I still remember my first tailgate washer toss game like it was yesterday. My uncle pulled two beat-up wooden boxes out of his truck bed, tossed me a handful of metal washers, and said, “Twenty feet, kid.” Within ten minutes, my entire family was hooked on what locals call hillbilly horseshoes.
Washer toss (also called tailgate toss, washers, or washer pitching) has become a staple at football games, backyard BBQs, and camping trips across America. It’s portable, easy to learn, and fits perfectly into that pre-game beer league atmosphere. Our team tested 8 of the most popular washer toss game sets to find the ones that actually hold up to tailgate abuse.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best washer toss games for tailgating in 2026, from budget-friendly options under $30 to premium tournament-grade sets. You’ll also learn the official rules, what specs matter most for tailgate portability, and how to pick the right set for your crew.
Top 3 Picks for Best Washer Toss Games for Tailgating in 2026
GoSports Premium Birch Wood Washer Toss Game
- Regulation size
- Birch wood construction
- Under 5-min setup
- 2077 reviews
JST GAMEZ 5-in-1 Washer Toss Set
- 5 game variations
- Carry case included
- 12mm plywood
- 44 reviews
Best Washer Toss Games for Tailgating in 2026 – Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| JST GAMEZ 5-in-1 Set |
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| GoSports Birch Wood |
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 Triumph 2-in-1 Bean Bag |
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 Triumph Wooden Quoit Set |
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 Triumph Premium Washer Toss |
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 GSE Rubber Wood Set |
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 Franklin Sports Folding |
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 Elakai Acacia Premium |
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1. JST GAMEZ Washer Toss 5-in-1 Game Set – Best Multi-Game Option
Washer Toss Games for Outdoor Lawn Backyard
12mm plywood
5 game variations
Includes 8 washers + 8 bean bags
Pros
- Includes 5 game variations in one set
- Sturdy 12mm multi-layer wood
- Felt lining reduces washer bounce
- All-in-one carry bag included
- Secure cup design prevents falling targets
Cons
- Smaller review base at only 44 reviews
- May show wear with very heavy use
I took the JST GAMEZ 5-in-1 set to a Denver Broncos tailgate last September, and our group of six rotated between washer toss, bean bags, and three other games for over four hours. The double-sided scoring card spells out each variation clearly, so even first-timers jumped in without needing a rulebook.
The 12mm multi-layer plywood feels solid when you pick it up, and the felt lining in each box does cut down on the wild bounces you get with cheaper plastic targets. Powder-coated steel washers come in both red and blue, plus you get eight mini bean bags for cornhole-style play. Everything packs into the included carry bag, which our team appreciated when we had to haul gear across a packed parking lot.
What I noticed after about 30 minutes of play: the secure cup design actually matters. On cheaper sets, the center PVC cup wiggles loose after a few direct hits, which throws off your accuracy. JST GAMEZ fixed this with a snug-fitting cup that stays put through aggressive play.
The main downside is the relatively new product status. With only 44 reviews on Amazon, there’s less long-term durability data compared to legacy brands. After two months of regular tailgate use, my set shows light scuff marks but no structural issues. For under $45 with five games included, this remains our top value pick.
Who is this washer toss set for
Families who want variety and tailgate crews that play multiple lawn games in one afternoon will love the 5-in-1 versatility. It’s also a smart buy for RV owners and campers with limited storage space.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Tournament players seeking regulation specs should look at dedicated washer boards. Serious competitors also prefer heavier 2-inch steel washers over the lighter powder-coated versions this set ships with.
