Golfers know that every piece of kit has its moment, and when the course is damp or muddy, it’s time for the humble golf carry bag to shine. While trolley bags and carts might be your usual go-to, many courses insist on carry bags in wet conditions to minimise damage to the fairways and greens. They’re lighter, more compact, and offer a practical solution for navigating the course without leaving a trail of squelchy destruction in your wake.
A good carry bag isn’t just about keeping the greenkeepers happy—it’s about making your game as enjoyable as possible, no matter the conditions. Imagine trekking up the 18th with a bag that feels like a feather on your shoulders instead of a burden. With clever designs that balance comfort, storage, and weather resistance, modern carry bags offer more than enough space for the essentials without dragging you down.
The three golf carry bag brands that we have reviewed and compared
Whether you’re a fair-weather golfer or someone who braves the drizzle to chase birdies, a dependable carry bag can make all the difference. We’ve reviewed some of the best options available today, from ultra-light models to feature-packed favourites, to help you find the perfect companion for those soggy rounds.
The three that we have reviewed and compared against each other are the current best sellers in the golf carry bag market.
Ping Hoofer Lite
Renowned for its cool designs and lightweight structure, the Ping Hoofer Lite has long been a favourite among amateur golfers. Its popularity stems from a perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a top choice for those seeking both aesthetics and performance.
Callaway Chev Carry Bag
The Callaway Chev Carry Bag stands out with its sleek design and practical features. Offering ample storage and easy portability, it’s designed to meet the needs of golfers who value convenience without compromising on style.
Titleist Players 4
Combining durability with a lightweight feel, the Titleist Players 4 bag provides golfers with a comfortable carrying experience. Its modern design and efficient storage solutions make it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their game.
Other golf carry bags worth mentioning
While these bags lead the market, there are other notable mentions:
- Vice Carry Bags: Known for their cool aesthetics, these bags often sell out quickly, making them a rare find. Their limited availability has left many golfers, including myself, eager to get one.
- Stewart Golf Bags: This UK-based company is celebrated for its high-quality carry bags. However, their premium pricing and niche usage among amateurs make them less common on the course. Stewart Golf is perhaps best known for their innovative follow electric trolley carts and cutting-edge technology.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the features, pros, and cons of each of these top-selling carry bags to help you make an informed choice for your golfing needs.
Why I am a golf carry bag expert?
For over a decade, golf has been more than just a pastime for me—it’s been a passion. From casual rounds to competitive matches, I’ve spent countless hours on the course, honing my game and putting my gear to the test. My devotion to quality equipment has shaped my choices over the years, and Ping has always been at the heart of my setup. From their clubs to their waterproof jackets, and, of course, their bags, I’ve trusted Ping to deliver reliability and performance time and again.
When it comes to carry bags, my experience is deeply personal. I’ve owned two Ping Hoofer carry bags during my time as a golfer, alongside a Ping cart bag for the drier months. These carry bags have been my go-to companions through thick and thin, and they’ve set the standard for what I expect from any bag I use. Lightweight, durable, and practical, they’ve proven themselves on the course, which is why I feel confident in sharing my insights.
A golf carry bag with stand is for the all season golfer
I’m not just a fair-weather golfer, either. Playing in any and all conditions has always been part of my approach. I firmly believe that braving the rain, wind, and mud during the colder months sharpens your skills for when the sunshine finally returns. This commitment means my carry bag gets a serious workout, especially during the late autumn and winter months when trolley bans come into effect on many courses.
One of the courses I play on regularly enforces a strict carry-bag-only rule during bad weather to help preserve the fairways. As a result, my carry bag sees heavy use—at least twice a week from late October through to early spring. This practical experience has given me a strong understanding of what makes a carry bag not just good, but exceptional. It’s also made me acutely aware of the areas where some bags can fall short.
For me, a carry bag isn’t just about meeting course rules—it’s about ensuring I can focus on my game, no matter the conditions. It needs to be comfortable to carry over long distances, with enough space for the essentials but without feeling cumbersome. It must also be built to withstand the elements, protecting my gear when the heavens open. These are the qualities I’ll be evaluating in this review, and why I’m confident my experience will offer valuable insights to fellow golfers.
