Best Golf Stand Bags 2023
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The complete guide to the best golf stand bags available in 2023.
Jump to: Best Stand Bags | Buying Guide | FAQs
Finding the best golf bag for you could make a huge difference to your game and how you play on the course. If you’re the type of golfer who isn’t a fan of being in a buggy or pushing a cart then maybe a stand bag will be right up your street.
Having a stand bag gives you much more freedom to get around on and off the course; in the car park, you can get the clubs straight out of the car and walk to the first tee, while during the round you can walk straight to your ball wherever it’s sitting, without having to worry about areas where trolleys can’t go.
When looking for your new stand bag you want to make sure it’s lightweight, comfortable, and sits well on your back, which is important when you’re on the course for hours at a time. A divider that keeps clubs well organized and protected is always something to consider. You’ll need a stand bag that is rigid, strong, and will stand up to the elements, so maybe finding a waterproof bag is a good idea if you find yourself caught out in the rain often.
If you find yourself thinking maybe a stand bag isn’t for you then check out our guide to the best golf cart bags instead.
The best golf bag shortlist
Best golf stand bag: Ping Hoofer Stand Bag | VIEW UK OFFER | VIEW US OFFER
Best waterproof stand bag: Motocaddy Hydroflex Stand Bag | VIEW UK OFFER | VIEW US OFFER
Best lightweight stand bag: Sun Mountain Eco-Lite Stand Bag | VIEW UK OFFER | VIEW US OFFER
Best value stand bag: Wilson Staff Exo Lite Stand Bag | VIEW UK OFFER | VIEW US OFFER
Best premium stand bag: Callaway HyperLite Zero Double Strap Stand Bag | VIEW UK OFFER | VIEW US OFFER
Stand bags
Best golf stand bag
www.dickssportinggoods.com
For a bag that weighs 5.5lb (2.5kg) it can be hard to imagine how Ping have managed to equip it with so many features. The Hoofer has a whopping 22L pocket volume with an easy-access magnetic rangefinder pocket, a water bottle pouch, valuables pockets, full zip pockets for any clothes and snacks, and so on, you get the point.
The bag isn’t waterproof but comes with a rain hood to keep your clubs dry and is cleverly stored inside the back pad for easy storage and extra padding. The shoulder straps are well-padded and feature SensorCool to help fight against sweating, a redesigned back puck makes it much easier to convert to one strap too.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Easy to carry
- Plenty of storage
Cons
- Not waterproof
| Weight: | 2.5kg/ 5.5lbs |
| Pockets: | 11 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 6 |
Best value stand bag
www.wilson.com
This isn’t the biggest bag in the world and weighs 5.5lb (2.5kg) which is rather light, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on features. There’s plenty of storage, including a magnetic GPS pocket, an Air Flow hip/back pad for comfort as you carry, and a really sturdy stand system.
The Exo Lite comes in six colorways, all of which offer a great variety of choices for golfers, a particular favorite is a classic design of Red, White, and Black that features the iconic Wilson Staff badge on the side panel.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Robust design
- Cool magnetic rangefinder pocket
Cons
- The base makes it difficult to use with a trolley
| Weight: | 1.8kg/ 3.5lbs |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 6 |
Best stand bag for a trolley
www.mizunousa.com
We like the quick-release double strap (for trolley days), the 14-way top, and the fact there’s plenty of space for organizing all your kit.
Pros
- Abundance of storage space
- Good grab handles
- Plenty of room for all 14 clubs
Cons
- Straps could be of better quality
| Weight: | 2.55kg/ 5.6lbs |
| Pockets: | 14 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 5 |
Best looking stand bag
www.dickssportinggoods.com
As the name “All Elements” hints the bag features waterproofing throughout and comes with the brand’s WOODĒ organization top system, and gives you no excuses for not keeping your bag in good order. It not only organizes your bag but it also protects your clubs from hitting together and damaging your woods.
