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The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag is a great option for players who want an upscale golf bag but don’t want to pay the big price.  Premium materials, thoughtful features, and still light enough to carry regularly.

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDIN when you shop HERE

Introduction

Sunday Golf started with the Loma, a modern take on their namesake Sunday bag [review HERE].  Since then, they’ve expanded their line, now running the gamut from minimalism to the appropriately named Big Rig cart bag [review HERE].  Sitting in the middle is the Ryder, a classic stand bag that’s capable of being everything to everyone.  The Ryder recently got an upgraded S-Class version, and I tested one to see how it compares to other premium golf bags.

Looks

The look of stand bags is changing rapidly.  Thin nylon and huge logos are out; premium materials and timeless designs are in.  The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag hops on board with a vegan leather exterior.  You can get the S-Class in all black or black with white trim (seen here).  For me, this panda colorway is far and away the best looking Ryder bag.  The white is bright, providing great contrast against the black elements.

Additionally, the Ryder S-Class is almost completely logo-free.  The standard Ryder has very small, tasteful logos, but the S-Class makes many of them white-on-white for a stealth look.  If you know, you know.

If you want to add your own flair to the Ryder S-Class, Sunday Golf will embroider two lines of text – eight characters each – for just $24.  This may be the most affordable way to get your name on your bag.

Features

While Sunday Golf wanted to give players the on-trend, elevated look, they knew they already had a winning design with the Ryder.  As such, they did not mess with the features of the original [OG Ryder review HERE].

Sunday Golf is all about the fun and the good vibes, so let’s start with the Frosty Pocket, a cooler pocket big enough to hold four cans.  It’s positioned on the back of the bag for easier access when you’re riding or pushing.

Including the Frosty Pocket, there are six zippered pockets on the Ryder S-Class golf bag as well as two non-zippered pockets.  There is a velour-lined valuables pocket above the full-length apparel pocket.  A large ball pocket sits below the Frosty Pocket, flanked by a small zippered pocket that seems designed for ball markers and tees.  I found the non-zippered pockets (above) most interesting as they’re an uncommon feature.  While some players may want more security, I think either of these spots could be great for quickly accessing a rangefinder.

Beyond the storage, the Ryder S-Class has holders for all the key essentials.  There’s an umbrella loop that’s out of the way, near the legs.  Additionally, there’s a Velcro glove holder and a towel loop.  Sunday Golf also includes a matching rain hood.

Finally, a thumbs up to Sunday Golf for keeping it fun with a nice array of extras.  The Ryder S-Class ships with a Sunday Golf car freshener, stickers, and a branded mini marker.  These are the nice little extras that tell me that a brand gets it.

Performance

The Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag is full-sized and full-featured but still manages to be light weight.  At just under five pounds, it’s easy to carry, but it has enough storage for the golfer who rides or pushes.

Ryder’s 7.5″ 5-way top has full-length dividers for each compartment.  I loaded in fourteen clubs, all with midsized grips, and had no significant issues.  My preference would be for the top section to be larger, but that’s just because I like all my headcovers to be in that area.

Even with a full load of clubs, the Ryder S-Class golf bag is a very pleasant carry.  The backpack straps are “self-adjusting” and keep the bag balanced.  When you have the bag over both shoulders, the padding on the side of the bag (below) provides a nice cushion.

In addition to the backpack straps, there are three handles on the Ryder S-Class – on the top, on the spine, and below the ball pocket.  The one at the bottom is barely noticeable, but it’s a big help for getting the bag in or out of your car.

For those that ride or push, the Ryder S-Class golf bag has a cart strap pass-through that keeps the strap from blocking access to your valuables pocket.  This only appears on the right side of the bag, because there are no pockets on the upper left.

Also for the rider or pusher, the backpack straps detach from the bag in a few seconds.  This is an underrated feature that I wish more bags had.  For golfers who don’t carry, backpack straps are a nuisance, blocking access to at least half the pockets.  Making it easy to take them off makes the Ryder S-Class a true do-everything golf bag.

The Sunday Ryder S-Class golf bag has a sturdy stand mechanism that operates by tilting 2/3 of the base.  I strongly prefer this style of stand versus the “foot switch” for durability purposes.  Additionally, it gives the bag more stability when it’s tilted over.

Finally, I want to note something unusual about the Sunday Ryder S-Class golf bag: the lifetime warranty.  Sunday Golf offers every buyer a warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the bag.  While that doesn’t cover everything – breaking the legs in a fit of rage is on you – it does give you some assurance that the bag will last.  They also give you 30 days to try the bag and swap it for another if you’re not happy.  That’s a lot more customer service than you get from most brands.

Conclusion

At the time of this writing, the Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class golf bag sells for $270 ($243 with the 10% off code below), a $30 premium over the standard Ryder.  For the player who wants a modern, elevated stand bag, the Ryder S-Class, at over $100 below its competitors, is a smart, easy choice.