Ping Hoofer Lite Review – from £170 at American Golf
Top Layout: Compact and Organised
The Ping Hoofer Lite impresses straight away with its 4-way top divider system, designed to keep your clubs neatly organised. The dividers are spacious enough to prevent your grips from tangling, which is a big plus when you’re in a rush to grab the right club. The built-in lift-assist handle is a thoughtful touch, making it easier to hoist the bag in and out of your car or onto a trolley when needed. For golfers who value simplicity and efficiency, this layout ticks all the boxes.
Storage: Pockets Galore
With a total of nine pockets—seven zippered and two slip—you won’t be short of storage space. The clever pocket design includes dedicated spots for your valuables, drinks, balls, and tees, and even features an umbrella loop holder and towel attachment points. Whether you’re packing for a casual round or a competition, everything has a home, and it’s easy to stay organised. The addition of a cart-strap channel also ensures you can use this carry bag with a trolley without blocking access to the pockets.
Extra Features: Lightweight and Practical
Weighing just 2.3kg (5.0lbs), the Hoofer Lite lives up to its name, providing exceptional portability without compromising durability. The convertible strap system is a standout feature, allowing you to switch between a single and double strap with ease. Combined with the auto-deploy stand and full-contact base, this bag is optimised for stability and comfort. Add in a matching rain hood, and you’ve got a bag that’s ready for any weather.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Ping Hoofer Lite delivers on its promise of being a lightweight, functional, and durable carry bag. Its thoughtful features and clever design make it a reliable choice for golfers who demand the best from their gear. While it’s hard to fault, some may find the lack of full-length dividers a minor drawback. Nevertheless, this is a near-perfect bag that justifies its popularity among amateurs and pros alike. If you’re in the market for a high-quality carry bag, the Hoofer Lite should be at the top of your list.
Note, the image shown is the same Ping Hoofer bag that I current own.
Ping Hoofer Lite – The Positives
The Ping Hoofer Lite stands out as the most popular golf carry bag on the market, and it’s easy to see why. As a global brand trusted by golfers of all levels, Ping delivers exceptional quality and design. The Hoofer Lite boasts an impressive nine pockets—more than most other carry bags—offering unbeatable organisation for everything from clubs to valuables. Its lightweight construction, ease of use, and versatility make it the go-to choice for golfers who want a reliable and feature-packed bag.
Ping Hoofer Lite – The Negatives
I had to buy a second Ping Hoofer carry bag as the pin at the top of the leg stand came out and despite me contact Ping direct, a replacement pin never arrived. This made the bag pointless, as you could not stand it up. The second bag, bought two years ago was nowhere near as good as the original. It felt more flimsy and the same thing happened with the leg stand pin.
In addition to this, the stand mechanism at the bottom of the bag also stopped working. The final straw for my moving away from the Hoofer lite is the change in the zip tags to a piece of cord/thick string. They repeatedly come off and you can’t get them back on. When you are next at a busy course with bags lined up by the 19th hole, have a look at the Hoofer carry bags. You will notice that many have the cord/strong missing on the zips. I have contacted Ping to try and point this out but have never had a reply.
The cost saving of moving from a traditional metal zip tag to a cord is costing them dearly.
Titleist Players 4 Review – From £150.00 – Amazon
Top Layout: Spacious and Well-Organised
The Titleist Players 4 carry bag features an 8-way divider system, providing plenty of space to organise your clubs effectively. The dividers are ideal for those who prefer keeping their clubs separate to avoid tangling and ensure easy access during play. Despite its lightweight construction, the Players 4 doesn’t compromise on functionality, with its 92cm height and smart dimensions offering excellent portability for golfers on the go.
Storage: Smart and Streamlined
With six pockets, the Titleist Players 4 balances storage space with a sleek, minimalist design. These include dedicated compartments for valuables, apparel, balls, and beverages, ensuring you can carry all your essentials without adding unnecessary bulk. The pockets are strategically positioned for easy access, making it a practical choice for golfers who like to stay organised without being weighed down.
