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What would golf equipment be without a place where it all comes together? A golf bag is the home for clubs, balls, tees, gloves, and other gear like shoes, but it also serves as a fashionable and functional piece of equipment on its own. The best golf bags have the versatility to be used in all scenarios so you can use them while walking a course, riding a cart, or attaching your bag to a manual push cart.
Golfers want options in how they experience a course, so finding a golf bag that combines style and substance is important. Some even have a high number of dividers to make sure your clubs are organized so you aren't breaking the rules.
The Best Golf Bags - Our Top Picks
- Best Golf Bag Overall: Titleist Players 4 StaDry Stand Bag
- Best Golf Bag for Women: Sun Mountain Women's 2022 Stand Carry Bag
- Best Lightweight Golf Bag: Sun Mountain 2022 Ecolite
- Best Hybrid Golf Bag: OGIO 2022 Woode Hybrid 8 Stand Bag
- Best Budget Golf Bag: Big Max Dri Lite Hybrid
- Best Waterproof Golf Bag: Sun Mountain H2NO LiteSpeed Stand Bag
- Best Standing Golf Bag: Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag
- Best Golf Bag for Men: Callaway Golf 2022 Fairway Stand Bag
To help you sift through options, we rounded up the 8 best golf bags. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight or waterproof, there’s something on this list for you.
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Best Overall - Titleist Players 4 StaDry Stand Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 36" x 13" x 10"
- Material: StaDry Waterproof fabric
- Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 4
- Number of pockets: 7
- Waterproof: Yes
- Suggested user: Golfers looking for a lightweight bag with maximum storage
If you’re looking for a great gift for the golfer in your life, we recommend the Titleist Players 4 StaDry golf bag. With a lightweight, waterproof, and sturdy construction, this golf bag grants nearly every golfer's wish. The classic look blends seamlessly with a low-profile top cuff, full-length dividers, and aluminum legs that set a wide and solid base.
Every pocket has a purpose, and the StaDry waterproof material ensures that tucked-away valuables stay protected. We also think golfers will appreciate little details like the external water bottle pocket, a glove Velcro landing patch, and the magnetic accessories pocket.
What We Like
- Waterproof construction with seam-sealed zippers
- Magnetic accessories pockets
- Aluminum legs and advanced hinged bottom for stability
- External water bottle pocket
- Ample storage
- Full-length apparel pocket
What We Don't Like
- Lack of comfort on shoulder pads
- Poor fit with waterproof rain cover
BUY: Titleist Players 4 StaDry Stand Bag
Best Golf Bag for Women – Sun Mountain Women's 2022 Stand Carry Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 36" x 12" x 11"
- Material: Foam fabric
- Weight: 2.9 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 4
- Number of pockets: 6
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested user: An avid women's golfer who mainly walks
Designed for the walking golfer, this ultralight bag from Sun Mountain takes pride in making a women golfer's stroll down the fairway an easy one. The shoulder straps are made from contoured, high-density foam to aid in comfort, and the X-strap is easy to get on and off. There are also grab handles sewn into the strap to assist with carrying and lifting.
The six pockets include a full-length apparel pocket, a velour-lined valuables pocket, a ball pocket with two-way zippers, and a water bottle pouch. Plus, it weighs less than three pounds so it’s not a burden to carry.
What We Like
- Thick carry straps made of high-density foam
- X-strap is easy to get on and off
- 6 pockets with a variety of uses
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Some parts of the bag feel flimsy
- Relatively expensive
BUY: Sun Mountain Women's 2022 Stand Carry Bag
Best Lightweight Golf Bag – Sun Mountain 2022 Ecolite
SPECS
- Dimensions: 37" x 11" x 11"
- Material: Recycle plastic fabric
- Weight: 3.9 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 4
- Number of pockets: 5
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested user: Environmentally-conscious golfers looking for a light carry
If your number one concern is weight, then the Sun Mountain Ecolite bag might be for you. Approximately 25 plastic bottles are recycled to create the fabric for this lightweight Sun Mountain Ecolite golf bag. A sharp bag with vibrant colorway options, the Ecolite has contoured shoulder straps and a convenient dual strap system that’s easily adjustable.
While you get fewer pockets with this stand bag compared to others, it still has a sizable apparel pocket, hydration sleeve, and a velour-lined valuables pocket. If you want something lightweight with a solid construction, the Ecolite is a good place to look.
What We Like
- Ultra-lightweight feel
- Plenty of color options
- Made with recycled water bottles
- Comfortable shoulder straps
What We Don't Like
- Limited storage space
BUY: Sun Mountain 2022 Ecolite
Best Hybrid Golf Bag – OGIO 2022 Woode Hybrid 8 Stand Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 15 x 16 x 34 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Weight: 6.54 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 8
- Number of pockets: 9
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested user: Golfers who split time evenly between walking and riding
Lightweight bags often come with potential drawbacks in the storage and durability compartments which are areas where the OGIO Woode Hybrid 8 excels. While heavier than other bags, the Woode boasts several features that lightweight bags typically don’t have. Nine pockets for enhanced storage, eight dividers for better club organization, an umbrella holder, and a ball silo are just a few of the features golfers can enjoy with a Woode Hybrid 8 bag.