Visit Sunday Golf HERE

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDIN

The post Sunday Golf Ryder S-Class Golf Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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A UFO Tour Golf custom golf bag is a true standout – in terms of both looks and quality.  From amazing design through delivery, the process was simple and seamless.

Introduction

Ever heard of UFO Tour Golf?  I hadn’t either, but when I spoke with company president Steve Hopkins, he wasn’t surprised.  With no company logo on any golf bag, they let the end user’s design receive the full spotlight.  And looking at their gallery of work, I’m confident you’ve seen their golf bags on the shoulders of tour caddies or full of OEM clubs at retail outlets.  But what about that name?  I fully expected UFO to stand for something cool, but Steve just liked the Google search volume it generates.

Looks

Before I get into the stunning looks of my bag, let me tell you the design process was super simple.  I filled out a Custom Golf Bag Design Request, uploaded the PIG logos, and two days later received a design mockup.  The design was so amazing that I didn’t alter a thing – what you see is that original design.  The UFO Tour Golf crew is impressive.

The bag is a model JS-OOM midsize staff bag with 9.5” opening.  Midsize is relative, but to me it’s like a cart bag on steroids.  The key to a custom bag like this UFO beauty is that it’s full of areas to embellish.  I love the big PIG icon peeking out on the front panel, and the dancing PIGs on the back side ball pocket.

Taking a closer look, the construction of the bag and personalization details are top notch.  Stitching is precise, and color accents coordinated perfectly.  My bag is eye catching, with a top shelf look and feel.  Of course you are free to create a bag as boisterous as you desire.

Features

I mentioned feel above because the Luxury Microsuede is a noteworthy feature.  Having the look and feel of a fine leather, this UFO leatherette is rigid enough to give the bag structure and makes cleaning a snap.  UFO Tour Golf also offers glossy and exotic looking materials.

As you can imagine, the bag has ample storage.  I appreciated the mesh pockets within the two massive side pockets for storing smaller items.  And the two water bottle sleeves are well positioned for easy access.

The large molded handle deserves its own accolades.  Perfectly positioned to transition the bag from laying on the ground to sitting proudly on its own, the handle is a great assistant and comfortable to use.

Performance

The UFO Tour Golf custom golf bag performed admirably in the typical golf scenarios.  The bag sat securely upright on any reasonably flat surface on the golf course.  The well-padded shoulder strap made carrying the bag a breeze.  Plus the midsize design fit nicely on a golf cart.

I found the 9.5” opening had plenty of room for 14 clubs, and the six sections kept my clubs easily accessible and organized.  The bag also comes with a color coordinated snap on rain hood that includes a long zipper.  If you’ve witnessed tour players and their caddies deal with rain, this is the hood you want for inclement weather.

I want to emphasize that the bag may look big and heavy, but the profile and weight are quite reasonable.  That said, this is not a bag to show up with when playing with a caddy.  You can probably get away with it playing in a pro-am but not at Bandon Dunes.

Conclusion

I’m thoroughly impressed with UFO Tour Golf and the bag they created for me.  The bag is so awesome it currently resides in my living room – proudly representing Plugged In Golf and receiving plenty of compliments.  Buying a UFO Tour Golf custom golf bag isn’t cheap, easily topping $700, an indulgent splurge unless you’re a touring pro or corporate buyer.  But that’s a pretty decent price for a one of a kind masterpiece.

Visit UFO Tour Golf Custom Golf Bags HERE

The post UFO Tour Golf Custom Golf Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The RevCore Premium Stand Bag is a strong entry into the field of elevated carry bags.  Two top designs available.  Single and double straps.  Fairly heavy.  Premium materials and good storage options.

Introduction

Earlier this year we introduced you to RevCore and their Cart Bag [review HERE].  This newcomer is jumping head first into the premium golf bag market with high end materials and a premium, classic look.  They’ve now added the RevCore Premium Stand Bag to their line up for the golfer that wants a bit more versatility.  We tested it to see how it compares to the likes of Vessel and Stitch.

Looks

The RevCore Premium Stand Bag has a classy, understated look like its Cart Bag brother.  The branding is done in a subtle tone-on-tone embroidery with one word logo on each side of the bag.  It seems that the scales are clearly tipping away from the “golf bag as billboard” era.

What stands out most about the Premium Stand Bag is the material.  Per RevCore, it’s a “foam backed premium synthetic leather” that looks nothing like the thin nylon that has dominated the industry for the last decade plus.

Features

There are stand bags focused on light weight and stand bags that are feature-packed, more like cart bags with legs.  The RevCore Premium Stand Bag is in the latter group.

