Whether you’re new to the game or an avid golfer, finding the right golf bag is no easy task. There are an overwhelming amount of bags available to golfers, and most don’t know where to begin their search…until now. Over the last several months, Golf Digest editors reviewed nearly 100 golf bags to find the best bag to fit any golfer's on-course needs, style and game. Evaluated extensively, bags were strapped to editors' backs, pushcarts and golf carts; put through the wringer in the sun, wind and rain; and had every last pocket, attachment and feature evaluated. Among the bags selected feature the industry's leaders in design, functionality and innovation for Golf Digest's picks for the Best Golf Bags including bags for golf carts, carry options for walking rounds, hybrid bags for golfers who like to walk and ride, and even a few Sunday bags for those who like to keep it simple.
Whether you prefer to carry, push or ride when you play, or some combination of the three, this 4.4-pound hybrid bag should fit your needs. The footless base is cart compatible and comfortably fits into most pushcarts. The adjustable double strap ensures a snug fit while walking, and the internal air channel promotes breathability. All eight pockets, including ones for drinks and for valuables, are waterproof.
This waterproof hybrid bag's versatility makes it an excellent choice for all golfers alike. The molded hip pad provides optimal cushioning to your side while the dual strap is easily adjustable. This bag is cart-compatible thanks to a flat base and a rear lock that straps the legs in place. Full-length club dividers keep your sticks separate. There are five storage pockets, including an internal umbrella sleeve.
This hybrid bag (for carrying or carts) weighs 5.9 pounds and boasts nine zippered and eight slip pockets. The polyester construction is expansive, making it a great option for golf trips. This yearâs model features a new base design that reduces the likelihood that your clubs become entangled. The bag also comes in seven color combinations.
The 14-way divider helps keep clubs safe and easily findable, so you don't have to be rattling around in your bag between shots. A valuables pouch and a cooler pocket highlight the storage options on this bag. Adjustable straps allow for comfort while walking, but they're also removable so they don't get in the way when using a pushcart or golf cart.
The Player IV Pro Stand bag from Vessel could be used to walk or ride. It has just about every feature that could matter: A towel ring, an umbrella holder, a pencil or tee holder, a velcro glove patch, an insulated cooler pocket, two cooler-lined bottle sleeves, a magnetic rangefinder pocket, a large garment pocket. Of course, all that may make for a tougher carry, but at least you won't have to leave anything behind.
The Adams Stand Bag exhibits all the necessities an avid golfer demands. There are seven zippered pockets, including one for your water bottle, a Velcro glove holder, and a sturdy towel loop. The large five-way top can easily house 14 clubs, alignment sticks and an umbrella.
Big Max calls this golf bag the Dri Lite Feather for a reason. Weighing in at just 3.5 pounds, it's one of the lightest full-featured bags in the carry/stand bag category. This water-resistant nylon bag has six pockets—one including a cooler—and a five-way organizer for clubs. Made with walking rounds in mind, the base is constructed such that it sits snugly in the back of a golf cart for when riding is the play.
Weighing just three pounds, this stand bag is one of the lightest bags on the market. The four-way divider features a rubber shaft-protective top that reduces shaft wear over time. The pockets are deeper than they appear, so storage space isn't an issue. The straps are easily adjustable and sit comfortably on your shoulders.
Add some neon flare to your game with G/Fore's update of it's best-selling Daytona Plus carry bag. Designed in collaboration with Vessel, the new and improved model delivers stability with a rotating base and an easily adjustable double strap. The synthetic leather exterior is abrasion-resistant, featuring quilted panels and elevated detailing.
The Jones Trouper R uses 100-percent recycled material to create the companyâs most sustainable golf bag to date. A large insulated pocket can keep up to four 16-ounce cans cold, while two fleece-lined valuables pockets allow easy access to your most important possessions. The five-way divider makes for simple club pulls while reducing overcrowding.
This traditional carry bag is hand-crafted from full-grain leather. The green, buckskin, and cream colorway features a single pocket with an 8'' opening. The Mac Bag ages like fine wine developing a rich patina over time. Although slim in appearance, it comfortably carries a complete set of 14 clubs.
