How High Does a Dartboard Need to Be?

Wondering ‘How high does a dartboard need to be?’ Whether you’re new to darts, love to play the sport for fun, or an aspiring pro, it’s one of those things that you need to get right. 

In this blog from the experts at Double Top Darts, we’ll tell you all about the correct dartboard height measurements, as well as tips on how to hang your dartboard and why the right setup matters. 

Get ready to throw… 🎯

Official measurements state that the centre of the bullseye of your dartboard must be exactly 5ft 8 inches (that’s 1.73 metres) from the floor. This standard height applies to soft tip and steel tip dartboards, as well as official adult and youth matches. There are some organisations that might have slightly different requirements, but in the general world of darts, this is the bog standard. 

Making sure that your dartboard height is accurate is actually pretty important. Not only is it a general rule, but it also ensures: 

• A fair game - A dartboard that’s too high or too low might create an advantage for one player
• Safety for players - Incorrect dartboard height might cause players to bend or stretch awkwardly, risking injuries 
• Consistency - Having a standard dartboard height ensures everyone is playing the same game with the same conditions, whether that’s at home, in the pub, or professionally 
• Better muscle memory - Learning exactly where to aim will mean that the player’s body learns a specific arm and release pattern, which they can replicate throughout tournaments 

>> Make sure you know exactly how to throw a dart and adopt the correct darts stance before you step up to the oche! << 

Besides knowing the correct dartboard height, the dartboard distance is also essential for a proper setup. What we mean by dartboard distance is the floor space from the player to the dartboard, or more simply, how far away you stand from the board. 

This measures at 2.37 metres. 

For the best throwing experience, your whole dartboard setup needs to be right. You should first measure and mount your dartboard before measuring the throw line distance. For a pro dartboard setup, follow these tips: 

1. Securely mount your dartboard to the wall - Fix your dartboard firmly to a solid surface or wall with screws or brackets to ensure that it isn’t wobbly. You might want to add rubber spacers or stabilising feet around the back edge of your board to keep it flush and protected against the wall. We stock dartboard mounting kits to make it that little bit easier. 

2. Add lighting (optional) - You’ll want to make sure that you can actually see your dartboard when it comes to throwing. Invest in proper dartboard lighting so that you can clearly see the targets and your darts. 

3. Make sure you have a clear throwing line - Properly mark your oche with tape, chalk, or a professional dart mat to establish a fair line for all players. 

4. Use a dartboard surround - Dartboard surrounds are a great investment if you’re worried about damaging your wall, and they can also reduce noise and protect your favourite darts. 

5. Make sure you target the centre - Remember that the correct regulation height applies strictly to the centre of the bullseye, not the top or bottom edge of your dartboard. 

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So, when you next need to know ‘how high does a dartboard need to be?’, you’ll feel fully equipped to hang your dartboard at the right height. Making sure that your setup is accurate will only benefit you when practising and playing in tournaments. 

Here at Double Top Darts, we’ve got all the equipment you could possibly need. With over 3,000 products on our site, spanning from darts to dart accessories from all of your favourite dart brands, you’re sure to find the right equipment for a clean, sharp throw. 

🎯Need more advice? Then get in touch with our experts, or read our other blogs for more news, inspiration, and tips! 🎯

You should make sure that wherever you’re hanging your dartboard, you have an open area at least 5 feet wide and 11 feet deep so that players are comfortable. Avoid hanging your board near windows, electronics, or fragile decorations, as stray darts might break something! 

Having your dartboard too high can alter your natural throwing arc, causing your darts to consistently land lower than intended in matches or casual play. It might lead to awkward posture and incorrect scoring when you come to play a match.