Golf bag

The Ultimate Golf Bag Buying Guide

Beginner golf players usually have a ton of information to learn about the popular sport. However, many new individuals find this part boring as it soon begins to feel like a lot of work. Some even find it intimidating to learn about golf and may give up before starting.

That said, many golf teachers overlook tidbits like how many golf clubs in a bag, which are otherwise crucial to the game. But, every golfer should learn about all the laws and rules. This article discusses how many golf clubs you can carry and provides information on choosing the right golf bag for you.

Types of Golf Bags

Even the most uncomplicated golf bags have excellent features that provide novice players with comfort and convenience. A golf bag should be easy to organize so the golf equipment is easily accessible during the game.

However, golf bags have come a long way during the past few years with the latest designs and advanced innovations offering more efficiency and comfort. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and stylish.

Let’s look at the type of golf bags you can choose.

Carry Bags

A carry bag is possibly the lightest option, perfect for casual and recreational golfers. These bags come with shoulder straps to carry the bag around the golf course. If you’re someone who prefers walking the golf course, with a bag intake, a carry bag should be your go-to choice.

Stand Bags

Stand bags are highly versatile for carrying them around your back or transporting them through a cart. While they’re usually lightweight, stand bags are generally heavier than carry bags. These bags have legs at their base that help keep the clubs upright, allowing you to easily choose the one you need right now.

Cart Bags

Cart bags distinguish from carry and stand bags for their base. The base of a cart bag specifically attaches golfers can easily attach it to a golf cart. Cart bags are also more spacious with generous storage and have more pockets than other golf bags.

However, the additional benefits come with a catch, as cart bags may not be suitable for walking golfers. These bags are generally heavy, so you will only see competitive players use it.

Tour Bags

Also known as staff bags among golfers, tour bags are the most comprehensive type of golf bag. They provide the maximum amount of dividers, pockets, and storage. Like cart bags, only professional golfers who require more golf equipment use tour bags.

Tour bags are larger than cart bags and can even weigh more.

Travel Bags

Travel bags are popular among traveling golfers who are conscious about their golf clubs and want to keep them safe from damage. These bags protect the golf clubs during flights and specifically, baggage handling.

Travel bags have a hard outer case and are made with heavy materials to prevent golf equipment from damaging. These are spacious and can comfortably fit an entire set of golf clubs and much more for traveling golfers.

How Many Golf Clubs in a Bag Can You Carry?

Unlike most sports games, golf equipment comes with multiple rules. R&A and USGA are the golf governing bodies that set these strict regulations regarding golf equipment.

How many golf clubs in a bag are allowed is one of the most crucial things all golfers should know about their equipment. The straightforward answer to this question, according to Rule No. 4 of Rules of Golf is 14. Rule 4 covers all the laws, rules, and regulations regarding the golfing equipment that players may use during the game.

Penalty

Since the answer to how many golf clubs are in a bag is 14, players must pay the penalty if they breach the rule. Golfers receive a two-stroke penalty for each hole where they breach the law.

So if you’re already on the second hole with fifteen golf clubs in your bag, you will receive a four-stroke penalty. That said, the four-stroke penalty is the maximum penalty for breaking this golf equipment rule.

Features to Look for in a Golf Bag

Once you identify the best type of golf bag that suits your needs, it is time to look for some additional features. Here are a few factors to consider when buying a golf bag.

Number of Dividers

Choosing the correct number of dividers in a golf bag is critical as they determine the level of comfort and convenience. Ranging between 1 and 5, you can find golf bags with various divider options.

When choosing a golf bag, you will find the bag dividers listed under ‘way-top.’ Way-top indicates the number of openings you see from the top of the bag. Dividers help separate the golf clubs to protect them from damage.

Besides picking the correct number of dividers as per your convenience, you should also check whether the dividers are full-length. Where you can easily find full-length dividers in your golf bags, some dividers may not end at the base of your bag.

Usually, dividers extend to the base of the bag to prevent golf clubs from tangling inside the bag. As such, full-length dividers save golfers frustration and time. Professional and competitive golfers prefer using more dividers, whereas casual players get fewer dividers.

Straps

The strap system of your golf bag is another critical consideration when purchasing a golf bag. After all, golfers mostly use the straps and handle to carry the golf bag around.

Most golf bags come with lift handles on the top, while some other bag options may have handles at the bottom. Straps make it easier to transport golf bags to and from the golf course in both placements.

While you can quickly get your bag through a cart from one point to another, many golfers despise it. If you’re a walking golfer, looking at the quality of straps before making a purchase is essential.

You can choose between the two strap systems, which include dual and single. carry straps Typically, cart bags come with a traditional single strap system as their design makes them suitable for carts. Since the player needs to carry their bags, they come with two straps for convenience. However, some carry bags may also have only have a strap.

Ideally, it would help to look for a bag with wide, well-padded straps for maximum comfort. Adjustability is also vital, so you can comfortably carry your golf bag. Similarly, self-balancing straps are excellent as they adjust to your body accordingly, positioning the clubs so they are easily accessible.

Number of Pockets and Other Features

Most golf bags today will also feature pockets along with unique features.

For example, some golf bags have insulated cooler pockets for drinks. This pocket keeps your drink cold so you can play a game with friends and enjoy a nice drink.

Similarly, golf bags may have lined pockets to protect valuable items like phones, keys, etc. Full-length pockets for storing outerwear or change of clothing are the most common pockets in a golf bag.

When choosing a golf bag, consider how many pockets you need, according to the items you carry. Remember, only choose as many pockets as you can look through during and after the game.

Additionally, you should also consider other golf bag features like rain hoods, glove attachments, towel rings, and umbrella holders. While these extra features aren’t necessary, they can improve your golfing experience.

Bottom Line

We hope this golf bag buying guide helps you choose the best golf bag for you. When purchasing one, remember to sift through the information mentioned above and weigh the pros and cons according to your specific requirements. Some key things to remember are the type of bag, number of dividers, strap system, pockets, and extra features. Lastly, 14 is the only correct answer to how many golf clubs in a bag!

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