For its basic storage, the Premium Stand Bag opts for fewer, larger pockets.  The ball pocket is huge, and there’s a magnetic, velour-lined pocket on top of that.  On the left side of the bag, there’s one large zippered pocket, big enough for snacks, gadgets, or a jacket.  The right side has an enormous, full-length apparel pocket and an appropriately-sized valuables pocket.

Each side of the bag also has an insulated sleeve for keeping drinks handy.  In keeping with this bag’s elevated look, there are no call out “Cooler Here!” markings.  I didn’t even realize the insulated sleeves existed until I started my deep dive.

Finally, the standard bag features are all present.  There’s an umbrella holder, Velcro tab for gloves, and a large towel ring which you can use to clip accessories like brushes.  The RevCore Premium Stand Bag also comes with a rain hood made from the same heavy duty synthetic leather as the bag.

Performance

One of the first things that sets apart the RevCore Premium Stand Bag is the ability to choose your top.  Seen above is the 14-way top.  RevCore also offers a 6-way top with a 1-2-2-1 configuration.  In both cases, all the dividers are full-length to allow you to easily pull your clubs in and out.  Additionally, the dividers have a soft lining so they won’t scratch up your shafts.

Sticking with the theme of options, RevCore doesn’t make you choose between a single and double strap – they give you both.  Whether you opt for the traditional option or the backpack straps, you’re going to get thick padding for maximum comfort.  Changing straps can be done in a few seconds with four clips.

In addition, the RevCore Premium Stand Bag has three smartly placed handles.  There is a heavy duty plastic handle along the back of the bag, and a handle molded into the top.  A third handle is tucked underneath the ball pocket for easy loading and unloading from your trunk.

The one downside of the premium materials and hardware is the weight.  At 6.75 pounds with a 14-way top and 6.6 with a 6-way top, the RevCore Premium Stand Bag is on the heavy side for a carry bag.  This isn’t so heavy that you can’t carry it regularly, but it’s probably a better choice for the player who walks, rides, and pushes.  If you’re going to carry this bag often, be mindful about how much gear you pack into it.

Finally, the RevCore Premium Stand Bag has a strong stand mechanism.  The legs pop in and out easily, and there’s a Velcro strap for keeping the legs in when you’re riding or pushing.  While I prefer stands that are activated with the entire base of the bag rather than a “foot,” this mechanism feels sturdy, like everything else on this bag.

Conclusion

At $279 the RevCore Premium Stand Bag comes in on the more affordable side of the premium carry bag market, but the heavy duty materials will keep it in service and looking great for many seasons.  This bag is packed with storage and smart features whether you walk, push, or ride.

Buy the RevCore Premium Stand Bag HERE

The post RevCore Premium Stand Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The KRADUL LUX stand bag comes from a newer brand but is already impressing golfers with its unique Tortoise logo, premium vegan leather outer shell, intuitive pockets, and high end details.

Introduction

A relatively new company, KRADUL was formed to create golf bags with premium materials that wouldn’t break the bank.   While the company itself is new, the team of designers is not and have been engineering golf bags for well known brands like Ogio for over 20 years.  They used their expertise to craft their first line of luxury bags, and we got our hands on one to see how it stacks up.

Looks

Right out of the box, first thing I noticed was the premium materials that makeup the outer shell.  KRADUL refers to this material as “vegan leather” which by definition is imitation leather but without toxins or harmful chemicals.  From a looks standpoint, it’s more consistent and smooth than a typical synthetic leather material.  It also has a very high end look to it and could be mistaken for a Vessel or Stitch bag at first glance.

The only design element that breaks up the matte grey outer shell is the subtle branding.  KRADUL’s logo is the desert tortoise which is seen above the carry handle and along the large pocket on the right side of the bag.  I like the logo, and think it adds a unique flare to each bag.  I should also mention that “KRADUL” is embroidered along the front ball pocket in large block letters.  These details are subtle but are what make all the difference in making this bag look high end.

The KRADUL LUX 7.5″ 4 way stand bags are available in both Tar (black) and Fossil (shown here).

Features

The KRADUL LUX 4 way stand bag has a few features that make it stand out from the rest.  The most obvious is the elegant vegan leather outer shell.  Next is the Tommy clip front pocket for electronics such as a rangefinder.  The purpose is to snap a bungee cord over a clip instead of having to unzip and rezip the pocket every time you need something out of it.  In addition to this pocket, there are four other zippered pockets including one that is velour lined for phones or a smart watch.

I also noted that the flex foot stand feature eliminates a pedal to kick out the stand legs.  This provides more durability of the bag for the long term.

Lastly, the carry handle, zipper grabs, and accessories clip all feature heavy duty materials that will stand the test of time and lots of rounds on the course.

