The Brouk & Co Bradley Backgammon Set combines a stylish case design with practical portability, making it ideal for home or travel.
Let me be honest here. I was never a “game person”. We had game nights in my family and these are what they consisted of: fist fights over which player was up in Monopoly.
I was introduced to backgammon in a most unconventional way. A friend of mine, a gruff, laid-back girl, who in the middle of a miserable rainy Sunday suddenly appeared with an old-looking wooden backgammon board in her hands, threw the board on the table and…said “Go on, sit down. I will show you in five minutes.” Four hours and several cups of tea later, I was “hooked” to the game, but at the same time, she managed to humiliate me, because in spite of being such a rookie, she managed to beat me in nine consecutive games.
That‘s the interesting thing with backgammon. It seems to be straightforward and then it slowly manages to encroach on your weekend.
So when I set about finding myself a backgammon set for my own, I was looking for something that didn‘t look like it should be stored away in a dusty club basement. Best Travel Backgammon Set Guide I was looking for a board that looked great on a coffee table, could endure a ride in a tote bag, but wouldn‘t cost as much as a weekend away. My search led me to the Brouk & Co Bradley backgammon set, and I decided to take a closer look at its features, design, and overall value before buying.
Grab a mug of coffee. Let‘s get straight into it.
The Brouk & Co Bradley Backgammon Set
The Brouk & Co Bradley Backgammon Set is basically a backgammon board in a design to reflect “a classic painterly interpretation of a blue haze”.
The Bradley is a compact, case-style backgammon set by Brouk & Co, a brand that specializes in stylish cases for games and accessories.Imagine not a wooden tournament set but more like a clutch purse for a game.
From the retailer listing: Each set is contained in a lizard-print vegan leather case with a carrying handle and metal corners. Inside you will find a felt interior with painted triangles, a dice cup, black and ivory chips, and dice. The listing displays a pink case; color choices are not consistent so check current options.
If you have had the joys of lugging up two flights of stairs on a very heavy wooden backgammon board, you already know why this is so desirable. Everything folds up and travels in a small brief-case format.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Here‘s the short version for anyone who just wants the specs:
- Design: Case is of vegan leather with a lizard print design.
- Physical: 14.9” (l) 9.7” (w) 2.5” (h)
- Hardware: Metal corners and an integrated carrying handle
- Playing surfaces: felt interior, triangles painted out in color
- Included: dice cup black and ivory chips and dice
- Care: wipes themselves are clean and result in easier maintenance
- Shipping:The listing I found offered free shipping, with exceptions One thing to make sure of before you buy: the listing mentions dice, but it doesn‘t specify whether the set has a doubling cube if you use them (and you should, whether playing for money or play money) ask the retailer to be sure. If the set doesn‘t, it‘s a little purchase; better to know in advance though.
First Impressions: Looks Matter More Than We Admit
Aesthetics, well, here is the great thing, this is the reason for all this.
I have a confession. I judge game sets the way we collectively judge books by their covers. Cheap looking board I play poorly. As long as it looks good I play OK. Who needs to be Sherlock Holmes when you‘ve a nice looking game to plan your next move over?
The Bradley has a bold fashionable feel. The lizard-print surface adds distinctive character, while the metal corners further enhance its stylish appearance.
The box looks as if it is meant to be displayed, not hidden away in storage.
Here‘s an analogy. A traditional wooden backgammon board is just as solid and reliable as a good navy suit: always appropriate and never out of style. The Bradley is a little more like a bold statement jacket. It makes an impression, no matter how good of a fit it is for you.
Size and Portability: The Real Selling Point
On dimensions, the Bradley clocks in at about 14.9” by 9.7”. This puts it pretty comfortably in the category of traveling seriously-not-tiny. It will most definitely not fit in your pocket, but easily in a big tote, backpack, or carry-on.
The handle is more important than you might imagine. One time I carried a different board to a friend‘s lake house, dropping every other checker in the parking lot because I carried it under my arm like a yoga mat. (I found them all, but it was not dignified.) Handle and latch case to the rescue.
Where does this size shine?
- Weekend trips and road trips: They are low-maintenance and ready to go.
- Going on picnics and to the park: this wipeable material is great as the atmosphere can get quite muddy.
- Dorms & small apartments: Its compact design takes up minimal space and stores easily when not in use.
- Table or lounge for the office: amusing and has the advantage of a hole in the middle to carry with it. If you want to have more portable, then turn to a rolled up or or travel mini version. But for a “real” board with a nice playing area, this size is ideal.
Materials and Build Quality
This is where I want to be a good friend to you and stop you from building up false hopes.
The Bradley employs vegan leather for the case and felt for the playing surface, with the painted triangles representing the points. Marked by a category apart from solid wood or authentic leather boards you‘d encounter at a distinguished club. It‘s light-weight, it‘s easier to maintain and it best attends to daily pleasures rather than venerable heirloom prestige.
