There is no doubt about the fact that darts has become somewhat of a phenomenon – especially in the UK – with many fans even classing it as their “second sport” behind football.
I might be asking for trouble here, but I’m not fully sold. Yet. I guess I probably have to go to an event and soak up the atmosphere to really understand the hype.
Though, I do keep up-to-date with it and catch the occasional highlights – obviously, Luke Littler is a sensation that has shocked the darts world over the last couple of years and the way in which he keeps surprising everyone at such a young age is incredible.
Despite darts not being my second sport, I do like to game every now again with the lads down the boozer, while, I had a darts board in my ‘digs’ for three years when I was at uni, so I often spent hours on a night, playing – even on my own, from different distances and, even angles!
So, I know how hard it is and do have a certain amount of respect for the professionals who make it look effortless.
Speaking of which, I’ve listed the top players below and the model of dart and weight that they use.
| Dart Player | Dart Model & Weight |
|---|---|
| Luke Humphries | Red Dragon Signature – 22g |
| Luke Littler | Target Gen 1 – 23g |
| Michael van Gerwen | Winmau MvG Exact – 21.5g |
| Gerwyn Price | Red Dragon – 24g |
| Michael Smith | Unicorn – 22g |
| James Wade | Unicorn – 20g |
| Gary Anderson | Unicorn – 23g |
| Jonny Clayton | Red Dragon – 21g |
Current world number one Luke Humphries makes use of the Red Dragon Signature (22g) arrows, which have proven successful for him recently, while it was the Target Gen 1 model of darts that helped Luke Littler shoot to prominence.
Sometimes, when you know what works, why switch? That’s why I’m not surprised, three-time World Champion, Michael van Gerwen, who had a great start to the Czech Darts Open, has stayed loyal to the darts that have served him so well over the years – indeed, his own Winmau MVG Exact. I mean, good marketing right?
James Wade, meanwhile – a veteran of the darts world has stood by his trusted Unicorn darts for many years, indeed, these are a popular model with a few top players including Gary Anderson and Michael Smith.
Why Is Darts Such A Popular Sport?
For many fans, darts isn’t just a sport, it’s a form of entertainment – especially for those who regularly attend events. In increasing numbers, many travel to various meetings around Europe and make an occasion of it – something that a few of my mates have done a few times in the last couple of years.
Each venue has a great atmosphere, there is no trouble and there is always considerable drama – I can understand why it is so easy to get caught up in the excitement.
With the rise of, espcially Littler over the last couple of years as well, including his rivalry with Humphries – the future of British darts looks very promising.