When you’re in the market for a chessboard, vinyl options are likely to catch your eye, and for good reasons.
They’re the go-to choice for both beginner and seasoned players, and we’ll see why in this article.
Why Choose a Vinyl Chessboard?
Vinyl chessboards are the most affordable option in the chess world. They are perfect for those on a budget or who don’t want to spend too much on a chessboard.
Here are some of its benefits:
- Affordability: You’ll struggle to find a more cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on utility.
- Smooth Surface: A delight for chess piece movement, vinyl provides a slick, seamless experience.
- Easy to Clean: Spills? No worries. A damp cloth will have a vinyl chessboard looking new in no time.
- Storage-Friendly: Vinyl chessboards are rollable for convenient storage.
When it comes to storing vinyl chessboards, you want to keep one word in mind: roll.
But here’s the trick: always roll your board with the printing on the outside. Let me explain why:
Vinyl has plastic-like properties; if you roll it with the printing facing inward, it’ll start to curl up.
Now imagine trying to play on a board that’s curling up at the edges—yeah, no fun.
On the other hand, if you roll it correctly (with the printing facing outwards), any potential curls will bend downwards, making them pretty much inconsequential once your chess pieces are set.
Choosing Your Vinyl Chessboard Hue
Vinyl chessboards don’t just come in “boring” or “standard” – they’re like chameleons, available in a spectrum of colors.
Variety is the spice of life, right? Common colors include:
- Red
- Green
- Black (though I’m not sure why it’s popular; black pieces can blend into the black squares)
- Orange
- Brown
- Hot Pink
- Burgundy
- Blue
A quick note on color choices: Black and White pieces are most visible against medium shades like green. That’s why most tournaments stick with these colors.
More Stuff You Need To Know
Have you ever wondered why many vinyl chessboards have rounded corners as opposed to the classic sharp edges?
It’s all about longevity. Vinyl, by nature, is prone to curling over time.
If you opt for a board with rounded corners, you’ll sidestep the annoyance of corners peeling upwards.
Here’s another crucial piece of advice: never, ever fold your vinyl chessboard for an extended period.
Unlike rolling, folding creates permanent creases that can ruin the smooth surface of the board.
Remember, when it involves vinyl, think gentle rolls, not harsh folds.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, vinyl chessboards are a fantastic option for chess enthusiasts of all levels.
Their resilience, affordability, and the sheer variety of customization options make them a top pick in the chess world.
Whether for personal use, club events, or educational purposes, a vinyl chessboard is sure to check all the right boxes.
Remember, whether you’re a novice or a grandmaster, a vinyl board could very well be your next best investment in your chess journey.
I hope you found this review helpful.