Hacky Sack Panel Counts Explained: 2, 8, 12 & 32-Panel Footbags

When purchasing a footbag you will typically see them described by panel count (2-panel, 6-panel, 8-panel, 12-panel etc. – even up to 32-panels). Notice I said “spec sheet number” – that’s what it is – but it’s not just a number, the panel count has a significant affect on how the ball plays and also how much room you have for a logo. Below we will explore what changes as the panels increase.

What panel count changes

There are two key variables here. First, roundness. Wrapping more panels around a sphere helps to create a sack that can sit flat on the ground and move smoothly through stalls when rolled. And second, the print area per panel. Fewer, larger panels will give you more space for artwork, creating a larger, uninterrupted print area. Conversely, more, smaller panels will give you more stitching and increase the cost, but create a print area that is comprised of more facets and surfaces.

2-panel: the big-logo footbag

A 2-panel sack is basically a shape of a baseball. It’s the least round of the designs, but this actually is a big plus as both sides are one large flat surface area which can be used for bold logo’s or wordmarks. As such this is a great way to achieve a lot of brand exposure without breaking the bank.

8 and 12-panel: the everyday standards

Most folks who know of the hacky sack will generally think of an 8 – panel “sack”. It’s round enough to play with, and the large panels provide ample space to provide clean stitching, or printing. Our 12 – panel designs are actually rounder, players can appreciate this greatly when performing stalls and delays. Both of these design options allow for beautiful embroidery, or efficient printing, and are able to be used for the majority of orders we receive.

32-panel: the mini soccer ball

32-panel footbags are sewn up of Pentagons and Hexagons exactly like a real soccer ball, just shrunk down a bit. They are the roundest option out there for playing on a table, in our opinion the most visually-pleasing. That soccer-ball hook is the reason this option is a default for youth leagues, sports clubs, and even large campaigns because it instantly conveys the sport of soccer.

Which one should you pick

To create the biggest logo possible go for a 2-panel design, for a more versatile option opt for 8 or 12 panels. But if you really want to create a ‘pack’ that people will notice and the sack is commented on by all, then go for a 32-panel design – remember the number of panels is separate from the material, so even with a 2-panel design you can create a rounded look using suede and with a 32-panel design you can create the same look using crochet, hemp or even glow!

Explore the full custom footbag range

• 2-Panel Baseball-Style Footbag
• 8-Panel Hacky Sack
• 12-Panel Hacky Sack
• 32-Panel Soccer Ball Footbag

Get a free mockup

Send us your logo and we will put it on the footbag of your choice — you approve the proof before anything is produced. Start with a custom hacky sack or reach out for custom colors.