It’s not just about picking the “pretty one.”

There’s more competition than ever in the world of golf bags, with most brands having dozens of different products and styles to choose from.

The good news is that we’ve got you covered. Over the last year, we’ve reviewed a bunch of different golf bags, and have a really good sense of the pros and cons of the most popular bags on the market.

In this review of the best golf bags available in 2025, we’re going to help you choose a bag that will last you for years to come and fit right into your preferred budget.

What to Look for in a Golf Bag?

When trying to find the best golf bag for your needs and personal style, there’s a lot to consider. One golfer’s favorite bag may be one that simply doesn’t work for you.

The last thing you want is to buy a bag designed for the minimalist golfer who likes to carry, only to find that you don’t have space for that six-pack of beers you sneak onto the course during every round!

So how do you start?

First here are a few questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down what you’re looking for:

• Do you generally carry, push, or ride? Most stand bags will transfer well enough to a cart, but a cart bag? You’re not lugging that around the course on your shoulders.
• How important is storage? Be honest with yourself here. 
• Do you like a throwback or modern vibe? 
• Do you care about what’s “cool” or do you just want something super functional?
• How much do you want to spend?

Once you have answers to these, then the following recommendations will help you narrow down the best bag for you. I tried to cover both the highlights and lowlights of each bag to give you an honest assessment of what to expect.

QUIZ: Which Golf Bag is Right for You?

Take our 20 second quiz and I'll give you my best recommendation for which golf bag is right for you based on your needs.

Take the Quiz!

My Current Personal Favorite Bag: Vessel Lux Stand

This year I’ve pretty consistently been switching between the Vessel Player V Pro and the Jones Rover Stand for my own personal use – depending on if I’m walking or not.

But I recently tested a bag that hits a sweet spot of these two bags: the Vessel Lux Stand.

It has the same layout of it’s bigger brother, the Player V, but shrunken down about 20%.

The result is a bag that oozes luxury, looks amazing, and is light enough to feel good carrying on a regular basis.

It’s still not the lightest bag around by any means, but the Vesel Equilibrium Stap system is so good, it carries much lighter than its 5.7 pounds suggests.

• Price: $399
• Target Price: $399* – Vessel bags rarely go on sale. For Father’s Day this year you could find it for $324, so that might be a target to shoot for. But I wouldn’t expect to see this price again until Black Friday.
• Where to Buy: Buy from Vessel Golf
• Solid Alternative: Sun Mountain Matchplay – If the Lux Stand ticks all your boxes, the Matchplay is the most similar bag in terms of size, style, and features.
• Review: The Vessel Lux Stand is the Best Golf Bag I’ve Reviewed This Year

Vessel Lux Stand Bag

$399

The Vessel Lux Stand is the most well-rounded bag Vessel has made to date. It's blends premium materials and carryability in a way that I've been waiting for for years. Highly recommended.

Buy from Vessel

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Best Bag for Most People: Jones Trouper 3.0

The Jones Trouper series is quite simply one of the coolest bags in golf. 

It has a throwback style that feels like it’s truly an ode to the game, but has modern conveniences like a built-in cooler, that make it a great everyday carry bag.

It may just be the best “do-anything” bag in golf.

Want a bag with plenty of space for everything you need? Check.

Want a throwback style that gets respect everywhere you take it? Check.

Want to carry light with a single strap? Check.

Load it up and go double strap or cart? Check and check.

This is the Swiss army knife of golf bags, and gets my highest recommendation.

Jones and Vessel have always duked it out for the top spot. If you can find a Vessel Player IV Pro, I still think that might be my favorite overall bag. But with the new Vessel Player V being considerably heavier, and more expensive, the Jones bag takes over this position.

• Price: $295
• Target Price: $265.50. You can find a 10% off coupon code on their site for your first purchase. Expect a bigger discount once or twice a year during holidays.
• Where to Buy: Buy at Jones Sports Co.
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Player V
• Review: Jones Utility Trouper 2.0 Review

Jones Trouper 3.0 Golf Bag

$295

The latest iteration of Jones' iconic Trouper Series. These have long been some of our favorite bags in golf. The marriage of style, function, and tradition are second to none.

Buy from Jones Sports Co

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Most Customizable Bag:  Stitch SL2 MiY

I’ve always liked the look of Stitch bags, but with their latest SL2 MiY – they’ve truly gone above and beyond.

Not only is it a good-looking bag, but the modular aspect of it, allows you to mix and match features and colorway.

It’s the only bag I know of that allows you to customize the colors of different aspects of your bag. While the options are a little limited right now, the potential here is endless.

And the fact that the redesigned bag is more functional and has more storage than their signature SL2, makes it an even better pick in my mind.

• Price: $448
• Target Price: $358.50 – Using our coupon code, you should be able to drop down. Expect to potentially find for less during sale periods.
• Discount: Use Code BE20 to get 20% Off
• Where to Buy: Buy on Stitch.com. 
• Solid Alternative: Stitch SL2 or SL2 Air Walker – an updated design to the original SL2.
• Review: Stitch SL2 Review: Is it the Best Walking Bag Out There?

Stitch MiY SL2 Golf Bag - Use code "BE20" to save 20%

$448

Stitch already makes some of the most beautiful bags in golf, but now they make one of the most customizable as well. There isn't anything else like this one the market. Use code "BE20" to save 20%!

Buy from Stitch

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Most Underrated: Sun Mountain Matchplay

This bag from Sun Mountain doesn’t really fit into any other clear category, but let’s get one thing straight: this is currently one of my favorite bags in golf.

It’s every bit as good as the Jones Trouper 3 and the Vessel Player and Lux bags.

It’s one of the best-looking bags on the market, and is super functional and comfortable as well.

It’s kind of like if the Jones and Vessel bags had a baby. Its doesn’t quite have the retro vintage style of its predecessor the Mid-Stripe, but it’s modern touches look great all the same.

And a huge bonus? This bag has been flying under the radar. You rarely see one out in the wild, but every time I take it to the course, I always get people asking about it.

• Retail Price: $369
• Target Price: $279 – These vary in price quite a bit based on sales and colorways. But as of this publishing, I’ve seen it pretty consistently on sale for $279 at Golf Galaxy.
• Our Review: The Sun Mountain Matchplay is a Solid Luxury Golf Bag
• Where to Buy: Buy from Golf Galaxy
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Lux Stand

Last Chance!

Sun Mountain Mid Stripe Stand Bag

$299.99

The Mid Stripe from Sun Mountain is the best example we've seen of throwback style with modern functionality. Quite simply, it's one of the best-looking and performing bags on the market.

Buy from Amazo

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06/13/2025 04:05 am GMT

Biggest Surprise: Sunday Golf Ranger

Sunday has been slowly building their reputation in golf for functional bags with cool branding, at an affordable price.

So to see them tackle a higher end golf bag came as a huge surprise.

They basically went to their lead designer and gave him carte blanche to do whatever he wanted – cost wasn’t an issue.

The result? 

A remarkably good, high end bag that exceeded all of my expectations.

And since it’s been sold out since launch, apparently it exceeded theirs as well.

It should be back in stock soon, but if you want a bag that hits the right balance of materials, cost, and performance – this is definitely one to consider.

• Retail Price: $399
• Target Price: $322 – Use code “EIGHTY15” to save 15%. You may even see this a little less during sales (once it’s back in stock.
• Our Review: The Sunday Golf Ranger is One of the Best Bags of the Year
• Where to Buy: Buy from Sunday Golf
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Player V

Sunday Golf Ranger Bag - Use Code "BREAKING15" to save 15%

$379 (Before Discount)

The Ranger from Sunday Golf is hands down the best stand bag they've ever made. It's not cheap, but with our discount it comes in quite a bit less than comparable bags from dedicated luxury brands.

Buy from Sunday Golf

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Best Luxury Cart Bag: Vessel Lux Pro 

This is one of those bags that makes me wish I was a dedicated cart golfer. The build quality is phenomenal, and the storage, oh the storage. There’s space for everything and anything you could want to have on a golf course.

And to have the quality, the functionality, and to do it all on a bag as beautiful as this? 

This one hands down gets my pick for the best cart bag, and it’s not even close. The only downside? It’s not exactly cheap.

• Price: $455
• Our Review: Vessel Lux Pro Cart Review: It Makes Me Want to Become a “Cart Guy”
• Where to Buy: Buy from Vessel Here.
• Solid Alternative: Sunday Golf Big Rig

Best Cart Bag

Vessel Lux Pro Cart Bag

$455

If you're someone who needs a cart bag, but doesn't want to sacrifice on quality, features, or looks, then the Vessel LUX Pro Cart is the bag for you.

Buy from Vessel

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Most Functional Golf Bag: Ping Hoofer

There’s a reason the Ping Hoofer has been around and celebrated for so long: It’s a fantastic golf bag that does everything well. You’ve got plenty of space, it’s lighter than the similarly featured Vessel golf bag above, and it’s less expensive too.

Downsides? I’m not a huge fan of the look of the Ping bags, as the branding is a little heavy for me. 

But if you’re looking for a fantastic all-around bag, that has tons of storage at a reasonable price? This is absolutely a bag worth checking out.

• Price: $275
• Target Price: $240 – Keep an eye on some larger golf retail outlets like Golf Galaxy for occasional sales. 
• Our Review: Ping Hoofer Review: A Classic for a Reason
• Where to Buy: Buy on Ping.com here. Buy the Hoofer on Amazon here.
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Player IV
• Related: Plugged in Golf goes more in-depth specifically on walking golf bags, if you’re looking for a comparison of some of the lightest bags on the market. You can find it here.

PING Hoofer Golf Bag

$275

The Ping Hoofer is one of the most famous and respected bags in golf for a reason. It was good 20 years ago, and continues to get better with each and every new update.

Buy from Ping Buy from Golf Galaxy

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Best Hybrid Bag: Vessel Player V Pro

Starting with the Vessel Player III, this line of bags has been my personal favorite, and is the bag I use on the course the most.

Vessel just released the Vessel Player V and it’s one of their best bags yet – for the right person.

They added about a pound of weight with the V, bringing it to over 7.5 pounds – which is heavy.

It doesn’t feel that heavy when you’re wearing it, but it’s still not insignificant.

However this new design makes it the ultimate hybrid golf bag.

If you’re looking for a bag that’s just as home on a golf cart, as it is on push cart, or on your back, this is the bag to get.

The materials are all insanely high quality, and everything about it is done thoughtfully.

If you’re someone who wants the best of the best, but only carries your clubs some of the time – this is one of the best bags you can buy.

• Price: $469
• Target Price: $469. Since this is brand new, don’t expect to find many discounts. You may find for slightly less during Black Friday
• Where to Buy: Buy from Vessel Golf
• Solid Alternative: Sun Mountain Mid Stripe
• Review: Why the Vessel Player V Pro is the Best Hybrid Golf Bag Ever

Best Hybrid Golf Bag

Player V Pro Golf Stand Bag

$469

This is a bag that doesn't compromise on materials or quality. It's also the perfect bag for the golfer who likes to vary their experience via carrying, pushing, or riding in a cart. The Player V Pro might be the best all-around hybrid golf bag ever made.

