I remember a time when choosing a golf bag involved only 1 decision. Did I want a big leather cart bag or a small fabric bag that could be carried? Things have certainly changed a bit since then. Now, finding a new golf bag can be as difficult as deciding on a flavor at a Basking Robbins. There are, however, some basic but important things to consider that can help to narrow the field.

Choosing A Golf Bag: 5 Things

1. Do you plan on walking or riding?

Choosing a large cart bag when you walk most of the time doesn’t make sense. If you ride all the time, a larger cart bag gives you more room for extra accessories. If walking is the way you go, look for a good, light bag with a stand that won’t wear you down during your round.

The trend of extra small carry bags, or “Sunday” bags are coming back. They weigh next to nothing while still holding 14 clubs and a few balls and tees. These bags are great for the person who sneaks out early or late for a quick 9 and doesn’t need anything extra. You can also use Sunday bags when it’s cart path only. Throw a couple of clubs in when your ball is on the other side of the fairway and you aren’t sure what club you need.

2. How organized do you want your bag?

Bags today come with top organizers ranging from the traditional 3-way divider to 14-way complete dividers. Choosing this is generally a matter of personal preference, depending on what you’re looking for. Most carry bags won’t have the 14-way divider. If they do, the dividers won’t extend all the way down the bag to save weight. Also, if you have a putter with an oversized grip, make sure there’s a putter well that fits the oversize grip. It’s disappointing when you find the perfect bag only to discover that your jumbo grip putter won’t fit into any of the slots.

3. How much “stuff” do you have?

Always check out the number and configuration of pockets on the golf bag.  There should be enough to hold everything you need during any round in your bag. Another good thing to have is a valuables pouch to keep your wallet, keys, and cell phone in. These pouches are also padded to keep your things protected.

4. Strap and lift handles

Often overlooked are the shoulder straps and any additional lift handles on the bag. Even if you ride all the time, you will have to carry and lift your bag at some point. Many cart bags now feature molded lift handles on the top and bottom making loading and unloading much easier.  This seems like a small thing but can make a big difference.

Most carry bags now come with a 2-shoulder strap system, making them easier to carry and relieve stress on your shoulders. Some manufacturers, such as Sun Mountain, now feature left-handed bags in addition to right-handed ones. The straps on left-handed bags are reversed so that the top of the bag is on the left side of the golfer. Getting clubs and carrying is more natural for the left-handed golfer. Other bags feature straps that can be reversed. It’s best to check the specs of the bag to make sure you get the one for you.

5. Price

Having a ball park range that you want to spend can greatly narrow down the field your options. Certain price ranges are just not going provide all the bells and whistles. If you are OK with that, there are many great bags for reasonable prices. Also look at manufacturer warranties as knowing ahead of time what you can expect should something go wrong with the bag can go a long way toward your satisfaction with the product.

Look at manufacturer warranties, as knowing ahead of time what you can expect should something go wrong with the bag can go a long way toward your satisfaction with the product.

While there are many other factors that help you in choosing a golf bag, these 5 are the biggest ones. Use them to find one that is perfect for you.

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Rudi Fann

Rudi Fann has been a Class “A” member of the PGA of America since 2008. He began his career in 1998 as the Assistant Golf Professional at Wake Forest Golf Club in Wake Forest, NC. In 2002, Rudi accepted a similar position at Rio Mar Country Club in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. He spent a year there before moving to Nipomo, CA where he worked at Blacklake Golf Resort. Over the next 10 years, he worked his way from Assistant Golf Professional to Head Golf Professional and finally Director of Golf Operations. In his time at Blacklake, Rudi devoted much of his time to running tournaments and other activities in order to create a social atmosphere at the club. After Blacklake, Rudi spent one year as Head Golf Professional at Paso Robles Golf Club before deciding to return home to North Carolina. Since returning to North Carolina, Rudi has worked with the First Tee of the Triangle helping to instill life skills and core values through the game of golf to local youth.

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