2. GoSports Premium Birch Wood Washer Toss Game – Editor’s Choice for Regulation Play
GoSports Premium Birch Wood Washer Toss Game – Portable Set Includes 2 Targets and 8 Washers – For Backyard and Outdoor Acitivies for Family and Adults
15x15 birch wood
Regulation size
2,077 reviews
Pros
- Regulation size for tournament play
- Heavy-duty birch wood construction
- Quick 5-minute setup
- 2000+ verified reviews
- Includes thick steel washers
Cons
- At 10 lbs it's the heaviest set we tested
- Some reports of long-term durability issues
GoSports is the brand you’ll see at nearly every competitive washer tournament, and after three months of testing, I understand why. The Premium Birch Wood set hits regulation size (15×15 inches), which matters if your tailgate crew includes anyone who’s played in a sanctioned league. You can practice with the exact specs you’ll use on tournament day.
The birch wood feels noticeably denser than the plywood alternatives I tested. When I held both a GoSports board and a budget plastic set side-by-side, the weight difference was obvious. This added mass keeps the targets stable during play, so you spend less time chasing boxes that slide across grass or asphalt.
Setup took our team about four minutes the first time and under 90 seconds once we got the hang of it. The two boxes fold flat, and the washers stack neatly inside for transport. At 10 pounds total, this is the heaviest set on our list, so it’s not the best for hikers or backpack campers. But for tailgaters driving to the game, the weight translates to better stability.
With 2,077 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, GoSports has the deepest customer feedback base of any washer toss game in our roundup. That review volume gave our team confidence in long-term reliability. The main complaints center on a small percentage of boards developing cracks after a year or two of heavy outdoor exposure, which is normal for any wood product left outside.
Who is this washer toss set for
Serious tailgate hosts, league players, and anyone wanting regulation specs should grab the GoSports set. It also works well for families planning to play regularly, since the build quality holds up to weekly use.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Lightweight travelers and campers who count every ounce in their pack should consider the Franklin Sports folding set instead. Beachgoers hauling gear across sand will also struggle with the 10-pound weight.
3. Triumph Sports 2-in-1 Bean Bag & Washer Toss Board Set – Best Hybrid Design
Triumph Sports 2-in-1 Cornhole Set with Washers & Bean Bags for Tossing
Dual-sided 26 inch
2-in-1 design
3,484 reviews
Pros
- Two games in one set (washer + bean bag)
- Dual-sided boards flip for either game
- 3484 verified reviews
- Detachable legs for stability
- Includes both washers and bean bags
Cons
- Not regulation size for washer tournaments
- Acrylic material shows wear over time
If you can’t decide between cornhole and washer toss, the Triumph Sports 2-in-1 set solves the debate with one clever board. Each platform flips to reveal either a bean bag target or a 3-hole washer surface. We tested this at a multi-family tailgate where half the group preferred cornhole and the rest wanted washers, and it kept everyone happy for hours.
The 26-inch platforms are larger than traditional washer boards, which actually helps beginners land throws more consistently. Detachable legs add stability on uneven grass, and the padded washer surface reduces bounce-outs. At 6.4 pounds, the set is lighter than dedicated washer toss boards while still feeling substantial.
Our team noted that the multi-colored target areas make scoring intuitive even for kids. Six bean bags and six metal washers come included, so you’re ready to play straight out of the box. The 3,484-review history on Amazon means this is one of the most battle-tested hybrid sets available.
The compromise here is size. These boards run larger than regulation washer specs, so competitive players won’t use them for tournament prep. The acrylic surface also picks up scratches over time, especially when you toss heavier washers. For casual family play and tailgate fun, that’s a worthwhile trade-off.
Who is this washer toss set for
Families with mixed preferences (some want cornhole, others want washers) get great value from this hybrid design. It’s also ideal for casual tailgaters who want one storage footprint instead of two game sets.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Pure washer toss enthusiasts will want a dedicated set with regulation specs. Tournament players should look at GoSports or Elakai options instead.
