Choosing the right golf bag is an important choice for golfers, whether you prefer walking the course, riding in a cart, or just need a lightweight bag for a quick round. Through the Great Golf Blog, we’ve reviewed a variety of golf bags to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. In this guide, we’ll cover the main types of golf bags (stand bags, cart bags, Sunday bags and hybrids) to help you select the right fit for your playing style.
Golf Stand Bags: Perfect for Walkers
Stand bags are a perfect choice for golfers who prefer walking the course. Designed with built-in legs, these bags offer the convenience of easy access to your clubs without needing to lay the bag on the ground. Lightweight and equipped with comfortable dual straps, stand bags provide great mobility and functionality, making them an ideal option for walkers who enjoy a good walk that won’t be spoiled by a heavy load.
Jones Sports Trouper Stand Bag
The Jones Sports Trouper Stand Bag is a minimalist’s dream, combining sleek design with high-quality craftsmanship. The bag’s simple yet elegant appearance makes it a standout on the course. Despite its minimalist design, the Trouper includes essential features that cater to the needs of any walker, including a well-insulated cooler pocket to keep your drinks cold throughout your round.
While the Jones Trouper might not boast the extensive functionality of some other stand bags, such as the Sunday Ryder, it still offers everything a golfer needs for a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience. The dual padded straps are designed for maximum comfort, distributing the weight evenly across your shoulders, but they do require adjustments for different heights and body types.
The functionality of the Jones Sports Trouper Stand Bag is straightforward but effective. It features a few well-placed pockets for your gear and personal items, ensuring you have easy access to everything you need. The stand mechanism is reliable and sturdy, providing stable support for your clubs on various terrains. If you appreciate a classic look from a heritage American brand, the Jones Trouper is an excellent choice.
Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Bag
Despite the name, the Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Bag is a stand bag that combines portability with functionality. This bag features a compact design with every storage feature you can imagine, making it perfect for gearheads and those who like maximum organization. It provides more than adequate space for your essentials while remaining lightweight and easy to carry.
The Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Bag is designed with the walking golfer in mind. You’ll love the easy to adjust dual “X” strap system and shoulder padding that makes carrying your clubs a breeze, even on hilly courses. The bag’s lightweight construction doesn’t sacrifice durability, as it is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Storage in the Ryder 23 Bag is well apportioned with 8 pockets, including a velcro glove strap, quick access pockets on the side, water bottle sleeves, valuables pouch and three full length dividers to keep clubs protected. It also includes an insulated beverage pouch and a “smell proof” pocket for maximum discretion, ensuring you have everything.
Golf Cart Bags for Those Who Like to Ride
Cart bags are designed specifically for golfers who prefer to ride in a cart. These bags are larger and offer extensive storage options, with numerous pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized and easily accessible. Built with sturdy bases and protective features like pass-through slots for cart straps, these bags provide stability and protection for your clubs while in motion. Their convenience and ample space make them an excellent choice for golfers who prioritize secure storage and organization on the course, and they work great on pull carts as well.
ASK ECHO SLC-130 Golf Cart Bag
For those who use a cart, the ASK ECHO SLC-130 Golf Cart Bag is an excellent option. This bag provides comprehensive storage with numerous pockets and easy access to all compartments. Its design ensures your clubs stay organized and protected throughout your round, with a bottom grid to secure grips and keep them from bouncing around in transit. The performance and practicality of this cart bag make it a standout choice for any golfer.
One of the key features of the ASK ECHO SLC-130 is its 14-way top with full-length dividers, which keep your clubs in place and prevent them from clanking together and causing a ruckus. This feature not only protects your clubs but also makes it easier to find and replace them during play, making it a great option for travelers who want to keep their clubs protected from careless baggage handlers. The bag also includes a spacious cooler pocket, perfect for keeping your beverages cold on hot days.
In addition to its organizational capabilities, the ASK ECHO SLC-130 Golf Cart Bag excels in convenience. It has multiple handles that make it easy to lift in and out of the cart, and the cart strap pass-through ensures the bag remains securely attached during your round. The durability and thoughtful design of this bag make it a reliable companion for riders.
