2020 SUNDAY BAG BUYER’S GUIDE
Safe to say Francis Ouimet and Harry Vardon would not recognize today’s Sunday bags.
Last year, we remarked that modern Sunday bags sure aren’t the Sunday bags of old. Lighter materials and a wider definition of what constitutes a Sunday bag have changed the category dramatically.
That trend continues for 2020.
While Sunday bags are still little brothers to traditional stand bags, they are starting to take more cues from their heftier siblings. A number of participants in this year’s test even incorporated stands into their design.
So why wouldn’t those particular bags qualify for the stand-bag category? Well, they still lack other important components such as storage, have limited divider space and a more lightweight design. What we are seeing, however, is an evolution into a hybrid Sunday/stand bag that incorporates the essentials for a casual round.
The bags we tested run the gamut from almost entirely unstructured material that collapses on itself, to the classic tube design, to fully (well, nearly fully) functional ultra-lightweight stand bags. Some also feature a two-strap design.
The category is almost whatever you want it to be. So, whether you’re looking to buy a new Sunday bag today, are looking for some buying advice or just want a closer look at what’s on the market right now, this guide will help you find the right bag to fit your needs.
For Sunday and just about every other day.
How We Test
We're here to help you find the perfect Sunday bag to fit your needs.
To do that, we employ a thorough and fully independent testing process that leaves no feature unexplored, no detail unchecked, and no stone unturned.
Our Metrics
Sunday bags are tested head to head using rigorous protocols.
The metrics we consider when rating Sunday Bag include Storage, Style, Weight, Walkability and Features.
SUNDAY BAG FEATURES THAT MATTER
STORAGE
If you’re using a Sunday bag, storage likely isn’t your main concern. But it’s still something to take into consideration. You’ll want at least one pocket to store essentials like your phone, a water bottle or a light jacket.
For maximum storage, the Burton ULT Carry is the one you should gravitate to.
Dividers
In the Sunday bag category, dividers are a matter of preference. Some bags have a single tube while others have four dividers, providing versatility approaching a stand bag.
If you just want simplicity, the Datrek Ranger is for you. If you prefer the four-divider option, choose the Ping Moonlite or Shapland.
Comfort
Nearly every bag is comfortable on your back when it’s empty but how does it feel when it’s filled with clubs? The Best Sunday Bags of 2020 take this into consideration. Some discard the time-honored one-strap design in favor of the increasingly popular backpack-style two-strap concept.
Tops for comfort are the Shapland Sunday and Titleist Carry bags.
Weight
Like comfort, weight is a critical consideration for the walking golfer. Every pound counts and while an ounce here or there might not sound like much, the extra mass can dramatically affect fatigue levels throughout a round.
Those who want the lightest bag need the Pro Active Sunday 7″. If you’re after a light bag with some feature-rich add-ons, consider the Ping Moonlite.
Best Walking Bag - Shapland Sunday
A newcomer to the category, the Shapland Sunday bag took first place honors. It comes fully equipped with a drink holder and multiple pockets for your essential items. Its most desirable feature is the exceptional comfort offered while walking. Its double strap design with extra padding makes walking a stroll in the park. For those looking to top it all off with a bit personality, customization options are available.
The Best Sunday Bags 2020 - Features
| Product | Weight | Dividers | Pockets | Stand | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Burton ULT Carry Check Price | 4 | 4 | 6 | Y |
 | Caddy Daddy Sunday Check Price | 3 | 1 | 3 | N |
 | Datrek Ranger Check Price | 2.3 | 2 | 2 | Y |
 | Jones Golf BGS Original Check Price | 3.1 | 3 | 3 | N |
 | Mizuno BR-D2 Check Price | 3 | 2 | 5 | Y |
 | Ping Moonlite Check Price | 2.3 | 2 | 5 | N |
 | Pro Active Sunday 7" Check Price | 1 | 2 | 3 | N |
 | Shapland Sunday Check Price | 4 | 4 | 5 | N |
 | Stitch SL1 Check Price | 5.2 | 2 | 4 | Y |
 | Titleist Carry Check Price | 2.6 | 2 | 3 | N |
EXPERT TIP - Waterproof Belly
If you're a golfer who chases the worms during the morning sunrise, you want to consider a Sunday bag with a waterproof belly. This will ensure your grips stay dry despite the AM dew.
