When choosing a set of chess pieces, the type of material can play a significant role in gameplay, durability, and overall experience. Traditionally, chess pieces have been made from wood, but with more modern materials and newly developed manufacturing processes, the possibilities in the chess world of design have greatly expanded.
Wooden Chess Pieces – The Classic Choice
The majority of chess pieces available on the market are made from either wood or plastic. Wooden chess pieces offer a great tactile experience with a natural aesthetic. These are typically produced with additional weights inside the base, and finished with felt on the bottom to protect the playing surface. Their hand-crafted nature is often sought after by chess collectors who appreciate the time and effort spent by the artisans behind the carvings.
Wooden chessmen are well-suited for tournament play, offering a solid, balanced feel that enhances the playing experience.
Metal Chess Pieces – Durable & Elegant
Heavy and luxurious, metal chessmen often have intricate detailing in a modern or antique look. They are usually very stable due to their weight, reducing accidental movement. The majority of the metal chess pieces that we sell come from the experts at Manopoulos, who are well-known for their themed chessmen based on historical and fantasy characters.
Plastic Chess Pieces – Affordable & Practical
Whilst plastic chess pieces can lack the premium feel of other materials, they provide a durable option for those who are looking for an affordable set of pieces. These are usually popular with beginners, schools,
and clubs and can be carried around very easily without the concern of them getting damaged. Some plastic chessmen come with weighted options, but it’s common for these sets to be very lightweight compared with their wooden counterparts.
Crushed Stone Resin Pieces – The Artistic Alternative
Allowing for a great level of detail and artistry, crushed stone resin pieces are made from a composite material that contains real stone. This results in chess pieces that can give the appearance of chiselled stone. Our Isle of Lewis range are all made from crushed stone resin, which gives them a decent natural weight and unique aesthetic appeal. Whilst they are durable for everyday use, they can be prone to chipping if dropped, so it’s important they are safely stored when not in use.
Resin pieces can be moulded into many shapes and sizes, which is what makes them great for use in the Italfama hand-painted range of themed chessmen. These constitute great talking points and can be left on display as a centrepiece when not in play.
Take a look at our aftercare guide to find out the best ways to look after your chess pieces, chessboards, and backgammon sets!
