Why is Crokinole So Expensive?

Why Crokinole Boards Are Worth the Investment Despite Their Hefty Price Tag

Crokinole, a Canadian board game that dates back to the late 1800s, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Yet, for newcomers, the price of an entry-level crokinole board—typically starting around $300—can come as a shock. As prices rise for higher-end boards, some might wonder: Why does a simple wooden game board cost so much? And more importantly, is it really worth the investment?

As it turns out, these boards are not just games. They are meticulously crafted works of art, designed to provide years of enjoyment, and they often become treasured heirlooms. Let's explore why crokinole boards command such high prices and why their value extends far beyond the sticker shock.

When considering the cost of a crokinole board, one of the first things to understand is the high-quality materials used in their construction. These boards are typically crafted from premium hardwoods like maple, walnut, or cherry, chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. This is not mass-produced, composite wood or plastic—each board is made from solid wood that has been carefully selected for its grain, strength, and smoothness.

The wooden playing surface is critical to the game’s experience. It needs to be both smooth and strong enough to handle years of game pieces sliding across it at high speeds. A well-made crokinole board provides the perfect balance, allowing pieces to glide effortlessly while still providing enough resistance to make the game challenging.

But it’s not just the wood. Quality crokinole boards often feature hand-finished edges, brass or metal pegs, and sometimes even inlaid score markings. Every element of the board is designed to last, adding to the overall cost and long-term value.

Unlike mass-produced board games, crokinole boards are often handcrafted by skilled artisans. These craftsmen are masters at their trade, bringing generations of experience to each board they create. The construction process involves precision woodworking techniques, with attention to every small detail, from the smoothness of the playing surface to the placement of the pegs and rails that define the game’s boundaries.

Each board is built to ensure a perfectly level playing surface, which is essential for an authentic crokinole experience. If the surface isn't completely flat, the game pieces won't slide properly, throwing off the balance and ruining the game. This level of precision takes time, care, and craftsmanship, which adds to the cost.

Mass-produced boards simply can't match the same level of detail and accuracy. It's this difference in quality that justifies the higher prices for crokinole boards made by experienced craftsmen. These aren't just functional game boards; they are also beautiful, hand-crafted pieces of art designed to be displayed and enjoyed for generations.

One of the biggest reasons crokinole boards are a worthy investment is their durability. When you purchase a well-made board, you're buying something that can last for decades—or even longer. Many crokinole boards are passed down through families, becoming treasured heirlooms that hold sentimental value as well as practical use.

A quality crokinole board is designed to withstand wear and tear. The hardwood construction ensures it won’t warp or crack over time, even with frequent use. The smooth playing surface is often treated with high-quality finishes that resist scratches and dents, further adding to the board's longevity.

In contrast, cheaper boards often use lower-quality materials that may warp, chip, or degrade over time, diminishing the playing experience. With proper care, however, a premium crokinole board can provide countless hours of entertainment, becoming a part of family traditions for years to come.

Crokinole is more than just a game; it represents tradition, family, and togetherness. It's the kind of game that brings people together around a table, creating memories and fostering a sense of connection. This emotional value is difficult to quantify, but it's a significant reason why crokinole boards are seen as more than just a purchase—they’re an investment in shared experiences.

For many families, crokinole becomes a central part of their gatherings, whether it’s during the holidays, casual get-togethers, or annual tournaments. The joy of playing this simple yet challenging game, paired with the feel of the polished wooden board, elevates the experience. Investing in a high-quality crokinole board means you're investing in moments of joy and connection that can be passed down through generations.

While premium crokinole boards often start at $300 and can climb higher, newer companies like Mysafy are offering high-quality boards at more accessible prices. Mysafy, a brand dedicated to producing heritage-quality wooden products, sells its crokinole boards starting at just $250. This competitive pricing is a result of being a newer company breaking into the market, without sacrificing the craftsmanship or attention to detail that crokinole enthusiasts expect.

Mysafy’s mission is to create beautiful, long-lasting pieces that can be passed down to future generations. Their crokinole boards are designed to be not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing, with the kind of craftsmanship and quality that ensures they will stand the test of time. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality crokinole board without breaking the bank.

Crokinole is more than just a game; it can also be a way to experience "mysa," a Swedish concept similar to the Danish idea of "hygge." Mysa refers to a feeling of comfort, warmth, and coziness—exactly the kind of atmosphere that playing crokinole creates. Gathering with loved ones around a beautifully crafted crokinole board, enjoying friendly competition, and spending quality time together embodies this spirit of contentment and well-being.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, crokinole provides an opportunity to slow down, enjoy the moment, and connect with others in a meaningful way. The tactile feel of the wooden board, the smooth glide of the game pieces, and the shared joy of play all contribute to this sense of “mysa,” making crokinole more than just a game—it’s a way to create lasting memories and embrace a slower, more intentional lifestyle.

So, why are crokinole boards so expensive? The answer lies in the materials, craftsmanship, and longevity that come with each board. A high-quality crokinole board is an investment in more than just a game; it's an investment in tradition, shared experiences, and lasting memories. And with newer brands like Mysafy offering quality boards at competitive prices, it's easier than ever to start your own crokinole tradition.

When you consider the years of enjoyment and the potential for a crokinole board to become a cherished family heirloom, the price becomes not just reasonable but a smart investment. Whether you're buying a board for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, you’re purchasing a piece that will bring joy, connection, and warmth into the home for generations to come.