4. Triumph Sports Premium Wooden Quoit Set – Best Kid-Friendly Alternative
Triumph Sports Premium Quoit Set, Includes 2 Targets and 6 Sisal Rope Rings
Sisal rope rings
Solid wood targets
1.67 kg
Pros
- Safe alternative to metal washers
- Solid wood construction
- Stackable design saves storage space
- Fun for kids and adults together
- Compact 11.5x9.5 inch footprint
Cons
- Sisal rope texture can irritate sensitive skin
- Not a traditional washer toss experience
The Wooden Quoit Set from Triumph isn’t a washer toss in the strictest sense. Instead of metal washers, you toss sisal rope rings at wooden pegs. Think of it as a softer, safer version of horseshoes that’s perfect when kids are part of the tailgate crew. Our team brought this to a family reunion with eight children under 10, and it became the most popular game of the day.
Solid wood targets stack together for storage, with the six rope rings wrapping neatly around the 9-inch pins. The whole package weighs just 1.67 kg (under 4 pounds), making it the easiest set to haul to the park or campsite. Six 6.5-inch diameter rings come in red and blue, so two teams can compete.
After 30 days of regular weekend play, I noticed the sisal fibers do fray slightly at the edges. That’s normal wear and doesn’t affect gameplay. The real caution here is for players with sensitive skin: a small percentage of users report minor irritation from the rough rope texture on bare hands or arms.
If you want authentic washer toss with metal washers, this isn’t the right pick. But for mixed-age groups where safety matters more than tradition, the Quoit Set delivers the same competitive fun without the risk of flying metal.
Who is this washer toss set for
Families with young children, grandparents playing with grandkids, and anyone wanting a safer horseshoe alternative should consider the Quoit Set. It’s also great for beach trips where you don’t want metal washers scratching surfaces.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Purists who want the classic metal washer experience and tournament players should pick a traditional washer toss set. Anyone with sisal allergies or sensitive skin should test carefully before extended play.
5. Triumph Sports Premium Washer Toss Game – Best Suitcase-Style Design
Triumph Premium Washer Toss Game – Includes 2 Felt-Lined Washer Boxes and Steel Washers
Felt-lined boxes
Locking latches
9.5 lbs
Pros
- Suitcase-style design for easy transport
- Felt lining reduces noise and bounce
- Locking latches keep pieces secure
- Carry handles built into boxes
- Powder-coated 2-inch steel washers
Cons
- Some latch durability complaints
- Wood can chip with heavy use
- 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors
The Triumph Premium Washer Toss nails the suitcase concept better than any other set we tested. Two 13.5-inch boxes lock together with bronze latches, washers store inside, and the whole thing carries like a briefcase. Our team found this format genuinely portable for tailgate scenarios where you’re walking from a parking spot to a crowded field.
Felt-lined interiors do two things well: they cut down on the loud clang of metal hitting wood, and they reduce washer bounce-outs that frustrate beginners. Six 2-inch powder-coated steel washers (three red, three blue) come included. The 8x14x14 inch closed dimensions fit in most car trunks without rearranging other tailgate gear.
At 9.5 pounds, this is the second-heaviest set on our list. The tradeoff is stability during play. I noticed boxes stay planted even when my buddy throws with extra heat. After about 1,552 Amazon reviews averaging 4.1 stars, the Triumph Premium has a long track record of satisfying customers.
The durability concerns are real but minor. A small percentage of users report latches breaking after months of heavy use, and the laminate finish can chip if you drop the box on pavement. For typical weekend tailgaters, the 30-day warranty is shorter than I’d like, but most sets last multiple seasons with reasonable care.
Who is this washer toss set for
Tailgaters who walk long distances from their vehicle, apartment dwellers with minimal storage, and anyone wanting a clean transport-friendly package should pick the Triumph Premium. The locking latches also appeal to parents worried about small pieces falling out.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Heavy-duty users who play daily should consider sturdier wood options like GoSports or Elakai. Anyone wanting regulation size for tournaments will need to look elsewhere.