A three-sleeve golf ball holder is one of my favorite features, as it looks good and makes it easy to grab a second ball when you have hit your tee shot out of bounds.
Pros
- Great for organization
- Hybrid bag perfect to carry and trolley
- 3 Sleeve ball holder
Cons
- Bag designs won’t be for everyone
| Weight; | 2.5kg/ 5.5lbs |
| Pockets: | 9 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 8 |
Best lightweight stand bag
www.pgatoursuperstore.com
At 3.97lb (1.8kg) this is one of the lightest bags on offer to golfers and still packs a punch with the features it has. Five pockets which include a valuables pocket, full-length clothing pocket, and hydration sleeve, also partner up with a pen, umbrella, towel, and glove holder.
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Strong stand
- Good pocket size and locations
Cons
- Cooler pocket small
| Weight: | 1.9kg/4.2lbs |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 6 |
Best pencil stand bag
www.callawaygolf.com
The Callaway PAR3 stand bag comes with just enough space for a full set of golf clubs and essentials.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sturdy bag and stand
- Convenient grab handles
Cons
- Not enough room for 14 clubs
| Weight: | 1.2kg/ lbs |
| Pockets: | 4 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 3 |
Best stand bag for versatility
www.nike.com
The Air Hybrid 2 is durable, lightweight, and fitted with a detachable Nike Equaflex Max Air dual strap for a friendly, balanced feel whilst carrying. If you find it frustrating organizing your bag then the 14-way divider system can help with that, and will also help prevent your clubs from rattling together.
Pros
- Easy to carry and push on a cart
- Great to keep clubs organized
- Comfy shoulder straps
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
| Weight: | 2.81kg/ 6.2lbs |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 7 |
Best stand bag for practicality
us.bigmaxgolf.com
A nine-inch 14-way divider gives you plenty of room for your clubs at the top of the bag. Besides the clubs, seven waterproof lined pockets provide plenty of room for your clothes, snacks, and valuables. The pipeless panel design makes the bag much better at draining water, and the air channel makes for a comfortable, breathable fit when carrying.
Pros
- Lots of storage
- Fully waterproof
- Great on a trolley
Cons
- Zips could be of better quality
| Weight: | 2kg/ 4.4lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | Yes |
| Colours: | 5 |
Best stand bag for storage
www.dickssportinggoods.com
As well as it is a great carry bag, thanks to the Flextech technology it doubles up as a great cart bag too, and reduces club overcrowding in the bag.
The Flextech carry bag has a roomy 7.5″ 5-way divider with 2 full-length dividers for easy club retrieval. A weather-resistant 600D poly shell protects the 10 pockets which includes a waterproof valuables pocket.
Pros
- Easily carries 14 clubs
- Plenty of pocket space on a stand bag
- Subtle design
Cons
- Straps take some adjusting
| Weight: | 2.5kg/ 5.5lbs |
| Pockets: | 10 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 6 |
Best stand bag for beginners
There’s even a velour-lined pouch to keep your valuables safe. Its dual strap design ensures a comfortable carry through its versatile adjustment system and Callaway’s iconic chev logo is on the back.
Pros
- Cheap and quality
- Sturdy base
- 5 dividers with plenty of room for 14 clubs
Cons
- Basic design
| Weight: | 3.6kg/ 8lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 1 (Black) |
Best tour quality stand bag
www.pgatoursuperstore.com
A 4-way top cuff with full-length dividers joins up with 6 pockets including a horseshoe style tee pocket and a curved fill length apparel pocket, all of which now feature high-quality YKK zippers.
It is certainly a product you can trust to do the job on the course, I loved how premium and durable the bag felt. The double carry strap was super comfortable and easy to adjust to get a comfortable fit and with all 14 clubs in my bag, it was lightweight and a breeze to take around the course.