We have to mention, though, that if you walk exclusively when golfing, the added weight of this bag won't be for you. But, if you prioritize storage and organization, the Woode is an excellent middle ground.
What We Like
- Low-profile ball silo
- Large number of pockets
- Foam-molded shoulder straps
- Umbrella holder
What We Don't Like
- Some won't prefer high number of dividers
- Heavier bag is tougher on walkers
BUY: OGIO 2022 Woode Hybrid 8 Stand Bag
Best Budget Golf Bag – Big Max Dri Lite Hybrid
SPECS
- Dimensions: 35" x 8.5" x 10"
- Material: Nylon
- Weight: 4.4 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 14
- Number of pockets: 7
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested user: New or inexperienced golfers looking for a quality bag
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality golf bag. That brings us to the Big MAx Dri Lite Hybrid bag. Although the Big Max Dri Lite is an inexpensive option, that doesn't mean it's cheaply made. The bag is relatively light, uses water-resistant material, and has an integrated cooler in one of its seven pockets to hold food and drink. Beginners and inexperienced players can enjoy the 14 dividers, which allows for better organization of your clubs.
One feature that has us excited is how convenient it is to put this golf bag onto a push cart. The bag is one inch longer than most other bags and is reinforced at the top to accommodate the mount brackets on push carts. Plus, the floor of the bag also fits nicely onto a push cart base.
What We Like
- Inexpensive
- Easily fits onto a push cart
- Built-in cooler to keep food and drinks cold
- Water-resistant material
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
Best Waterproof Golf Bag – Sun Mountain H2NO LiteSpeed Stand Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 12" x 10" x 36"
- Material: Nylon
- Weight: 4.2 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 4
- Number of pockets: 6
- Waterproof: Yes
- Suggested user: Golfers who battle all weather conditions
Golf is a game subject to nature’s elements, and walkers are bound to get stuck in the rain on some occasions. That's where a fully waterproof, Nylon bag like the Sun Mountain H2NO LiteSpeed can be a lifesaver. A lightweight bag that doesn't skimp on the majority of features found in other stand bags, the H2NO is easy to carry and has ample space within its pockets to protect from driving rain.
The look of the Nylon material won't appeal to some golfers who want a more traditional bag, but that's about the only reason we can think of why some would turn this bag away. It's a premium golf bag without a clear weakness.
What We Like
- Nylon, waterproof material
- Sculpted shoulder straps
- Carry-assist grab loops
- High durability ranking
- Secure rain hood
What We Don't Like
- The look of waterproof fabric might not be aesthetically pleasing to some
- Missing two-way zipper in the main golf ball pocket
BUY: Sun Mountain H2NO LiteSpeed Stand Bag
Best Standing Golf Bag – Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 35" x 12" x 8"
- Material: Nylon
- Weight: 3.9 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual (detachable)
- Number of dividers: 4
- Number of pockets: 5
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested User: Walkers looking for sturdy functionality at a great value
Stand bags have become increasingly popular among golfers. Their retractable legs, lightweight design, and ease of movement create an efficient golf bag that works in a large percentage of settings for many types of players. Sporting quality craftsmanship at a reasonable price, the Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag has a loyal following among golfers who love to walk.
The lightweight bag has multiple standout features, including a flex-base that hugs the ground when the bag is parked upright, detachable shoulder straps, and a cushioned hip pad that softens the weight of the bag while it's being carried. With a straightforward minimalist style that doesn't call attention to itself, we think this bag is a go-to in the walking community.
What We Like
- Inexpensive
- Flex-base stand mechanism
- Insulated bottle sleeve
- Detachable shoulder straps
- Cushioned hip pad
What We Don't Like
- Minimalist style won't appeal to all
- Fewer number of pockets than most
BUY: Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag
Best Golf Bag for Men – Callaway Golf 2022 Fairway Stand Bag
SPECS
- Dimensions: 10" x 13" x 36"
- Material: Nylon
- Weight: 6 lbs.
- Strap type: Dual
- Number of dividers: 14
- Number of pockets: 7
- Waterproof: No
- Suggested user: Golfers who want a heavier, more versatile golf bag
Golfers are often posed with making a choice about the functionality of their bag. A true cart bag can hurt a golfer's ability to carry their bag, and a true stand bag can skimp on the stability and storage of a cart bag. The Callaway Fairway is an option that goes right down the middle, appealing to push-cart and riding-cart users while still maintaining its walkability.