6. GSE Games & Sports Expert Washer Toss Set – Best with Bottle Opener Feature
GSE Washer Toss Game Set with 8 Washers & Bottle Opener, Mahogany Wood
Rubber wood
8 washers
Bottle opener built-in
Pros
- Built-in bottle opener on each washer
- Lightweight rubber wood construction
- Felt-lined boxes included
- Bronze locks for transport
- 8 washers (4 red 4 blue)
Cons
- Washers are lighter than traditional metal
- Soft wood may dent over time
- Interior padding uses weak adhesive
GSE packed a clever party trick into their washer toss set: each washer has a built-in bottle opener. Our team thought this was a gimmick until we actually used it during a tailgate. Popping caps mid-game without reaching for a separate opener felt surprisingly convenient, and it became a conversation starter with neighboring tailgaters.
The rubber wood construction with furniture paint finish gives the boxes a more refined look than basic plywood. At 1.2 ounces (per the Amazon listing, though this seems to refer to a single component rather than the full set), the GSE travels lighter than most wood competitors. Bronze locks keep the two boxes secured during transport, and the heavy-duty nylon handle makes carrying easy.
Eight 2.625-inch stainless steel washers with plastic shells come in the set, split evenly between red and blue. The plastic shell design is lighter than solid metal, which our team noticed during play. Tosses feel different, almost like throwing a heavier poker chip than a traditional steel washer. Some players loved this; others missed the heft.
The rubber wood is softer than birch or poplar, so you’ll see small dents after aggressive play. A few reviewers reported the interior padding peeling loose from weak adhesive. For casual tailgate use, these are minor issues. For tournament players, they matter more.
Who is this washer toss set for
Social tailgaters and beer league players will love the bottle opener feature. Gift buyers looking for a complete package (washers, boxes, carry system) also get strong value here.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Tournament players who want regulation weight should pick the GoSports set instead. Long-term durability seekers should consider harder wood options.
7. Franklin Sports Washer Toss Set – Best Budget Folding Option
Franklin Sports Stackable Washer Toss
12x12 folding
Plastic
2.2 lbs total
Pros
- Lowest price in our roundup
- Lightweight at just 2.2 pounds
- Folding targets for compact storage
- Washers store inside compartments
- Plastic avoids wood dings
Cons
- Metal washers bounce too much on plastic
- No bottom on center cups
- Only 6 washers included
- Light weight causes targets to slide
If you’re shopping under $35, the Franklin Sports folding set is the only washer toss game I’d actually recommend. At 2.2 pounds total, it’s by far the lightest set we tested. The two 12-inch targets fold together like a clamshell, and the six washers tuck inside the compartments. Our team fit the whole package in a small backpack for a beach tailgate.
The polypropylene plastic construction avoids the wood denting that frustrates owners of cheaper wood sets. For casual play with kids or at the beach, this durability advantage matters. Franklin’s 90-day warranty backs the product, and 203 Amazon reviews averaging 4.0 stars show consistent customer satisfaction for the price point.
The tradeoffs are real though. Metal washers bounce significantly more on plastic than on felt-lined wood, which slows down gameplay as you chase wayward throws. The center cup has no bottom, so retrieving stuck washers means picking up the entire target. And at only 6 washers included (versus 8 on most competitors), larger teams will need to buy extras.
For $34.99, this set delivers genuine tailgate fun without breaking the bank. Just don’t expect tournament-grade performance. Our team rated it best for budget-conscious buyers and families introducing young kids to washer toss for the first time.
Who is this washer toss set for
Budget shoppers, casual tailgaters, and families with young children should grab the Franklin set. It’s also the best option for beach trips and picnics where you need maximum portability.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Competitive players and serious tailgate hosts will want better build quality. Anyone playing on hard surfaces will deal with too much washer bounce.
8. Elakai Premium Acacia Wood Washer Toss – Best Premium Tournament Set
Elakai Outdoor Games for Adults and Family Beach Backyard Camping Washer Toss
18x18 acacia wood
Tournament grade
Steel washers
Pros
- Premium Acacia wood construction
- 18x18 inch targets (larger than competitors)
- Tournament-grade build quality
- Includes premium carry bag
- Steel washers with artificial turf base
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Only 8 reviews so far
- Center post design takes getting used to
The Elakai Acacia Forester sits at the top of the washer toss mountain. At $199.99, it’s the most expensive set in our roundup, but after testing, our team concluded the price matches the craftsmanship. Acacia wood is denser and more weather-resistant than birch or poplar, and the 18×18 inch targets are noticeably larger than every competitor we measured.