Pros
- Secure legs improve stability
- High-quality material and zips
- Simple, Classic design
Cons
- Pen pocket is fiddly
| Weight: | 1.67kg/ 3.7lbs |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 11 |
Best to help standout
This model has lightweight carbon fiber legs and a handy cart strap channel, so you don’t have to faff around and move everything on your bag when attaching it to a buggy.
The padded back panel offers plenty of comfort and support and as the bag is only 4.6lb (2kg) carrying has never been easier plus the straps are easily adjustable and have a cool quick-release feature to make life on the links a little easier.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good storage space
- Sturdy stand
Cons
- Straps could sit better on shoulders
| Weight: | 2.1kg/ 4.6lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 3 |
Best waterproof stand bag
www.dickssportinggoods.com
It’s waterproof, boasts handy quick-release straps for a cart, and has five large pockets. This is a golf bag that feels like it’s been designed by a keen golfer, and that’s why I love it.
The waterproof HydroFLEX has barely changed since it was first introduced several years ago. A classic that’s as at home on a trolley as it is being carried on your shoulder.
Pros
- Fully waterproof
- Great on a cart with Easilock base
- Simple design
Cons
- Not many color options
| Weight: | 2.3kg/ 5lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | Yes |
| Colours: | 3 |
Best stand bag strap system
www.dickssportinggoods.com
With seven pockets and four full-length dividers, it’s hard to see how the bag is so lightweight, but when you have it in hand you can see exactly why. The pockets have been designed to carry everything you need nothing more, nothing less, a waterproof valuables pocket, a full-length apparel pocket, and even a magnetic rangefinder pocket.
I also like the Flex-Base which improves stability on rough terrain and is especially useful in windy conditions. The bag also comes in seven rather different colorways to give a variety of choices for all golfers.
Pros
- Straps easy to adjust and super comfortable
- Stable base
- Plenty of room for 14 clubs
Cons
- The umbrella can get in the way of the clubs in the holder.
| Weight: | 1.8kg/ 4lbs |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 7 |
Best stand system
www.mizunousa.com
If you pack nothing but the essentials the K1-LO will be a joy to walk the course with, especially with the high-density foam straps which sit so well on your shoulders and have 4 points of adjustability. The 7-inch 5-way club divider leaves plenty of room for a full set and is shaped to prevent your clubs from constantly smacking against one another.
Pros
- Padding on straps and back
- Super lightweight
- Strong carbon fiber chassis
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
| Weight: | 1.36kg/ 3lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 3 |
Best premium stand bag
www.callawaygolf.com
The Hyperlite is super sleek and comes in a wealth of colorways. And at 3lb (1.36kg) it’s so light sometimes you forget you have anything on, my full set of clubs in the bag had great playability being easy to lift up and down which is key as the bag can come on, and off up to 100 times a round if not more if you’re like me!
Pros
- Great at shaft protection
- Clubs stay organized
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Clips could be of better quality
| Weight: | 1.36kg/ 3lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 11 |
Best lightweight stand bag for storage
www.pgatoursuperstore.com
Pros
- Plenty of storage for a small bag
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Strong rigid design
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
| Weight: | 1.36kg/ 3lbs |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 4 |
Best designed stand bag
www.gfore.com
The bag has plenty of room for the essentials with six pockets including a large apparel pocket, waterproof valuables pocket, magnetic rangefinder pocket, pen pocket, and cooler-lined water bottle sleeve.
With plenty of room for 14 clubs the 4-way top divider has been designed with club protection in mind, the velour lining prevents clubs from rubbing in the bag and the curvature of the divider separates clubs in the bag.
The bag epitomizes their saying “disruptive luxury” With the garish patterns and standout designs you’ll be sure to make your tee time in style.