Buy from Vessel Golf

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Lightest Golf Bag: Sun Mountain 2.5+ Golf Bag

I’m sure you could get creative and find lighter golf bags out there, but at less than 3 pounds the Sun Mountain 2.5+ is a fantastic lightweight golf bag.

Sun Mountain has been around for years and has built a name for itself with highly functional and reliable golf equipment.

I used one of the precursors to this bag, the Sun Mountain Front 9 for 4 years and absolutely loved it.

Not only is the build quality great, but there’s more storage than you’d expect for a bag this light.

Downsides? You may or may not be a fan of Sun Mountain’s styling.

• Price: $249
• Target Price: $249 – maybe a little less during sales from larger retailers
• Where to Buy: Buy from Golf Galaxy
• Solid Alternative: Sunday El Camino Bag.

Best Lightweight Bag

Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Carry Golf Bag

$195.33

Sun Mountain has been making fantastic golf bags for decades now. And the 2.5 is continues to be one of the best choices on the market for people looking for a lightweight bag.

Buy from Golf Galaxy Buy from Amazon

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Best Golf Bag for Walkers: Jones Rover Stand

We could also call this the “Coolest” golf bag.

Right now, many of the most fashionable, in-the-know golfers around are rocking a Jones Rover Stand.

But here’s the good news. It doesn’t just look good. When it comes to a minimalist carry bag, this thing delivers in a big way. I generally prefer to use a push cart, but ever since getting my Rover I’ve been carrying every chance I get.

It’s that good, and is one of the best new bags of the year.

• Price: $285
• Target Price: $256.50 through 10% code on their site. Some of last seasons models can be found under $200 with that code.
• Our Review: The Jones Rover Stand is the Best Minimalist Bag of the Year
• Where to Buy: Buy from Jones Here.
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Player Air

Best Lightweight Carry Bag

Jones Rover Stand Bag

$285

Looking for a bag that looks great and is easy to carry? If you're looking for a light stand bag, this is our favorite pick on the market.

Buy from Jones Sports Co.

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Best Bag for Juniors: Sunday Golf Ryder Bag

The Ryder Bag is Sunday Golf’s first foray into making a full-size golf bag. It’s got a number of features, but still retains its smaller, svelte profile they’ve become known for.

We’ve found this makes it perfectly suitable for younger golfers looking for a bag that’s easy to carry, feature heavy, and branded to be all about fun with your friends.

If you’re a golf pack rat, you may find the bag a little too tight for your needs, but if you just need a few cold drinks, a sleeve of balls, and a very carryable bag – then the Ryder Bag is an excellent choice.

• Price: $229.99
• Target Price: $195 or less. Use the code below to immediately save 15%. But they have frequent sales that could drop this potentially as low as $150.
• Where to Buy: Buy from Sunday Golf. 
• Coupon: Use our Sunday Golf coupon code “BE15” to save 15%.
• Review: Sunday Golf Ryder Bag Review: Not Just for Sundays Anymore

Sunday Golf Ryder Bag - Use Coupon Code "BREAKING15" to Save 15%!

$229.99

The Ryder from Sunday Golf is a solid golf bag with lots of great features. It's perfect for those wanting a full-size bag, that's still on the lighter and smaller side. Use code "BREAKING15" to save 15%!

Buy from Sunday Golf

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Best Heirloom: MacKenzie Golf Bags

Do you want something more than just a golf bag? Something special that’s customized to you, tells a story, and has the potential to be passed down to a family member in the future?

Then you want a MacKenzie bag.

You won’t find fancy technology, tons of space, or even a double strap – but if you want something special, then Mackenzie is absolutely the first place I’d look.

• Price: Prices start around $425 for a nylon bag, and go way up from there.
• Where to Buy: Buy on their website here.
• Solid Alternative: FlagBag.

Readers Choice: Titleist Linksmaster

When I recently posted a review of another bag, I asked Breaking Eighty readers what bag they would recommend, and a surprisingly high number of people came back raving about the Titleist Linksmaster.

As I understand it, the Linksmaster was built to directly compete with the Stitch SL2. It’s the highest-end carry bag from Titlelist, and I’ve gotta say it looks great. 

This bag is an investment, but I’ve had enough people I respect rave about it, that it’s worth adding to this list.

Downsides? It can be tough to get your hands on one, as they aren’t as easy to buy as most of the ones on this list.

• Price: $375
• Where to Buy: Check your local pro shop or Titleist.com
• Solid Alternative: Stitch SL2 – Use code BE20 for 20% off.

Best Sunday Bag: Sunday Golf Loma Bag

We all know that golf can take up a lot of time. In fact, it’s not a stretch to say it can be a full 8 hour day from when you leave your house to when you get back home.

Because of that more and more people are enjoying shorter rounds. 9 holes, maybe even 6 holes, 3 holes – enough to get your fix without having to burn a whole day to do it.

And when you’re playing shorter rounds, sometimes you don’t need as much gear. A light bag for a half set of clubs and a couple balls?

Perfect.

And Sunday Golf has the perfect bag for this, or for the younger or novice golfer who isn’t carrying a full set.

• Price: $120.
• Our Review: Is this Sunday Golf Bag Any Good?
• Our Score: 7.8
• Where to Buy: Buy from Sunday Golf.
• Coupon: Use the Sunday Golf Coupon Code “EIGHTY15” to save 15%.
• Solid Alternative: Sunday Golf El Camino bag. Need a little more space for all your stuff? Try the El Camino

Lightest Golf Bag

Sunday Golf Loma Bag - Use Code "BREAKING15" to save 15%!

$79.99

Looking for an unbelievably lightweight Sunday bag for those casual rounds out on the course? Check out the Loma from Sunday Golf. Use code "BREAKING15" to save 15% as well!

Buy from Sunday Golf Buy from Amazon

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Money is No Object: Vessel Player V Pro Carbon

What happens when you take one of my all time favorite golf bags, and cover it in flexible carbon fiber?

You get the Player V Pro Carbon Edition. It’s the coolest golf bag you’ll never buy.

This might lead you to ask, “if it’s so cool, why wouldn’t I buy it?”

Well, because it costs 2 grand. And it’s basically the same bag as the regular Player V Pro which you can get for under $500.

But if money is no object, and you want an insanely cool golf bag that no one else is going to have?

• Price: $1,999
• Our Review: Coming Soon
• Where to Buy: Buy from Vessel Bags.
• Solid Alternative: Vessel Player V Pro. Almost exactly the same bag, sans carbon fiber. Also 75% less expensive.

Money is No Object

Vessel Player V Pro Carbon Stand

$1,999

Have plenty of cash and want an insanely cool golf bag that no one else will have? The Vessel Player V Carbon Edition is the bag for you.

Buy from Vessel

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Best Duffel Bag: Jones Weekender

The first thing you notice about the Jones Weekender is that it’s a fantastic-looking duffel bag. It looks rugged and ready for anything you could throw at it. The second may be, “well, can it hold all my stuff?”

Yes, yes it can.

I was shocked after my first trip with it. I took it down to Pebble Beach for 5 days, and couldn’t believe how much just kept fitting in it.

It turns into a backpack which is a nice touch. My only wish is that it also had a shoulder strap.

• Price: $160
• Where to Buy: Buy at Jones Sports Co.
• Solid Alternative: Holderness and Bourne Byers. If you want an elegant bag, this is about as good as it gets.
• Review: Jones Weekender Review: My New Favorite Travel Duffel?

Best Golf Duffle Bag

Jones FC Weekender Duffle Bag

$160

This is one of the most well-designed duffle bags we've ever used. You can fit enough clothes for a week, and look really good doing it. Highly recommend.

Buy from Jones Sports Co.

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Best Travel Bag: Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian

For 10 years I’ve used a Club Glove Last Bag – and it’s been excellent.

But after using the unique “Club Glider” feature of this Sun Mountain bag, I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to go back.

It’s made carrying my clubs through airports and hotels easier than I ever could have expected.

The Last Bag is still an excellent choice, but the convenient of the Club Glider has me giving it the nod. It’s what I’m currently using.

• Price: $339
• Target Price: $339 – Maybe cheaper during major holiday sales.
• Where to Buy:  Buy from Golf Galaxy
• Solid Alternative: Club Glove Last Bag
• Review: Why the Sun Mountain Club Glider Completely Changes the Game

Looking for more options? Check out my full review of the best golf travel bags out there.

There You Go, the Best Golf Bags of 2025!

So there you have it, the best golf bags currently available. I’ll continue to update this post as new products hit the market later this year.

Have something you want me to try? Drop a comment or shoot me a note and let me know!

QUIZ: Which Golf Bag is Right for You?

Take our 20 second quiz and I'll give you my best recommendation for which golf bag is right for you based on your needs.

Take the Quiz!

Recent Updates:

June 11th, 2025: Removed the Sun Mountain Mid-Stripe, and replaced with Sun Mountain Matchplay. Added Vessel Lux Stand as “My Personal Favorite Golf Bag.” Added video for Vessel Player V Pro Carbon.

May 15th, 2025: Added link to full review of the best golf travel bags on the market.

March 14, 2025: Added the Vessel Player V Carbon Edition. Updated pricing for Jones Rover Stand. Added updates to Sun Mountain Mid Stripe.

December 19th, 2024: Updated pricing. Updated dates. Added video for Sun Mountain Club Glider.

October 28th, 2024: Added new “Best Golf Bags” video version of post.

October 21st, 2024: Major Update. Added “Jones Trouper 3.0” as “Best Bag for Most People.” Added Vessel Player V Pro as “Best Hybrid Bag.”  Added Sunday Golf Ranger as “Biggest Surprise.” Removed Club Glove and added Sun Mountain Meridian as Best Travel Bag. Removed Wilson bag. Added “Target Price” for all bags.

August 15th, 2024: Updated links to newer products, fixed typos, added links to Golf Galaxy, updated name of “Vessel Lux Pro Cart”, added Jones Rover Stand video, removed Jones Weekender video, added “recent updates” section

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, I may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post Best Golf Bags for 2025: 15 Bags for Every Type of Golfer appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

They started with the truly small Sunday bag, the Loma.

Then expanded to a more full-featured Sunday with the El Camino.

The Ryder was their first full-sized bag.

This was followed by the crowd-sourced, Big Rig cart bag.

Since then we’ve seen a kids’ bag, a leather version of the S-Class, an ultra-light version of the El Camino, an attempt at more of a “luxury” golf bag in the excellent Ranger – and now we have this: the Storm Ryder.

This is everything we know and love about the original Ryder bag, but updated with waterproof materials.

But Should You Buy it? Let’s find out.

Best Waterproof Bag

Sunday Golf Storm Ryder | Use Code BREAKING15 to save 15%!

$255 (After Discount)

Looking for a waterproof bag that looks good and has plenty of features? Look no further, the Storm Ryder is here.

Buy from Sunday Golf

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First Impressions of the Sunday Golf Storm Ryder

Considering we’ve done full reviews of both the original Ryder and the S-Class Ryder, I’m going to skip going too deep on layout and features – you can read those reviews to get a better sense of features and layout.

For this review, I want to focus on what makes this bag different: the fact that it’s waterproof.

The waterproof material feels great and pretty high-end. It’s a different type of high-end than the vegan leather on the S-Class, but it makes for a noticeable upgrade over the standard Ryder, regardless of whether you’re into the idea of a waterproof bag or not.

I’ve tested a couple of blacked out Sunday bags (like the Ranger and S-Class), and I always love the look. 

First time out on the course, I actually received two random comments from people saying how cool it looked.

For the record, I’m also a fan. I think this bag looks great.

As with most Sunday Golf bags, it’s on the smaller size when compared to other full-featured premium golf bags. It’s certainly not as big as the more expensive Vessel Player V Pro, but is generally about the same size as the more svelte Vessel Lux Stand and the Sun Mountain Matchplay.

The Storm Ryder features taped zippers, which is exactly what you’d hoped to see from a waterproof bag.

However, one thing I found odd was that the main ball pocket in the front of the bag wasn’t taped, and as such, isn’t as waterproof as the rest of the bag. I’ve gotta imagine there’s a reason for that, but it seems like an odd omission.

The other thing I wasn’t sure about was weight. The Sunday website lists all the Ryder bags as 4.9 pounds. I have a hard time believing the leather S-Class weighs the same as its nylon counterpart, so I wonder if that’s accurate? I’ll update when I find out.

This bag doesn’t feel overly heavy and is solid to carry, but I wouldn’t say it’s the lightest feeling bag I’ve used. The straps also don’t distribute weight quite as well as some other strap systems, but it’s still plenty comfortable to carry.

Is It Worth Buying the Waterproof Version?

One of the days I tested this, we did have a little bit of rain, and the bag did exactly what you’d expect. The water beaded up, and everything inside stayed dry.

One of the great things about the Ryder series from Sunday is that they have so many different colorways and options depending on the look you’re going for.

I really view this brand as catering to a younger Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha target market, so having options for expressing yourself, is core to the DNA of Sunday.

The waterproof version only comes in Black, however, and carries a $50 premium over the original bags. The vegan-leather S-Class is $80 more.

I personally think the Storm Ryder trim is a fantastic option, especially if you live somewhere where you frequently face inclement weather. Here in the Pacific Northwest, 8 months out of the year, we could be up against any of the four seasons on any given day, so having a waterproof bag can be super handy.

I’m honestly surprised we don’t see more options for waterproof bags on the market. Jones used to have one. And there’s the Sun Mountain H2NO, but those are the only ones that immediately jump out for me.

One side benefit that a lot of people don’t realize is that, because of the material used, these bags can actually be more durable than standard nylon bags. So even if you don’t care about the waterproof side of things, if you’re looking for something with a bit more durability, this could be a good way to go.

Final Thoughts on the Storm Ryder

The listed retail price of $329.99 feels a little bit steep for this, but if you’re in the market for a solid waterproof golf bag, I don’t think you’d be disappointed.

But there’s good news. I’m pretty sure that $329 price is all for marketing psychology purposes; you should routinely find it for $299.

Better yet, you can use our Sunday Golf coupon code, BREAKING15, to knock another 15% off, which brings the price down to $255. And at that price point? This represents an excellent value and a fantastic bag.

You won’t find quite the fit and finish that you’ll get on many more premium bags. The strap system isn’t quite as good as some brands as well (although I still prefer it to Jones, even though I generally love their bags).

But to get a waterproof golf bag, that carries well, looks great, and comes in around $250? That’s a solid value and a definite buy if this is the kind of bag you’re looking for.

Best Waterproof Bag

Sunday Golf Storm Ryder | Use Code BREAKING15 to save 15%!

$255 (After Discount)

Looking for a waterproof bag that looks good and has plenty of features? Look no further, the Storm Ryder is here.

Buy from Sunday Golf

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This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post Is the Storm Ryder the Best Sunday Golf Bag? It Depends… appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

His response?

“Oh no way, this is super light. You’re good.”

I’m not sure I’ve ever had someone say that about one of my Vessel bags, which are incredibly premium but notoriously heavy.

But the new Vessel Lux Stand? They might have just nailed the perfect combo of size, features, build quality, weight, and carryability.

The question is, should you pay the premium to buy it over other similar bags?

Let’s find out.

First Impressions: This is a Beautiful Golf Bag

When I was choosing my colorway for the Vessel Lux Stand, there was one that immediately stood out: Crosshatch Green.

I recently reviewed the Sun Mountain Matchplay in a stunning green, and considering these bags are targeting the same market, I was curious to compare.

While the Matchplay is more of a bright kelly green, the Vessel is a darker forest green. Both look stunning. The Matchplay is definitely for someone who wants to stand out a little bit more, while the darker Vessel feels a bit more refined and subdued, in a classy way.

I think what surprised me most at first about the Lux Stand was how it really just felt like a baby Player V Pro. It has essentially the exact same layout, with everything just shrunken down by 20% or so.

I was a little concerned how I’d adjust to this, given I’ve been so used to having so much space in the Player bags. But we’ll get to how that turned out in a second.

Overall, I think this bag is beautiful. I’ve always liked Vessel bags (obviously), but especially in the green color, I think it might be my favorite-looking Vessel ever.

Vessel Lux Stand Bag

$399

The Vessel Lux Stand is the most well-rounded bag Vessel has made to date. It's blends premium materials and carryability in a way that I've been waiting for for years. Highly recommended.

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Build Quality and Features: Best in Class

The faux leather material is fantastic. 

The crosshatch texture is subtly different (and, I’d argue, a step up) from the Player series—less rubbery, more high-end hide. Every stitch, every zipper, feels solid.

There was actually a Taylormade x Vessel collab a couple years back, and aside from some minor differences, this bag feels just like that.

There’s a felt-lined valuables pocket, which is nice and deep. The dual water bottle holders with magnetic pockets are excellent.

The bag comes with both their equilibrium double strap system, as well as a separate single strap – which was a nice inclusion to see.

Everything with this bag felt instantly familiar, since it really is just a smaller version of the Player series.

While I thought I’d miss the space, I haven’t once. It forces me to be a little more considerate about what I carry, but there’s plenty of room for whatever you need.

I was especially happy to see the garment sleeve was still very usable and large. It’s certainly a bit tighter than the Player series, but bigger than say, the Stitch SL2, which is borderline unusable. 

I had no problem putting a sweatshirt, a bottle of sunscreen, and even my large mirrorless camera – although it does get a little crowded when you add in the camera.

The rangefinder pouch is still there and works great, and the side pocket was even cooler lined, which is a nice touch.

The rain cover is nice in theory, and it’s obviously very well constructed. But it’s big and heavy enough that that even with rain in the forecast, I rarely use it on any of my Vessel bags.

Performance: The Most Enjoyable Vessel Carry Ever.

Over the past year, my favorite bag to carry is the Jones Rover Stand. At 4.2 pounds, that thing is a dream. It’s actually kind of surprising to me that this Vessel only weighs .7 pounds more than that, given the materials used are definitely a step up.

Well, there may be a new favorite in town.

I can’t believe how much I’ve enjoyed carrying this bag.

The double strap uses Vessel’s equilibrium technology, making it one of the comfiest carry systems I’ve tested. Even after 18 holes, there’s minimal shoulder strain thanks to the wide, padded harness and contoured back panel.

I’ve always loved these straps, and they’ve made carrying the 7.5+ pound Player V Pro feel much lighter than it is. But when you throw these straps on a bag that actually is lighter, it really provides for a wonderful carrying experience. 

What’s great is I don’t feel like I’ve had to sacrifice anything either.

The Player V Pro is more of a hybrid bag that leans towards golfers who push and ride in carts, and occasionally carry.

The Lux Stand goes the opposite way. This is targeted towards golfers who walk or push, and occasionally ride. That said, it still includes a cart strap pass through which is super well integrated and thoughtfully designed.

I’ve played one round with it on a cart, and it was great. It was large enough to be stable, and I had no issues at all with it.

I had no problems fitting 14 clubs in the bag, and only very occasionally had any issues with club tangle. When you’ve maxed out the pockets, you may run into issues pulling or putting the clubs back in, but that has only happened once or twice in 7 rounds with the bag (1 on cart, 2 walking, 4 with caddie).

Vessel Lux Stand Bag

$399

The Vessel Lux Stand is the most well-rounded bag Vessel has made to date. It's blends premium materials and carryability in a way that I've been waiting for for years. Highly recommended.

Buy from Vessel

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Should You Buy This Bag? Lux Stand vs. Player V Pro

At $399, I actually think this bag is a really good value for what you get. Yes, that’s a lot of money. But this feels like the most refined Vessel bag I’ve used to date.

I didn’t think I’d ever switch from the Player series, but this may be the bag that does it.

It has everything I love about the Player, and solves my one major issue with that bag: the weight.

So if you’re debating between those two, it’s an easy decision:

Do you walk at least 70% of the time? Buy the Lux Stand.

Ride or push at least 70% of the time? Buy the Player V Pro.

Matchplay vs. Rover vs. Lux Stand

But where it gets trickier is deciding between my two other favorite bags in this class: the Matchplay and the Rover Stand.

As far as looks go, I think all 3 are beautiful – so that one is a matter of personal preference.

If price isn’t a consideration, I personally think the Vessel is the best bag overall.

But the reality is, price is a consideration. 

The Sun Mountain Matchplay retails for $369, but as of this writing, I’ve seen two colorways on sale for $280.

Great price on that bag.

At $280 vs $399, that’s a tough call.

You won’t see as many of the Sun Mountain bags out in the wild, so if you want something unique, go with that. Although I’ve had some minor issues with the stand, and some odd squeaking of the straps – all things I addressed in my review. Nothing that’s a dealbreaker, but things I noticed.

Whereas with the Vessel, I honestly have very few, if any, negative thoughts on it. It’s fantastic.

The Jones Rover and Lux Stand are a little bit easier to differentiate as they’re quite a bit different. The Jones is lighter, made of canvas rather than faux-leather, and the MSRP is over $100 cheaper.

So I think you’ll likely know which of those two bags you lean towards. If you want lighter, cheaper, and more of a throwback look with some cool color combos? Go with the Jones.

If a little extra weight doesn’t bother you, you want a real more of a “luxury” bag, and you’re ok with the price? Pick up the Vessel.

Worth noting, sometimes you see some closeout prices on the Rover that get down to closer to $200, or even less during major sales. So if you see one of those, it makes the Jones an even better value.

