What are the best golf bags of 2020? A great golf bag does many important things for a golfer but, in the end, it must do one thing well, and that is to make our time at the golf course easier. The best golf bags create a safe and protective haven for our valuable clubs and personal items. With lined pockets for our wallets and electronic devices and plenty of room for storage to keep a jacket or umbrella handy, a great golf bag is like a Swiss army knife that delivers countless ways of helping us while we play.
What are the best golf bags of 2020?
1. CALLAWAY ORG 14 GOLF CART BAG
The best golf bag for comfortable, full-club golfing anywhere
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 2.5kg Material: Blend Waterproof: Yes Dividers: 14 Pockets: 11 Stand or cart: Cart
The Callaway Org 14 Cart Bag is quite simply one of the best golf bags you can buy right now. Made of durable and heavyweight fabric this has a huge 14 dividers and 11 pockets making everything easily accessible instantly.
This year the addition of a non stadium top means wedges sit flush. The pockets have also been given new construction lines this year for even more storage. A separate putter well and TPE insert for shaft protection is a great feature making this a tidy setup for quick access to everything.
There’s a front facing magnetic rangefinder pocket, electric trolley battery pack sleeve and a new carabiner style towel hook with glove attachment. You really will be hard pressed to find a better bag in the cart category for the price.
2. TAYLORMADE TOUR STAFF BAG
The best golf bag for tour calibre quality, making it ideal for competitive players
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 5kg Material: Brushed micro perforated synthetic leather Waterproof: Yes Dividers: 6 Pockets: 12 Stand or cart: Stand
If you want to look the part on the fairway this is the bag for you, made from micro perforated synthetic leather, it has a truly premium finish. There’s a 6-way velour top, black gunmetal hardware and a zip-off belly panel for embroidery.
But it’s not just the materials on this staff bag that matter as you also get 12 pockets, two of which are velour lined making them ideal for phones. There’s a rain hood and umbrella sleeve for wet weather and a three point shoulder strap for a nicely balanced carry.
At 5 kg this isn’t the lightest bag out there but if you want to look the part with Tour-level quality then you’ll need to have the stamina of a tour-level player too.
3. PING MOONLITE GOLF CARRY BAG
This carry style bag has room for a full set of golf clubs
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 1.1kgMaterial: MixedWaterproof: Yes, bellyDividers: 2Pockets: 4Stand or cart: Carry
Ping has outdone itself with the latest update to the Moonlite carry bag. This ridiculously light 1.1kg carry bag will hold a complete set of clubs and organises them with two dividers. The ergonomic straps make carrying comfortable and when it comes to putting down, Ping has you covered.
The underside of the bag is water resistant so you can place this on the wet grass without worry. Anything in the four pockets, which hold up to 10 litres, should stay nice and dry as well as safely stored. The adjustable standing strap makes for an easy way to convert to a single carry strap for those that want to change up.
This, for the weight and price, is a really impressive bag that’s ideal for smaller cars, a quick nine holes or for those that just don’t have room for a hefty staff bag.
4. POWAKADDY DRY EDITION CART BAG
The best golf bag for full waterproof protection
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 2.3kg Material: Hydrostatic rated nylon fabric Waterproof: Yes Dividers: 14 Pockets: 7 Stand or cart: Cart
The PowaKaddy Dry Edition cart golf bag is the one to have for all-weather golfing. Why? It uses a lightweight hydrostatic rated fabric of over 10,000mm, which PowaKaddy claims makes this golf bag four times more waterproof than other waterproof golfing bags on the market. It’s also lightweight but remains watertight thanks to the nylon fabric and heat welding seam-sealing system.
A 14-way divider make for quick club access while seven pockets offer something for everything including two full length clothes pockets – ideal for that wet weather gear – a velour lined valuables pocket, matching waterproof rain hood, and covered zip holders.
The PowaKaddy lock system is also here for easy and secure cart fixing, plus you get a host of colours to pick from to suit your look.
5. SUN MOUNTAIN RANGE 14 WAY H2NO LITE CARRY BAG
A true golfers favourite with umpteen dividers
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 2.4kg Material: TPU coated fabrics Waterproof: Yes Dividers: 14 Pockets: 6 Stand or cart: Stand
This best golf bag contender does it all. You get a 100 percent waterproof TPU coated fabric outer along with YKK waterproof zips plus taped and sealed seams, all resulting in an all-weather bag. This is also a golf carry bag, so you don’t need to worry about the cart getting stuck in the wet ground.
