2017 STAND BAG BUYERS GUIDE
The process of buying anything in today's time has become stressful and time-consuming.We feel the best reviews are those that help you make the right choices and help you get the most out of your time and money. The MyGolfSpy mission is simple: create the world's most objective and comprehensive testing in the golf industry.
One key to our testing protocols is testing all categories head-to-head. We select the top products from each category and put the products through detailed head-to-head testing. We test both in the lab and in the field. We score each product across a range of weighted categories. We then rank the products and explain why, and give awards to the best performing products in the category.
This year we approached stand bag testing with improved protocols and more critical scoring methodology, which was based on an intensive look at the market and feedback from consumers just like you. Several key findings from that research influenced the bag testing process.
Everything from stand leg stability, comfort during round, strap design, overall bag construction, organization of dividers, efficiency of zippers, design of pockets, and the installation of divider linings were – among many other things - considered.
THE METRICS
We're always fine-tuning the process to make sure we're collecting the best data possible. Continuing that trend we've updated and refined this year's analysis to bring you the best buying advice possible.
FEATURES CHART
| Name | Weight | Dividers | Pockets | Insulated Pocket | Velcro Pad | Marker | Umbrella | Towel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PING HOOFER | 5 | 5 | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| VICE FORCE | 5.4 | 6 | 5 | Y* | Y | N | Y | Y |
| PING 4 SERIES | 5 | 4 | 7 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| OGIO CIRRUS | 4.8 | 7 | 7 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| GFORE TRANSPORTER | 7 | 6 | 6 | Y | N | Y | N | Y |
| SRIXON Z4 | 5 | 4 | 8 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y |
| WILSON STAFF HYBRIX | 5.4 | 14 | 6 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| FROGGER FUNCTION F(X) | 6 | 6 | 7 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y |
| WILSON STAFF NEXUS | 5 | 6 | 8 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| COBRA ULTRALITE | 5 | 4 | 5 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| DATREK GO LITE HYBRID | 5.8 | 14 | 5 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| MIZUNO PRO | 7 | 4 | 6 | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| OCTOBER GOLF GEAR | 9 | 7 | 9 | Y | Y | N | N | Y |
| SUN MOUNTAIN 4.5 LS | 5 | 4 | 6 | N | N | Y | Y | Y |
| BAGBOY CHILLER | 6 | 14 | 10 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| BENROSS HTX | 5.4 | 14 | 7 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
*The Vice Force is the only non-external insulated pocket in the test
We put in hours of testing utilizing data-driven protocols to test new metrics. The numbers are better than ever.
Over the course of the test, bags were loaded with 14 clubs, and a dozen golf balls. Our panel of testers was encouraged to load and unload clubs from the bag as they would during a typical round of golf. Carrying functionality was also a major focus.
While some golfers do use stand bags on push carts or riding carts, our tests focused on primarily usability while walking.
Top-performing bags feature storage that is designed and built in a way that allows for the full utilization of the space. On the other hand, in some of the poorer performing bags, while the potential for greater functionality exists, stitching inhibited the use of the storage. The highest performing bags within this category feature pockets that are accessible and easy to use when the bag is mounted on a cart or on your back.
Style (10 points) - Score is established by considering what we believe the majority of consumers would deem stylish, not whether the individual tester likes the look of the bag. Survey questions provided to testers were developed to combat any brand-driven favoritism on the part of the individual respondent.
Weight (10 points) - All bags are ranked based on weight, and then assigned relative scores. For example, the lightest bag in the test received 10 points; second lightest received 9.5 points, and so on. The heaviest bag received 2 points.
Walkability (20 Points) - How functional the bag is while walking. We took into account the tapering of the straps, whether or not the "exoskeleton" created discomfort, and the distribution of weight. Bags with high ranks in all these parameters performed well. We did find that many bags performed well in some facets of the walkability portion of the test, while underperforming in others.
Features (35 points) - This is the category where the best bags separate themselves from the pack. It's what you should consider first when purchasing a new stand bag. Score was determined based on rankings within these sub-categories:
Velcro Pad - Score is based on both the size and functionality of the pad. Many bags have pads that are far too small, while others have pads that are almost completely unusable. While a velcro pad may not be a priority for all golfers, a good stand bag should include a functional offering for those who want it.
Dividers - Combines the design, build, and overall functionality of the dividers to establish a score. While the tendency for the clubs to grab was considered, it was not the sole consideration. We also noted the arrangement of the dividers and whether or not the design inherently aided in club organization.
Legs - Determined by the design and build of the bag's legs and "exoskeleton." Many bags had sturdy connection points between the legs and the bag itself which provide greater stability. Others don't have any sort of well-designed connection points, making their legs less stable and ultimately less effective.
Water Bottle Holder - Quite simply does it hold a big water bottle, and how accessible is the bottle while walking.
Final grades were awarded based on total scores. Best Overall is our highest overall scoring bag, and awards are awarded to the top five stand bags. In addition, more specific Best in Class recognitions are awarded to bags in certain categories (like legs, lightweight, etc) that push the industry envelope.
