BibBoards Review: Are They Worth It for Runners?
I am continuously looking for a better way to put on my race bib. I have historically used safety pins or RaceDots, but the magnets on RaceDots continued to be a challenge when securing a race bib. Safety pins left holes in some of my nice running shirts. As nice as it was to not have to use safety pins with RaceDots, I knew there had to be a better way to secure a bib to your race shirt.
I first heard about BibBoards (Save 20% off with coupon code theactiveguy) on Facebook and really liked the simplicity of the product and wanted to try them out.
Are BibBoards worth it?
Yes — especially for runners who want to avoid putting holes in their race shirt. After testing BibBoards in over 10 races I found that they securely hold a race bib without safety pins and are easy to attach and remove. Their biggest advantages are protecting running shirts, eliminating loose safety pins, cheap, and providing a simple reusable alternative to traditional bib attachment.
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Coupon Code: theactiveguy (click to activate)
Save 20% off at BibBoards.comOther options: Amazon.com
BibBoards at a glance
| BibBoards | |
| Type | Race bib fastener |
| Best for | Runners/Racers/Cyclists |
| Reusable | Yes |
| No shirt holes | Yes |
| My Rating | 4.9/5 |
| Best feature | Cheap ($12), Lightweight, Easy to attach |
| Biggest drawback | Sometimes the plastic pieces are tough to separate |
| Best alternative | RaceDots |
| Worth buying? | Yes |
What do BibBoards look like?
Here are a few pictures of BibBoards up close. You can see the plastic closure as well so you can better understand how they snap into place.
I used BibBoards during the 2023 and 2024 Akron half marathon on my Saucony Hydralite shirt and not only left the shirt without any holes, but helped keep the bib secure. These Saucony shirts are thin and lightweight and I was curious to see how BibBoards would work.
Additionally, one thing that changed in 2024 was that BibBoards has a few more products, including bibSNAPS.
BibBoards are an easy way to eliminate the need for safety pins to secure my race bibs. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a race director, this review covers it all. Say goodbye to safety pins and hello to the future of bib fastening! With all that said, I believe that BibBoards are the best race bib pin alternative.
Below are a few pictures of BibBoards and what they looked like on with an actual race bib. In the one picture, you can see how safety pins have damaged this shirt.
BibBoards Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
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BibBoards Verdict
If you race at least once a year, you need BibBoards. The price point and simplicity of this product make it a no-brainer for those who race. This would also be a great gift any runner or cyclist and part of my marathon essentials list for each race.
Not only will it be simple to attach your bib to your shirt/shorts, but you will have no holes in your shirt.
As mentioned above, I ran the Indianapolis Marathon with these for the first time. It took 3 tries to get the bib applied and straight. While this may seem like a lot of attempts it was easy to put on and easier to remove after the race. All while having no additional holes in my shirt.
If you are an avid runner, I would highly suggest this cheap alternative to safety pins. Another cool thing about BibBoards is that you can customize the plastic parts used to secure your bib!
I like Bibboards so much that I added them to my 8 Race Day Tips post.
Save 20% off at BibBoards.comYou can also buy on Amazon.com. Be sure to use the BibBoards coupon code theactiveguy to save you 20% off at BibBoards.com.
What are BibBoards?
BibBoards bibSNAPS were created in 2009 and are an easier way to secure a running or cycling bib. The plastic hardware makes it easy to install and takes only a few minutes to secure your bib.
BibBoards are a cheap and easy way to secure your bib for any active event. Here are a few examples of BibBoards that are available. The pictures below are courtesy of BibBoards.com.
BibBoards bibSNAPs are made with PlantCore, which is a USDA, eco-friendly material designed for lightweight durability.
How BibBoards Work
BibBoards bibSNAPS are simply a piece of plastic that you connect through your shirt so that it keeps your racing bib in place. The plastic is lightweight and securely fastens your bib all without putting a hole in any of your favorite running shirts or tops.
Check out this video on the BibBoards site to see how easy they are to install.
