Father Time is undefeated and therefore as we get on in years we have to accept that some of the things we're used to doing are going to need to change. In golf terms, this may mean no longer going for the 220 yard carry with driver over the water hazard that you used to sail the ball over comfortably but has gradually become more of a struggle.
It also means not carrying a full set of clubs in a normal stand bag. I mean, why would you? Even though some of those bags are now incredibly light, they still have a full set of clubs in them as well as all sorts of other essentials. So those things are heavy when you start to get on in years! That’s why the best push cart bags for trolleys are so popular these days. However even cart bags can get pretty heavy when trying to maneuver a trolley, which is why lightweight versions are becoming more prevalent. In years gone by, cart bags were not that much different to tour bags. Big, heavy and usually made of leather. Those days are gone and manufacturers now use new materials and techniques to create trolley bags that have all the storage space of the old models while weighing considerably less.
It isn't just on the course where this is important. Don't forget, you also have to lift that thing in and out of the car, as well as on and off the trolley. For the senior golfer, lugging a heavy bag around is not good for the health as it often doesn't take much to put a back or shoulder out. Lightweight bags are especially important on the course if you are using a push trolley rather than an electric one.
Ideally you will also have a bag that is waterproof. This aspect of technology has come a long way in recent years and thanks to advancements in technology, waterproof materials are much thinner and lighter than ever before.
While it's fair to say that most senior golfers do not (and probably should not) carry their bags, there are some exceptions and some of the fitter seniors may still opt to carry, especially those who do not use a full compliment of 14 clubs. It's also worth remembering that some courses restrict the use of trolleys in the winter due to course conditions. Thankfully the leading manufacturers all offer lightweight golf bags, which in some cases are little more than pencil bags with legs. The best pencil bags are often a little shorter and smaller with 7-inch tops and multiple pockets for a few items, making them ideal for the senior player who enjoys just taking a half set and a few balls out for a nine hole knock. But anyway, without further ado here is our list of the best golf bags for senior golfers and what you should consider when purchasing your next golf bag.
The Quick List
The Aqua Sport 360 has space for everything and is fully waterproof, making it an ideal choice for the golfer who errs on the side of caution over what they take with them out on the course.
The Dry Series bag from Motocaddy is exceptional in wet weather, highly functional in terms of its storage options and it has a very well thought-out design that made it a delight to use in our testing.
The Ultralight from Cobra is a cart bag that does everything you'd expect and more. If you're looking for a reasonably lightweight bag with plenty of storage space then this is a fine choice.
Overall, this is a well made and very impressive lightweight waterproof stand bag. The attention to detail is second to none and it's an ideal bag for avid walkers and those who seek class-leading waterproof protection.
The magnetic rangefinder pocket and sturdy legs are standout features of this well designed and lightweight bag. It can carry everything a golfer needs and comes in at a great price point.
One of the more striking options out there, but there is a lot more to the All Elements range than just the looks. This highly functional and versatile offering from Ogio is ideal for anyone who wants to carry all 14 clubs.
Load the next 3 models
The perfectly proportioned pockets, ultra-lightweight build and trendy look make this a class leader in the Sunday bag category and you can certainly tell that this bag has been designed by golfers.
A fully waterproof, incredibly lightweight bag that is very easy to carry. The Par 3 HD has micro legs that work perfectly to keep your clubs from clanking whenever the bag is placed on the ground.
The Titleist Premium carry bag is feature rich, lightweight and considering the relatively modest price is an ideal choice for a second bag when you need to travel light.
Best Golf Bags For Seniors
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Best light cart bag
Given the 'Aqua' name you won't be surprised to hear that this bag is fully waterproof. In fact, the Aqua Sport 360 is one of the best waterproof golf bags we've tested and offers terrific all round performance.
This ability to deal with any weather conditions brings peace of mind to the golfer as it will keep everything dry, from clubs to spare clothing and any valuables like wallet or car keys. It also happens to be lightweight as well, which makes it very easy to maneuver onto a cart or in and out of the car. The double grab handles at the top make this process even easier, which is ideal for the senior golfer.