THE BEST STAND BAGS IN 2017
PING HOOFER
|
Storage
|
9th |
|
Style
|
2nd |
|
Features
|
1st |
|
Walking Functionality
|
2nd |
|
Weight
|
2nd |
|
Score
|
90.1 |
What We Liked
- PING Hoofer is the Ultimate Stand Bag
- Effective strap pass through
- If you are a walker or rider, you will love this bag
- Comfortable weight distribution while walking
- Playing 36 holes in this bag is a breeze
- Well-designed straps taper around the midsection to maximize stability
Pros
- Zippers function flawlessly
- “Best In Class” zipper pulls
- Lightweight and functional
- “Best In Class” water bottle holder
- Sturdy leg design
Cons
- Could have more storage
- Velcro Pad could be larger
VICE FORCE
|
Storage
|
12th |
|
Style
|
1st |
|
Features
|
8th |
|
Walking Functionality
|
3rd |
|
Weight
|
8th |
|
Score
|
85.3 |
What We Liked
- VICE Golf knocked this design out of the park
- Well thought-out and incredibly engineered
- “Best in Class” Dividers
- Triangular leg base promotes stability
- “Best In Class” Style
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable
- Functional dividers
- Great looking
Cons
- No external water bottle holder
- Zipper pulls and storage could be improved
- Front pocket is large, yet not particularly functional
PING 4 SERIES
|
Storage
|
4th |
|
Style
|
12th |
|
Features
|
3rd |
|
Walking Functionality
|
7th |
|
Weight
|
2nd |
|
Score
|
83.8 |
What We Liked
- The PING 4 Series offers almost everything a golfer could want in a stand bag
- Weight is distributed comfortably when walking
- Well-designed straps taper around the midsection to maximize stability
- Ultimate ease of use while walking
Pros
- Zippers function flawlessly
- “Best In Class” Zipper Pulls
- Lightweight and functional
- “Best In Class” Water Bottle Holder
- Sturdy leg design
Cons
- Lack of top two way divider
- No “cascading” effect created by dividers
- Tapering of strap causes minor abrasion
OGIO CIRRUS
|
Storage
|
4th |
|
Style
|
13th |
|
Features
|
4th |
|
Walking Functionality
|
4th |
|
Weight
|
1st |
|
Score
|
83.6 |
What We Liked
- Lightest Stand Bag in the Test
- No glaring weaknesses
- Cost-saving, yet effective materials and functionality
- Well-designed and functional pockets that maximize storage
Pros
- Well-designed zippers
- Plenty of accessible velcro pads
Cons
- Dividers cause minor club binding
- Not a standout in any single category
- Poorly designed valuables pocket
GFORE TRANSPORTER
|
Storage
|
8th |
|
Style
|
5th |
|
Features
|
6th |
|
Walking Functionality
|
5th |
|
Weight
|
12th |
|
Score
|
81.9 |
What We Liked
- Upscale, In Your Face Style
- “Best In Class” Magnetic Rangefinder Pouch
- Ultimate strap adjustability
- Well-designed legs
Pros
- Well-designed zippers
- Ball marker for tracing sharpie lines
- Bottle opener
- Self-adjusting Straps
Cons
- No velcro pad
- Comparatively heavy
- Poorly designed carrying handle
- Water bottle inaccessible while walking
2017 STAND BAG BUYERS GUIDE
| Name | Price | Storage | Style | Features | Walkability | Weight | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PING HOOFER | $215.00 | 9th | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 2nd | 90.1 |
| VICE FORCE | $249.99 | 12th | 1st | 8th | 3rd | 8th | 85.3 |
| PING 4 SERIES | $185.00 | 4th | 12th | 3rd | 7th | 2nd | 83.8 |
| OGIO CIRRUS | $199.99 | 4th | 13th | 4th | 4th | 1st | 83.6 |
| GFORE TRANSPORTER | $325.00 | 8th | 5th | 6th | 5th | 12th | 81.9 |
| SRIXON Z4 | $179.99 | 9th | 8th | 6th | 8th | 2nd | 81.7 |
| WILSON STAFF HYBRIX | $199.99 | 4th | 6th | 2nd | 13th | 8th | 81.7 |
| FROGGER FUNCTION F(X) | $169.95 | 14th | 10th | 10th | 6th | 11th | 77.1 |
| WISLON STAFF NEXUS iii | $179.99 | 2nd | 4th | 12th | 13th | 2nd | 76.3 |
| COBRA ULTRALITE | $160.00 | 16th | 9th | 13th | 1st | 2nd | 76 |
| DATREK GO LITE HYBRID | $139.95 | 4th | 14th | 9th | 12th | 10th | 75.8 |
| MIZUNO PRO | $249.99 | 1st | 11th | 11th | 10th | 12th | 72.5 |
| OCTOBER GOLF GEAR | $199.99 | 11th | 15th | 5th | 9th | 16th | 0 |
| SUN MOUNTAIN 4.5 LS | $209.99 | 3rd | 2nd | 16th | 11th | 2nd | 69 |
| BAGBOY CHILLER | $229.00 | 13th | 7th | 14th | 16th | 12th | 64.5 |
| BENROSS HTX | $175.00 | 15th | 16th | 15th | 15th | 11th | 57.3 |
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