Maxfliâs most full-featured bag touts an 14-way club and divider and 11-pocket design to ensure that each item has its own special place. Made with fabric from recycled plastic bottles, this bag has both an insulated cooler pocket and an easy-access water bottle holder.
The all-new Hoofer redesign creates more accessible pockets and features as well as more stability in its base. The five-way top allows for seamless club removal, while the bag's base is segmented to guide clubs to their correct spot, ultimately reducing club tangle. The eight pockets are flexible and allow for maximum storage. There are also eight envelope slip like pockets perfect for smaller items such as your ball markers, tees and phone. This lightweight bag comes in ten bold colors including a fun neon cactus print.
Ping's HooferLite has long been a popular choice for golfers. This yearâs redesign features 14 colorways and a new six-way bottom piece inside the bag to guide clubs to the correct segment and keep them there while carrying. Nine pockets include a zippered rangefinder compartment and an easy-access external valuables pouch.
From PXG's Freedom Collection, this lightweight golf bag features a four-way divider and a ball pocket. Eight total pockets and external glove storage are included, giving the user the ability to reduce clutter and make golf course items easy to find. A padded back panel and a large handle are designed for a comfortable carry.
Unlike many Sunday bags, this single-strap from Seamus can fit up to 14 clubs, though a more limited set is recommended. At just more than two pounds, the Seamus Sunday Bag includes one zippered pocket, a scorecard slip, bungee storage strapsâthink towel, extra layer or rangefinderâand a magnet-secured pocket for safekeeping frequently used items.
This simple stand bag from Srixon features seven pockets, including an insulated one for drinks and a waterproof pouch for valuables. The six-way divider allows for intuitive club segmenting. This is a functional bag for any golfer, regardless of walking or riding preference.
Stitch is known for manufacturing upscale and durable bags, but the brand has taken it up a notch with its newest lightweight model, featuring a proprietary material called Stitch Touring Fabric that looks and feels like leather, but is lighter, more durable and water resistant that traditional leather. Made with walkers in mind, the SL2 Fadeaway includes only what is necessary. The four-pocket design features a pouch for valuables, an insulated pocket for a beverage and a ball pouch.
This carry bag makes the most of its light package. That includes being sturdy enough to withstand the disorganized jammed-in clubs all golfers occasionally exhibit. It also boasts an easy place to carry and access a water bottle, an assortment of different pockets for assorted valuables and rainy-day essentials. Even better, it easily fits in the trunk of a compact car.
The ideal bag for carriers who want individual club dividers. Thereâs padding everywhere on this bag, including on the adjustable straps and where it meets your hips, to assist in a comfortable carry. There are nine pockets on the bag and a strap passthrough for a golf cart if walking is not on the menu.
The Ryder is designed for golfers who ride in a cart as often as they walk. It weighs just 4.9 pounds but makes the most of it with seven pockets, including an insulated cooler pouch that can hold four canned beverages. A pass-through cart strap and flat base make the transition from walking to riding seamless.
"XL" may be in the name, but at just 3.4 pounds, it is anything but extra large. The three-way divider accommodates up to eight clubs, while an insulated pocket will keep your drinks cold. A double strap makes for an easy carry.
Constructed with weather-resistant leather, this TaylorMade bag has an upscale look with luxe details. A three-way club divider adds to the weightlessness of the bag, while the option to change between a single or double strap allows for personalization of your carrying experience, even if your preferences evolve. The velour-wrapped top will protect clubs and adds an extra touch of sophistication to the premium golf bag.
Titleist's premium carry bag is one of the lightest bags on the market. Despite weighing only 2.8 pounds, this carry bag has five pockets to store all your essentials. The exterior is a flexible polyester construction with a premium double strap and mini-deployable legs. The three-way top can hold up to 14 clubs.
This carry bag, available in 10 colors, has a plushy double strap, substantial storage and Velcro glove patches. The waterproof exterior and seam-sealed zippers ensure your belongings donât get wet. The 2023 model has zippered U-shaped tee pocket for quick access to your essentials.
