Buying a Golf Bag
You probably think that a golf bag is the least of your concerns. After all,
what can it do to improve your game? Nothing, actually. But a good golf bag can
protect your more important game tools - your clubs, tees and markers; and let
you enjoy yourself. Believe it or not, a golf bag has an indirect effect on your
game in terms of comfort. Besides, you wouldn't want to be carrying some shabby
looking bag around the course now, would you?
With the variety of golf
bags available in different sizes, colors and brands, it can get pretty
confusing which to choose. Before you listening to a sales persons
recommendations, try to consider a few things. To narrow down your search, let's
take a look at your golfing profile.
First, if you're a beginner golfer,
it makes lots of sense to choose bags that are reasonably priced, especially if
you aren't sure you'll remain a golfer for a long time. If you are an avid
player, then you might want to upgrade to one of the top of the line bags. As an
experienced player, you know that the more expensive bags will look good and
last a long time.
Second, how much time would you actually spend playing
the sport? If you'll be playing occasionally, you won't need an expensive golf
bag as much as a daily player would, for reasons of practicality and
function.
Third, what kind of gear and accessories will you be carrying
in your golf bag? How many clubs will you bring on a regular day, what stuff
will you be taking along, like accessories, balls, umbrellas or
towels?
Fourth, will you be using a caddy, carry the bag yourself or will
you be riding a cart? Some golf bags can be pretty heavy to lug around, which
shouldn't bother you if you have a caddy. If you're doing the carrying yourself,
you'll be too tired to really play a great game which may give you an excuse to
blame your golf bag for a really bad swing.
There are three kinds of golf
bags. By knowing your profile and your style, you should be able to choose which
one you should buy.
1. Travel or Carry golf bags - if you plan to carry your
stuff yourself, then this type of bag is for you. Made of lightweight materials,
the carry bag has enough room for your basic equipment and accessories. Some of
these come with stands, which allow for easy access to clubs when you're out on
the golf course.
2. Cart golf bags - this is bulkier than the carry bag and
might need the help of a caddy. These bags are designed to be used with golf
carts and even without a caddy, you should find it easy to carry on your
shoulder when you take it for a short walk. Since these are bigger than carry
bags, there is more room to store your equipment.
3. Staff or Tour golf bags
- these are the largest and heaviest of golf bags, with lots of pockets and
space to accommodate at least 10 of your golf clubs and still have enough room
for your other stuff. This type is also the most expensive. Usually made of
leather and other top-quality materials, these bags are the choice of pro
golfers.
Regular golf bags can typically set you back for as little as
$50 while the nicer ones can go as high as several hundred. Consider your needs
and try to work around your budget when you look for a bag. You are more likely
to regret it if you splurge on your first buy.
Shop around and compare
prices. Golf equipment is not exclusive to golf stores; you can even buy online.
If you want better prices (read: lower), try garage sales and classified ads.
You can even place an ad yourself, or ask around for golfers who might be
selling their used equipment.