Walk the course with ease with the best golf stand bags of 2024
Published: Last updated:
Although many golfers have switched to a cart bag, lots of golfers still carry their clubs around the course. If that is you then here is a complete guide to the best golf stand bags available in 2024.
Best Golf Stand Bags – Jump to:
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 OFFER
Best waterproof stand bag: Motocaddy Hydroflex Stand Bag | VIEW OFFER
Best lightweight stand bag: Cobra Ultralight Pro Stand Bag | VIEW OFFER
Best value stand bag: Wilson Staff Exo Lite Stand Bag | VIEW OFFER
Best premium stand bag: G/FORE Daytona Plus Stand Bag | VIEW OFFER
Stand bags
Best golf stand bag
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 |
| Pockets: | 11 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 5 |
One of the lightest golf bags available
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 colourways, all of which offer a great variety of choices for golfers, a particular favourite is a classic design of Red, White, and Black that features the iconic Wilson Staff badge on the side panel.
Read our full Wilson Exo Lite Stand Bag review
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Comfortable to carry
- Looks good
- Good durability
- No snagging of clubs
Cons
- Some bags offer better storage
| Weight: | 1.8kg |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
A bag that will certainly not disappoint
Despite being lightweight, the bag is durable and has a sturdy base. Convenient features like the Rapid snap access pockets and Profile three-ball silo make accessing items easy, while six front-facing pockets offer ample storage. The 4-way full-length dividers and over-moulded top help keep clubs neatly separated. However, the straps are a bit chunky, requiring an adjustment period. The firmness of the over-moulded top may cause wear on graphite shafts over time, and the front ball pocket can be fiddly for those with larger hands.
Read our full OGIO Fuse Stand Bag review
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Plenty of storage and easy-access pockets
- Standout designs
- Sturdy build and solid base
Cons
- No waterproof valuables pocket
| Weight: | 2.1kg |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
A solid bag which makes walking the course a breeze
As well as being 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″ 4-way divider with 2 full-length dividers for easy club retrieval. A weather-resistant 600D poly shell protects the 7 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: | 2.2kg |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
Designed to be the most versatile golf bag
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. It's 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 colour options
| Weight: | 2.3kg |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | Yes |
| Dividers: | 5 |
High quality lightweight performance
With seven pockets and four full-length dividers, it’s hard to see how lightweight the bag is, 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 colourways to give a variety of choices for all golfers.
Pros
- Straps are easy to adjust and super comfortable
- Stable base
- Plenty of room for 14 clubs
Cons
- Drinks pocket is could be better
| Weight: | 1.9kg |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
A luxury bag which has cut no corners
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
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Could have better storage space
| Weight: | 2.6kg |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
Built for the golfer who wants to standout in a subtle way
That is exactly what it does, there isn't a single area of the bag lacking quality. From the premium synthetic leather, it's constructed with to the carbon fibre legs and high-quality zips OGIO really have covered every base when it comes to designing a premium golf bag.
I couldn't find a part of the bag I didn't like. The magnetic pocket and Rapid Access pockets make getting stuff in and out of the bag a breeze. With nine total pockets, you have an abundance of storage with decently sized valuables and apparel pockets.
Pros
- Soild base
- Ample storage space
- Unbelievable quality
Cons
- The fit disk can become uncomfortable if not in the right place
| Weight: | 2.55kg |
| Pockets: | 9 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
Built to withstand the most torrential conditions
The bag looks much heavier than it weighs. At just 2.6kg I was surprised how light the bag felt considering all of the waterproofing going on. The E-Z Fit dual strap system makes the H2NO 14 Way golf bag extremely easy to carry from fairway to fairway. The padding on the straps and hip pad is super comfortable and I loved the thumb slots on the straps which made carrying the bag even easier.
The bag is available in a 4-way divider but I have been using the 14-way divider and I'm now a huge fan of this on a carry bag. Other than worrying about which hole to put the club back into the divider kept the clubs well-organised and stopped them. The legs are super sturdy and thanks to the leg lock system it works well on a cart too.
Pros
- Fully waterproof
- Plenty of storage space
- Comfy shoulder and back pads
Cons
- Zips can be stiff to open
| Weight: | 2.6kg |
| Pockets: | 7 |
| Waterproof: | Yes |
| Dividers: | 4 / 14 |
Ideal for a quick post-work round
The bag only has four pockets which may not seem much but thanks to the location and size of them I was more than happy with the storage options on offer in the Seven G. A cooler pocket, valuables pocket, large apparel pocket and a pocket for your balls and tees you have space for everything you need for a quick round carrying.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Everything you need for a quick trip to the course
Cons
- Not much room for a full set
| Weight: | 2kg |
| Pockets: | 4 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
The king of luxury
The Carbon Fibre spine I thought worked wonders at improving the toughness of this bag without compromising any weight. I love how easy this bag is to carry, the straps are super comfortable and I'm a huge fan of how well-balanced the straps are which makes walking the course a breeze. The Carbon LUX is the perfect choice for walking golfers seeking an elevated, lightweight carry.
