Omar Khalid
Bicycle playing cards are a popular choice for card games and magic tricks. They are known for their durability and smooth finish, which allows for easy shuffling and dealing. While some people prefer the cheaper, more disposable option of paper cards, Bicycle playing cards are coated with a layer of plastic, known as air-cushion, which gives them a unique texture and makes them resistant to bending, creasing, and moisture damage. This plastic coating sets them apart from traditional paper cards and enhances their performance in card games, but it also has its drawbacks, such as being more difficult to pick up off a flat surface.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic-coated paper |
| Texture | Smooth, similar thickness to paper cards |
| Durability | High, does not bend or crease |
| Ease of use | Easy to shuffle, deal and hold |
| Use case | Suitable for card games, not for card tricks |
| Cost | More expensive than regular Bicycle decks |
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$14.46
What You'll Learn
Bicycle playing cards are plastic-coated
While some customers appreciate the plastic construction, others note that the case sleeves are made of cardboard. Some customers also appreciate the feel of these playing cards, noting that they have a different texture and are smooth to handle. They are also pretty much the same thickness as paper cards, but much sturdier, and they don't stick to each other at all.
Customers also appreciate the cards' durability, noting that they are made of dura-flex material and do not bend or crease. They are also great for camping since they are all plastic, and there is no need to worry about moisture. They are also easy to shuffle and last a long time.
However, some customers find them too slippery, while others note that they glide beautifully over felt card tables. They are also difficult to pick up off the table since they don't bend.
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Pros prefer Bicycle playing cards
Bicycle playing cards are a popular choice for card players, including professionals. The world-renowned Bicycle Playing Cards, also known as the 'Standard' deck, are perfect for games, flares, or illusions. The pros, from magicians to poker players, use these cards.
One of the main reasons Bicycle playing cards are preferred by pros is their durability. The cards are coated with a slippery plastic coating, known as "air-cushion", which allows them to glide over any surface, including each other, making for smooth fans, shuffles, and deals. This coating also makes the cards durable and long-lasting. The plastic coating means they are great for outdoor use and camping, as they are moisture-resistant. The coating also ensures the cards do not stick together and are easy to shuffle. The cards are made of dura-flex material and do not bend or crease, maintaining their shape and quality over time.
Bicycle playing cards are also known for their classic look and high quality. The brand is easily recognised and associated with quality, and the cards are sealed with an official "The U.S Playing Card Company" sticker. The cards have the classic Rider Back design and are available in a range of colours and designs, including the popular Stargazers deck.
Another reason pros prefer Bicycle cards is consistency in handling. While there may be some variation between printing batches, the brand generally maintains a consistent quality and feel. This is important for magicians and cardists who rely on consistent handling for their performances and practices.
Overall, Bicycle playing cards offer a durable, high-quality option with a classic look and consistent handling, making them a preferred choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
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Pros and cons of plastic-coated cards
Bicycle playing cards are coated with a slippery plastic coating known as "air-cushion" to allow them to glide over any surface, including each other, making for smooth fans, shuffles, and deals. While some customers appreciate the plastic construction of these cards, others note that the only downside is picking them up off the table as they do not bend.
Pros
- Plastic-coated cards are durable and long-lasting.
- They are easy to shuffle and deal.
- They are suitable for card games, especially Poker.
- They are difficult to mark up, making them ideal for casinos or playing with friends.
- They are easy to clean and can be wiped off if they get dirty.
Cons
- Plastic-coated cards are more expensive than paper cards.
- They are not suitable for card tricks or cardistry, as they are harder to tear, fold, or burn.
- They can be too slippery, making them difficult to pick up off the table.
- They may have limited designs compared to paper cards.
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Paper cards vs plastic-coated cards
Playing cards, whether paper or plastic-coated, are both widely used. Paper cards are the traditional option, and they are usually cheaper and better for performing card tricks. On the other hand, plastic-coated cards are more durable, easier to shuffle, harder to cheat with, and have a longer lifespan.
Paper cards are the classic choice for playing cards and are typically more affordable than plastic-coated cards. They are ideal for those who enjoy performing card tricks or intricate card techniques, such as flourishes and springs. Paper cards also tend to have more unique and creative designs, making them a great option for collectors or those who appreciate aesthetic appeal. However, one of the main drawbacks of paper cards is their lack of durability. They are prone to bending, creasing, and showing signs of wear and tear quickly, especially with frequent use.
Plastic-coated cards, on the other hand, offer a more durable alternative. These cards are coated with a thin layer of plastic, giving them a longer lifespan than traditional paper cards. Plastic-coated cards are resistant to bending and creasing, making them a popular choice for card games, especially Poker. They are also easier to shuffle due to their smooth surface, and they slide into place effortlessly. Additionally, plastic-coated cards are harder to cheat with, as they are more challenging to mark or tamper with.
While plastic-coated cards excel in durability, they may have a different feel than paper cards, which some users might not prefer. Plastic-coated cards can sometimes be too slippery for some people's tastes, making them less ideal for performing card tricks or intricate manipulations. However, they are excellent for outdoor use, as they are typically waterproof and can withstand spills or moisture without being damaged.
Both paper and plastic-coated cards have their advantages and disadvantages. Paper cards are traditional, affordable, and great for performing tricks, but they lack the durability of plastic-coated cards. Plastic-coated cards, meanwhile, offer increased durability, ease of shuffling, and resistance to cheating, but may not be as suitable for card tricks due to their slippery nature. Ultimately, the choice between paper and plastic-coated cards depends on the user's specific needs and preferences.
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Best cards for card tricks
Bicycle playing cards are coated with a slippery plastic coating known as "air-cushion" to allow them to glide over any surface, including each other, making for smooth fans, shuffles and deals. They are perfect for games, flares, or illusions. From magicians to poker players, the pros use these.
While Bicycle cards are great for card tricks, some magicians prefer paper cards for cardistry or techniques such as flourishes and springs. Paper cards are also better if you want to perform card manipulations. The Bee card line, made by the same company that produces Bicycle cards, is a good option for borderless-style decks. They are also very affordable and recognisable, adding to your credibility as a magician.
If you're looking for a trick deck, a stripper deck is a great option. It allows you to locate any card at any moment, no matter how shuffled or randomised the deck is. It looks and feels completely ordinary and can be used as a failsafe for your regular card tricks.
For cardistry, standard Bicycle cards are a good option as they are cheaper than decks designed specifically for cardistry.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Bicycle playing cards are coated with a slippery plastic coating known as "air-cushion".
Plastic coating makes the cards spill-resistant and durable. They are also easier to shuffle and do not stick to each other.
Plastic-coated cards are more durable and are great for card games, especially Poker. Paper cards are more suitable for cardistry or techniques such as flourishes and springs.
Regular Bicycle cards are good for cardistry as they are cheaper and easier to replace than specialized decks designed for cardistry.
Bicycle playing cards are known to be durable and can last much longer than regular paper cards.
