2022 Stand Bag Buyer’s Guide

Golfers who like to walk need a stand bag. A couple of reasons: weight and the fact it stands up on its own. You might sacrifice a little storage compared to a cart bag but who needs to pack the kitchen sink?

This year, we tested 38 different bags from 21 different OEMs, ensuring we provide the best possible advice for you. The stand bag category has expanded from the traditional slim design to hybrid and ultra-slim categories, making your buying decision even tougher.

That’s where we come in. We have identified which bag is best in each category to suit your personal preference.

Keep reading to find out what to look for when purchasing a new stand bag.

Winner – Vessel Player III DXR

The Best Stand Bags of 2022 – What to Look For

Storage

When it comes to storage, more is often better—provided it’s usable. Good storage design is often more about the layout of the pockets than the number. What good is a pocket if it’s difficult to access or is rendered useless because you put something in a different pocket?

The best stand bags of 2022 have well-designed pockets that don’t intrude on one another. If the pockets are laid out intelligently, each pocket can function to its full capacity without limitation, giving you more room for your stuff.

Water bottle pockets should be easily accessible. Bags like the PING Hoofer and Hoofer 14 have water bottle holders that remain upright whether on your back or standing up, avoiding leakage. The Vessel Player III DXR also has two water bottle holders that expand in use and collapse when not in use for a sleek look. When it comes to insulated pockets, bigger is typically better, especially if you’re a frequent snacker.

Golfers looking to maximize storage should consider the Titleist Hybrid 14.

Dividers

As with pockets, more dividers aren’t always better. While 14-way dividers allow you to put everything in its place, they often prove frustrating in stand bag designs. In this category, four- to six-way dividers typically prove more functional. Keep in mind that every divider eats up precious space (and adds weight) and, as the count increases, so does the likelihood of clubs snagging as you pull them out. A well-designed top keeps your clubs separated and prevents snagging while still providing good organization.

We find the dividers offered by the Vessel Player III DXR and the Titleist Hybrid 14 to be exceptionally functional.

Comfort

While it sounds obvious enough, comfort is a huge part of carrying. The best stand bags of 2022 have reinforced shoulder straps and extra padding to help support your lower back and keep you feeling good over 18 holes. Maybe even 36.

The PING Hoofer Craz-E Lite and the Srixon Nimbus Ultra Light are among the most comfortable bags for walkers.

Weight

Weight is a critical consideration for the walking golfer. While a single pound might not sound like much, the extra mass can dramatically affect fatigue levels throughout a round. A little extra weight can mean the difference between finishing strong or leaking oil on the back nine.

For those who push or ride, weight should be less of a concern. If the bag is rarely on your back, go for the increased storage, additional features and more versatile tops found in hybrid bags.

Cart users looking for a cross between stand and cart bags should consider the Titleist 14. The lightest bag in the test was the Mizuno K1-L0 at 3.1 pounds.

Stand Leg Stability

The materials, opening system and frame of the legs are a critical part of what makes a great stand bag. Once your bag is fully packed with equipment, the stand needs to be sturdy and durable. The best stand bags of 2022 easily open to the proper standing position, close just as easily and remain closed while on your back.

The most stable leg systems we tested were on the PING models and the Vessel Player III DXR.

More Tips

• Do you carry a GPS or rangefinder? Bags like the PING Hoofer and Vessel Player III DXR offer an easily accessible magnetic pocket.
• While waterproof bags are good in rainy conditions, their pockets often require two hands to open and close.
• If you walk or push more often than you ride, consider a hybrid bag. They offer more storage space and their 14- or 15-way tops are more functional on push or riding carts. The Callaway Fairway + has LowRider Technology to help eliminate bag twisting.
• Those golfers who get to play on courses that require a caddie should consider using Stitch, PING Craz-E-Lite, Srixon Nimbus Ultra Light, Mizuno K1-L0 or the Sun Mountain 2.5+.
• If you frequently play courses with limited or no water stations, you may want to choose from bags offering large cooler pockets, like the Bag Boy Chiller, for multiple water bottles.
• If your stand bag is almost always on your back, fatigue can be an issue. Consider forgoing all but the minimum storage space necessary in favor of a lighter bag.
• Nylon is lighter but tends to retain grime. Stitch bags are made with Touring Fabric, a proprietary material that has the strength of leather but is more durable, lightweight, water resistant and easier to clean.
• Don’t just count pockets. Consider the quality and functionality of the storage space. Look for pockets that are easily accessible and can hold everything you need.
• Tired of losing your bag’s rain hood? Look at the PING Hoofer family with its integrated rain hood.

The Best Stand Bags of 2022 – FAQ

Q: Do I need an insulated pocket?

A: Although most stand bags today come with insulated pockets, bigger is normally better. For instance, those who play 18 holes may want to consider a bag with a large cooler pocket. Golfers who only play nine holes at a time can typically get away with a smaller insulated pocket.

Q: What is a “hybrid” golf bag?

A: A hybrid golf bag is a cross between a cart bag and a stand bag. The hybrid has more storage for those who need it and ride a cart for the majority of their rounds. They tend to be bigger with wider dividers as well.

Q: Can I use my stand bag on a cart or push cart?

A: The short answer is yes. Some bags, like PING, offer a cart strap pass-through which helps retain the full functionality of every pocket. Stand bags that are used on push carts tend to slide around. If your push cart offers a stand lock-in design, opting for a stand bag shouldn’t be an issue at all. It should also be noted that the Callaway Fairway+ Lowrider Technology allows the bag to sit flush with the push cart without the stand system hitting the top part of the cart and causing twisting of the bag.

Q: How much does the strap system matter?

A: Finding a strap system that works for you is critical. The seemingly smallest details matter. Look for straps with ample reinforced padding. Curved strap designs are generally more comfortable. If you love the bag but hate the straps, aftermarket systems like those from Walk18Golf can dramatically improve comfort but add to the cost of your bag.

Q: What is a “Sunday” bag?

A: What sets a Sunday golf bag apart from a traditional stand bag is its portability, lightweight feel and ease of use. It is a carry option without any unnecessary bells and whistles. The Sunday bag has traditionally been a pencil-looking bag without a stand. However, in recent years, Sunday bags have begun to evolve into thin bags with minimal storage but with a stand.

Q: Does the top matter?

A: Definitely. If you carry all the time, a four- or five-way top is almost certainly the way to go. Having fewer dividers makes getting clubs in and out of the bag easy. Bags with 14- or 15-way tops are more prone to snagging and are much better suited to the push cart mafia and riders. Keep in mind that bags with four-way tops are, on average, two pounds lighter than those with 14-way tops.

Q: How much should I spend on a bag?

A: A well-designed, fully featured bag generally starts at $150 with the majority of the best stand bags for 2022 around the $250 range. Golfers who play just a few times a year may be able to find a suitable offering for a bit less.

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