Despite the 2.4kg weight there’s a stand built-in and a full 14 way divider system for carrying a full set of clubs. Of the six pockets you get on for a hydration pouch, some full length for clothing and velour lined one for valuables like your phone so it stays scratch free.
The comfort hip pad is a nice new addition while the lift assist handle, velcro leg lock system and top mounted grab handle all make sure a super easy and comfortable carry experience.
6. PING HOOFER LITE STAND BAG
The best golf bag for comfortable lightweight carrying
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 2.2kg Material: Mixed fabrics Waterproof: Resistant Dividers: 4 Pockets: 7 Stand or cart: Stand
When it comes to a comfy trot around the course you’re going to be hard pressed to find a better golf bag than this best seller from Ping. It’s not just about being a svelte 2.4kg light though – it also features cushioned hip and shoulder padding to make that weight comfortable to shoulder.
On top of that, Ping uses its SensorCool tech to enable those pads to stay cool so you don’t overheat even when playing in hot summer sun. The new strap connector makes it easy to swing the bag on, and it’s fully adjustable too, so you can sit the shoulder pads just right.
Should all that comfort still leave you thirsty, on top of the seven pockets there’s a dedicated holder for quick access to your water bottle.
7. TITLEIST TOUR STAFF BAG
Tour bags are the height of amateur golfing luxury, and this one’s a real looker
SPECIFICATIONS
Best for: Competitive golfersType: TourDividers: 6-wayPockets: 10
If you fancy yourself a spot on the next Masters tour, the only thing to be seen carting around is this Titleist tour bag. It looks great on the course and offers a wealth of features to make your game easier and more enjoyable.
A 6-way top divider ensures you always have an eye on the right club, while quick-release magnetic pockets and military-grade zips ensure both easy access and safekeeping of valuables. Foam cushioning and en ergonomic strap system boost comfortable carrying.
8. CALLAWAY HYPER-LITE ZERO STAND BAG
This golf bag is super-strong and hardy , yet weighs next to nothing
SPECIFICATIONS
Best for: Ultra-light Type: Stand Dividers: 4-way Pockets: 5
For golfers with mobility problems, those who fatigue easily, or simply anyone who can’t be doing with the faff of an overly heavy bag, consider this super-light yet sturdy option.
The aptly named Callaway Hyper-Lite comes in at just 2.5lbs but doesn’t go light on the functionality, thanks to a durable nylon shell, sturdy carbon fibre legs, a four-way club organisers with full length dividers to get at clubs quickly.
There’s also handy dedicated pockets for phones, valuables and balls. As with the Titleist tour bag, those padded shoulder straps work to ensure carrying comfort.
9. TAYLORMADE TOUR CART BAG
Last year’s essential tour cart golf bag is now available for an absolute steal
SPECIFICATIONS
Best for: Attaching to a cartType: Tour, cartDividers: 6-wayPockets: 12
It was one of last year’s best performing, best looking golf bags, and you can now snap it up for less than £200 on a good day. The TaylorMade Tour Cart Bag 2018 is designed for those who cart, rather than walk, around their course of choice.
Featuring TaylorMade’s 2018 colours, it’s still an eye-catching design in a smaller scale than a traditional tour bag, and is optimised for easier lifting. This makes it a good choice for anyone sporting shoulder or back injuries.
On top of that, it still manages to squeeze in a 6-way divider that provides enough space for a full set of clubs. There’s also 12 individual pockets, including two full-length garment pockets for stashing a waterproof jacket or other necessities.
Buying Guide – best golf bags of 2020
Criteria 1 – Appearance
It may seem silly that appearance is important in a golf bag, but most professional golfers will tell you that confidence in equipment translates to confidence on the links. A golf bag that looks sleek with sharp colors can provide the golfer with a boost in the conviction that today will be their best day on the course.
And as vain as this may seem, no golfer wants to show up for a round with business associates or friends with a bag that has mismatched colors or an ugly exterior. Most manufacturers realize this truth and have designed their latest bags with a nod toward building a golf bag centered around function without sacrificing style.
Criteria 2 – Weight
The weight of a golf bag is often an overlooked detail for amateur golfers. The last thing an amateur needs to do is find the largest bag available because it has a hundred pockets or some other unnecessary feature that only adds weight and makes for a longer day at the course.
This advice is especially true for golfers who like to walk the course. Most stand bags try to keep the weight of the bag as light as possible, so the walking golfer doesn’t break down from exhaustion on the back nine.