Final Thoughts on the Vessel Lux Stand

Honestly, this may end up getting my vote for best golf bag of the year. The more time I spend on this review, and thinking back to my experience with it, the more I realize just how much I enjoy this bag.

I thought I needed the space and larger size of the Player series, but this bag proved to me that I really didn’t. Not only that, but by being smaller and carrying less, it’s actually enhanced my enjoyment of carrying the bag.

$399 is a lot money to spend, and this bag absolutely won’t be for everyone.

But if you’re looking for a well-built, good-looking bag, which has plenty of storage, and is great to walk with? I have a feeling the Vessel Lux Stand is exactly what you’re looking for.

Father’s Day Sale: Get $75 Off

Vessel doesn’t do sales very often, but until Father’s Day, you can get $75 off any bag. This means you can pick up the Lux Pro for only $325. At that price, this is a pretty killer deal, and is one I’d absolutely recommend.

I also think that given the way this bag looks and feels, it makes for a great gift for the dad in your life as well.

I’d guess we won’t see another sale like this until Black Friday, so keep in mind if you’re planning to buy a Vessel sometime soon.

Vessel Lux Stand Bag

$399

The Vessel Lux Stand is the most well-rounded bag Vessel has made to date. It's blends premium materials and carryability in a way that I've been waiting for for years. Highly recommended.

Buy from Vessel

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

Recent Updates:

June 12th, 2025: Updated to add video review.

The post Why the Lux Stand Might Be My New Favorite Vessel Golf Bag. appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

I’ve used a lot of them across dozens of different trips.

In fact, I just got back from 50 hours of round-trip travel to and from Vietnam for a golf trip. Obviously, my golf travel bag was one of the most important items of that experience.

So if there’s one thing I know, it’s this: A great travel bag can significantly reduce the headache and hassle of traveling with clubs. And, you guessed it, the wrong golf travel bag is going to make things, well, a lot harder than they have to be.

So, I’m going to give you the three best golf travel bags in 2025. I’ll also tell you about one you should definitely avoid. And I’ll mention a couple of others that I haven’t yet used personally, but may be worth a look.

Before we get started, you should know that I don’t consider any of these travel bags to be perfect. So I can’t just tell you there’s one obvious choice for everyone to run out and get. It’s not quite that simple with this product category.

So pay attention to the pros and cons of each of these models. I think that by looking for the features and benefits that apply most directly to your individual wants and needs, you’re going to find the bag that’s right for you.

Let’s jump right in.

Most Durable Golf Travel Bag: Club Glove Traveler Series

Let’s start with a product you might have heard of. Club Glove makes some of the most popular golf travel cases on the market.

And I happen to think that this is one of those products that’s popular for a very good reason. That reason being that these are just exceptional-quality bags that are also extremely functional.

Right now, you’re going to find two Club Glove models available. These are very similar to what used to be known as “The Last Bag” – but now there’s an updated name:

• College Traveler for $325
• Pro Traveler for $400

I’ve gotten a LOT of mileage out of the College Traveler over the past decade. I’ve traveled with this bag more than any other. It’s been on dozens of golf trips with me all over the world. And it’s held up like a champ.

So, if you’re looking for the most durable travel bag, I can personally vouch for Club Glove College Traveler.

That’s not to say the other bags on this list aren’t durable. But considering how many times I’ve put the Club Glove through the wringer, I just have to go with the bag that I know for a fact can handle the abuse.

This bag is built like a tank, with thick canvas and rock-solid stitching that has survived years of airport abuse. I also like the smooth-rolling wheels, strong security straps, and padded top.

But that doesn’t mean this bag is perfect.

In fact, it’s not the travel bag I’m currently using.  More on that in a minute.

When I say the College Traveler bag isn’t perfect, I’m talking mostly about size. So if you’ve got a small set of clubs, and you’re not looking to pack a ton of other stuff in your travel bag, the College Traveler is probably fine.

But if you’re like me and you’re planning to pack a few extra pairs of shoes, or jam some souvenirs into your travel bag, I would upgrade to the Pro Traveler model.

Whereas the College Traveler specs out at 51 x 15 x 14 inches, the Pro Traveler is 51 x 19 x 16 inches. So, it’s definitely a bit larger. Just note, that can make it that heavier and tougher to carry.

But considering that when you travel with clubs, you’re mostly just wheeling the bag through the airport and dealing with lifting it only when you’re arriving or departing. The rest of the time, it’s either in your car, checked with the airline, or at your hotel.

Most Durable Travel Bag

Club Glove College Traveler

$325

This bag has been in and out of airports around the world and barely looks like it's even used.

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Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian: My Personal Favorite Golf Travel Bag

I mentioned that, even though I still love it and it’s still pretty much as good as new, I’m no longer using the Club Glove College Traveler.

And that’s because of the Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian.

While once again I can’t call this the perfect golf travel bag, it is the most convenient and therefore best option for me to use personally.

Why is it the most convenient?

Very simply, it’s the innovative ClubGlider system. This travel bag has an extra set of wheels that you pull out to make steering and wheeling the bag so much easier.

With most golf travel bags, you’ve got just one set of wheels, all the way down at the bottom of the bag. So even though that’s a good system, it still makes the tall, heavy golf bag feel kind of unwieldy and tippy as you move through places like an airport.

The ClubGlider system adds that second set of wheels in the middle of the bag, so that everything is just much more stable. It makes it easier to turn. It’s less fatiguing. It’s just better.

I literally had my 4-year-old pushing the bag around on one of our recent trips. That’s how easy it is to handle.

It wheels are even spaced correctly so that all 4 will rest comfortably on an escalator.

But why isn’t it perfect?

Well, of the bags on this list, the build quality on the ClubGlider isn’t as robust as the others. It’s certainly not bad, but I do have some questions about long-term durability.

I’ll let you know as we get further down the road, but I wonder how this bag will hold up if you’re taking trips like a couple times a month.

I think you’re likely going to be fine if you’re only using it a handful of times a year.

For me, the convenience of the ClubGlider system has outweighed the durability of the Club Glove bag for my own personal needs.

Also, similar to my issue with the Club Glove College Traveler, this Sun Mountain bag is a bit small for me. I would love it if the bag was just a little bigger with more storage.

I hate trying to pack everything in but then feeling like I’m going to break the zipper because I’ve got it overloaded.

Best Travel Bag

Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Golf Travel Bag

$339

The Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian is a fantastic golf travel bag, with a very convenient "glider" system. It's not quite as robust and durable as the Club Glove Last Bag, but the unique design more than makes up for it.

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Ghost Golf AWOL: The Newest Golf Travel Bag Worth Buying

This is the bag I gave to my dad to use on our recent golf trip to Vietnam. And I gotta say, I was very impressed with how it performed.

But I would hope I would be, considering this is a $350 golf travel bag. That’s not cheap.

The Ghost AWOL has more space than either of the other golf travel bags I’ve mentioned.

And it feels as durable, if not more so, than the Club Glove bag. It feels like a really robust bag. And so while I can’t attest to its long-term durability, it really does seem like it’s exceptionally well built.

As far as convenience and packing and space, this bag is the best. The way that the zipper opens makes it a lot easier to open and close if you’ve packed it full.

Another thing that is nice is that Ghost has a strap system on this bag that’s basically a velcro strap you wrap around the base that just holds the bag in place a bit better while you’re traveling. It’s a great extra touch (see the video at the top of the post).

There are extra pockets for storage, which I love. It’s easier to fit multiple pairs of shoes and extra items.

It was perfect for a trip to Vietnam, where you’re needing to pack for a long journey and multiple contingencies. It’s very nice to have a bag that allows you the luxury to shove in a bunch of stuff that you may or may not need.

Again, though, the Ghost Golf AWOL is not perfect.

For one thing, it doesn’t have that ClubGlider system that Sun Mountain has. And, honestly, I can’t imagine traveling without that now. It’s just so convenient.

I also wish it had a better handle right in the center of the bag. The middle handle is slightly above the direct center of the bag, and it’s oriented horizontally, rather than vertically. This makes it slightly awkward to easily pick up and carry. Seems like kind of a weird critique, but it definitely did affect the usability of the bag for me.

But, for me, my biggest hangup with the AWOL bag is the same issue I’ve got with all of Ghost’s products. They just go so over-the-top with their branding that I just find it to be a bit much for my taste.

Maybe there are some people who love Ghost so much that they want a travel bag that’s a rolling Ghost Golf billboard.

But for me, like, that logo is just… It’s everywhere.

I mean, it’s on the top of the bag and the side of the bag. You open it up, and it’s like a thousand “GHOST” words throughout the entire lining. It’s Ghost everywhere.

I really think that Ghost would have arguably some of the best golf bags on the market right now if they’d just lower the ghost branding by about 80 percent.

But if that doesn’t bother you, or you really like that aesthetic, you’re definitely going to love the AWOL bag. It’s as good as the Club Glove, and in some regards, maybe even better.

But even though the Sun Mountain has slightly less space and durability, that ClubGlider system is just so awesome.

A Premium Travel Bag, but a Bit Loud

Ghost Golf AWOL Travel Bag

$350

There's no denying that this is an excellent golf travel bag. Build quality is robust and the storage is ample. But like all Ghost products, the branding won't be for everyone.

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Two Other Golf Travel Bags to Consider

I haven’t tested these next two, but I hear good things, and I think they deserve some consideration.

The first is the CaddyDaddy Enforcer. You can get this bag for $180. It actually looks very similar to the Ghost Golf bag but at half the price.

The Amazon reviews look really solid. The build quality looks good. And it does seem like it’s got adequate storage.

So that is a bag that I’d consider if I was looking for a sub-$200 golf travel bag.

Best Golf Travel Bag Under $200

CaddyDaddy Enforcer Hard Top Golf Travel Bag Cover

$179.95

If you need to keep spending under control but still want a bag that should keep your clubs safe, take a look at the CaddyDaddy Enforcer.

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06/13/2025 01:00 am GMT

On the higher end, if you’re looking to splurge, the TUMI Alpha hardcase travel bag looks pretty sweet.

Stay Away From the TourTrek Travel Bag

Yes, it’s less than $200. And it may be tempting to cheap out. But I don’t think you’re going to be happy at all with the TourTrek golf travel bag.

The very first travel bag I ever had was a TourTrek GTS 3. The thing was falling apart within three or four trips, with rips and tears everywhere. It was bad. I’ll never buy another TourTrek bag.

Maybe someone else out there wants to share their positive experience with TourTrek. Personally, I’m going with one of these other options.

Final Thoughts on the Best Golf Travel Bags

I really don’t think you’re going to need to go much further than this list. We hit a bunch of different price points and feature sets. And we’ve even picked out a bag that I think you’d be best to definitely stay away from.

There are plenty of other golf travel bags out there from all of your major brands. And most of them are probably going to be fine.

But these are the ones I recommend (and one that I don’t) based on, in most cases, my personal experience. 

