Bocce is an ideal outdoor game for both competitive and casual play, great for those who’d like to get some exercise in without sweating it out. Most modern bocce gear are made to be highly durable. But it also means a large number of these products are made out of resin, plastics, and other composite materials that are non-biodegradable.
Luckily, there are plenty of ecofriendly options too for all your bocce essentials. If you’d prefer something more environmentally safe, here’s a look at some of the best alternative materials available for bocce equipment that you could choose from.
Eco-friendly Bocce Balls:
The most important part of a bocce playset is of course its colorful bocce balls. Usually they’re made of thermoset-resin, poly-resin, or plastic for heat and moisture resistance. Some have metal-cores for better stability and impact endurance. The best alternatives you can find for such materials are natural plant-based resin, rubber and wood.
Hardwood balls are often just as heavy as poly-resin ones and great for tournament bocce balls. Though wooden balls are prone to breaking and need significant care to last long. Metal-cores can be replaced with heavy rubber-cores, for slightly lighter but more eco-friendly balls. They don’t feel the same when rolling, but are more preferable when playing with children.
Wooden Bocce Scoreboards:
Another very important component of a bocce playset is the scoreboard. Instead of plastic or metal-frame boards, you could opt for a wooden bocce scoreboard. They’re pretty sturdy yet lightweight, and a good quality one can withstand even some harsh weather. Wooden scoreboards can last for a good few years and are much easier to dispose of if accidentally they do break down.
Biodegradable Bocce Accessories:
Swap out the bocce bags made of plastic or synthetics materials for natural fiber bags, like ones made from hemp or cotton. They both look pretty cool and can be quite durable. For measuring devices or protective gears, find ones that are easily recyclable or can be repurposed into something useful again. If you are to choose, better get metallic or wooden ones over those made of plastic, glass or rubber.
Natural and Eco-friendly Bocce Courts:
One of the many advantages bocce has over other outdoor sports is that it can be played on almost every kind of court surface, regardless of whether it’s made of grass, concrete or something else. Which is why it’s much easier to find nature-friendly court options for the game. You could use natural grass grounds or artificial turfs made from alternatives like soy or sugarcane blades, etc. as your bocce playground.
A Few Final Thoughts
Resourcefully sourced bocce products are much safer for nature, easier to dispose of, and durable. They are especially good for enjoying with the family and also a great option for gifting. You can check out some amazing eco-friendly bocce balls and accessories at All Things Bocce today.