Performance

The KRADUL LUX stand bag is a midweight stand bag, tipping the scales at eight pounds.  Ample padding and their 360 balance straps make it easy on the back for carrying.  Of course, no one likes fumbling through their golf bag during the round, so KRADUL made sure to include a sturdy holster for a bottle, umbrella strap, and an easy access tommy-clip pocket for a rangefinder or GPS.  I also enjoyed that the pockets expanded away from the sides to allow more room for storage.  A lack of space is something I dislike about my Stitch SL2 bag.

The foot stand took some getting used to, but it didn’t take long to adjust.  On my push cart, the Kradul Lux Stand Bag fits well.  The push button release clips for the shoulder straps are a game changer.  I can easily remove them for rounds on my push cart and put them right back on when I want to carry.

To my surprise, this bag is priced at $249 which is a tremendous value and one of the less expensive options in the luxury golf bag market.

Conclusion

The KRADUL LUX stand bag is an aesthetically pleasing bag that won’t break the bank.  This midweight carry bag is loaded with smart features and high end touches.  Don’t let this new brand fall under the radar.  Check out KRADUL golf bags before you start your 2024 season.

Buy the KRADUL LUX Stand Bag HERE

The post KRADUL LUX Stand Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The Sunday Golf Big Rig cart bag is a fully loaded ultra lightweight cart bag with ample, purposeful storage, full length 14 way dividers, and high end details.

Introduction

Sunday Golf made its name on true Sunday golf bags like the Loma XL [review HERE].  In other words, bags that are smaller and lighter than a typical carry bag designed for significantly fewer clubs.  This review is all about their first offering in the full size cart bag space – the Big Rig cart bag.

Looks

I have to first mention that the pictures online and on Sunday Golf’s website don’t do this bag justice.  The Sunday Golf Big Rig cart bag has the looks of a regular cart bag, but up close it has some impressive details.  Although the outer shell is made up of the typical nylon material, it is watermarked with a subtle honeycomb design that gives the bag a premium look.  Every detail seems to be upgraded to some degree.  The top front pocket uses a luxury panel with an embossed Sunday Golf logo while the other storage pockets have heavy duty zippers that exude premium.

The 14 way dividers at the top are full length and sport an anti-catch putter slot at the front.  Even the chromed out accessories clip elevates the look of the Big Rig cart bag.  Overall, the matte black bag has a large footprint but is a step above your regular cart bag.

Features

The Sunday Golf Big Rig cart bag is loaded with features.  First is the top.  It has full length 14 way dividers with easy to grab carrying handles on either side.  While the debate for 14 way dividers is always a hot topic, Sunday Golf’s specialized holster prevents clubs from banging together especially on rough terrain.

The top front pocket designed for holding a rangefinder is fully magnetic for easy access.  It doubles as a cart strap sleeve for full security knowing your clubs aren’t going anywhere while on the course.

Each of the remaining 12 pockets on the Big Rig has a purpose.  A large lower front pocket is lined to keep drinks cold and can hold four cans comfortably.  Just to the right of the cooler is a pocket I was especially fond of.  It sports two interior stretch sleeves that can hold precious items like ball markers or divot tools.  In addition to a variety of large garment pockets and a velour lined valuables pocket, the rear strap makes it easy to transport to and from the parking lot.

Performance

If I were to compare this bag to only other 14 way bags, it would win out over the competition.  Not only are the dividers full length but the rigid top prevents clubs from getting scuffed up during the round.  It also makes getting clubs in and out of your bag effortless.  Occasionally I found some of my MCC Plus Four grips were caught on the way out but because of the rigid dividers, it was easy to redirect and get the clubs out without any additional frustration.

Although there are dozens of cart bags with ample storage, Sunday Golf really took the time to design a specified use for each compartment.   From large garment pockets to the cooler pocket and small valuables pouch, everything has a place which is great in keeping things organized on the course.

At seven pounds without clubs, this is one of the lightest cart bags I have tested which makes it ideal for all the push cart users.  If all of these features aren’t quite enough for you, you can buy confidently knowing that every bag is backed by their free lifetime warranty.  At $280, this bag has tremendous value.

Conclusion

There is a ton to love about the new and lightweight Sunday Golf Big Rig cart bag.  The high end touches, 14 way dividers, and ample amount of useful storage compartments make this one of my favorite cart bags for 2024.

Buy the Sunday Golf Big Rig Cart Bag HERE

Save 10% with code PLUGGEDIN

The post Sunday Golf Big Rig Cart Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The RevCore cart bag has a classic, upscale look with modern features.  Loads of storage.  Velvet-lined top cradles your clubs.

Introduction

For almost my entire golfing life, the golf bag market has been dominated by nylon bags with giant logos.  Over the last couple years, however, we’ve seen the emergence of more classic, upscale golf bags from brands like Vessel.  The newest entrant into that market is RevCore, a sister brand to CaddyDaddy and the excellent Claw golf gloves [Claw reviews HERE].  Their first bag, the RevCore cart bag, has the look of a classic leather Tour bag but with modern features.

Looks

When I unboxed the RevCore cart bag, I was struck by the quality look of the bag.  Similar to bags like the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 [review HERE], the synthetic leather gives it a look that’s miles from the typical nylon bag.  The zippers and zipper pulls also have a heavy duty look and feel.

Another thing that elevates the look is the subtlety of the branding.  The RevCore logos on other side of the bag are moderate in size, but they’re embossed in the material making them almost invisible at a glance.

The RevCore cart bag is available in two colorways: navy (shown here) and black with grey trim.

Features

Though the look harkens back to classic Tour bags, the features list for the RevCore cart bag is decidedly modern.  That starts with a total of nine pockets – enough room to stash your gear, your apparel, and your snacks without straining.

On the front of the bag, there are three pockets.  The ball pocket is cavernous, and the two mid-sized pockets above that are great for rangefinders, GPS, speakers, or other devices that you’ll want within arm’s reach.

The right and left sides of the bag are laid out identically.  Each side has a full-length apparel pocket, so you can carry rain gear and cold weather gear.  There are also twin insulated cooler pockets with drains.  If you’re really taking your “golf and chill” game to the next level with cold drinks, the drains are a must.  Finally, each side has a felt-lined valuables pocket.

In addition to all this storage, the RevCore cart bag has a metal towel ring with glove attachment on either side of the bag.  This may seem like overkill, but it gives you the option of having a dry towel and a wet towel or rotating several gloves when it’s hot and humid.  Finally, there’s an umbrella holder and rain hood for those that play in all conditions.

Performance

Judging any cart bag starts with the top, and the RevCore cart bag passes with flying colors.  As you can see, this bag has a 14-way top which includes a massive putter well.  Like the best bags in this category, each compartment has a full-length divider which makes sliding clubs in and out effortless.  Something novel is the velvet lining of the dividers, which extends about 5″ into each slot.  This soft lining babies your clubs’ shafts, which is something to consider, especially if you play graphite throughout the bag.

The other unique feature of the RevCore cart bag is the “Stay Flat Base.”  As you can see, there are three different levels to the base and a substantial carve out in the middle.  This allows it to sit securely on a wide variety of push carts.  Also, while no substitute for a stand, I did find that it was a little more stable on grass than cart bags with simple, flat bases.

Prefer a stand bag?  Check out RevCore’s Premium Stand Bag HERE

Everything else about the performance of the RevCore cart bag is very solid.  All of the pockets “face forward” for easier access when strapped onto a cart.  There are molded rubber handles on the top which make the bag easy to load and unload.  Additionally, there’s a handle underneath the ball pocket and another underneath the shoulder strap.  With an unloaded weight of just more than nine pounds, the RevCore is average in weight but can be carried easily with the well-padded shoulder strap.

Conclusion

If you’ve been searching for a cart bag with a more classic look, this is it.  The RevCore cart bag has a clean aesthetic but is loaded with all the features you’d want from a modern bag.  At a price of $299, it’s not cheap, but the premium materials will help it outlast many less expensive bags.

Buy the RevCore Cart Bag HERE

The post RevCore Cart Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The Vessel LUX XV 2.0 cart bag is a luxury bag with premium materials and all the bells and whistles.  Slotted for 15 clubs, the heavy duty cart bag comes with ample functional storage and is designed for riders and push cart users alike.

Introduction

Back in the early 80’s, David Shaw founded the first golf bag manufacturing plant in Taiwan called Zonson.  David had a son named Ronnie who grew up working with his father and after graduating college, Ronnie came to the US to oversee the Zonson US plant.  In 2012, Ronnia came across an opportunity to make custom luxury golf bags for touring golf pros which is where Vessel was born.

Fast forward 11 years later and Ronnie and the Vessel team now boast a brand with a full suite of luxury bag offerings for all types of consumers.  Using the skills that he learned from his father’s business, Vessel not only builds premium golf bags but also curates backpacks, laptop cases, purses, watches, and much more.  I recently got to review one – the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 cart bag – to see how it stood out from its competition.

Looks

The best word to describe the new Vessel LUX XV 2.0 cart bag is sexy.  I hesitate to use that word when describing a golf accessory, but it’s exactly what I found in the latest release from Vessel.  It starts with the tour grade synthetic leather shell that covers the entire bag beautifully.  The simplistic style, free from oversized logos and busy designs, elevates the look.   

The gunmetal grey color is unique and strays from the typical Crayola colors that seem to cover most golf bags these days.  If grey isn’t your first choice, Vessel offers the LUX XV 2.0 in Navy, White, and Black. 

A closer look, shows that Vessel incorporates premium materials in small ways such as genuine leather grab handles and heavy duty chrome zippers and metal accents.  These small touches are part of what separates Vessel from other similar bags on the market.  

Features

The features on the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 are primarily for riding in a cart or using a push cart, as the name implies.  Right on top of the bag are two cart strap sleeves that span both sides of the bag.  The top pocket also flips up and covers the cart strap for extra security.  For the push carter like myself, Vessel added two new velcro straps on the back of the bag to provide additional security.  

For storage, there are 22 interior and exterior pockets, each having a specific function.  Two of the four front pockets are magnetic and velour lined for valuables like a phone, watch, or rangefinder.  This is an upgrade from the single magnetic pocket on the original LUX cart bag [review HERE].  The two zippered compartments are designated for balls and tees.  Rounding out the front of the bag are two magnetic bottle holders on either side of the lower pockets.  They can hold almost any size cup or bottle and virtually disappear when not in use. 

On the right side of the bag, the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 boasts three zippered pockets along with a bottle opener that doubles as a towel ring.  The largest compartment on this right side has a secondary interior zippered pocket that is velour lined and comes with a small three digit combination lock.  This is perfect for cash and other valuables that you don’t want to walk off somewhere while you focus on your round.

The left side of the bag is a mirror image of the three pocketed right side.  The one large compartment is designed as a beverage cooler with drainage hole.  There are also two smaller pockets, one of which is velour lined for more fragile items.  For rainy days, there is a designated umbrella loop strap along the back of bag, making it discreet when not in use but still easily accessible.  

Performance

When pulling the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 out of the box, I immediately noticed the heavy duty materials and sturdiness of the bag.  At 8.45 pounds, it isn’t the heaviest cart bag on the market, but the quality of the materials do add to the weight.  For those that ride this is a non issue, but it might bother players that primarily use a push cart

The top of the bag features 15 full length dividers.  Why would anyone need 15 dividers?  For me, I carry an Orange Whip but others may want an extra divider for alignment sticks or a support rod for protecting clubs while traveling.

Even with all my clubs (all built with Golf Pride MCC+4 grips) and Orange Whip in the bag, moving clubs in and out was effortless.  I am also particularly fond of the lowered putter well.  Even with a 33″ putter, the head doesn’t contact the sides of the well.

Getting the bag on a cart was intuitive.  The cart strap sleeves provide security while the included cart strap cover helps prevent wear and tear.  The only problem I ran into was the occasional cart strap that didn’t align with the height of the bag.

Using the cart bag on my push cart was also straightforward.  The bag sits comfortably on the frame while the straps fit perfectly in the cart strap tunnels.  The two additional velcro straps along the back of the bag add extra security and prevent any unwanted movement on those bumpier fairways.

Conclusion

The Vessel LUX XV 2.0 golf bag is leading the charge in luxury cart bags.  It’s not cheap at $455, but that pays for an attention to detail and use of premium materials you won’t find for less.  The ample storage space and functionality will impress even the pickiest golfer, and the compliments from your foursome will be more rewarding than any par putts you make that day.  Overall, I am pleased with my LUX XV 2.0 cart bag and plan to make it my primary bag in 2024.

Buy the Vessel LUX XV 2.0 Cart Bag HERE

The post Vessel LUX XV 2.0 Cart Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

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The Sun Mountain C-130S golf bag takes the most popular cart bag and gives it legs.  A great version for the rider who also spends a lot of time on the range.  Loads of storage.  Fantastic club organization.

Introduction

As you would expect, I’m known in my real life as “the golf guy.”  People routinely ask me for recommendations and advice.  When they ask me what golf bag to buy, I always respond, “Do you walk or ride?”  The vast majority ride exclusively, so I’ll recommend a cart bag.  The curiously common follow up from them is, “Does that have legs?  I need a bag with legs.”

While the need for legs on a cart bag has always been a head scratcher for me, clearly Sun Mountain has been listening to their customers.  For 2024, they’ve taken the game’s most popular cart bag, the C-130 [review HERE], and given it a stand.  In this review, I’ll examine the Sun Mountain C-130S to determine if it’s the next evolutionary step for one of the game’s best-loved bags or an unnecessary gimmick.

Looks

You know that you own a category when your brand name is the best way to describe how a bag looks.  The Sun Mountain C-130S looks like a Sun Mountain bag.  There’s substantial branding on either side, and a noticeable callout for the model name.  The features are highlighted in smaller, more subtle ways such as the snowflake on the cooler pocket.

Unlike the standard C-130 which comes in an astounding thirteen colorways, the C-130S sports a still-respectable five.  Black (seen here) is always a classic, and Sun Mountain has two patriotic options – Sand Camo and the red/white/grey Patriot.  Two trendier options are the Surf-River-Navy in a variety of blues and Harbor-Spruce-Orche which blends a steely blue with orange/brown highlights.

