How to Break In and Care for Your Footbag

A new footbag plays best after it’s broken in, and a good one lasts for years if you clean it right. Breaking in loosens the fill and softens the panels so the bag molds to your foot; cleaning keeps the suede grippy without ruining the fill.

How to break in a new footbag

Straight out of the package, a sand-filled bag can feel a little firm. Break it in by kicking it and gently kneading it in your hands — work the sand around and flex the panels. After a few sessions the fill settles, the bag flattens slightly on landing, and stalls get noticeably easier. This is normal and expected; a bag that’s a touch stiff at first is a sign of a solid, well-filled build.

How to clean synthetic suede

• Spot-clean only. Wipe the shell with a damp cloth and a little mild soap.

• Air-dry. Let it dry fully at room temperature.

• Never soak a sand-filled bag. Wet sand can clump and get lumpy, and a soaked shell takes forever to dry. This is the one care rule the whole footbag community agrees on.

For stubborn dirt on suede, a soft brush once it’s dry lifts grime and restores the nap (and grip).

Making a premium bag last

Premium bags earn their price by lasting. Keep yours out of puddles and wet grass, let it dry if it does get damp, and store it somewhere it won’t get crushed flat. A well-cared-for sand-suede bag like the 14-Panel OG stays round and grippy far longer than a cheap crocheted one that frays and sags.

Quick answers

How do you break in a new footbag? Kick and gently knead it to loosen the fill and soften the panels so it molds to your foot.

How do you clean a hacky sack? Spot-clean synthetic suede with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air-dry. Don’t soak a sand-filled bag.

Invest in a bag that lasts — see the footbag lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions