Best Golf Stand Bags 2023

We take a look at the best golf stand bags currently available on the market

Best Golf Stand Bags
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

Finding the right golf bag could help you make the difference when it comes to organizing and planning your game. Carrying a stand bag gives you more freedom to move around the golf course, meaning you can walk straight up to your ball wherever it’s sitting. It’s also quicker and easier to deal with pre- and post-round and can help keep you fit.

WATCH: Dan Parker gives his verdict on what he thinks is the best stand bag of 2023

If you like to carry, then you’ll look for something lightweight and comfortable that sits well on the back. Depending on the conditions you generally play in, you will want to consider the quality of the stand and the level of storage available. Easy access and protection of clubs will always be a consideration. You need a bag that’s robust, stable, and will protect your equipment, perhaps you need it to be waterproof too. You also want a stand bag that delivers the best possible ergonomic fit for you. 

What then are the best golf stand bags? We’ve reviewed and tested them and have selected our favorites below to help you prepare and manage your golf game in the most effective way. Additionally take a look at some of our other golf bag guides too - such as the best golf bags, best golf trolley bags, or the best waterproof golf bags.

Before we list the models for this guide, Christmas is nearly here and there are lots of deals on equipment like this. Additionally it is a gifting time of year so take a look at our best golf gifts for Christmas page as well.

The Quick List

Best Golf Stand Bags - Best Golf Carry Bags

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Best overall

Ping hoofer golf bag picturedEditors Choice 2022

(Image credit: Future)

Specifications

Weight: 2.5kg/5.5lbs
Pockets: 11
Waterproof: Not fully
Colors: 3

Reasons to buy

+
Convertible strap system
+
Extra, tailored rangefinder pocket

Reasons to avoid

-
Lightness means it’s inevitably less robust than some stand bags

The Hoofer has become an iconic moniker within the stand bag market. The new Ping Hoofer stand bag comes with a whopping 22 litres of volume from its 11 pockets. From these 11 pockets, a velour lined valuables pocket, a magnetic rangefinder pocket and a top-access magnetic slip pocket are the most useful and feel well made.

The new back puck simplifies conversion to a single strap and the large apparel pockets come with a full-length zip for easy access. The cart strap channel makes it easy to put this bag onto a trolley and means all 11 pockets are still fully accessible with the carry strap still on the bag.

It is definitely one of the more classic looking bags in our list and we think it looks best in neutral colors, meaning all of your headcovers, towels and other accessories will match nicely with this bag when it is being used. It is such a favorite of ours that we also included it in our best Ping golf bags guides.

Best looking

Titleist Players 5 StaDry Stand Bag Review

(Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Specifications

Weight: 2kg/4.4lbs
Pockets: 7
Waterproof: Yes
Colors: 4

Reasons to buy

+
Comfortable strap system
+
Plenty of storage
+
5-way top limits club crowding

Reasons to avoid

-
Tee pocket is fiddly
-
Bag clip sometimes get caught during lifting

The Titleist Players 5 StaDry Stand Bag is one of the best Titleist golf bags on the market, with the brand not deviating too far from the DNA that made it resonate with so many golfers worldwide.

Adding a new 5-way top divider, which helps both club organisation and accessibility, the bag reeks class and simplicity, with new high quality YKK zippers and a horseshoe-style tee pocket making way for four color options that will appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Along with the aesthetics, the bag has plenty of practical features, including a Sharpie holder, two external lined cooler pouches to store your beverages and a spacious golf ball pocket. These all combine to produce a carrying experience that was close to faultless. Arguably, the stand-out feature, within our testing, was the straps, which didn't twist or tangle throughout the 10 rounds we used the bag for.

Best value

Wilson Exo Lite Stand Bag review

(Image credit: Kevin Murray)

Specifications

Weight : 1.8kg/3.5 lbs
Pockets: 6
Waterproof : Not fully (Showerproof)
Colors: 6

Reasons to buy

+
Magnetic rangefinder pocket is very convenient
+
Legs kick out easily and provide a solid base
+
Super lightweight but still sturdy
+
Well-placed water bottle pocket

Reasons to avoid

-
Not best for carrying full 14 clubs
-
Not suitable for cart/trolley use

There is a lot to like about the Exo Lite Stand Bag, with the stand-out feature the magnetic rangefinder pocket. Not only is it superbly convenient, but it also feels super-premium and, if you don't want to use your rangefinder in this pocket, then there are plenty of other pockets, or even an accessory clip that you can utilize.

Although it is not fully waterproof, it's certainly showerproof in light rain and there is a fully waterproof, fleece-lined valuables' pocket that will keep things like your phone dry even in monsoon conditions.

This is one of the best lightweight golf bags on the market, with the Exo Lite weighing just 3.5lbs. In testing, we had no problems with the legs not kicking out when placed on the ground and, on a windy day, there will be peace of mind knowing it won't topple over. Although we have tested better straps, they are certainly comfortable and easy to adjust while the comprehensive hip pad makes for an altogether comfortable experience over the shoulders and back. 

Best premium