What that means in practice:
The good:
- Convenient to carry
- Cleans very well, which makes it perfect for non formal situations
- It feels quiet. Checkers don‘t jump squeakily on a hard surface.
- Vegan leather is a nice option if you prefer to skip animal-derived materials The trade-offs:
The trade-offs:
- Most of the lighter materials do not have the same feel and durability as the solid wood construction.
- Heavy wear can be sustained by felt for long periods.
- Painted triangles are attractive, but do not have the same quality as inlaid or carved points. Think of it as the difference between a good everyday sneaker and a handcrafted dress shoe. Both get the job done. One goes for comfort and style; the other for ceremony and decades. One is not “better” in an abstract sense. It depends on what you need.
[Your durability comments here, after a few weeks: are the corners holding up, is the latch loose, do the felt bits gather lint etc.]
How Does It Play?
Let me take a moment to tell you what a good game is like, because the playing experience is what really matters.
Backgammon is a game of rhythm. Your turn, your mind, your turn, a small uncompetitive prayer, your turn. A soft felt surface facilitates that mood. The dice being thrown with a dull thud instead of bouncing off a blackjack table and the chips slipping into position without that unnatural clattering..
The integrated dice cup is a little thing, but it makes a difference. If you‘ve ever been involved in those friendly matches where someone ‘accidentally’ hits the dice off the table and happens to roll a double, you‘ll appreciate how essential a good cup and settled confines for rolling can be. (No names. You know who.)
Since the board is a travel size, the playing surface is a little smaller than a (full tournament) board. For all the one-and-two-point cube games this board is perfect. If you have wide hands or if you‘re an avid faster/scrappier blitz player with decks of stacked points, you may be wanting a little more space here.
Is the Bradley suitable for you?
The second set I want to pair up with those I really recommend this to.
Beginners.
For the total novice, who is still learning the game, you should not spend out on a posh heirloom board. Instead look for something that entices you to want to play on it. An attractive, simple to assemble case does just this. I was first taught by a friend on a battered old board, but couldn‘t help thinking I would have learnt quicker if it had looked as attractive as this. (There are also beginner friendly Backgammon 101 guides available from the US Backgammon Federation if you‘d like to be gently guided from the outset.
Gift givers.
This is where the Bradley really earns its keep. Backgammon sets are one of those gifts that say to someone, “I thought about you,” but without the “And I bought you a candle in desperation.” A funky case in a punchy color is perfect for birthdays, housewarmings, wedding party gifts and Secret Santa exchanges.
Carrying and commuting.
A handle, latch, and wipe clean surfaces is one natural choice for the blagskies who travel.
Game aficionados.
Most people purchase game sets and accessories not just for its potential gameplay but for its aesthetic appeal. It is very desirable to display the Bradley on a bookshelf or coffee table.
Who should most likely be elsewhere?
Exactly what it says on the tin — a good, serious tournament quality board for players with the budget to spare to buy an excellent board. This is the kind of board that most serious tournament and club players will own, and will be happy to be seen playing on. Usually, green and light brown colors are available and it has a salty/woody feel. Smith Cards will also custom make boards to your own specifications.
Natural materials of high quality 120gsm or more are desired by collectors.
Except if you like playing for a long time, long-term strategic sessions and require a lot of space. If that describes you too then, no shame… you obviously follow different priorities, and that‘s OK.
Bradley vs. Other Brouk & Co Sets
Brouk & Co. makes quite a few sets, and the names confuse quickly. Here is how the Bradley compares to a couple of its relatives, according to the listings I managed to find:
Rowan Backgammon Set
Has the same sort of description again, vegan leather case, carry handle, corner protectors, black felt interior, includes 15 black chips, 15 ivory chips, 4 dice, a doubling cube and instructions. Pointed out in the listing is the approximate size, 14.9” x 9.7” x 2.5”. If you want a defined list of its contents and a doubling cube this one does.
Ellen Backgammon Set:
Available in pink, lime, teal, orange and blue, matching measurements of 14.9” x 9.7” x 2.5”. If you are after a more cheery, livelier color scheme then this one is.
Bryson Backgammon and Chess Set:
Another animal altogether. Has a two-sided backgammon and chess board in a vegan leather case, lined with a velvet interior inside measures in at around 10.5 inches by 11 inches by 2 inches. If you‘re a fan of both, perhaps this is a more economical choice.
Onyx Backgammon Set
Much bigger board, approximately 21” x 12.5” x 2.5” with stingray style textured frame. That‘s the board to buy if the larger playing area and added bulk appeal to you. My definitely-not-pretending-to-be-objective opinion: the Bradley is a good choice if the snake-print look is what had you smitten. If you‘re looking for a particular feature, like a doubling cube that the listing makes clear from the get-go, or a chess option, or a larger board, its sister may be more your speed.