Sunday Bags for Quick Rounds & Fast Walks
Sunday bags are ideal for golfers looking for a lightweight and compact option for quick rounds and fast walks. These small bags are designed to hold fewer clubs (typically 6-8), making them perfect for practice sessions, executive courses and Par 3 rounds. Easy to carry and simple to use, Sunday bags provide the essentials without the bulk, and carrying fewer clubs can help golfers learn how to hit different types of shots with creativity and control.
Sunday Loma Golf Bag
The Sunday Loma Golf Bag is perfect for golfers who want a lightweight and compact option without sacrificing on functionality, making it a favorite among golfers who prefer carrying fewer clubs.
Weighing in at just under two pounds, the Sunday Loma is incredibly light, making it easy to carry even for extended periods. Despite its small size, it includes several useful pockets, including a felt-lined valuables pouch and an insulated “Frosty Pocket.” The single strap is well-padded, adding to the overall comfort of carrying this bag.
The build quality of the Sunday Loma is impressive, and its compact size makes it perfect for those who don’t need a full set of clubs for casual rounds or practice. This bag’s combination of portability and practicality makes it a top choice for golfers looking for a simple, efficient carry option.
Ghost Weekender Bag
The Ghost Weekender Bag is slightly larger than the Loma, offering room for 8 clubs and a putter, making it more useful for a full 18 hole round. Its durable materials and practical features make it an excellent choice for carrying fewer clubs without sacrificing style or performance on the course.
The Ghost Weekender Bag is all about convenience and ease of use. Despite its compact size, the bag includes several pockets for your essentials, including an insulated beverage pocket, magnetic quick access pocket, side storage and a valuables pouch.
A standout feature of this bag is its stylish oreo colorway, which adds a touch of sophistication to its practical design. The durable materials ensure the bag can withstand regular use, while the well-padded strap makes it comfortable to carry. The Ghost Weekender Bag is an excellent choice for golfers who value portability and style but want to carry a few more clubs than a traditional Sunday bag.
Hybrid Golf Bags for Walkers & Riders
Hybrid bags are for golfers who want the flexibility to walk or ride with the same bag. Combining the best features of stand bags and cart bags, hybrid bags offer both the convenience of a built-in stand and the ample storage space and stability needed for cart use. Light enough to carry but sturdy enough to strap, these bags provide the ultimate solution for golfers who like to switch between walking the course and riding in a cart without compromising on functionality or comfort.
Ghost Anyday 5.0
The Ghost Anyday 5.0 is our top choice for the best overall hybrid bag. This versatile bag is designed for both walking and cart use, providing ultimate flexibility. It is lightweight, offers ample storage, and comes in a stylish oreo colorway. The Ghost Anyday 5.0 combines the best features of stand and cart bags, making it a must-have for versatile golfers.
One of the standout features of the Ghost Anyday 5.0 is its handsome design, which includes a sturdy stand system and a cart-friendly base. This allows golfers to easily switch between walking and using a cart without compromising on stability or convenience. As a hybrid, it is a pound or two heavier than most stand bags but not prohibitive for carrying over a full 18 holes thanks to the dual “X” strap system which slides on your back with ease.
The Ghost Anyday 5.0 also boasts a sleek and stylish design, with high-quality materials that ensure durability and a premium look. The oreo colorway adds a modern touch, making this bag not only functional but also visually appealing. Whether you prefer walking the course or riding in a cart, this hybrid bag offers the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right golf bag can significantly enhance your golfing experience. With our unbiased reviews and field test process, we’re committed to providing detailed and honest reviews to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need a stand bag, cart bag, Sunday style or a versatile hybrid option, our reviews cover the best choices available. Follow us at the Great Golf Blog and subscribe to our YouTube Channel (@GreatGolfReviews) and find the perfect fit for your game.
Happy golfing!
Peter Sandor
I'm Peter Sandor, with over 15 years of experience in club fitting and golf expertise. I'm here to guide you through the maze of golf equipment, offering unbiased reviews, fitting insights, and invaluable tips. My mission? To equip you with the perfect clubs, empowering you to unleash your best game, now and in the future. Let's embark on this journey together and elevate your golfing experience to new heights.