Titleist upgraded its popular carry bag with a techy five-way divider and new YKK zippers designed for extra durability. External lined drink sleeves will keep your drinks cool and prevent them from getting other items in your bag wet.
After 15 prototypes, Utherâs latest is a bag designed to work seamlessly with the companyâs array of magnetic accessories. The upper-right panel contains an 11-by-seven-inch magnetic plate for attaching and removing magnetic accessories. Though sleek in profile, the bag feels roomy with two large wrap-around zippered pockets containing several smaller pockets.
Constructed from extremely durable and lightweight nylon, this six-pound bag maybe on the heavier side but is ideal for avid carriers. Clubs easily slide in and out thanks to the fully enclosed dividers and jam-resistant base. The self-adjusting straps make for a balanced and comfortable carry.
Designed to deliver functionality without weighing you down, this golf bag from Wilson is made to keep walking rounds organized and simple. A magnetic pocket allows for quick access to a rangefinder, while a waterproof valuables pocket will keep your most important items clean and dry in tough weather conditions.
Wilson's limited-edition carry bag is constructed from soft yet durable vegan leather. The Classix has six generously sized pockets, including a velour-lined pocket that easily fits your phone, keys, and range finder. The traditional style bag comes with two strap options, a two-in-one self-balancing double strap, and a single padded strap.
This women's stand bag is just as functional as it is stylish. The six-pound bag has a five-way top, six zippered pockets, a scorecard holder, and a waterproof valuables pouch to keep your essentials dry. This lightweight bag comes in three vibrant colors: pink, ivory and coral.
The ORG14 is a great option for riders and push carters alike. The flat base keeps your bag stable, while rear grips lock it in place, allowing it to sit flush in most push carts. The 14-way top and individual dividers keep your clubs organized and from constantly rattling. Thanks to the cart strap pass-through, all eleven pockets are easily accessible, including an oversized cooler pocket and the new snapping valuables pocket.
If you are looking for a bag that delivers elegance and function, look no further. Honma's black and gold quilted cart bag boasts a staff bag-like stature. Five spacious pockets provide ample room for all your essentials. The BERES bag features a five-way top with full-length dividers and a designated umbrella holder.
Show your support for the US Army with MacGregor's officially licensed US Army stand bag. This bag boasts six pockets, an oversized velcro glove holder, a towel buckle, and an external umbrella holder. The 14-way top and full-length dividers will streamline your golf organization this season.
The Dry-Series cart bag was designed to be used on Motocaddy push carts. The base has raised slots that lock your bag in place, preventing it from twisting, removing the need for a lower strap. The nylon exterior and heat-welded seams are waterproof and withstand inclement weather without losing shape. The zippers provide an airtight seal and allow for snag-free opening.
For the pack-rat golfer in need of order, this leather bagâwith 17 pocketsâis your new best friend. The six-way top comfortably holds 14 clubs, and an external magnetic attachment makes accessing your putter easy. The thickly padded carry strap won't dig into your shoulder when transporting the bag from car to course.
Sun Mountainâs segment defining cart bag, available in six colors, features 13 forward-facing pockets for ample storage and easy access while the bag is strapped in. The intuitive 14-way top makes it effortless to locate and remove the club you need. The dedicated, velour-lined range-finder pocket has a magnetic closure.
TaylorMadeâs high-end cart bag has seven forward-facing pockets for organizational ease. The accessories pouch closes by magnet or zipper and provides quick access to frequently used items like golf balls, tees, and ball markers. The bag comes in 13 color combinations.
This sleek and functional design has plenty of storage. In addition to the three front-facing pockets, the bag has two valuables pockets, a garment pouch with a lockable interior compartment and a large, insulated pocket with drainage. The bag is available with a microfiber-lined seven- or 14-way top.
*Reporting and editing by Daria Delfino, Jared Goldstein, Mike Stachura, Brittany Romano and Sam Weinman.
The best of Golf Digest delivered daily
Sign UpWill be used in accordance with our PRIVACY POLICY