In our testing we found that the best feature of this bag is that it has pocket space all the way around the bag (hence the 360 name). This extra space is very useful and it's the little things that make the difference, such as the extra-capacity drinks cooler pocket that can comfortably keep two drinks bottles plus some snacks too. We also liked the oversized putter well that fits larger grips, while another nice touch is that the 14-way divider is covered in soft, protective materials to prevent club crowding.
- Read our full Big Max Aqua Sport 360 Cart Bag Review
Best waterproof
The best waterproof option on this list is the Motocaddy Dry Series cart bag, which brings all kinds of functionality to the party. Primarily though, it's the waterproof capabilities that stand out. It's a lightweight bag that features a TPU Coated Nylon waterproof fabric which will keep your clubs and gear bone dry.
We tested this bag in torrential rainstorms and it kept all the water out, especially in the pockets thanks to the thermo seam sealed YKK zips. There is no amount of rain thjis bag can't keep out so if you live in wetter climates this is one of the best waterproof golf bags on the market and will therefore be ideal.
In terms of storage, there is ample space in the two large apparel pockets on each side, while easy-to-access front pockets feature a cooler pocket to keep your drinks nice and chilled when its hot outside. On that note, you should take a look at our guide on the best golf cooler bags too. There are lots of nice touches on this bag, such as a Velcro glove pad, a towel holder and grab handles at the top and bottom for easier lifting. There is also the excellent Easilock base system for use with Motocaddy trolleys that means you don't require a strap to hold the base of the bag in place.
- Read our full Motocaddy 2022 Dry Series Cart Bag Review
Best value cart bag
We're big fans of the Cobra Ultralight Cart bag, which we believe boasts a lot of features for the price point it comes in at. It's certainly one of the best value golf bags on the market and it's an excellent option for the senior player who likes to have a lot of bells and whistles on their bag. A 9-inch top features a 14-way divider plus a detachable rain hood, but it's the storage options that really catches the eye here. This bag has a whopping 13 pockets so it caters for everything. There's a fleece-lined valuables pocket as well as an insulated cooler pocket for your drinks. While some may see 13 pockets as overkill, for us it was the opposite and we loved how much room we had for various belongings when we took it out on the golf course.
In terms of practicality, the base is compatible with most of the best push carts and best electric golf trolleys out there and there is also a very handy pass-through slot for the cart strap. Not all bags feature this but they should, as it is a lot more secure than passing the strap around the bag. We were still able to access all of the bags pockets and features too. The only downside is that it’s not totally waterproof (it will be fine in showers but will struggle in heavy rain), but it's a lightweight option with plenty of storage options at a great price.
- Read our full Cobra 2021 Ultralight Cart Bag Review
Best stand bag
Sun Mountain are a brand we're big fans of. They have been making high-quality golf bags for years and the 2024 edition of the H2NO Litespeed continues that trend as it's a fantastic product.
As the name would suggest, it is very light and comes in at just 4.4 pounds (or two kilograms if you prefer) so it's a joy to carry and barely makes an impression on your back. This ease of carrying is bolstered by the new bubble design hip pad and the X-strap system, so senior golfers who like to still carry their bag will benefit greatly from all of this.
It is fully waterproof too, as the fabric is given a waterproof treatment on both sides and have seamed seals. Therefore it's impossible for water to penetrate through the bag so you can feel safe that all of your belongings will still be dry at the end of the round regardless of how bad the rain has been.
In testing we noted that the pockets have been very well designed and we like the array of cool colors and patterns available too. All in all this is one of the most complete and well thought out stand bags we have tested in recent times, so if you are in the market for a lightweight, waterproof stand bag, you'll do well to find a better one than this.
- Read our full Sun Mountain 2024 H2NO Litespeed Stand Bag Review
Best value stand bag
Wilson are one of the most reliable brands in the market when it comes to producing high quality golf products at affordable prices, and their new Exo Lite Stand Bag is very much in that vein. It's a high-quality golf bag at a great price point that delivers in functionality and style.
In testing the stand-out feature for us was the magnetic rangefinder pocket which is extremely convenient and also feels super-premium. If you prefer to house something else in this pocket instead, then there are plenty of other pockets for your rangefinder, or even an accessory clip that you can utilize.
