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know the game
Lawn Darts, in one breath
This guide uses the EastPoint soft-tip basic game: lob modern non-sticking darts underhand toward a ring, score one for each dart inside, and cancel opposing hits. Agree a target such as 15 or 21 before starting.
The shortlist
Our top lawn darts picks at a glance
Choose by the players, the court and how you plan to store the set. The notes below explain each model's contents and limitations; these are researched selections, with no hands-on rating.
Start here Best Soft-Tip Overall
Pros - Soft rubberized tips are safe for the whole family
- No assembly: set out the rings and start throwing
- Includes two target rings for instant setup
Watch for - the soft tips do not always bite into firm or dry ground
- lightweight darts wobble off course in a gusty yard
Who it's for The all-around safe pick for a family that wants the classic lob-into-the-ring game without the old ground-spiking dart design.
Best for Kids
Pros - Four soft-tip darts, listed for ages 3 and up
- Two target rings for simple ring scoring kids pick up fast
- Zippered mesh bag keeps every piece together
Watch for - it is sold as a kids' game, so grown-ups may want the Franklin set above
- soft tips can skip across packed dirt instead of settling
Who it's for Built for kids learning the toss with an adult running the lane. Grown-ups who want a set of their own should look at the Franklin pick above, not go looking for darts that spear into the ground.
Best Glow / Night Play
Pros - Glow-in-the-dark darts and two large target rings, per the listing
- Rubber darts with no sharp edges, nothing designed to stick in the ground
- Great for backyard parties and bonfire nights
Watch for - a glow finish needs a charge under light and fades as the night goes on
- light rubber darts drift in a breeze
- the novelty finish matters little once the sun is up
Who it's for Best for backyard parties and bonfire nights that run past dark. Recharge the glow under a light between rounds, and call it once you can no longer see the rings and other players clearly. Not the set to buy if you mostly play in daylight.
From the commissioner
How to choose a lawn darts set
- Skip anything metal-tipped. Real Jarts (the lawn darts with sharp steel spikes) are illegal to sell in the US. Every pick here is soft-tip, so it lands in the ring without sticking a foot.
- Match the set to the crowd. Kid sets keep everything small and soft, while a family set like the Franklin pick is sold for adults and kids alike.
- Look at the fins. Plastic fins that screw or snap on tend to survive a season of abuse far better than thin glued-on flights, which crack and fly crooked.
- Check the rings. Sets with sturdy plastic or rope target rings hold their shape on uneven lawns better than flimsy wire hoops that bend the first time you step on them.
- Think storage and travel. A mesh carry bag or molded case keeps darts and rings together so you're not buying replacements every Fourth of July.
next up Build the whole roster
Outfitting a party or a whole backyard? Start with our family game picks, or see how lawn darts stacks up against the rest.
Buyer's desk
Lawn Darts buying FAQ
Are lawn darts legal to buy?
The old metal-tip Jarts are banned from sale in the US and Canada because of serious injuries. Every set on this page is a soft-tip version, the far safer take on the game that is still sold today.
Are soft-tip lawn darts safe for kids?
Yes. Rubber and soft-plastic tipped darts are designed for family play and won't puncture skin like the old metal spikes. Younger kids should still be supervised, and everyone should stand clear of the target ring while darts are in the air.
How is the game scored?
Players take turns lobbing darts toward a target ring on the ground. Darts that land inside the ring score points, and most sets play to 21. The underhand toss is part of the fun and keeps the arc safe and high.
What surface works best for lawn darts?
Soft grass is ideal because it cushions the landing and helps soft tips stay put. Avoid hard pavement or concrete, which can bounce the darts and isn't safe for the toss-and-stick style of play.
Do I need a big yard to play?
Not really. A standard backyard works fine since the rings sit about 20 to 30 feet apart for casual play. You can shorten that distance for kids and still have a great league night.