If you are seeking out a cart bag, then the weight is far less of a consideration, but for those looking for a great stand bag, then understand how the heft affects the functionality of the bag. When deliberating on what bag to purchase, always look at the weight as a significant element of how the bag will perform for you.
Criteria 3 – Storage
Just like Goldilocks, you are looking for just the right amount of storage in a golf bag. Some companies believe that building a golf bag with a dozen pockets and promoting maximum storage capacity as a high selling point is the way to go but that just isn’t the case.
The reason why that is true is more pockets typically converts into a heavier bag for you to carry on the course. So when doing your research for a golf bag, take note of how many pockets a bag has and then do the math on what you need those pockets for when you are on the course.
For example, ask yourself are you in a rainy area? Then maybe you should find a bag with storage capacity for rain gear to keep you dry. Same goes for valuables. Most new bags have accommodations for your cellphone, wallet, and jewelry. Look for bags with velour-lined pockets that are waterproof if this protection is vital to your trip to the golf club.
Criteria 4 – Protection
Protecting your clubs and your valuables are incredibly important in a golf bag.
For the clubs, bags will have dividers in the top opening to situate your clubs and make them easier to pull out when you need them for an upcoming shot. Now, those dividers can run the length of the bag, making them “full-length” dividers. Some bags even have individual full-length dividers, giving clubs their own protective cocoon.
If you’ll go back to the top of the bag, notice how the opening is lined. Is it padded? Or bare? Realize that the lower section of the shaft of the club will rub against this area during travel and as you walk the course. Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to make sure the clubs are protected with padded linings that offer a buffer that keeps your clubs safe and protected.
Same goes for your valuables. All current bags will have some special pocket for valuables that keeps phones from being scratched, but not all of them will be waterproof. If keeping your valuables dry is important, especially if you live in a rainy area, then search for waterproofing from that valuables pocket.
Criteria 5 – Durability
If you are spending hundreds of dollars on a golf bag, the last thing you want it to do is fall apart after a couple of years. Whether you choose a stand or cart bag, you must do your due diligence in finding a bag that will withstand the rigors of a trip to the course.
If you choose a stand bag, areas to focus on include the durability of the legs that hold up the bag. Ask yourself what are the materials used for these legs. Are they carbon fiber or aluminum? Carbon fiber is lighter and shatterproof in most cases.
Same goes for the cart bag, but instead of the legs, focus on the padded opening of the bag because this is the area that will show damage first, due to the rubbing of clubs against that padding during travel.
Questions & Answers
What are the key features a great golf bag should have?
There are several features that a great golf bag has that provides exceptional protection for your clubs and plenty of storage for all of your necessities on the golf course.
The first feature is durability. Every golf bag must be long-lasting and withstand the punishment that a trip to the course can place upon a bag.
Another area to focus on when buying a golf bag is the appearance of the bag. Does it look cheap? Are the colors mismatched? Golf bags that look nice instill confidence in the golfer. It may seem superficial, but it is true.
Weight and storage are two characteristics that go hand-in-hand when searching for the right bag for you. The more room a bag has, the heavier it will be on the course if you fill those pockets with items. Knowing the weight of a bag is crucial if you plan on using the bag for walking the course.
Finally, the bag must be able to protect your clubs and your valuables. Everyone playing golf takes their cellphone or other electronics to the course. Most bags have individual protection pockets that hold those valuables safely. Also, notice how the bag protects your clubs through padding and full-length dividers that keep clubs on their own.
What’s a golf bag ideal size & weight?
When picking out the perfect bag for your game always factor in how much the bag weighs. If you are in the market for a cart bag, then obviously you care about weight a bit less than someone searching for a stand bag.
Cart bags, when loaded down with clubs, balls, and other accessories, can weigh around 30-40 pounds. That’s not exactly something conducive to walking the course, which is why it is called a cart bag.
For walking, you’ll want a stand bag, and those models are built with a weight reduction in mind from the beginning. Without anything in the bag, a stand bag can weigh less than two pounds. This small weight figure is why stand bags are also so attractive to golfers who will never walk the course because the lack of weight makes the stand bag easy to carry from car to cart.
What are the different types of golf bag and which one should I go for?
There are four types of bags available for golfers, but only two bags stand out as viable options for most amateurs.