Comfort and Build: Lightweight and Durable
At just 2kg, this carry bag is one of the lightest on the market, making it a dream to carry for long rounds. The adjustable strap system offers excellent comfort, allowing you to customise the fit to suit your needs. Made from durable polyester material, the bag can withstand regular use and varying weather conditions. The bag’s stability is enhanced by its sturdy stand mechanism, ensuring it stays upright on any terrain.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Titleist Players 4 carry bag is an excellent and affordable option for golfers seeking a lightweight, durable, and stylish carry bag. While it offers fewer pockets than some competitors, the thoughtful design and quality construction more than make up for this. Its 8-way divider system and ultra-lightweight build make it a standout choice for golfers prioritising comfort and convenience on the course. A reliable companion for any round, the Players 4 earns a solid 9 out of 10.
Titleist Players 4 Carry Bag – The Positives
The Titleist Players 4 carry bag shines with several standout positives, making it an excellent choice for golfers. As the lightest bag in this review, weighing just 2kg, it’s perfect for those who prioritise comfort during long rounds. It’s also highly durable, with robust construction and excellent-quality zips that ensure longevity even with frequent use. Best of all, it’s one of the most affordable options on the market, offering exceptional value without compromising on quality.
Titleist Players 4 Carry Bag – The Negatives
While the Titleist Players 4 carry bag has many strengths, it does come with a couple of drawbacks. The polyester material, while lightweight, feels flimsier compared to the other bags reviewed, raising concerns about its long-term durability. Additionally, the bag’s design is quite plain, lacking the stylish appeal of its competitors, which may disappoint golfers looking for a bag that stands out on the course.
Calloway Chev Carry Bag – From £160.00 – Amazon
Top Layout: Simple and Reliable
The Callaway Chev Stand Carry Bag is built with practicality in mind, featuring a 4-way divider system to organise your clubs. While it offers fewer dividers than some competitors, the layout ensures clubs remain accessible and secure during your round. Measuring 88.9 x 30.5 x 25.4 cm, the bag is compact yet functional, ideal for golfers seeking a no-fuss solution to carrying their gear.
Storage: Sufficient but Streamlined
With six pockets, the Callaway Chev provides just enough storage for your essentials, including dedicated spaces for balls, tees, valuables, and apparel. While it doesn’t offer an abundance of compartments, the pockets are well-positioned for easy access. The bag also features an adjustable strap, making it easy to carry while keeping everything you need within reach.
Comfort and Build: Sturdy Yet Lightweight
Weighing 2.31 kg, the Chev strikes a good balance between durability and portability. The plastic material is robust and weather-resistant, ensuring the bag holds up well over time. The stand mechanism is stable and reliable, giving the bag a secure stance on various terrains. Its adjustable strap system enhances comfort, making it a practical option for golfers who prefer walking the course.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Callaway Chev Stand Carry Bag offers solid performance at a reasonable weight, with reliable storage and durability. However, the 4-way divider system may feel limiting for golfers who prefer more club organisation. While not as lightweight as some competitors, it’s still a comfortable option for walking rounds. This bag earns a respectable 7.5 out of 10 for its balance of affordability, functionality, and sturdiness.
Calloway Chev Stand Bag – The Positives
The Callaway Chev stands out for its durability, with a sturdy plastic construction that handles wear and tear well. The adjustable strap adds to its comfort, and its overall compact design ensures it’s easy to manage on the course. Despite being slightly heavier than the lightest bags, it’s still lightweight enough to be carried without fatigue. Worth noting, I think this bag has overtaken Ping for style and design flare too.
Calloway Chev Stand Bag – The Negatives
The Chev’s 4-way divider system feels limited compared to the more generous layouts of other bags reviewed, which might frustrate golfers who prefer greater organisation. Its overall design is practical but lacks flair, making it less appealing for those who prioritise style alongside functionality.
The 19th hole summary – what is the best golf carry bag with stand?
In my mind the Titleist Players 4 golf carry bag wins. It has been really hard to tear myself away from the Ping Hoofer. Losing two to breakages is what tipped me over the edge and got me looking at alternatives. I think you will never find a golf carry bag that looks as good as the Ping Hoofer. That said, until they fix the zip and stand pin issues that many of us have experienced, they will struggle to get back to the top.
The Titleist Players4 is dependable, affordable and the clear winner for me, If you want to spend a bit more and style is important to yo, the Calloway Chev is the next best choice.
