Protecting Your Walls: The Best Dartboard Surrounds Reviewed

A dartboard surround is an essential piece of equipment for any serious or home dart player. It not only protects your walls from stray darts but also adds a professional look to your setup. This guide will help you choose the best surround for your needs.

What to Consider When Buying a Dartboard Surround

• Material and Durability: Is it made from high-density foam, wood, or another material? How well does it heal from dart punctures?
• Size and Coverage: Does it provide a large enough area of protection around the board?
• Ease of Installation: How easily does it fit around your dartboard?
• Aesthetics and Style: Does it complement your room and dartboard setup?
• Price: Does it fit your budget?

Top Dartboard Surround Reviews

Here are three of the best surrounds on the market, each catering to a different type of player and setup.

1. The Modern, Tech-Ready Surround: Target Darts Pro Tour

Target is at the forefront of darting technology, and their Pro Tour surround is designed for the modern player. Made from a high-quality, durable material, it's specifically shaped to be compatible with popular lighting systems and Target's own computer vision scoring system, the DartCounter Omni. If you're building a setup that includes electronic scoring or a shadowless light, this surround ensures a perfect fit. It comes in a professional all-black or a vibrant red to match your style.

• Best for: The tech-focused player using a lighting system or electronic scoring.
• Key Features:
  • Designed for compatibility with modern lighting and scoring systems.
  • High-quality, durable material.
  • Available in multiple professional designs.

2. The Professional's Choice: Winmau PDC Dartboard Surround

If you want to feel like you're playing on the biggest stage in darts, this is the surround for you. As the official supplier to the PDC, Winmau's brand is synonymous with professional quality. This surround features the official Winmau and PDC logos, instantly giving your home setup the look and feel of a tournament venue. Available in the iconic red or blue seen on TV, it's the perfect way to pretend you're at the World Championship, even when you're just in your basement.

• Best for: The aspiring pro who wants to replicate the look and feel of a professional tournament.
• Key Features:
  • Official Winmau and PDC branding.
  • High-density foam for excellent wall protection.
  • Gives your setup a professional, televised look.

3. The Ultimate Value and Durability: Viper Defender Backboard

Not all surrounds need to be pretty; some just need to be tough. The Viper Defender is a no-frills, high-density foam backboard designed for maximum durability at a discount price. These are often the choice for public venues like bars and dart halls, where stray darts are common and the surround is expected to take a beating. While a pro might not miss the board often in practice, this is the perfect, easy-to-replace option for a game room that will see a lot of action from players of all skill levels.

• Best for: High-traffic game rooms, public venues, or anyone needing maximum protection on a budget.
• Key Features:
  • High-density foam for superior durability.
  • Often sold in a bundle with a dartboard for extra value.
  • A cost-effective, easily replaceable solution.

Custom Dartboard Surrounds

While off-the-shelf surrounds offer excellent protection and style, sometimes you want something truly unique. For those looking to personalize their dart setup for a home game room or a business, custom-designed surrounds are an incredible option. Retailers like Darts Corner offer personalized surrounds that allow you to add logos, text, or unique designs. These high-quality, bespoke surrounds not only provide superior wall protection but also serve as a stunning centerpiece, reflecting your personal style or brand. It's a fantastic way to elevate your darting space beyond the ordinary.

Conclusion & Recommendation

A good surround is a smart investment to protect your home and complete your dart lane. We recommend looking for a high-density foam surround that is at least 1.5 inches thick for the best protection and durability.