Expert Tips
- If you’re considering a traditional “pencil” or unstructured bag, look for waterproof material on the bottom to prevent moisture seeping up and through.
- If your bag is almost always on your back, fatigue can be an issue. Consider sacrificing all but the minimum storage space in favor of a lighter and often more comfortable bag.
- Well-designed zippers can be your best friend when the bag is on your back the majority of the time. Look for a bag that has zippers that open and close easily with one hand and without snagging.
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SEE MY RESULTS
The Best Sunday Bags 2020 - Results
| Product | Storage | Style | Weight | Walkability | Features | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shapland Sunday Check Price | 2nd | 5th | 7th | 1st | 3rd | 90.5 |
| Titleist Carry Check Price | 5th | 3rd | 3rd | 2nd | 4th | 89.5 |
| Ping Moonlite Check Price | 5th | 2nd | 1st | 3rd | 5th | 89 |
| Stitch SL1 Check Price | 4th | 1st | 9th | 6th | 1st | 88.5 |
| Jones Golf BGS Original Check Price | 3rd | 3rd | 4th | 6th | 2nd | 88 |
| Burton ULT Carry Check Price | 1st | 7th | 7th | 3rd | 7th | 84 |
| Mizuno BR-D2 Check Price | 7th | 5th | 4th | 4th | 5th | 79 |
| Datrek Ranger Check Price | 9th | 8th | 1st | 8th | 8th | 70 |
| Caddy Daddy Sunday Check Price | 9th | 8th | 10th | 9th | 9th | 56 |
| Pro Active Sunday 7" Check Price | 8th | 10th | 4th | 10th | 10th | 56 |
Stand or No Stand - Mizuno BR-D2
For those looking for the benefits of a stand while still saving some weight, the Mizuno BR-D2 warrants consideration. The bag boasts a compact, mini, half-length (give or take) stand that keeps your clubs and bag off the ground. The lightweight design along with the added functionality of the stand system makes the Mizuno BR-D2 a compelling option for golfers chasing the setting sun.
The Best Sunday Bags of 2020 – FAQ
Q: What is a Sunday bag?
A: Once upon a time, the Sunday bag was defined as a compact, easy-carrying bag with just enough room for the bare essentials: A sleeve of balls, a handful of tees and often fewer than the full complement of 14 clubs. The modern interpretation includes those traditional offerings as well as slimmed-down stand bags that maintain a compact footprint while offering greater functionality and light weight
Q: How do I know what type of Sunday bag to buy?
A: The Sunday bag category is exceptionally broad. If you’re looking to sneak in a few holes as the sun is setting, go small. If you plan on carrying 14 clubs, bags with dividers and stands are more versatile. With modern materials, most of the extra weight comes from what you choose to put in them.
Q: How much does the strap system matter?
A: If you’re going to carry regularly, finding a strap system that works for you is critical. The seemingly smallest details matter. Look for straps with ample padding. Curved designs are generally more comfortable. When possible, test the strap system with the bag fully loaded to see if it’s a good fit for your body.
Peter Seltenright
6 months agoI’ve had a Shapland bag for two years now and it has been worth every penny. No signs of wear at all and the founder out of nowhere sent new straps for free because he didn’t think the originals were right. It’s a top of the line bag you won’t regret purchasing and the price is actually reasonable compared to some of the other premium boutique brands.
Mark M
6 months agoSo one of MGS Core Beliefs is 100% Datacritic. “Everything we do and say has its foundation on cold, hard data.”
I’m, once again, a little confounded as to why the ratings for these bags include a STYLE category. Style is just about the most subjective category you can come up with when reviewing any type of equipment. I’ve heard you guys say Yes, looks or style matters. Well it might or it might not, depending on the person. And to those who do care, the definition of good or bad style is also totally subjective.
Please do us all a favor and just give us 100% Datacritic and let the golfers decide whether or not the style or looks work for them. Sure, go ahead and add style/looks opinions as a side note in articles, just leave that out of the ratings totals. Thank you.
Mike
6 months ago$275? I probably then would only able to afford to play on Sunday. Right now there’s no water on any courses in my area, so what you have for the round is what you carry. If a bag such as this can’t hold my clubs, accessories & water, I’ll stick with my regular bag & a pushcart.