This bag isn't fully waterproof so keep that in mind, but it is showerproof and can handle showers, while it does have a fully waterproof, fleece-lined valuables pocket so you need not worry about your phone, wallet and keys getting soaked in monsoon conditions.
In testing, this bag performed well. The legs kicked out nicely when the base of the bag was placed on the ground and you can have peace of mind that on a windy day it won't topple over as it was very sturdy. While it's fair to say that we have tested better straps, they are comfortable enough and easy to adjust. Extra comfort comes from the hip pad and this bag reduces strain on the shoulders and back, which important for any golfer but particularly those getting on in years.
- Read our full Wilson Exo Lite Stand Bag Review
Best color choice
Ogio make interesting looking golf bags and their bold designs won't please everyone, but in our view the Ogio All Elements Hybrid Stand Bag is one of the best looking bags on the market right now. It's a cool and stylish design that offers a choice of some excellent colorways, and we would say this this is a great choice if you like to stand out on the golf course.
There is a lot more to this bag than its fancy patterns though. The material is fully waterproof so you feel confident that it will keep all your golf gear dry when you're on the course, not least because it has seam sealed zips that'll keep your valuables dry. The storage space is impressive and there is plenty of room for all of the best golf accessories that you may want to stash in your bag, plus there is also plenty of room for some of the best golf waterproofs too.
This is a hybrid bag so it's equally at home on your back or on a cart. The eight-way divider on the top of the bag means you have the option to carry all your clubs or leave some behind. The way the divider is designed is perfect to keep your sticks all organised and dent free whether you have eight clubs or the full 14. Another cool thing about this bag we noticed in testing is that it houses a ball silo on the back, which may seem slightly gimmicky, but was really handy as it allowed us to house a full packet of the best premium golf balls.
- Read our full Ogio All Elements Hybrid Stand Bag Review
Top pencil bag
Sunday Golf specialize in producing some of the best golf pencil bags on the market and the Loma XL falls nicely into that category. We enjoyed testing this bag. Firstly, we think it looks great and there are nine colors to choose from so there should be something for everyone.
As you would expect from a thin pencil bag, it is extremely light, weighing just 3.4lbs (1.5kg) which is quite impressive given its size and the fact it has a full-length stand that many pencil bags do not have. There's a 3-way divider which neatly stores up to 8 clubs and there is a double strap which offers extra comfort. Our tester only really needed to wear over one shoulder, but you can put it over both if you prefer.
There are five pockets including two valuables pocket, as well as the ‘Frosty Pocket’ which is perfectly sized for keeping a water bottle or two cans nice and cool. This bag has been designed by golfers and it shows in the performance. Senior golfers who like to carry their bag and only use half a set will really appreciate everything on offer from this product, which is why it's our top pencil bag pick.
- Read our full Sunday Golf Loma XL Stand Bag Review
Best waterproof pencil
Another pencil bag we really like is the Par 3 HD model from Callaway. It is a slightly heavier option at 4.4lbs (2kg) but this is due to the high quality, fully waterproof materials used. While being heavier than a standard pencil bag it is still very light when carrying for 18 holes and it does the basics very well.
The Par 3 HD isn't a stand bag as such, but it is designed with micro legs which are much shorter and need to be extended manually before you set the bag down on the ground. This doesn't sound ideal and initially we thought this may be a problem but it wasn't. The bag is designed in such a way that the legs can remain extended when carrying and you don't even notice. And by having the legs extended all the time, it becomes much easier to put down and pick up without the clubs bashing together when the bag hits the turf.
In our view this is one of the best Callaway golf bags on the market and has a lot of good design features that elevate it from most other pencil bags. An example of this is the double shoulder strap which is super comfortable and can be adjusted easily. The biggest selling point of this bag though is that it is 100% waterproof, something that is rarer than it should be in the pencil bag market.
- Read our full Callaway Par 3 HD Pencil Bag Review
Best premium pencil
Weighing in at just 2.2lbs (or 1kg), the Titleist Premium Carry Bag is as light as a feather (well, almost!) and we think it's an ideal bag for the senior golfer who enjoys a quick summer round or nine holes in the evening with a half set. You might not get all your gear in there and it might not be ideal for 18 holes as a result of that, but if you don't tend to fill your bag with non-essentials this should be perfect. There is room for a waterproof jacket, balls and some accessories, but you will certainly have to think about which clubs you are going to carry.
