Choosing the Perfect Oche: A Player's Guide

The oche (throw line) is more than just a line on the floor; it's the foundation of every throw you take. A consistent, well-defined oche helps build muscle memory and ensures every game you play is based on official standards. This guide will cover the different types of oches and help you decide which is right for you.

Why the Oche Matters

• Consistency: A clearly marked oche ensures you throw from the same spot every time.
• Regulation: It enforces the official throwing distance for fair play.
• Safety: In some cases, it can provide a non-slip surface or protect your floors.

Types of Oches: From Mats to Lasers

Let's explore the most popular options on the market, from simple and effective to high-tech and professional.

Dart Mats: Protection and Precision

Dart mats are a fantastic all-in-one solution. They protect your floor from bounce-outs, shield your dart points from hard surfaces, and have the oche line built right in. They come in a variety of materials and styles.

• TARGET Darts Dart Mat (Carpet): For those who prefer a softer, carpet-like feel, this mat from Target is a great choice. It provides a non-slip surface and comes in multiple designs, including simple grey, blue, and red, or a more aggressive skull motif for the extreme player.
• Winmau Darts Mat (PVC): Made from high-quality PVC, this mat is durable and easy to clean. Winmau is the official board supplier for the PDC, so you know you're getting a product trusted by the pros.
• RED DRAGON Darts Dartboard Mat (EVA): This Red Dragon branded mat is made of EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), a synthetic rubber that provides excellent protection for both your floors and your darts. It features a striking design and is a great choice for players who practice on harder surfaces like concrete.

The Next Level: Mats with a Raised Oche

For players who want to perfectly replicate the feel of a professional stage, a mat with an integrated raised oche is the ultimate choice.

• Winmau Pro Zone Precision PVC Darts Mat: This is the same high-quality PVC mat from Winmau, but with the crucial addition of a built-in raised oche. This gives your foot a solid, physical line to press against, ensuring perfect positioning for every single throw.

Sticker Throw Lines: Simple and Effective

If you don't need floor protection and just want a clear, no-fuss line, a simple sticker is the most budget-friendly option.

• Winmau Darts Oche Lines: Keep it simple with these branded, high-visibility throw line stickers. They stick to any hard surface and come in several cool designs, like the "Man Cave Green" option, to add a bit of personality to your lane.
• Lewtemi Dart Board Throw Line Floor Sticker: If you run a venue or just burn through stickers, these simple, unbranded markers are incredibly cost-effective. You can get them for around $1 per sticker, making them perfect for high-traffic areas.

Laser Guides: A Modern Solution

Want to feel like you're playing in the future? A laser oche provides a sharp, clear line without any physical item on your floor. When the game is over, the line simply disappears.

• IgnatGames Laser Toe Line Marker (USB Powered): This 2-in-1 laser provides an adjustable throw line with additional LED lights. It's powered by a USB cord, so you never have to worry about batteries, and it includes a mounting kit for easy setup.
• Viper Laser Throw Line Markers (Battery-Operated): If you don't want to deal with a power cord, this battery-operated model from Viper is another excellent choice. As with any laser, precise mounting is key to ensuring the throw distance is accurate.

Factors to Consider

When making your choice, it's essential to weigh several factors. Your budget will naturally guide your options, but also consider your available space—do you have a dedicated dart area or a multi-purpose room? Think about permanence; do you need a solution that can be easily removed or a more fixed setup? Finally, don't overlook aesthetics; choose an oche that complements your playing environment and personal style.

Conclusion

Choosing the right oche depends on your budget, space, and level of seriousness. For most home players, a quality dart mat offers the best combination of features. For those building a dedicated dart room, a raised oche provides the most professional and consistent experience.