So whether it’s durability, storage, or value, I think one of the bags I listed here is going to be the perfect fit for you. Once you find the right one, you’re that much closer to a dream golf trip (like this one in Vietnam).

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post The 3 Best Golf Travel Bags in 2025 (and One You Should Definitely Avoid) appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

Ok, I guess they technically started with headcovers, but to me, they were all about bags.

And for multiple years running, I’d even had their SL2 as my pick for the “best looking bag” in my breakdown of the best bags in golf.

Well, while they’re still doing bags, the scope of the brand has changed pretty dramatically.

They now have an entire apparel line, accessories, travel bags, and even a pair of shoes!

Today, I wanted to take a look at some of the latest stuff Stitch is doing for 2025 and help you figure out if you should be buying anything from them.

Sound good? Let’s go.

The Stitch MIY SL2 is Still One of the Most Unique Bags in Golf

Since it’s golf bags that got them started in the first place, why don’t we begin there.

I thought the original SL2 looked great, but I always felt it was a little bit too small for my personal preference.

Throw in the fact that you can now find iterations of this model at Costco of all places for about 1/3 of the price of the original – and I kind of think it’s time to move on from that bag.

Fortunately, last year they released the MIY SL2. This is a totally redesigned bag that adds about 50% more storage.

Better than that, it’s the only bag I know of that’s modular (hence the name MIY or Make it Yours).

You can switch out the straps and storage saddle to have different colors, if you want to mix up the vibe of your bag.

It works really well, looks great. Of all the dozens of bags I’ve had in for review, this one in all white is my wife’s personal favorite.

Here’s my MIY SL2 review.

Stitch MiY SL2 Golf Bag - Use code "BE20" to save 20%

$448

Stitch already makes some of the most beautiful bags in golf, but now they make one of the most customizable as well. There isn't anything else like this one the market. Use code "BE20" to save 20%!

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Don’t need the modular component? The Stitch Airwalker has the exact same layout with different materials, and is a solid, more budget-friendly option.

Lightest Stitch Bag

Stitch Golf SL2 Air Walker Golf Bag - Use Code "BE20" to save 20%!

$298

This SL2 Air Walker is the same layout as the SL2 MIY, but uses lighter materials and comes in at nearly $100 less, making it the perfect Stitch bag for golfers on a bit more of a budget.

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The Stitch Birdie Bag: A Super Versatile Backpack

The design of this bag is polarizing to some, but it’s functionality isn’t.

The Birdie Bag has a squarish design that some people love because it’s different than anything else out there. Others, don’t like it as much for that very same reason.

But I’ve found this bag to be one of the single most versatile I own.

The idea is to have one backpack that can do it all, and be the ultimate travel carry on.

I can confirm that it does a pretty good job at living up to that goal.

It’s got a laptop sleeve, tons of space, and even a built-in cooler. The latter part has been the game changer for me.

I use this most when heading to our Club during the summer. If I’m taking my daughter to the pool for the afternoon, I’ll bring my laptop to work and then also fill the cooler with ice and drinks. And I’ll still have room for everything else we need there.

Here’s my Birdie Bag review.

Most Versatile Day Bag

Birdie Bag - Stitch Golf - USE CODE "BE20" to Save 20%

$329

Whether it's on the course, at the pool, on a flight, or in your office - this might be the most versatile bag on the planet. Use code "BE20" to save 20%!

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Spring 2025 Stitch Polos: They Keep Getting Better

In the last couple years, Stitch has really expanded their apparel lineup.

Most visibly, you’ll see their stuff on Bryson DeChambeau and with the Crushers LIV team.

But outside of that, how is it?

I’ve tried out a number of their polos, and have some from their latest Spring 2025 line, and over all I’m a fan!

They have a more modern approach to styling and materials. All of the shirts I’ve tested are performance fabric, and do a great job wicking sweat and moisture.

My personal preference is for pique fabric polos, which Stitch has some great options for.

I like that their styling is pretty down the middle. Some nice solids and stripes, with the occasional bolder print. Some of the new brands aimed at younger golfers go a little overboard with in your face prints, and Stitch has some restraint which I appreciate.

As far as sizing goes, in my experience, you’ll find polos to be a little bit larger/roomier than what you might find from more fashion-oriented brands like Holderness and Bourne, G/FORE, or Redvanly.

The sleeves are a little bit longer, and there’s more room through the chest and belly. So if you like a slightly baggier fit, then I think you’ll love Stitch polos.

The New Gents and Sons Collection is Great

I think the most interesting thing their doing this year is their “Gents and Sons” collection. It’s a collection of styles that are the same for both kids and adults. Playing with your 9-year-old in a Father-Son tournament? 

Being able to get the exact same shirt in both adults and kids styles is something we don’t see very often, and I love the way Stitch has implemented it.

You can check out the full lineup of their current polos here.

Stitch Golf Gents and Sons | Use Code BE20 to save 20%!

$68 Kids. $105 Dads.

Looking for to add some style to your father-son golf adventures? Try matching polos from then new Gents and Sons collection. Use code "BE20" to save 20%!

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Stitch Vests and Layers: A Modern Take 

Similar to the story with their polos, Stitch leans towards more modern styling compared to some other popular apparel brands that are leaning more towards tradition.

I think this is good. It sets them apart and gives them their own recognizable style.

For sizing, awhile back I opted for a medium quarter zip and vest.

This was a mistake. I was thinking, because some of their polos fit a little bit on the looser side, that this might be the move.

But I’ve found the vest to be slightly too short, and the pullover to be slightly too tight through the body for me personally.

When buying stuff online, the hardest part is getting sizing right since everything varies from one brand to the next.

I’m 6’1″, 205 lbs and have a long torso. With all Stitch layers, a large is best for me.

Materials, construction, and styling are all solid here. And I’ve since always picked out large options and they’ve worked out great.

Stitch Outerwear | Use code BE20 to save 20%!

Stitch has a solid line of vests, quarter zips, and hoodies that all have a pretty modern look. There are also frequently great deals on many items, so keep an eye out!

Buy Now

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Should You Buy the Stitch Golf Shoes?

The latest product to come from Stitch is their new SL Pace golf shoe.

These are designed to be an All-Day shoe. Meaning you can wear them both on, and off the course.

I’ve increasingly become a fan of these types of shoes. If for no other reason than I can make more space in my closet, by having fewer items that serve more purposes.

Overall, these are solid golf shoes. They’re pretty comfortable and have very spring soles with a lot of support.

I do find them to be a little on the stiff side for spikeless shoes, but I think with a few more wears, they will definitely break in.

Here’s my issue with them. At $225, these are expensive shoes. Fortunately, Stitch is great at discounts, and you can use the Stitch code BE20 to knock 20% off the shoes.

But with TRUE having an entire lineup of All Day shoes. Payntr having more technology in their dedicated golf shoes, and G/FORE having more stylish shoes – there is a lot of competition here.

For me, I prefer the looks of some shoes from those other brands. But do you like the SL Pace style? Then by all means, you should pick them up.

Stitch Golf SL Pace Golf Shoes | Use Code BE20 for 20% off!

$225

The SL Pace is Stitch Golf's first foray into the shoe market. Overall, this is a solid all day golf shoe that is comfortable and performs both on the course and off.

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Final Thoughts on the Current Lineup from Stitch Golf

Stitch has done a really good job expanding their product lines over the last three years.

I think if you’re solely buying products off their retail price, many of them will feel a little too expensive compared to competing brands.

But since they’re so liberal with their sales and discounts, when you apply those, the value/quality proposition starts to look a lot better.

All that to say, I’m excited to see what they release this coming year! Do you have any favorites from Stitch I should check out? Drop a comment and let me know.

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post Stitch Golf is Doing Things Different, and I’m Here for It. appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

To be clear, I didn’t arrive at Bandon with anything unreasonable. I brought a Ping Hoofer loaded with 14 clubs—a very standard setup. As far as full-size carry bags go, the Hoofer is actually one of the more manageable options. Empty, it weighs just 5.5 pounds.

But that makes it a behemoth compared to this new El Camino Superlite. Empty, it’s just 3.2 pounds!

At Bandon, if your bag is too bulky or heavy, they’ll repack it into one of their stripped-down Caddie Services bags. But even those minimalist setups probably aren’t as light at this Sunday Golf bag.

Seriously, the El Camino Superlite is exactly that. It’s insanely light.

But… What do you think makes it so light? Obviously, you can expect features and functionality to be more limited. The Superlite is designed to carry only eight to 10 golf clubs, meaning at least four less than a complete set.

So, clearly, this isn’t a bag for every golfer or for every round.

But for the right golfer? And the right rounds? There’s a lot to like, at least in theory.

Now let’s see if it actually holds up.

First Impressions of the Sunday El Camino Superlite

Honestly, I can’t see anyone having but one first reaction to the El Camino Superlite:

You’re just not going to believe how light it is. I’m talking pick-it-up-empty-with-one-finger light. It’s crazy.

I don’t have any kind of advanced feel for weight or anything, but if you asked me how much this bag weighed, I think I’d guess even less than the actual 3.2 pounds. It just feels completely and totally feather-light.

I’ll get into using the Superlite on the course. But a quick teaser: When you combine this bag’s raw weight with a limited set of clubs and the comfort of backpack straps, it’s the easiest carry I’ve ever experienced.

The bag is made of nylon ripstop material, which not only makes it light but should protect it against tears. It feels a lot like the material of a modern camping tent. Super thin and light yet also strong.

And that brings me to my second main first impression: Price. Initially, I was surprised to see that the new El Camino Superlite is selling on Sunday’s site for $224.99. Not necessarily because I think that’s an unfair price.

It’s just that the Superlite only has capacity for eight to 10 clubs and has less overall storage than the regular El Camino, which can carry 10 to 12 clubs. And yet the normal El Camino sells for $199.99, or $25 less than the Superlite.

Note: You can use our Sunday Golf code BREAKING15 to save 15% off this, which definitely makes it more palatable.

So, we’re literally into a less-is-more proposition here. The Superlite gives you a bit less in functionality and yet is more expensive. However, that tells you that this ripstop material that is not on the regular El Camino is more premium.

As for the overall quality of touches like the zippers, pockets, and handles, they’re fine but by no means exceptional. This is still a sub-$250 golf bag. While I like the nylon ripstop, it’s not like this bag is equipped with the highest-quality materials and components. That’s not really the Sunday Golf model.

A 3.2-Pound Option for Eight to 10 Clubs

Sunday Golf El Camino Superlite Bag

$224.99

Not all rounds require all 14 clubs. And yet for some of those casual rounds you want more than what the most bare-bones Suday bags can deliver. This lightweight midsized eight-to-10-club option is perfect for the right scenarios. Use code BREAKING15 to save 15%!