Where to Buy and What to Watch For
I‘d compare a few options. Brouk & Co sets are available from department stores, specialty stores and the internet, with differing availability and prices. I checked Dillard‘s for the Bradley, where the product listing indicated the possibility of free shipping, with certain exclusions. Several related Brouk & Co sets are available from resale sites, spanning a wide price spectrum — clearly, a few minutes of price shopping is worthwhile.
A few quick tips:
- Take a look at the return policy. Some Marketplace sellers do not accept returns. A retailer that has a clear policy provides you with one less concern when ordering a gift.
- Check what is in the set. There should be a doubling cube, the number of dice, and all 30 chips.
- Color check. Colors and finishes may differ from listing to listing. Make sure that the photos of it listed are what you want.
- Look out for the sales. Many online retailers have regular special offers throughout the year.
Care and Maintenance
The one true benefit of vegan leather is how simple it is to care for. Most marks and smears can be cleaned with a damp sponge, and the listing specifically mentions that it “wipes clean”.
Some simple habits will keep it looking good:
- Keep in a clean, flat place, free of dust and away from bright sunlight and sources of heat
- It can be in the open not in a moist location
- When it‘s not in use, close the latch to keep the corners in shape
- Flush lint from the felt periodically It‘s like taking care of a good handbag; just a little bit of care goes a long way.
My Honest Verdict
Therefore, is the Brouk & Co Bradley backgammon set indeed a purchase?
If you want something cool looking, portable, simple to maintain, and more than capable of meeting the demands of the casual crowd, I think it‘s a serious candidate. It doesn’t have any illusions of being a family heirloom tournament victory. It‘s not even trying to do that. It‘s just trying to be the board you toss out and start playing on a Tuesday night rather than keep sitting staring at you on a shelf.
That‘s the whole idea for me. The ultimate backgammon set is the one you play with. I‘ve had magnificent tables gathering dust in drawers, and the battered style that appeared at every game night. Which do you think I remember the most?
Pros:
- Attractive lizard-serif design
- Portable and with a strong built-in handle
- Quiet played surface, direction of play:
- Moistwipes/cleaners/onsurtisers/renovator/remover/CND/cleanser liquid/style/lessance/figurative/clean/romp/make-clean/cleans out/primer/to.
- Great gift potential
Cons:
- Lighter, less dense; whether of equal or higher tensile strength than, a solid board so that other contributing factors/effects are taken into account.
- Travel sized area of play (how big is the playing area)
- The listing I found doesn‘t have any doubles in it. It just has the 2, the 4, and the 8 single.
- Not everyone‘s cup of tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Brouk & Co Bradley backgammon set suitable for a new player?
Yes to all. Goodfortravel, portable,andtheeyecandywhich all help to motivate new players. The felt surface is comfortable to play on and the case keeps everything together.
What are the dimensions of the Bradley backgammon set?
On the listing it will give approximate dimensions of 14.9×9.7×2.5 inches when closed.
What‘s in the package?
As listed, you will receive the case, dice cup, black and ivory chips, and dice. Make sure a doubling cube is included in the set before you buy.
Is it leather?
No. It‘s called vegan leather – it is a synthetic alternative, with a felt lining inside.
Is it a good present?
Very giftable set by the bold design, integrated handle and all-in-one case. The birthday, housewarming and holiday gifts are available for you.
How do I wash it?
Rub it with a damp cloth. The listing says it is wipe-clean.
Would you say this is the place to play for serious players?
I think it is good for casual and social play. For competitive play, one might want a bigger and heavier board to hold the stones securely.
Final Thoughts
If you have made it this far you are likely already halfway to clicking “add to cart” and I understand it. There is something inherently pleasing about a game set that appears this good.
What would I recommend? Consider the use for it. If it will travel, be thrown in the car, hit the park, or be displayed on a coffee table; then the Bradley would be perfect. For something to be passed down as a lasting family tradition, or for a significant tournament board; then continue shopping.
And whatever board learns the game. Find a patient friend, a rainy Sunday, and a pot of tea. Be prepared to lose nine games in a row. It will be completely worth it.
Happy traveling.
Learn the Game: Trusted Resources for New Players
A pretty board is only half the story. Playing well is the other. So if you were to direct one of your friends to three resources, I would suggest: Spend an evening with them and you will love playing any game on the Bradley a great deal more.
- U.S. Backgammon Federation: a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting backgammon awareness, education and enjoyment. It hosts online and live tournaments and serves as a good foundation for players of all levels.
- USBGF Backgammon 101:This was written by one of the federation‘s instructors. It is a good basic intro for the beginner. It covers all starting rolls and basic concepts such as splitting your back checkers and a discussion on why passive play is not always wise.
- USBGF Tournament Rules: These are the common rules that began to be used in Jan 2024. This is where to go for any rules question, like “whether a die that lands on a checker counts”.