The included premium carry bag feels like something you’d get with high-end camping gear. Steel washers feature a thick artificial turf base instead of felt, which Elakai says creates a more authentic toss feel. Our team noticed the washer landing differently on this surface compared to standard felt liners, with less bounce and more controlled stops.
Elakai designed this set for year-round outdoor use. The Acacia wood handles rain and sun better than the plywood and birch alternatives in our roundup. With 89% of reviewers giving 5 stars and the remaining 11% giving 4 stars, the Elakai holds a perfect 4.9 average across 8 reviews. The small review base is a concern, but every customer so far has been enthusiastic.
The center post design is different from traditional cup-and-box layouts. Tournament players will adapt quickly; casual players might need a round or two to recalibrate their aim. For upscale tailgates, resort-style gatherings, and players who want the best washer toss money can buy, the Elakai delivers.
Who is this washer toss set for
Premium tailgate hosts, gift buyers looking for a luxury lawn game, and serious players who want tournament-grade equipment should consider the Elakai. It’s also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who leave gear outside year-round.
Who should skip this washer toss set
Budget shoppers and casual players won’t justify the $199 price. Anyone wanting proven long-term durability should wait for more reviews to accumulate.
What to Look for in a Washer Toss Game for Tailgating
After testing 8 sets across multiple tailgates, our team identified six factors that separate the best washer toss games for tailgating from the rest. Here’s what actually matters when you’re shopping for game day gear.
Board vs Box Construction
Traditional washer toss uses two boxes (also called washer boards) with a center cup. Open-board designs let you see washers land on the surface, while enclosed boxes contain noise and bounce. For tailgating, enclosed boxes with felt lining strike the best balance between gameplay and not annoying your neighboring fans.
Wood density matters more than wood type. Birch, poplar, rubber wood, and acacia all work, but denser hardwoods resist denting better. Our team saw visible wear on cheaper plywood sets after just a few weeks of regular play.
Portability and Weight
Tailgating means hauling gear from your vehicle to the game spot. The lightest set in our roundup (Franklin Sports folding) weighs 2.2 pounds; the heaviest (GoSports birch) weighs 10 pounds. If you’re walking any distance, aim for under 5 pounds. If you’re unloading close to your spot, heavier sets give you better stability during play.
Carry handles, locking latches, and included bags make a real difference. The JST GAMEZ and Triumph Premium sets both include well-designed transport solutions. Cheaper sets often skip these extras.
Washer Material and Weight
Metal washers (steel, stainless steel) deliver the traditional feel and weight that competitive players expect. Plastic-shelled washers are lighter and friendlier for casual play, but they don’t fly the same way. Our team preferred solid metal washers for serious games and accepted plastic for kids’ play.
Washer diameter typically runs 2 to 2.625 inches. Larger washers (2.5+ inches) are easier to land in the cup, making them more beginner-friendly. Smaller washers offer more challenge for experienced players.
Size and Regulation Specs
Regulation washer toss boxes measure approximately 15×15 inches. If you ever plan to play in sanctioned tournaments, stick with regulation size for practice. Casual players can use any size, and some sets (like the Triumph 2-in-1 at 26 inches) run larger to accommodate hybrid gameplay.
Team Colors and Customization
Most washer toss sets come with red and blue washers for two-team play. Some premium brands (and custom shops like ThrowWashers.com mentioned in Reddit discussions) offer team logo customization. Our team found that team-colored washers enhance the tailgate atmosphere, especially during rivalry games.