Buy from Sunday Golf

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

The Look and Feel of the El Camino Superlite

This is the fourth Sunday Golf bag I’ve reviewed (Loma, Ryder S-Class, Big Rig), and I’m rating it as in a tie with the Ryder-S as my favorite looking and feeling.

I haven’t personally seen the Ranger Bag, which I know Sean was a big fan of.

Again, I don’t want to give you the impression that this is the most handsome golf bag on the market. There are classier designs.

But, for Sunday, I think this El Camino Superlite actually looks really nice. I have the Gray-Blue-Black model, and while I don’t see any blue on it anywhere, I love the sleek, understated look.

And I personally think it’s a huge step up in looks from their even smaller Loma Bags.

I also appreciate how it’s not junked up with logos and branding. Even in the spots where Sunday adds its name, they blend in to the point of camouflage. That’s refreshing compared to some brands that really want to ram their logo down your throat.

One thing I noticed right away on the Superlite that’s not on the regular El Camino is the tee holder loops that are on the side of the bag. It looks like a gunslinger’s bullet belt. Personally, I don’t dig it. That’s just not how I’m going to carry my tees, and I wish it weren’t included. But that’s me.

Before I got the El Camino Superlite, I used my Sunday Loma bag for abbreviated rounds or quick trips to the range. I love it for carrying six or seven clubs, and empty it weighs only 1.95 pounds.

But because the Loma only has a single strap, and because when you carry a driver it gets very top-heavy and a little unwieldy, I’ve never found it to be quite right for full rounds.

So to have a little bit larger capacity with double backpack-style straps is a big deal for me. The Superlite all of the sudden feels like an actual functional Sunday bag. Something that I really can walk a full round with when I don’t feel the need to bring all 14 clubs.

And I’d rate the double strap experience with the Superlite as very good. I’ve had some issues with Sunday’s Ryder S-Class straps. Somehow they never quite feel like I’ve got them adjusted correctly, and they’re often getting twisted.

No such problem with this new Superlite, which is a very pleasant finding considering this is a bag designed exclusively for walking.

In fact, that brings up another point. This really isn’t a bag you’re going to use with a golf cart or pushcart. So it’s not the most versatile bag. The El Camino Superlite is very much for one specific style of golf: Casual walking.

The El Camino Superlite Pockets

The pocket configuration in the El Camino Superlite is the same as what you get with the standard El Camino.

The one notable difference is that with the regular El Camino, one of the side pockets is insulated (what Sunday Golf calls their “Frosty Pocket”) so that you can stash a few beverages.

On the El Camino Superlite, that same-sized pocket is just a general use pocket. You can still throw a drink or two in there, but don’t expect them to stay cold for long, especially in the heat.

I’m guessing this is one of the design decisions that helped shave the bag down to the 3.2-pound target.

And honestly, I think it’s a fair trade. If I really need cold drinks, I’ll wave down the beverage cart. I’d rather save the weight.

The apparel pocket on the Superlite is large enough to hold a small extra layer, but don’t plan on bringing much.

The ball pocket is right where it should be: front and center, big enough for a sleeve or two plus a few extras. Again, no overkill here. You’ll learn quickly that this bag rewards you for leaving behind anything you don’t really need.

There’s also a velour-lined valuables pocket, which I appreciate. And it’s actually a bit larger than I expected in this kind of bag. It’s deep enough to feel secure without being a black hole that you have to fish around in.

Beyond that, you’ve got a mesh pocket and an easy-access rangefinder pouch.

And there’s a Velcro patch where you can stick your glove, which has become pretty standard on most golf bags nowadays.

I mentioned earlier that I’m not a huge fan of the exterior tee loops along the side of the bag. Just give me a small pouch or a zip pocket for that stuff. But if you like the visual of a row of tee heads lined up, knock yourself out.

Overall, the pocket situation is well thought-out, just not luxurious. It feels just right for what this bag is trying to be.

What I Don’t Like About the Sunday Golf El Camino Superlite

Beyond the tee holder thing (a very minor annoyance; not a big deal), the possible issues I have with the El Camino Superlite fall into two categories: price and durability.

Let’s start with the price. At $225, this bag is priced $25 higher than the regular El Camino, even though it arguably gives you less. You lose a bit of capacity, and yet you’re paying more for it.

Now, I get it. The ripstop nylon is a more premium, technical material, and shaving down weight takes design work. But when you hold the Superlite next to the standard El Camino, it doesn’t immediately feel like the more expensive option. And I think that could be a tough sell for some buyers.

Although I guess this is also true across the world of outdoor activities: lighter > more expensive.

My second hesitation is about durability over time. This ripstop material is strong in terms of resisting tears, but it’s thin and minimal by design. It feels more like outdoor gear fabric than what you’d find on most golf bags.

And while I haven’t had any issues yet, I do wonder how it’ll hold up after a full season of travel, trunk time, sun exposure, and regular use.

The stand system is also fine, but there’s something about the legs that I don’t quite like. They sit a little too vertical or tall for me unless I manually kick them out a bit more to make the bag sit lower.

Finally, I’ll just say that this bag is unapologetically niche. It’s not versatile. It’s not designed to be your only bag. You’re not going to use it with a pushcart or golf cart, most likely.

None of these things are dealbreakers. But they’re worth knowing before you buy. This is a specialty product, and it’s excellent at what it’s designed to do. Just don’t expect it to be more than that.

One bag I’d also consider if you like the idea of a smaller Sunday carry bag, is the Jones Players series. Similar weight, not as feature heavy, but definitely has wins for bonus style points.

A 3.2-Pound Option for Eight to 10 Clubs

Sunday Golf El Camino Superlite Bag

$224.99

Not all rounds require all 14 clubs. And yet for some of those casual rounds you want more than what the most bare-bones Suday bags can deliver. This lightweight midsized eight-to-10-club option is perfect for the right scenarios. Use code BREAKING15 to save 15%!

Buy from Sunday Golf

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Making the Case for a Midsize Golf Bag

I mentioned that I’ve enjoyed using Sunday Golf’s Loma bag, their smallest and lightest. But I’ve found applicable use cases to be somewhat limited.

I’m all in on the romanticism of playing golf with a Sunday bag. It’s a great casual option or for when you’re playing shorter courses that don’t require all of the shots.

But let’s face it: For us hardcore golfers, we need a bag that’s comfortable and functional. And for as much as I like the idea of carrying a Sunday bag, it sometimes ends up being a better idea than a reality.

I also know that I do not need to carry a full set of 14 clubs for every round I play. Seriously, there are times where I look back over several rounds and realize that there are clubs I hardly ever pull.

So, why carry all of them all the time?

I’m not talking about your most important rounds or when you really want to play your best. For that, you want every tool available to you.

But not every round is like that.

For me, I have plenty of rounds of golf where I’d love to lighten my load, but I also don’t want to accept the limitations of a really small Sunday bag.

Which is why I think a midsize option like this El Camino Superlite is a perfect addition to a golf bag collection.

8 to 10 clubs is just right for me when I want to play casually. That still allows me all of my key clubs without some of the long irons or fairway woods that are unlikely to even get used.

In fact, in the two nine-hole rounds I’ve played so far with the Superlite, I really don’t think I’ve lost a single shot. Over time, that would change. If you’re serious about golf, there are definitely going to be times where you call upon each one of your clubs to post your best score.

But in the short run, I’ve found it very easy to choke down, or club up, or punch out with a different-lofted club than normal.

It’s actually really fun to play golf with a limited set. It introduces more creativity. Kind of gets at the essence of the game.

Final Thoughts on the El Camino Superlite Golf Bag

What Sunday Golf has done with the El Camino Superlite is carve out a very specific lane. And, for the most part, they’ve nailed it.

This is a purpose-built bag for the walking golfer who wants to lighten up, simplify, and still feel organized and comfortable.

It offers more than the smallest Sunday bags, which makes it much more practical for regular use, but it’s lighter than larger stand bag alternatives.

Is it the most premium bag on the market? No. Is it the most versatile? Also no. But is it incredibly functional and satisfying in the exact context it’s designed for? I’ve got to say, absolutely.

For quick loops, casual rounds, or just any time you’re looking to carry less, this bag delivers a great experience.

Would I want the El Camino Superlite as my only golf bag? No, not me personally. I need a bag that will carry all 14 clubs for at least some of my rounds.

But do I love now having this in my arsenal? More than I expected, actually. And I think it’s going to get a lot more use in these upcoming summer months than I ever considered when I first learned about this bag.

A 3.2-Pound Option for Eight to 10 Clubs

Sunday Golf El Camino Superlite Bag

$224.99

Not all rounds require all 14 clubs. And yet for some of those casual rounds you want more than what the most bare-bones Suday bags can deliver. This lightweight midsized eight-to-10-club option is perfect for the right scenarios. Use code BREAKING15 to save 15%!

Buy from Sunday Golf

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post Sunday Golf El Camino Superlite Bag: The Easiest Carry I’ve Ever Experienced appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

In fact, right now it probably still is, given there are discounts bringing it to under $300.

But the for 2025 season, Sun Mountain has decided to discontinue the “Mid-Stripe” name, and instead has released the successor to the bag, dubbed the Matchplay.

I just got my hands on a brand new Matchplay bag, and in this review, I’m going to go over what I like, what I don’t, and help you decide if this is a bag worth investing in.

First Impressions of the Sun Mountain Matchplay

The first thing I noticed with the Matchplay is how subdued the design is when compared to the outgoing Midstripe bag.

That bag has similar build quality but features some bold, vintage colorways that were unlike anything else on the market.

While the bag itself is similar, the Matchplay colorways are more subdued with color options that are all black, white, blue, or green.

I opted for the green, which is the boldest look of the bunch.

Out of the box, I was pleased with how good the color looks in person.

The “infinity vinyl” material feels high end, and similar, if not the same to what they used on the older bag.

It does feel slightly smaller to me than the previous iteration of the bag, which I noticed a bit more once I got on the course.

That said, while I do miss the older colorways, I’ve been very impressed with the fit and finish of this bag.

Best Sun Mountain Bag

Sun Mountain Matchplay Stand Bag

$369

An underrated luxury golf bag from Sun Mountain. Want something different than all your friends? Grab this.

Buy from Golf Galaxy

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

How Does it Perform on the Course?

With some of the recent bags I’ve tested out, I’ve needed to recalibrate my baseline for bag size.

What I mean by this, is lately I’ve been primarily using the Vessel Player V Pro, which is $100 more than this bag.

In that bag, the opening diameter of the top is a whopping 9.5 inches. On the Matchplay it’s only 7.5 inches.

The Matchplay is both a smaller and a lighter bag, which makes it more conducive to carrying on a regular basis. But having gotten used to having so much space for my clubs, it did make this bag feel comparatively tight.

The good news is that despite the smaller size, I haven’t had any issues with clubs getting tangled or being difficult to retrieve from the bag. 

I also recently tested the new MNML MR2, which also has a 7.5 inch opening, and with that one I noticed my clubs getting significantly more caught up when carrying a full set, than I have with the Matchplay.