The tour-grade materials, leather accents and metal zippers give the premium look and feel golfers will be after for a bag of this calibre. Although it's not the biggest bag I didn't struggle for storage space the Carbon Lux features 9 external pockets including 3 quick-access magnetic pockets for added convenience on the course. I've not even begun to speak about the base! The stability and balance you get with the Rotator Base and carbon legs is hard to beat.
Pros
- Superb quality
- Sleek design
- Great and convenient storage space
- Sturdy base
Cons
- On the heavy side
| Weight: | 3.2kg |
| Pockets: | 9 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
Where style meets functionality
I enjoyed that you could change from one to two straps, the versatility allows you to use one strap for a quick few holes after work or a double strap for a full day on the links. The bag is a great size, it's not too big but still has abundant storage for all your stuff when walking. This bag has a spot for everything you need, a magnetic ball pocket, a felt-lined pocket for your valuables, and two decently sized apparel pockets.
Not to forget your clubs! The 4-way top divider allows plenty of room for a full set. The SL2 is also a super light bag that weighs 5.5 lbs. The name SL2 stands for Superleggera, something you're more likely to associate with an Italian supercar and not a golf bag. But it certainly lives up to the name as the bag makes for an awesome walking experience.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Comfortable straps and hip pad
- Can be used as a single or double-strap
Cons
- Would be nice to have some more pocket space
| Weight: | 2.5kg |
| Pockets: | 5 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
The bag that makes walking the course a breeze
I'm a big fan of the Shaft Shield, which protects your shafts and keeps your clubs well-organised throughout the round. The Fairway C has plenty of storage space with eight pockets, including valuables and an insulated cooler pocket.
Even though the bag is lightweight I found it to be incredibly sturdy with lots of props to the Stability Flex Pod base. There isn't much this bag is missing at all. There is plenty of room for both clubs and all your golfing extras plus it sits very well on the back and thanks to the padded Anamatic straps it is super comfortable.
Pros
- Extremely stable
- Great organisation and shaft protection
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Would be nice to have a firmer grab handle on the bag
| Weight: | 1.8kg |
| Pockets: | 8 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
Perfect stand bag for every occasion
Best Titleist Stand Bag
Every pocket has seam-sealed zippers to ensure no moisture can get to your gear. The four dividers are full-length to make organizing your clubs even easier and the high-grade aluminium and advanced hinges Titleist use in the legs make this one of the most stable stand bags out there.
We also love the colour options, ensuring there’s something for all tastes, and the price is extremely competitive for a bag of this quality.
Pros
- Secure legs improve stability
- High-quality material and zips that secure to the bag
- Simple, Classic design
Cons
- The strap buckle gets caught below the grab handle
| Weight: | 1.9kg |
| Pockets: | 6 |
| Waterproof: | Yes |
| Dividers: | 4 |
The ideal bag for you avid golfers
This model has lightweight carbon fibre 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
- Plenty of room for a full set
- An abundance of storage
- Comfortable straps
Cons
- It would be nice to have a magnetic pocket
| Weight: | 2.1kg |
| Pockets: | 8 |
| Waterproof: | No |
| Dividers: | 4 |
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.
SUBSCRIBE TO TODAY’S GOLFER: Print and Digital access, discounts and rewards!
About the Author
Will Shreeve-Peacock – Golf Equipment Writer
Will is an expert in golf shoes, GPS watches, rangefinders, and training aids.
He has a degree in journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and four years’ experience working in golf retail with American Golf where he was trained by a host of the big-name manufacturers.
A six-handicapper, Will has played golf for more than a decade and is a member at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincolnshire.
-
The Best Golf Stand Bags of 2024
-
Big Max Dri Lite Seven G Stand Bag
-
Callaway Fairway C Golf Stand Bag
-
Cobra Ultralight Pro Golf Stand Bag
-
Cobra Ultralight Pro Stand Bag
-
G/FORE Daytona Plus Onyx Stand Bag
-
Ogio Fuse Aquatech Golf Stand Bag
-
OGIO Shadow Golf Bag
-
PXG Lightweight Carry Stand Bag
-
Stitch SL2 Gen 2 Stand Bag
-
-
TaylorMade FlexTech 2024 Stand Bag
-
TaylorMade Stealth Tour Golf Stand Bag
-
Titleist Player Plus 4 Sta Dry Stand Bag
-
Vessel Carbon Lux Stand Bag
-
Wilson Eco Golf Stand Bag