There is definitely something to be said for hitting the fairways with a pencil bag like this though. It feels great, there's a sense of freedom about being unencumbered by bulky equipment and you can just focus on enjoying the walk and your game.
The ergonomically designed double strap made this very comfortable to carry in testing, but it’s pretty solid too and the mini stand legs keep it nicely off the ground to stop it getting wet. Rather than use this bag all the time, we feel that it works best as a second bag for those who want to travel light in summer or squeeze in a quick nine holes. It's probably not ideal for 18 holes in the winter, but it serves a purpose and we like this bag so much we also included it in our guides on the best lightweight golf bags and the best Titleist golf bags too.
- Read our full Titleist Premium Carry Bag Review
How we test golf bags
We take product testing very seriously here at Golf Monthly and our reviews and buyers' guides are based on a rigorous testing procedure as well as the knowledge and experience of the test team. All members of the Golf Monthly team contribute to golf bag testing and are qualified to convey the pros and cons of each item eloquently. We test golf bags outdoors on premium golf courses to get a thorough understanding on what design features each bag offers, and when possible we look to test in different weather conditions too. We aim to be as insightful and honest as possible in our reviews and it is important to stress here that no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our team tells it how it is. To learn more about our methodology, see how Golf Monthly tests products in our guide.
How to choose a golf bag
When choosing the right bag for senior golf you should start by asking yourself these questions.
1. Do you use a golf trolley?
If the answer is no, then you need either a lightweight stand bag or perhaps even a pencil bag if you are happy using a half set to save weight. If you use a trolley then a lighter trolley bag means pushing less weight around the course. That also means less weight to lift into and out of the car and on to your trolley. Combine this with one of the strap-free connectors on the base of the trolley and you won’t have to bend down to attach the bag either.
2. Do you play in wet weather?
If you continue to play during the wetter months of the year, having a waterproof bag is essential to keep your clubs well protected and dry. The best waterproof golf bags are made of a more advanced materials than standard golf bags, so that can make them more expensive but they will keep your clubs safe and well protected from the elements. For the fair weather golfer though, a standard bag will suffice for you.
3. How many pockets do you need?
How much extra clothing, balls, waterproofs, gloves, food and drink do you normally take on the course? If its a lot then you need a bag that can handle it. A trolley bag offers space to take it all but it will make the bag heavier. Think about what you need on the course and then buy the bag with the right storage for you. If you need a few then we recommend taking a look at some of the best golf cart bags.
4. How many clubs do you carry?
Do you regularly take between 7 and 10 clubs to lighten the load? If you do, then a cart or stand bag is probably overkill and you're carrying more weight than necessary. Consider a pencil bag that has enough room for the essential clubs you need to get around the course. Also think about limiting the number of balls you take in your bag to ensure you're not carrying too much. If you carry a lot of equipment then maybe one of the best tour golf bags is right for you.
5. What's your budget?
As always cost is a factor and the main brands have a deserved reputation for quality. The better trolley bags can last for a long time so the investment could pay off in the long run. If you are on a budget and don’t play often look around for good deals as there are plenty of good value options.
For some more excellent options on some of the best golf bags in the game, why not check out our guides to the best TaylorMade golf bags, best Titleist golf bags and the best Callaway golf bags.
FAQs
What are the lightest types of golf bags?
Golf pencil bags, or Sunday bags, are the lightest bags in golf. They are smaller than a stand bag and have enough room for between seven to 10 clubs. That means they are a great option for senior golfers looking to minimize the amount of weight on their back when playing a round of golf.
Does brand of golf bag matter?
Not necessarily. As a general rule, the more recognisable brand names in golf are without a doubt some of the more reliable manufactorers. That means their products are durable and come with a certain level of quality. However there are plenty of other brands on the market providing excellent quality golf equipment that can help you enjoy your round.
Can you fit 14 clubs in a pencil bag?
Generally, you can fit 14 clubs in a golf pencil bag, but it is unadvisable to do so. Pencil bags are designed to carry between seven and 10 clubs, so the more you pack into them the heavier they will become and the harder it will be to pull a club out from that cramped pencil bag.
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