Walking and Carrying the Matchplay

The Vessel bag is definitely more of a hybrid bag more typically meant for people who regularly use both carts/push carts and carry.

At 5.4 pounds the Matchplay is a much more walking-friendly bag, and I very much have enjoyed walking with it.

There’s a leather top handle which feels great to hold, and is a huge upgrade over many other bags which still only have plastic handles. I do kind of miss the more natural tan leather of the older bag, but that’s personal preference. The handle here is the same color as the rest of the bag also looks very nice.

The strap system is excellent. It’s easy to adjust and make comfortable, and the weight balances well.

The hip pad has a quilted pattern that both looks and feels high end, and makes the walk even more comfortable.

One thing to note though is that I do get an occasional squeaking noise from the bag/straps when carrying this bag. I had the same issue with my old Mid-Stripe and I can’t fully pinpoint what the cause of it i

Another minor annoyance I’ve found with the bag, is that the stand legs don’t always deploy all the way.

Much of the time, I’ll need to give the bag an additional push-down to get the legs to go out another inch or two to be fully solid and supported.

The bag will usually still stand up, but since the legs aren’t fully set, the bag is much more inclined to tip over – which happened once.

This is something I’d like to think is due to it being new, and once it gets broken in will be less of an issue. But I haven’t quite gotten there with it yet. This also could be an anomaly of my specific bag.

Pockets and Storage

Overall I’m very pleased with the amount of pockets the Matchplay has. It has a velour-lined rangefinder pouch right on the front of the bag where I like to see it.

Below is a large pocket for balls and other misc. accessories. The water bottle sleeves on the sides are tight, supportive, and work great.

I like the fact that there’s a full-length garment pocket, as some bags like the Stitch SL2 Air Walker, or MNML MR2 have moved all their storage towards the bottom of the bag.

That said, this garment pocket is relatively tight and smaller than I’d expected it to be. Fitting anything more than a single layering piece in there is very tight, especially when compared to some other similar bags.

The valuables pocket is also kind of unique. Instead of having one or two small valuable pockets, this one has a larger pocket and then a divider inside of it, that breaks it up into two sections.

I don’t personally love this, as it makes it feel like it would be easier to have something slip out. For instance, if you put your watch in one part, and your car keys in the other – and then go to take your watch out, it seems like the potential is there for the keys to accidentally fall out.

I didn’t have this happen, but it crossed my mind every time I’ve used this pocket.

All that to say though, these are pretty minor critiques on an otherwise wonderful bag.

Should You Buy the Sun Mountain Matchplay?

If you’re looking for a luxury bag that is well constructed, easy to carry, and uses premium synthetic leather materials – I think you’ll be very pleased with this bag.

I think the Mid-Stripe is still a fantastic bag and even more of a value now that it’s dipped below $300 in most places –  but as the Matchplay continues to roll out, I imagine we’ll see less and less of those as they sell out.

If you’re considering this, I’d also take a look at the Jones Rover Stand. At $285, the Jones bag is about $85 less expensive than the Matchplay, weighs over a pound less, and is probably my favorite bag to carry.

It doesn’t feel as high-end as this bag, though. So if you like the idea of synthetic leather, and also want a bag that you’re less likely to come across someone else having on the course – then I think the Matchplay is a wonderful choice.

Best Sun Mountain Bag

Sun Mountain Matchplay Stand Bag

$369

An underrated luxury golf bag from Sun Mountain. Want something different than all your friends? Grab this.

Buy from Golf Galaxy

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, we may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

The post The Sun Mountain Matchplay is a Solid Luxury Golf Bag appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

The Player III is one of my all-time favorites.

More recently I switched off between the Player IV and Player IV Pro DXR.

Then there was the Player Air (until one of its legs got snapped off, thanks Delta…).

Needless to say, any time a new bag comes out in their hallmark “Player” series, I get excited.

When my new navy blue Player V Pro arrived, I was thrilled. 

Everything about it looks and feels like models of the past, but with some very smart upgrades that you’ll need to look closely to see.

But for as much as the Player V Pro upgrades some features, two others took a big step backward.

In this Vessel Player V Pro review, I’m going to go over all the pros and cons of this bag, and help you decide if it’s worth spending (a lot) of money to pick one up.

Ready? Let’s do this.

First Impressions: Just as Beautiful as Ever

Simply put, I think Vessel makes the best-looking bags out there. 

The pebbled faux-leather is soft and supple and screams high-end.

The first thing I noticed on the new model is the chrome and leather zipper pulls. They’re a nice touch and make the bag feel that much more luxurious.

At first glance, it also didn’t look that much different than the outgoing Player IV models. And those, frankly don’t look much different than the Player III before that.

This is a good thing.

But as I dug in deeper, I began to notice some smart changes that definitely improve quality of life when using the bag.

Player V Pro vs. Player 5: What’s the Difference?

Last year, Vessel released their first “Pro” model of their Player bag. They essentially were up charging $40 for features that used to be standard on the Player III.

It kind of rubbed me the wrong way, and just felt like an excuse to charge more.

This year, while I still kind of feel that way, the Player V Pro is bringing more to the table over the standard Player V model – which I think makes it a no-brainer if you’re considering one of these bags.

Here are the major differences:

• Pro features 7-way dividers (new putter well), and the standard V only has 6.
• All 7 Pro dividers are all full-length, the standard V only has 3
• Extra magnetic valuables pouch on Pro
• Pro is over an inch longer and has a larger top
• Pro has a pebbled texture, standard V does not.
• New top handle design on Pro has 3 different handles
• Weight: Pro is significantly heavier at 7.5 vs 6.6 pounds for 6/7 way divider models without straps (more on that in a minute)

There are probably some other minor differences, but those are the major ones.

Best Hybrid Golf Bag

Player V Pro Golf Stand Bag

$469

This is a bag that doesn't compromise on materials or quality. It's also the perfect bag for the golfer who likes to vary their experience via carrying, pushing, or riding in a cart. The Player V Pro might be the best all-around hybrid golf bag ever made.

Buy from Vessel Golf

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

The Two Fatal Flaws of the Vessel Player V Pro

For years, I had the Vessel Player series as my “Best Overall Bag for Most People” in my list of best golf bags.

But this year? I can’t quite give it that distinction. 

To be clear, I personally love this bag. I imagine the majority of my rounds over the next year will be played with it.

But there are two major issues that will make it a deal breaker for many people, and I need to address them before I go any further.

What are they?

1. Price
2. Weight

Vessel is a luxury, high-end golf bag company, and the Player V Pro at $469 is representative of that.

But there are plenty of great golf bags you can pick up for less than half the price.

Is it worth it? Yes, I believe so. But it’s still a tough pill to swallow and many people won’t even consider it for this one point alone.

The second may be the bigger issue for you depending on how you prefer to golf: it’s heavy.

Like really, heavy.

This has always been the major knock on nearly every Vessel bag. With the exception of the Player Air, the high-end materials Vessel uses translate to increased weight.

Last year’s Pro model tipped the scales at around 6.5 pounds. Heavy for sure, but manageable.

This year it’s a whopping 7.5 pounds, and that’s without considering straps or the rain hood. Throw both of those in, and the weight balloons to over 9 pounds.

If you’re a golfer who walks and carries their clubs on a regular basis, there are just too many other great options that weigh significantly less, to make this a major recommendation.

However, there are some big buts coming.

How Does the Player V Pro Perform on the Course?

While weight is important, it doesn’t tell the whole story.

For my first round with the Player V Pro, I carried it at Torrey Pines South. The only thing more surprising than the fact we literally showed up and walked onto the course, was the fact the bag was so enjoyable to carry.

Yes, on its own the bag is heavy. But it’s what you put inside it that makes a much bigger difference.

The Vessel Bag is 2-3 pounds heavier than what you might consider a “light” golf carry bag. But their equilibrium shoulder strap system is one of the best in the business. 

The velour-lined straps are very well padded and just carry extremely well. It balances the weight in all the right spots, and makes the bag feel lighter than it is.

The rotator base is great as well. Repeatedly setting the bag down always feels satisfying when it locks into place.

The magnetic rangefinder pouch is the best in the business, and I love how easy it is to access my device anytime I need it.

This bag has tons of storage options, so that’s where you need to be careful. I’ve had no issues fitting my full-frame camera with large telephoto lens in the garment pocket, along with a vest.

I’ve also been able to fit a pair of size 12 G/FORE Gallivanters in there no problem as well.

I also love the redesigned top handle for the V Pro which includes two additional handles. Not only does it fit nicely with the design, it really adds a level of functionality and convenience. 

So if you like to carry, and tend to be a packrat? That’s where you’ll get into trouble, and your back (or caddie) may hate you for it.

But all told, I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how well this bag carries, despite its heft.

Why the Player V Pro is the Ultimate Hybrid Golf Bag

So yes, you can absolutely carry this bag, and be just fine. I have, and I will continue to do so.

But this bag wasn’t designed for that person.

The Player V Pro is the best hybrid bag I’ve ever tested.

What do I mean by hybrid?

This bag is a dream for the person who mixes up how they get around the golf course.

Do you ride 50% of the time? Use a push cart 30%? Walk 20%?

This bag excels in all of those conditions – and I think that’s who Vessel was going for when designing it.

One of the major updates over the Player IV is the hidden cart strap sleeve – and added protector.

Often carry bags are too small or light to work well on a cart – not the case here.

The Player V Pro with its slightly larger size and weight over the standard Player V, makes it almost as good as a true cart bag when it’s used on a cart.

For me, I generally tend to use a push cart. But I travel to write about a lot of golf resorts, and so often find myself in a cart for various reasons.

Having a bag that is great in both situations, and still totally carryable? It’s the perfect bag for the way I golf.

It’s worth noting, that this is also just large and stable enough to work well on electric caddies like the Stewart Golf Q-Follow or the MGI Zip Navigator.

Final Thoughts on the Vessel Player V Pro

At first, I was disappointed to see how much heavier this bag was than its predecessors.

But then as I used it more, not only was I pleased to see it carried much better than I expected it to, I began to consider the idea of a “hybrid bag”: equal parts cart, push cart, carry.

And when you look at it through that lens? It’s one of the best bags I’ve ever tested.

The people who’ve hated on Vessel for weight in the past, will have even more reason to do so.

Same goes for the ones who scoff at the price.

And that’s totally fine, this bag isn’t for everybody, and there are so many good options out there.

But for the person who wants a high-end bag that feels every bit of its price, and is usable in just about every situation you could throw at it?

This may be just the bag you’ve been looking for.

Best Hybrid Golf Bag

Player V Pro Golf Stand Bag

$469

This is a bag that doesn't compromise on materials or quality. It's also the perfect bag for the golfer who likes to vary their experience via carrying, pushing, or riding in a cart. The Player V Pro might be the best all-around hybrid golf bag ever made.