Pros
- Quality materials
- Fun design
- Great storage space
Cons
- Not the lightest carry bag
| Weight: | 2.6kg/ 5.75lbs |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 3 |
Best quality stand bag
www.pgatoursuperstore.com
Pros
- Top quality materials
- Amazing design
- Strong bag with plenty of storage
Cons
- Not the lightest bag and only comes in the Stealth colors
| Weight: | 2.9kg/ 6.4lbs |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 1 |
Best stand bag for carrying
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Quality materials
- Sturdy carbon fiber legs
Cons
- Only just enough room for 14 clubs
| Weight: | 1.3kg/ 2.86lbs |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Colours: | 6 |
Golf bags: Buying Guide
There are a range of key factors to consider when thinking about buying a golf bag and we have delved into these below…
Budget
As with many golf products, price is usually at the forefront of every golfer’s mind. With golf bags, there is a style, a type, and a price for everyone. If you want a stand bag that is nice and cheap and will job there is plenty out there for you. Or if you want something more premium such as a waterproof cart bag then there are plenty of them too.
Bag Type
It’s as simple as, Do I want a stand bag or a cart bag? if you can’t make your mind up there are also hybrid stand bags that are good for both but for now, let’s keep it simple. Both types of bags have positives and negatives depending on what you want out of them, so you should think about exactly what will best help your game.
A cart bag is for someone that uses either a golf buggy or golf cart on the course. If you’re this golfer then find a bag that has plenty of storage space and is good at keeping your clubs organized as it will make your life much easier. Cart bags are much bigger and bulkier than stand bags so finding one that is lightweight and easy to haul from your garage to the course will benefit you.
A stand bag is for a golfer who prefers to walk around the course carrying their golf clubs. If you’re a golfer that loves to carry then factors such as weight and comfort will be most important as they’re going to be on your back for 18 holes. Even though the bags are smaller finding one with good storage can help as there is not much room in comparison to a cart bag, as you’re constantly taking the bag on and off getting one that is nice and robust with strong legs and good support is key.
Weight
Most brands nowadays strive to make the lightest bag on the market whether that be a stand or a cart bag as making life easier is something most golfers want. A lightweight stand bag is great as it’s on your shoulders the whole round and you don’t want it fatiguing you before the 18th hole. A cart bag isn’t required nor expected to be lightweight however the lighter it is the easier it is going to be to shift from home, to the car, to the course.
Waterproofing
Having a waterproof golf bag may not be essential but it’s certainly something to consider and being prepared for the heavens to open is a no-brainer. If you live somewhere like I do in the UK then you’ll know that it can be wet all year round and can also rain when you least expect it, so getting a waterproof bag to look after your clubs and valuables is great. For many of you who live in warmer dryer climates this factor may be something you brush over and not worry about.
Storage
A bag with tonnes of pockets is great, you have loads of room for your apparel, balls, gloves, valuables, and accessories. On a stand bag, you may have to compromise some weight the more pockets you have on your bag as it will be heavier and you’re carrying around more stuff. But stand bags can be simple and keep things light with only a few pockets its just a case of only packing the essentials for the course.
Cart bags on the other hand tend to have an abundance of storage spaces with bags like the Mizuno BR-D4 having an amazing 20 different places to keep your things. As cart bags are bigger they tend to have larger pockets and as you’re not carrying them around the course you can fill them with more stuff, whether that be a buffet for the 10th tee or a full set of waterproofs.
Looks
Whether you want a stand or a cart, there is a design out there for everybody. Brands have bags that are more garish to help you stand out on the course or something a little more subtle to help you blend in. Most bags whether it be a cart or a stand have similar designs, so it may be worth considering the style or colorway you want.
Stand bags: FAQs
What are the benefits of using a golf stand bag?
Golf stand bags (or golf carry bags, as they’re also known) remain an extremely popular choice among amateurs, despite the rise of push and electric trolleys.
Many golfers prefer the freedom of carrying their golf bag, arriving at their course and heading straight to the range or first tee without the need to set up a trolley or lug their cart bag to a buggy.
There’s also the space advantage – a golf carry bag is usually far smaller and lighter than a cart bag so takes up less room in your car, house, or garage.