A thicker bag that sits well in any type of cart, the Fairway has storage capabilities and sturdiness that are difficult to match. While it’s on the heavier side (might not suit the carry-only crowd), we still think it's a happy medium for golfers who dabble in different modes of play.
What We Like
- Push-cart friendly
- Fits well on golf cart
- Lowrider top design
- Metal zip pulls
- High-quality fabric
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Heavier bag can be tougher on walkers who carry
BUY: Callaway Golf 2022 Fairway Stand Bag
How to Choose the Best Golf Bag
Bag Type
There are three main types of golf bags. The first, which doesn't apply to the vast majority of recreational golfers, is an extremely heavy and bulky tour bag. Designed to hold a lot of equipment while also providing room for advertising, this bag type is best for competitive players or instructors.
Cart bags are another type that weighs around six or seven pounds. They’re specifically meant to go into a golf cart or pull cart. While difficult to carry around while walking, this type of bag has a lot of pockets and space.
Stand bags are five pounds or less and are the most common type of golf bag. These bags have retractable legs that allow the bag to remain upright. They traditionally come with backpack-style shoulder straps that distribute the weight evenly across both shoulders. Although they’re built for walking, they can easily be strapped into a cart as well.
Stand bags can also come in a variation known as a pencil bag. These are thinner versions of the stand bag, and they come with very little weight. One drawback? There’s only a small amount of room for storage compared to a normal stand bag.
Weight
If you’re someone who enjoys walking while you play, the weight of a golf bag should be a top consideration. But, if you exclusively use a golf cart on the course, it's reasonable to look for a heavier bag that may have more storage features.
Walking a golf course with a bag on your back, or even in a pull cart, can be a treacherous exercise. This is part of the reason why many golfers opt for smaller, lightweight golf bags. Some golfers even take certain clubs out of their bags to reduce the burden.
Materials
The material a golf bag is made of has a significant impact on its weight, durability, and expense.
The primary materials used for golf bags are nylon, canvas, leather, other types of synthetic fabrics, and plastic or metal reinforcement. Nylon is a woven synthetic that creates a durable, lightweight outer casing used on stand bags. Canvas, either waxed or treated, is an upgrade in quality and design, plus it’s also waterproof. There are other types of synthetic fabrics that also have waterproof capabilities.
Leather is the most expensive, durable, and heaviest of the golf bag group. Leather bags typically require a golf cart because of their added weight.
Golf bags need a frame in addition to their casings. Plastic-reinforced frames are favored for stand bags because they’re light, while metal-reinforced frames are heavier, last longer, and can handle more rigorous use.
Storage
Golfers need to carry equipment like golf balls, tees, a rangefinder, rain gear, an umbrella, and other small items that may need to be used throughout the course of play. Having the right type of pockets—and in the proper location—makes a big difference in a golfer's ability to organize their bag while maintaining even weight distribution for easier carrying.
Golf bags traditionally have larger pockets where rain gear or extra clothes can be placed, although far from every golfer actually brings their own rain gear. There are also usually two mid-sized pockets where gloves, golf balls, and tees find a home. Smaller pockets near the top end of the bag can be used for items like ball markers and pencils.
Storage needs ultimately come down to priorities. A beginner might only need a couple of modest pockets for some of the core necessities, while a player with many gadgets and extra gear might need ample space to fit everything.
FAQs About Golf Bags
What is the best material for a golf bag?
For cart bags, leather is the best material for a golf bag. For inexpensive, durable stand bags, the answer is nylon. For a better-looking, waterproof stand bag, we prefer canvas material.
However, you should first start by identifying how you want to use the golf bag. Answering that question usually tells you which material is best.
Does your golf bag have to match your clubs?
You can put any kind of clubs you want into any type of bag. The performance and look of the clubs are generally considered separate from the golf bag itself. Just because you have a Titleist bag, for example, does not mean you need to be playing with Titleist clubs.
If you’re hoping for color coordination between your clubs and bag, one option is to get grip colors that match the bag. You could also invest in headcovers that color-coordinate.
How many towels should be in a golf bag?
At the very least, you should always keep one towel in your golf bag. This allows you to wipe off dirt and grass from your clubs and keep them clean throughout play. You can also use towels to clean your golf ball, wipe down other equipment, or dry your golf cart seat after it rains.
That’s why we recommend keeping a second towel. If the other towel has dirt and grass on it, a cleaner second towel may be helpful.
Is a good golf bag worth it?
The whole golf experience revolves around your golf bag, which is the central location for organizing all of your equipment. Without a quality bag that suits your needs, storing the proper gear may prove troublesome. Whether you prefer to walk, ride or take a pull cart, getting the best golf bag to match your needs is fundamental to your enjoyment.
Golf Swing Tips | Best Golf Clubs | Best Golf Rangefinder | Best Golf Irons | Best Golf Drivers | Best Golf Shoes | Best Golf Push Carts | Best Golf Balls | Best Golf Bags | Best Golf Gifts
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