Doug
6 months agoThe Shapland bag is indeed a beauty, but at it’s price, like Vessel, is too much for me. But I would say looking at it at a glance, it’s probably worth every penny if you are a very active carrier. It looks like a bag that will last forever, and let’s face it, you are paying for some style points. I’ve gone the middle-of-the-road route on bags, and I hate to say they just don’t hold up, and I’m not even a weekly golfer.
Too bad you couldn’t get Vessel to come to the table, because I’d like to see how they compared.
Willie
6 months agoI use a Scotty Cameron Sunday bag which is basically the Titleist with a different logo. It was just over $100. I think my only criticism is no stand but you get over it. I’m 6’7” and it still fits incredible!
Tim
6 months agoMy little Sun Mountain Swift bag works just fine for 6-7 clubs especially early in the season when I’m getting back into the “swing” of the game after a long Michigan winter.
Justin
6 months agoI currently have the Linksoul Sunday carry bag and it ran me about $180. The bag is light weight with a 4 way divider and double strap system. Great storage space with the right amount of pockets. Material is Nylon which is great for those early morning rounds when it’s damp out. It’s a great looking bag overall and well worth the money. Kinda shocked it didn’t make the list.
RT
6 months agoAt that price it should walk by it’s self..
Chris S
6 months agoTo each their own for sure, the Ping craz-e hoofer probably fits better in this category then in the stand bag group. As for price, $200+ is pretty standard for any bag these days.
I have a ping moonlight, and a stitch SL1 both are great for me. I’ll say, the stitch only weights 3.7 lbs, not 5.2. Maybe it was having a cheat day at the local buffet before you put it on the scale.
Tom D.
6 months agoGTFO with $275 for a SUNDAY bag! Guess it will be the PXG guys utilizing those.
Dr Tee
6 months ago“best” is certainly subjective–imo, the “best” , classiest, and most envied and comfortable Sunday bag is the Mackenzie Walker–not even on your list, perhaps because of price. These bags can be custom designed and logo’d, can be accessorized with “trestle sticks” to be used as legs (and double as practice range alignment rods), have more than ample storage, a rain hood, and come in canvas, rip stop nylon or beeeyutiful soft leather. Can’t believe you left them out of your evaluation–shame on you !
Clay
6 months agoI love my Stitch SL1 bag. Looks great, comfortable to carry. Unfortunately, it has worn a hole in the side in less than 20 rounds. I’m concerned that it isn’t designed to be used as a daily carry bag.
Steve
6 months agoHate to say it, Robert, but $ 275 for a Sunday or any bag is almost a bargain anymore. Yes, you can buy them for less and you can spend upwards of $ 700-800 if you go all out with Mackenzie or Seamus or other “high end” bags. Hey, to each is own, but premium carry bags can for a lot more…..
don
6 months agoI love 99% of what you do, but not even considering price on a sunday bag? Big big miss.
John Siegenthaler
6 months agoI couldn’t agree with you more! Those prices are outrageous.
Bri
6 months agoAgreed, though they do seem awesome.
Steve S
6 months agoThe best sunday bag I’ve had is the Wilson Staff QS bag. Plenty of pockets with good zippers and a pocket for a bottle of water. Can hold a complete set of clubs(tightly) and has legs and a very good double strap. Weighs under 3 pounds. Cost me $79 plus 8 bucks shipping. My wife quickly commandeered it as her regular bag. Went bag to buy another and everyone was sold out. Emailed Wilson and they told me it was being discontinued! Talk about dumb marketing people!
Dom
6 months agoI’ve had the Burton for about a year and it’s awesome. Very light and well balanced. Excellent storage for everything including a full rain suit. Plus I was able to get two of them for about $80 each. Only wish there were a magnetic pocket for my rangefinder.
Will
6 months ago2 – 4 pounders & 1 over 5lbs, are you kidding. Looks like Mizuno, Titleist or Daytrek are the way to go…
Gary
6 months agoMy concern with the Shapland bag is the felt-like lining in the mouth of the bag. In the past I have had big problems with that material breaking down over time from the shafts rubbing against it. I would question the durability of a $275 bag for that reason..
Robert Slack
6 months ago$275 for a Sunday Bag???? What are the dudes at Shapland smoking?
I use the Titleist 3 days a week and it’s awesome. In addition, Titleist didn’t soak me on the price……..
L. John Miller
6 months agoI love the comments. If you can’t figure out who the sucker is at the table ; it’s you !
$275.00 for a carry Sunday Bag