Features

True to its heritage, the Sun Mountain C-130S golf bag is not short on features.  There are three separate clips around the top of the bag for mounting range finder cases or clipping towels.  The largest clip also has a Velcro tab for attaching your glove.  A three-part umbrella loop will make sure you never end up drenched.

The C-130S is also packed with pockets.  Both sides have full-length apparel pockets, so you can bring all the cold and wet weather gear that you own.  On the left, there’s a small upper pocket and a larger lower pocket that’s insulated (above).  This cooler pocket is surprisingly deep, capable of holding several cans or a large water bottle.  The right side of the bag has a large uninsulated pocket and a velour-lined valuables pocket.

On the back of the bag, there are three separate zippered compartments.  The top is velour-lined and labeled for your rangefinder.  While many bags have a magnetic rangefinder pocket, the zippered pocket makes more sense here because the riding golfer isn’t putting their laser in the bag between shots.  The ball pocket is cavernous, and the middle pocket is shallow enough to keep your “sometimes” gear accessible.

Performance

One of the biggest reasons why golfers love the Sun Mountain C-130S is the top.  There are fourteen club slots, all with full length dividers, and an oversized space for a putter.  This is as good as it gets for keeping your clubs organized and sliding them in and out of the bag effortlessly.

Speaking of effortless, the C-130S is easy to move thanks to an array of four handles.  The top has a built-in plastic handle on either side.  Moving down the back, there’s a large handle in the conventional spot and a handle underneath the ball pocket near the bottom.  Whether you’re loading this bag into your trunk, onto a cart, or taking it for a short walk, there’s a comfortable, convenient way to hold it.

For when you’re carrying the C-130S a longer distance, Sun Mountain has given you a heavily padded shoulder strap.  Unlike most cart bags, the strap is on the back of the bag, and it has multiple quick release connection points to make it more stable.  All that said, the bag still weighs 6.8 pounds when empty, so it’s not a viable option as a carry bag.

On to the feature that sets the Sun Mountain C-130S apart: the legs.  If you’ve ever watched helplessly as your stand-free bag tipped over, sending your clubs to the pavement, you understand why legs are valuable.  Even if you ride all the time, you may want the legs for when you’re at the range or when your bag needs to be set down outside the pro shop.  The legs on the C-130S are very stout, built for the added weight of this bag, though they’re deployed by a “foot” rather than tilting the whole base, which is not my preferred mechanism.

Finally, a less obvious thing that makes the Sun Mountain C-130S such a great riding or pushing golf bag is the design of the pockets.  You have full access to all the zippers when the the bag is on a cart, and the pockets are oriented so you reach into them rather than having to contort your hand into the pocket.  Also, Sun Mountain added a pass through for the cart strap so that your pockets are never blocked.

Conclusion

For many golfers, the C-130 was already their dream golf bag, but for those that want a stand, the Sun Mountain C-130S is true perfection.  This version keeps everything that makes the C-130 great – the full-length dividers, the storage – while adding legs to make it more stable for the occasions when it’s not on a cart.

Visit Sun Mountain HERE

The post Sun Mountain C-130S Golf Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag has a premium look and numerous upgraded features.  On the heavy side for a stand bag; best for golfers who both walk and ride.

Introduction

Over the last two decades, SuperStroke has taken non-traditional putter grips from a novelty to the standard.  It feels like almost every player on the PGA Tour has a SuperStroke grip on their flat stick.

Having changed the game on the green, SuperStroke has turned their attention to how we carry our clubs.  With a full line of golf bags, they’re not just dipping their toe in the water, they’re diving in.  This review will examine the most versatile of the three new bags, the SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag.

Looks

The SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag achieves a premium look akin to the Vessel Player IV [review HERE].  Two things promote this: a decided lack of branding and the use of high end materials.  Outside of the moderate “SuperStroke” tag on the magnetic pocket, there is no obvious branding on this bag.  There’s a subtle “S” stitching pattern in the padded section and a small “S” on the apparel pocket, but it requires a careful examination to recognize these as logos.

Just as visually impactful is the “Tour Level Matte PU” that the bag is made of.  Most modern carry bags use thin nylon to save weight.  This Matte PU, however, has the look and feel of something much more classic and enduring.  The highlighted stitching details throughout the bag add to the high end look.

The SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag is available in two colorways: Hades (all black) and Zeus (shown here),

Features

This bag doesn’t bring anything unprecedented in terms of features, but it offers many small upgrades.  Starting with storage, the SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag has a magnetic pocket above the ball pocket which is perfect for a rangefinder.  A subtle upgrade to this feature is the large handle which makes it very easy to open.

Moving to the right, the apparel pocket covers almost the entire side of the bag, so there’s ample room to store a full rain suit or cold weather gear.  This side also features a waterproof velour-lined valuables pocket.  The waterproofing is another upgrade that elevates the Pantheon above many of its peers.

