Having the right golf bag can completely transform your golfing experience. It’s crucial to find a bag that suits your needs as a player and has everything you’re looking for. Different golfers have different requirements and preferences, and luckily, there are various types of bags to meet those needs. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, there’s a golf bag out there for you.
Types of Golf Bags
These golfing accessories are not all made equal. Different types of golf bags are designed to suit different purposes. That said, you can choose from the following options.
Tour Bag
This is the largest type available, often weighing up to 4.5 kg, making it heavier than other styles. It’s commonly used by professional players but is also sometimes seen with beginners. These accessories, named because professionals carry them on tour, offer extensive storage and are designed with high-quality materials and often elegant finishes.
Tour bags provide ample space for a full set of 14 clubs, as well as tees, golf balls, towels, rain jackets, gloves, and even drinks. However, they are not suitable for walking around the course due to their weight; carrying one can be exhausting and even lead to injury.
Fortunately, many golf clubs have professional caddies who handle the players’ equipment, allowing them to use tour bags without worry. These spacious, premium solutions are ideal for those who prefer to have all their gear with them comfortably.
Cart Bag
These are also roomy but are designed specifically to be carried on a golf cart. To prevent sliding, they often have a non-slip rubber base or a slot for a cart strap, which adds extra stability by securing the bag to the cart.
Though slightly lighter than tour bags (typically weighing between 2.5 to 3 kg), cart alternatives are not meant to be carried on foot. For easy access to your equipment while on the cart, arrange the clubs with shorter ones at the front and longer ones at the back. This setup helps keep the essentials within reach, especially when loading the bag at the rear of the cart.
Stand Bag
If you enjoy walking from one hole to the next, this type might be the ideal choice. This model is lightweight and includes retractable legs, making it easy to place on various terrains. With an angled opening, you’ll have convenient access to clubs and other essentials. Most stand bags weigh no more than 2.7 kg and often come with single or double straps, making them comfortable to carry for longer periods.
Travel Bag
These serve one main purpose: protecting your gear during transit. When travelling, whether by car or plane, golf equipment can sometimes be damaged. Travel bags help prevent scratches and general wear and tear on your clubs.
These bags often feature cushioned tops for added protection and plenty of external pockets for extra storage. They also have reinforced handles for easy carrying. You can choose between hard and soft travel bags, with hard cases providing more protection but being somewhat heavier.
Pencil Bag
These are the smallest and most minimalist of golf bags, ideal for beginners or golfers who prefer to carry less equipment. Weighing around 1.3 kg, they are very light and feature a comfortable strap, along with two to three pockets for basic storage. Most pencil bags don’t include a stand, but they’re affordable and perfect for those who want a lightweight and simple option.
What to Consider when Buying
Size
The size will largely depend on how much equipment you plan to carry on the course. If you need a full set of clubs, multiple balls, clothing, and other accessories, a larger, more spacious bag is advisable. For those with minimal equipment, a smaller bag may be sufficient. Keep in mind that larger bags often come with stands or wheels, whereas smaller ones may not. This can impact your mobility on the course.
Weight
Weight is especially important if you’re walking around the course. While cart bags are primarily meant for use on carts, a lightweight stand bag is a better choice for walkers. Bags weighing around 1-2 kg are generally considered lightweight. Carrying a heavy bag across the course can affect your performance, so consider this factor carefully.
Pockets
Pockets are a practical feature in any golf bag. When purchasing one, ensure it has plenty of pockets for storing items like golf balls, tees, a water bottle, a wallet, car keys, and any other essentials. Some even include fleece-lined pockets to protect valuables from scratches. Certain models also offer loops to store an umbrella for unexpected weather changes.
Durability
Durability is key, especially if you play frequently. Check the materials to ensure they are sturdy and can withstand wear and tear. When possible, test the bag in-store: place it on the ground to see if the legs feel stable and examine the base to ensure it won’t crack under a load. Also, inspect the zips, reinforced straps, and seams for signs of quality. A well-made, durable bag will provide longevity and withstand regular use.
Rain Protection
A good golf bag should come with a rain cover made of water-resistant material. In some cases, the entire bag itself is crafted from water-resistant fabrics. While you might not play in the rain often, having rain protection is beneficial for those days when the weather is less than ideal. A quality rain cover helps protect your clubs and keeps the bag’s contents dry.