Golf stand bags are also incredibly versatile. Many modern bags are waterproof, making them ideal all year round and when trolley bans are in place, and their size makes them perfect for summer golf when you want to nip out for a quick nine holes, get in some practice, or whizz around the course in a few hours without needing to worry about whether you can suitably leave your trolley around tees or greens. They’re also great if you like to take golf breaks, leaving plenty of room for luggage and making it far easier to take your clubs on trains or planes.
Then there’s the cost. Some of the best golf stand bags cost as little as £85, a fraction of the price of even the cheapest golf trolleys and cart bags, and only the equivalent of a few rounds of hiring a golf buggy. All that money saved could be used to stock up on balls or, crazy idea, a few lessons!
And if you’re a buggy user, walking the golf course allows you to see it differently, get over bad shots, plan your next shot and, of course, burn far more calories so you can earn that bacon butty at the halfway house or your post-round pint.
What should I look for when buying a golf stand bag?
The weight of the bag is important when you consider you’ll be carrying it for 18 holes.
You also want a bag with comfortable, wide, and well-padded straps to ensure it’s comfortable. An adjustable fit is also important so you can ensure a comfortable carrying position and be sure to choose a model with the right amount of pockets for all of the accessories and clothing you wish to carry.
Then there’s the number of dividers, which varies from model to model. Some people like bags with a full 14 dividers to keep their clubs organized and apart, while others are happy with three or four, which are typically found in the lightest golf carry bags.
Finally, consider if you’ll want to use the bag year-round. If so, be sure to choose a waterproof or water-repellent model, and ensure it has suitable pockets for your waterproofs and can hold your umbrella.
Can I use a golf stand bag on a golf trolley?
Yes. The majority of golf carry bags are designed to be able to be used on golf trolleys with the likes of Motocaddy ensuring their bags bases are designed to fit their trolleys perfectly and many other manufacturers now creating hybrid-style bags that can be carried or used on trolleys.
Most golf stand bags come with elasticated straps to keep the stand in place if you do choose to use it on a trolley, while most are also designed with a handle that allows the trolley’s straps to keep them firmly in place.
Stand bags can also be used on golf carts and buggies.
READ NEXT
– Best golf bags
– Best golf cart bags
– Best waterproof golf bags
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About the author
Will Shreeve-Peacock
Golf Equipment Writer
Will Shreeve-Peacock is a golf equipment writer for todays-golfer.com, specializing in golf shoes, GPS watches, rangefinders, and training aids.
He has a degree in journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and four years of experience working in golf retail with American Golf. Will was part of the sales and fitting team, making him the perfect man to review golf equipment.
Trained by a range of manufacturers, including Titleist and TaylorMade, to enhance his product knowledge, Will has all of the skills required to recommend the best equipment for amateur golfers.
Will started playing golf more than a decade ago at Thorney Lakes Golf Club, Cambridgeshire and is now a member at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincolnshire. His handicap index is 5.8, largely thanks to his scratch-standard short game.
Away from golf, Will enjoys going to the gym, cooking, spending time with his friends, and watching his beloved Manchester United.
Will uses a Cobra LTDx driver (10.5º), Cobra LTDx fairway wood (15º), TaylorMade P790 (2-iron), Callaway X Forged 18 Irons (4-PW), Wilson Staff Model Wedges (52°, 58°), TaylorMade White smoke IN-12 Blade putter and the TaylorMade TP5x Golf ball.
When he’s not testing golf shoes, he chooses to wear FootJoy Hyperflex or Under Armour Charged Phantom. He uses a Shotscope Pro L2 rangefinder and his favorite ever training aid is the PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer and mat.
You can contact Will via email or follow him on Twitter here.
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Best golf stand bags.
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Cobra Ultralight Pro Golf Stand Bag
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Ogio Fuse Aquatech Golf Stand Bag
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TaylorMade Stealth Tour Golf Stand Bag
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Wilson Eco Golf Stand Bag