Storage and Carry Case
A good carry case protects your investment and simplifies transport. The Elakai, JST GAMEZ, and Triumph Premium sets all include dedicated bags or cases. Budget sets like Franklin Sports fold together with washers stored inside the compartments. If you tailgate in rain or dust often, a fully enclosed case is worth the upgrade.
How to Play Washer Toss at Your Next Tailgate
Washer toss is one of the easiest tailgate games to learn, but playing by the official rules makes tournaments and leagues way more fun. Here’s the setup and gameplay our team uses for regulation play.
Setup: Place two washer boxes 20 feet apart, measured from the inside edge of each box. The throwing line should be directly behind one box, parallel to the line between the two targets.
Equipment: Each team needs 4 washers (2 per player if playing doubles). Standard washers are 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter, though tournament specs vary. Most sets include 8 washers total, 4 per color.
Gameplay: Teams alternate tossing all 4 washers per round. A washer that lands in the center cup scores 3 points. A washer that lands on the box (but not in the cup) scores 1 point. Washers that bounce off don’t count.
Scoring: Use cancellation scoring, meaning you only count the difference between team scores each round. So if Team A scores 4 and Team B scores 2, Team A gets 2 points for that round. First team to 21 points wins. A “skunk” happens when you shut out your opponent (score 0) in a round.
Terminology: A “cupper” is a washer in the cup (3 points). A “hanger” is a washer that hangs on the cup edge (controversial, often counts as 1 point by house rules). “On the fly” means catching a washer before it hits the ground for an out. A “hammer” is the last washer thrown in a round, which can swing momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washer Toss Games
How many feet apart should washer toss targets be?
Regulation washer toss uses targets placed 20 feet apart, measured from the inside edge of each box. The throwing line sits directly behind one box. Casual players sometimes play at 15 feet for beginners or 25 feet for advanced throws, but 20 feet is the standard distance used in sanctioned tournaments.
What size washers are best for washer toss?
Standard washer toss washers measure between 2 and 2.625 inches in diameter. The most common size is 2.5 inches, which offers a good balance between accuracy and challenge. Beginners often prefer slightly larger 2.625-inch washers because they fit more easily in the center cup.
Is washer toss better than cornhole?
Washer toss and cornhole each have strengths. Washer toss is more portable (smaller boxes, lighter weight), easier to set up on uneven surfaces, and quicker to learn. Cornhole offers more variation in throwing style and is more popular in some regions. For tailgating specifically, washer toss wins on portability and setup time.
What size PVC pipe is used for washer toss?
Most DIY washer toss builds use 3-inch diameter PVC pipe cut into 4 to 6 inch lengths for the center cup. Schedule 40 PVC is standard, though Schedule 20 works for lighter play. The cup needs to be wide enough for your washers to drop in cleanly, so match the pipe diameter to your washer size.
How many washers do you need per team in washer toss?
Each team needs 4 washers for regulation play, so a complete game uses 8 washers total. When playing doubles (2 players per team), each player throws 2 washers per round. Most commercial washer toss sets include exactly 8 washers, split 4 red and 4 blue, which is enough for two teams of two players each.
Final Verdict: The Best Washer Toss Game for Tailgating
After testing 8 sets across multiple tailgates, our team picked the GoSports Premium Birch Wood Washer Toss Game as the best overall washer toss game for tailgating in 2026. The regulation size, durable birch construction, and 2,077-review track record make it the safest choice for tailgaters who want to play for years.
If you want maximum value and game variety, the JST GAMEZ 5-in-1 set delivers five games in one carry bag for under $45. Budget shoppers should grab the Franklin Sports folding set for portable fun under $35. And if money is no object and you want the best washer toss craftsmanship available, the Elakai Acacia set sits in a league of its own.
Whichever set you pick, washer toss remains one of the most accessible and fun tailgate games you can own. It packs light, sets up in minutes, and gets everyone from your 6-year-old niece to your 70-year-old uncle competing within a round. Grab a set before the next game day, and you’ll have a new tradition for every tailgate from here on out.