The first bag is a small bag with only room for a handful of clubs and even less storage. This bag is known as a Sunday bag because decades ago golf clubs were closed on Sundays; therefore there were no caddies, so players had to carry their own bag.
So, a small bag made for easy carrying was invented for those Sundays. The problem with Sunday bags is that they can’t carry all your clubs and hardly any of your necessities.
That brings us to the two viable options. The first is the stand bag which is light and has two foldable legs that pop out when the bottom of the bag comes into contact with the ground. Your clubs are easily accessible, which makes the stand bag ideal for walking golfers.
The next option is the cart bag. These bags are more prominent, bulkier and can store more of your balls, rain gear and even, an umbrella. Cart bags are meant to ride in a cart; therefore they have no foldable legs attached or attachments that can make walking more comfortable.
Another version of the cart bag is the tour bag, made specifically for professional golfers. These bags are built for maximum storage and are incredibly expensive and cumbersome.
Should I go for a stand or a cart bag?
When choosing between a stand or cart bag, there are several areas of difference to consider.
For stand bags, finding one that is durable with high-quality legs is a must. Most stand bag legs crafted from carbon fiber are light and have terrific strength.
Also, realize that stand bags will be lighter and less rigid than cart bags; therefore they can potentially break down easier. Keeping the stand bag clean and properly stored will assure that your bag lasts for many years.
Cart bags are unique in that they need a place to stand when storing. If you want to keep your cart bag healthy for the long run, then find a safe place in your garage or club for the bag to stand tall naturally.
The main difference between a cart and stand bags is the weight. Cart bags are noticeably heavier than their stand bag counterparts.
Another benefit of having a cart bag is the extra padding around the bag. When you are searching for cart bags, ask yourself how does the padding line the opening for the clubs? After a time, that padding will wear down as your clubs rub against it during play. This area is most likely where your bag shows wear and tear, so pay attention to that section when buying a cart bag.
What are the known brands that make golf bags?
There are two divisions of golf bag manufacturers. The first comes from the most popular golf brands that all golfers know and love. Companies such as Ping, TaylorMade, and Callaway all make high-quality bags that are resourceful and durable.
Other companies that only make golf bags but rival the construction of the name brands include Ogio, Sun Mountain, Datrek and Izzo. These companies make terrific golf bags worth a look.
Small vs. Big golf bags: what’s better?
In this battle, the primary deciding factor is if you want to walk the course regularly or not. Small bags such as Sunday or stand models are ideal for walking the links. They are lightweight and keep your extra accessories to a minimum.
Bigger bags such as cart and tour bags will give the golfer maximum storage and therefore, more weight to transport. If you typically play with a cart and only lift your clubs from your trunk to the cart without carrying them, then a bigger bag certainly has its advantages.
Do certain golf courses have specific restrictions on what type of golf bags I can bring?
Each club is different with their specifications and rules for golfers, but almost all of them require golfers to have some bag to carry their clubs in during their round. The best rule of thumb is to call the pro shop ahead of your round and ask what the rules are if you are bringing a unique bag, such as a Sunday bag to the course.
You should feel safe that if you own a cart or stand bag, that the club will have no problem with this option.
How do I clean my golf bag?
Most bags are made from nylon, so they are easy to clean with a little dish soap and warm water. Just take a soft rag and wash dirty areas of the bag, then wipe away the excess soap with a wet towel. Do not use chemicals or cleaners on your bag as they will break down the fabric, causing your bag to accelerate with age.
If you own an expensive tour stand bag made from leather, you should also be very careful with your cleaning and maintenance of your bag.
Are golf bags waterproof?
Most golf bags are not waterproof, so you have the option of using a waterproofing spray on the exterior. It is always wise to have a rain hood for your bag, in case the weather turns terrible but for the outside lining, you can find sprays that limit the moisture exposure to your clubs.
Another area that may be waterproof is your valuables pouch in the bag. Not all bags have lined pouches that keep the water away from your electronics, but if this feature is essential, there are plenty of bags that have this protection.
Is it feasible to repair a golf bag on my own or should I buy a new one?
It depends on the severity of the injury to your bag if you should repair or buy a new model. If you are talking about a rip or tear in the exterior, then there are plenty of patching options to choose from to help you repair your bag.
If your bag is older and is showing severe signs of wear and tear along the padding that protects the clubs, then you should start saving for a new bag that won’t hurt your irons and woods.
Regardless, if you are unsure, ask for the help of a club pro or equipment profession in determining what step you should take next in repairing or replacing your bag.