BibBoards Product Specifications
BibBoards bibSNAPS are a sleek and effective way to replace using safety pins to secure a bib to a jersey, shirt, or jacket. Below are a few details about BibBoards.
- Sleek and Lightweight: flat oval shape made from lightweight plastic
- Fabric-Friendly: Easily keep your bib in place without damaging any shirt or jacket.
- Safe and Easy to Use: No more having to worry about pricking yourself with safety pins.
- Compatibility: Works great on shirts, jackets, and shorts
BibBoards cost around $13 for the standard options. If you want to customize the front you will have to a few more bucks.
BibBoards First Impression
When I first opened up new BibBoards bibSNAPS, I was excited for a number of reasons. The BibBoards, not only looked great but were lightweight. Having tried a few other options, these were by far the simplest and lightest. I never would have thought that after racing for all these years a few pieces of plastic would be my best option.
I have been running races for the last 25 years and am shocked I didn’t come across these sooner. Additionally, they are affordable, lightweight, and easy to use. Tough to beat that combination.
Where to buy BibBoards
There are a few options to buy BibBoards, but I recommend checking out Amazon or buying directly from BibBoards.com as they usually have some discounts.
The other thing you can do at BibBoards.com is create your own customized BibBoards. All you need to do is upload an image, confirm the layout, and purchase. It’s that simple. These are a little more expensive, but still a great and simple feature if you want a unique BibBoard.
Save 20% off at BibBoards.comYou can also buy on Amazon.com, but the BibBoards coupon code theactiveguy will save you 20% off at BibBoards.com.
Bibboards Coupon Code
Use the coupon code theactiveguy (click to activate) to save 20% off all purchases on BibBoards.com. This is valid on all products and includes discounted shipping. If you have any issues using the code, contact me!
BibBoards Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do BibBoards damage running shirts?
No. BibBoards use plastic connectors instead of safety pins, helping prevent holes in performance apparel.
Can you reuse BibBoards?
Yes. BibBoards are easy to put on and take off. Being able to reuse them is one of the best things about BibBoards.
Are BibBoards comfortable?
Yes. BibBoards are lightweight and barely notice them while running. They are also incredibly lightweight.
Are BibBoards allowed in races?
Most races allow them, but always check race-specific rules. I have personally never had an issue using these in a race.
How do you attach BibBoards?
BibBoards are two plastic pieces that you attach through the shirt. No holes required, simply attach the two plastic pieces and your bib is secured in place.
Are BibBoards worth the money?
For runners who race regularly and want to protect expensive shirts, these are totally worth it. A small investment to save those valuable shirts that keep you cool during races.
Are BibBoards better than magnetic race bib holders?
Absolutely. BibBoards are much easier to put on and take off. They basically weight nothing and are in my opinion a superior choice to magnet race bib holders and safety pins.
Do BibBoards damage running shirts?
No. BibBoards leave a temporary mark where the plastic pieces connect, but they do not damage or leave a hole in any of the shirts that I have tested and worn with BibBoards.
Who are BibBoards best for?
BibBoards are particularly good for:
- Marathon runners
- Half-marathon runners
- Frequent racers
- Runners who don’t want holes in technical shirts
- Runners who dislike safety pins
- Triathletes
- People who race frequently
Who shouldn’t buy BibBoards?
- Someone who doesn’t care about pin holes
What do you use to keep your bib in place?
If you have any questions, please let me know by sending me a tweet or sending me an email.
Please note: Purchases from this review may provide a commission to help support theActiveGuy.com.
BibBoards Product Ratings
The rating below is a combination of performance, comfort, durability, and ease of use.
| Our Rating: |
Viewer Rating: |
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RaceDots were a big disappointment. I do not recommend. The magnets are extremely hard to manipulate, Will try BibBoards.
Jack, I totally agree with you. I liked RaceDots at first, but as time went on, they weren’t user friendly and were heavy. Let me know what you think of Bibboards!
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