Which standard foam targets do exist?


We all know the standard foam targets. Square target blocks that come in different sizes and designs, with or without a replaceable center. These targetsmake the largest group within the target category.

We all started out practicing on a white ethafoam target learning how to shoot in the garden. Naturally, this type of target has only improved since then. They are available in different types of foam, from recycled PE (polyethylene) foam to sandwich polyfoam and ethafoam. From 50cm to 135cm, with and without a replaceable center.

Available in various types of foam.

Recycled PE foam

Standard foam targets come in different types of foam. The cheapest version is the one with recycled PE foam. This type of foam is used for various purposes such as the surface for synthetic soccer fields. Targets like this can be recognized by the different colors of foam they contain. They are made out of wads that are pressed together into one square block.  The targets in our range from Refo BMC and the Isomix from Avalon are targets made with this type of material. The Refo models are available in different sizes and thicknesses. In my opinion, they are a good choice if you are looking for a budget-friendly solution. They also get extra points for being ecological!

Recycled target

Recycled target

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You can find target strips in this type of material as well. With strips you can build your own shooting wall or target.

PROS

  • Budget friendly.
  • Made out of 100% recycled material.
  • Available in various sizes and thicknesses.
  • Foam is not harmful for arrows.
  • Arrows are easily removable up to 100cm.
  • Water resistant.

CONS

  • Shooting surface consists of different colors.
  • Inconsistency in firmness of the foam pieces.
  • Slightly more difficult to pull out your arrows.
  • The size format is difficult to move (135cm).

Polyfoam with sandwich panels

A common variation is the polyfoam sandwich panel. Several softer layers of foam between harder layers form a kind of sandwich, hence the name. The hard layers provide the stopping power while the softer layers provide the "healing" of the target. This means that the soft part ensures that the hole caused by the arrow closes again. This version is also available in different sizes and thicknesses, from beginner to professional usage. You will find these types at Avalon and Fawofield. The Avalon targets are also available with replaceable center in both polyfoam and durafoam. Durafoam is a foam with a very high density. This type of foam has a longer lifespan and an incredible stopping power.

target without center

Target without center

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target with standard center

Target with standard center

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target with standard center

Target with durafoam center

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PROS

  • Available in various sizes and thickness levels.
  • Foam is not harmful for arrows.
  • Easily movable up to 100cm.
  • Arrows are easily removed.
  • Longer lifespan of the target due to the 'healing' effect of the soft foam layers.
  • Water resistant.

CONS

  • More expensive than recycled foam.
  • The size format is difficult to move (135cm).

Other alternatives


ethafoam

Ethafoam

Ethafoam is a type of polyethylene foam also used in construction as sound insulation. It exists out of different density variants. Ethafoam 200 (35.2kg/m³) and 400 (58kg/m³) are the most common ones used for the fabrication of targets. For beginner shooters, the 200 is commonly used while the 400 variant is used more for professional usage. All targets can be found here. There are also target strips and panels with this type of material.

PROS

  • Available in various sizes and thicknesses.
  • Foam is not harmful for arrows.
  • Easy to move and maneuver
  • Arrows are easily removed.

CONS

  • More expensive than recycled foam.
  • Less longevity than other foam targets.

Why buy a target with a replaceable center?

Standard foam targets are available with or without a replaceable center. A target with a replaceable center will be more cost effective in the long run as you begin to reach a higher level of skill. The better you start grouping your arrows the more you will shoot in the same zone of the target. Which will cause your target to wear out faster in that zone and therefore shoot through it faster. If you have a target with a replaceable center, you only have to replace the broken center, which is more economical (and ecological) than buying a whole new one.

All our targets with replaceable center can be found here.

All replaceable centers can be found here.

Targets with modular pieces.

An alternative to targets with a replaceable center are modular targets. The best known manufacturer is undoubtedly Danage of Scandinavia from Denmark. Their domino system allows you to swap or rotate each module. They have different models in different thicknesses for an indoor or outdoor setup available. Especially for a club the long term investment can be worth it.

Find all modular targets here.

Team Choices

  • A011160 - Our team choice for a beginner target with recycled foam small size
  • A011161 - Our team choice for a beginner target with recycled foam medium size
  • A011257 - Our team choice for a sandwich foam target small size
  • A011258 - Our team choice for a sandwich foam goal medium size
  • A011141 - Our team choice for a center back goal small size
  • A011142 - Our team choice for a target with center medium size
  • A033477 - Our team choice for a target with center large size
  • A037552 - Our team choice for a multicenter target

Thanks for reading!

Walter from SSA Archery - 06/05/2022

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