Buy from Vessel Golf

We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

This page contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and buy one of the products on this page, I may receive a commission (at no extra cost to you!) This doesn’t affect our opinions or our reviews. Everything we do is to benefit you as the reader, so all of our reviews are as honest and unbiased as possible.

Recent Updates:

November 6th, 2024: Added video review.

The post Vessel Player V Pro Review: The Best Hybrid Golf Bag Ever Made appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

It’s been on dozens of flights, to 14 countries, and is still in fantastic shape given the beating I’ve put it through.

But it’s not perfect. It’s a little small, and it can be a bit cumbersome to haul through airports and into hotels.

For awhile now I’ve had my eyes on a Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian.

It’s a similar size to my Club Glove, but it has a unique set of wheels that pop out to make transporting the bag much easier when traveling.

On a recent trip to San Diego, I got a chance to put it through its paces. How did it hold up? And is it worth buying over the incumbent Club Glove?

The answer isn’t quite as clear as I’d hoped, but let’s find out.

In this review, I’ll be comparing the Meridian directly to the Club Glove, since that’s not only what I’ve used, but it’s also one of the most popular bags on the market.

Best Travel Bag

Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Golf Travel Bag

$339

The Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian is a fantastic golf travel bag, with a very convenient "glider" system. It's not quite as robust and durable as the Club Glove Last Bag, but the unique design more than makes up for it.

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First Impressions of the Sun Mountain Club Glider

There are a bunch of good looking colorways of the Meridian, and I opted for a black bag with red accents.

The bag looks great and along with the obvious “glider” portion of the bag, has a few differences from the Club Glove.

First, the shoe pockets are on the outside of the bag, which I was happy to see. My hope is that it would make more room for stuff in the bag – but we’ll get to that in a second.

There’s more visible padding around the top half of the bag, and the Meridian features two straps rather than the 3 of the Club Glove.

Overall, it’s a very good looking bag. The weight feels similar to my older bag, despite the extra glide mechanism.

Build Quality and Materials

At first glance, I figured this bag would be a no-brainer upgrade over my previous bag.

But once I started getting it packed for my trip, I became slightly less confident.

The Club Glove Last Bag feels all but bulletproof. The bag is made of incredibly durable nylon and has the beefiest zipper you could imagine.

The Sun Mountain feels half a level below that, both in terms of material durability and zipper quality.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s still very well constructed. But I’ll be interested to see how the zippers hold up long-term after repeated stress. 

The primary handle at the end of the bag which you hold while rolling, also isn’t quite as thick as I’d hoped to be. It’s perfectly serviceable but doesn’t feel as good in your hand as the Club Glove bag does.

As mentioned, I was excited about the shoe pockets on the outside of the bag. It does seem like it added space to the inside of the bag which is great. The downside, however, is that I’ve been unable to fit two size 12 shoes in one pocket.

The Club Glove could pretty easily fit a pair of shoes in each of its interior shoe pockets. I can only fit one shoe in each pocket in the Merdian. It’s not the end of the world, as the additional space inside made it easy to put another pair in there. However, as someone who almost always travels with two pairs of golf shoes, it would have been nice to see.

Padding and Protection

Despite talking about the robust zippers and nylon of my old Club Glove, that bag wasn’t without its issues while traveling.

While I’ve never had a club snap while using the bag, I did have a tripod break in half, and more recently, one of the legs on my Vessel Player Air broke – rendering the bag all but useless.

From a padding and protection standpoint, the Sun Mountain feels great, and I didn’t have any major concerns about my clubs being safe.

Wait, I take that back.

I have a brand new TaylorMade Qi10 Max driver that I was planning to take on this initial trip, but in my frantic packing, I couldn’t find a club wrench to remove the driver head. Considering I haven’t done the review yet, I left it at home, just in case something were to happen.

I did however bring my Stix Compete Driver, and ran into zero issues during the trip.

How Does the Club Glider Perform?

I packed my new Vessel Player V Pro, which his on the larger side of stand bags. It fit great in the Sun Mountain bag, and I definitely had at least a little more room than I typically do in the Club Glove Last Bag. Maybe not as much as I’d hoped, but any increase in space is a welcome one.

I’ve gotta admit, up until I arrived at the airport, I was a little on the fence as to whether or not this was an upgrade over my old bag. Slightly more space, slightly less durability in terms zippers and nylon.

But when I popped the bag out of my car at Long Term Parking at PDX, and proceeded down the long walk through garage, to the underground tunnel, up the escalators, and into the new terminal – I knew this was different.

The Club Glider function? Total game changer.

A quick pull of the lever under the bag releases the glider mechanism which acts as both a stand for the bag, and engages the rollerblade-esque wheels that make this bag unique.

Walking with the Sun Mountain Club Glider is a dream. The bag basically floats around, and takes next to no effort or strength on your part to use it. Not only does it truly “glide” but maneuvering it is also much easier.

Winding my way through the line for airport ticketing, the bag felt like it was on rails as it followed me around.

I recently talked about the LAB Putter being one of the rare “revolutionary” products out there. The Club Glider fits in this category as well.

While the overall build quality didn’t quite meet my expectations, the functionality of the glider itself exceeded them.

Should You Buy a Sun Mountain Club Glider?

At $339, this is an expensive travel bag. But if you travel frequently with your clubs, it’s absolutely worth investing in a bag that will last and make your life easier.

While not as durable, I think the convenience that comes with a soft bag over a hardshell case, makes them the better fit for most people.

With the Sun Mountain Meridian, you’ve got a bag that looks great, has ample space, and performs wonderfully when you’re on the go.

I know I griped a little bit about some of the materials of the bag, but the reality? I doubt many people will run into any major issues.  After one trip my clubs were totally unscathed, and my travel experience was more comfortable than it’s ever been.

Unless you’re traveling every week with your clubs, I think this bag will last you for many years to come.

Is it worth buying over a Last Bag? I think the answer for most people is, yes.

The Last Bag is a bit beefier, but this bag is still better built than most golf travel bags (I’m looking at you TourTrek), and the Club Glider feature works well enough to offset any minor issues I have about durability.

This is the bag I’ll be trusting with my clubs for the foreseeable future, and for once, I won’t be completely dreading hauling my clubs long distances through airport terminals.

Best Travel Bag

Sun Mountain ClubGlider Meridian Golf Travel Bag

$339

The Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian is a fantastic golf travel bag, with a very convenient "glider" system. It's not quite as robust and durable as the Club Glove Last Bag, but the unique design more than makes up for it.

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We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

The post Sun Mountain Club Glider Meridian Review: The Ultimate Travel Bag? appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

And we’re not talking throw them in the back of the car and head out for a long weekend a few hours away. Since I started this top 100 quest I’ve been flying all over the world playing top 100 golf clubs – and I needed a golf travel bag that would live up to the constant abuse I’ve been throwing at it.

Up until recently, I’d been using the Tour Trek GTS 3 bag, which I bought before my first trip last year.

That bag sucked.

Granted, it was less than $100, so far from top of the line, but I got about 4 trips out of it before the holes were too much to handle. My golf bag also never quite fit right, so that was a constant frustration.

Back to the drawing board

After asking around, and getting a few reader emails, I finally settled on the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate with wheels.

This thing is like going from a bottle of Cooks to drinking a nice Veuve Clicquot.

My Last Bag arrived just in time for my recent Scotland trip, and I was excited to load it up and see how it worked.

Note: My original review was for a Club Glove “Burst Proof 2” that has been discontinued and as I understand it, renamed the Last Bag Collegiate. So there might be a few discrepancies in photos, but all of the important stuff is the same.

First Impressions of the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate

When the bag arrived it was literally in the Club Glove branded box, wrapped in a plastic bag – so if left on the porch it’d be pretty clear what was sitting there.

That being said, once I got it out of the box, I was immediately impressed with the build quality of the bag.

The canvas felt about twice as thick as my previous bag, the rivets seemed extremely secure – and let’s face it, the bag just looks cool.

Club Glove is known as being the leader in travel bags, and they claim that the vast majority of Tour Pros use their bag – and after one trip with it, it isn’t hard to see why.

Most Durable Travel Bag

Club Glove College Traveler

$325

This bag has been in and out of airports around the world and barely looks like it's even used.

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Last Bag Collegiate Performance

The Club Glove Last Bag has one big space for your golf bag, and inside that has two separate compartments for shoes or accessories. I always pack two pairs of golf shoes, one on each side, and never have any issues with it fitting.

The rollerblade wheels they have on this thing are fantastic, and the whole bag rolled smoothly whether it was on the streets of Edinburgh or the airport terminal.

The thick plastic casing on the bottom of the bag was also an extremely welcome change when compared to my Tour Trek which started to wear out after only the second trip.

There are three security straps on the outside that are well built, and allowed me to cinch down the entire bag before flying with it.

The padded top also made my feel safe that my driver and woods would arrive in the same shape as they were when I left.

Downsides to the Last Bag Collegiate

My only real complaint is that it didn’t have quite as much space as I was thinking it would. I’m not one of those golf minimalists, so my bag is not the smallest, and while it fit, when I tried to cram 3 pairs of shoes and a few other misc. items, it definitely got a little snug and made getting it zipped a slight challenge.

Luckily the zipper seems extremely high quality, and worst-case scenario there’s a limited lifetime warranty which should cover and major defects.

Final Thoughts on the Club Glove Last Bag Collegiate

Even despite not having a ton of extra space, this bag rocks. Going back, I might consider paying a little bit more and getting The Last Bag in a larger size – considering my travel partner had one, and I was pretty jealous – but for all intents and purposes, this will do me just fine for the next couple years of travel.

The Burst Proof also comes in a ton of different colorways, and if you’re particularly concerned about club damage for an extra fee you can get a stiff arm for extra protection.

Bottom line, if you’re in the market for a golf bag, get a Club Glove. You won’t regret it.

Most Durable Travel Bag

Club Glove College Traveler

$325

This bag has been in and out of airports around the world and barely looks like it's even used.

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Update October 2024: Still One of the Best Golf Travel Bags Available

I originally did this review in 2014, and I’ve been using this travel bag exclusively for the last decade. Dozens of trips, 14 countries – the Last Bag has held up to the beating I’ve thrown at it.

I absolutely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a high quality, durable golf bag.

In the 10 years I’ve used it, I’ve only had two issues with things getting broken during travel. A tripod got one of its legs snapped off about 7 years ago, and earlier this year one of the carbon fiber legs on my Vessel Player Air broke off.

Not ideal, but it’s also the risk you run with any soft shell travel case.

For as much as I’ve loved this bag, I have started using a Sun Mountain Club Glider. Durabiltiy is half a notch below, but the unique “club glider” function is excellent and really does make traveling a bit more convenient.

Either one will serve you well, but I’d check out my Club Glider Meridian review along with this one if you’re looking for a new golf travel bag.

The post Club Glove Last Bag Review: The Best Golf Travel Bag Out There? appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.