A dartboard surround – or simply dartboard wall protector – is more than just an accessory. It protects your walls, the board itself and, most importantly, fellow players from unpleasant injuries. By choosing suitable materials, it can be optimally adapted to the respective place of use – perfect for home, club or pub.
So invest in a reliable surround, and you will not only significantly increase the fun of playing but also the longevity of your darts equipment. Good luck hitting your targets and, above all, protecting your surroundings!