Finally, on the left side of the bag, there’s an additional zippered pocket and large, insulated bottle sleeve.  This sleeve is bigger than most that I’ve seen, which is a plus for those that like to carry oversized water bottles.

Rounding out the features are a towel clip and an umbrella sleeve.  Once again, this umbrella sleeve is a bit better than it needs to be, securing the umbrella in the middle as well as the top and bottom.

Performance

The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag is the weight.  At 5.85 pounds, it’s among the heavier stand bags I’ve tested.  Can you cancel this out by dumping that 3W you never hit or toting fewer balls?  Absolutely.  But if you’re a regular walker who values light weight, this may not be for you.

Moving to the top, the Pantheon Stand Bag features a four-way top with three full-length dividers.  The top is 8″ X 11″, giving you plenty of room to slide clubs in and out.  If you pack in 14 clubs with midsize grips, things get a little tight.  Anything less and sliding clubs in and out is effortless.

The Pantheon also features a hinged base to activate the legs, which regular readers know is a major plus in my book.  This mechanism is much more durable than the alternatives, and it provides a more stable base when the legs are extended.

I’ve saved the best for last: the strap system.  For some reason SuperStroke doesn’t mention this on their site, but they gave the Pantheon two fully interchangeable sets of straps: a single strap and a set of backpack straps.  This is far and away the best feature on the bag.  I’ve seen other golf bags that try to offer this versatility, but nothing that gets it quite right.  With the Pantheon, both the single strap and backpack straps are perfectly balanced and adjustable.  While I suspect most golfers will pick one strap and leave it, I applaud SuperStroke for offering this option.

Conclusion

The SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag is an impressive offering from an unlikely source.  If you want a stand bag that has a premium look and the versatility to work well on and off a cart, this is definitely one to consider.

Buy the SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag HERE

The post SuperStroke Pantheon Stand Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The Half Light Sunday Bag is a light weight, minimalist golf bag.  100% made in the USA but very affordable.  A great choice for the walking golfer.

Check out a full run down of great Sunday bags HERE

Introduction

As a lover of minimalist golf it pains me to say this, but Sunday bags have gotten out of control.  These seemingly simple bags can cost as much or more than most drivers.  That’s why I was so pleased when a reader brought Half Light golf bags to my attention.  With a price that’s at or below the average golf bag, Half Light offers a Sunday bag that will hold up for years and support a more traditional approach to the game.

Looks

The Half Light Sunday Bag is a simple, clean looking bag.  At the time of this review, it’s offered in navy blue (seen here) and forest green.  The zippers and stitching are done in black, keeping the look subdued.  A light brown leather covers the bottom and the valuables pocket, providing the only strong contrast.

As you would expect, branding is kept to an absolute minimum.  There’s a very small black “Half Light Bag Co.” tag near the ball pocket.  You need to look inside the bag to find the larger tag with the Half Light logo.  This leaves a lot of blank space to make the bag your own with patches or pins.  Or you can simply enjoy the beauty of minimalism.

Finally, Half Light does offer custom colors and logo embroidery for golf courses, companies, or events.  This is reserved for large orders, but they encourage customers to reach out to discuss details.

Features

With some modern golf bags, this section gets really long.  That won’t be the case with the Half Light Sunday bag.  This quiver features two pockets: a small one near the top (above) for valuables, gloves, or a rangefinder and a large one at the bottom.

The larger pocket is spacious – you can fit eighteen balls in there without issue.  That said, packing this pocket can impinge on your ability to slide your clubs in and out.

As I noted in my review of the Koger golf bag [find it HERE], I appreciate what this lack of storage does for me.  When I have a dozen pockets, I pack everything under the sun.  When I’m operating under a constraint, I cut down to what’s truly essential and enjoy the walk much more.

Performance

The Half Light Sunday bag weighs in under two pounds, making it one of the lightest bags you can buy.  It doubles down on light weight with the limited storage, but it does allow you to tote “up to 12 clubs.”  I loaded it up with my normal set – 8 clubs – and found it to be a superb fit.  Even with midsize grips, the clubs moved in and out easily.  This is in part due to something I’ve never seen on a Sunday bag – a full-length club divider!

When it comes to carrying the Half Light Sunday bag, there are two straps: a padded shoulder strap and a simple nylon carry handle.  The shoulder strap has modest padding, but you don’t need much given the bag’s light weight.  There is ample adjustability in the shoulder strap so that it can be carried comfortably regardless of your size or how you load the bag.

All this talk of light weight might lead one to question this bag’s sturdiness, but that concern would be misplaced.  Everything about the bag feels durable, from the material to the construction.  These bags are made in the USA by Rose & Fire [headcover review HERE], a company with a great reputation for quality.

Overall, the Half Light Sunday bag does everything it’s supposed to on the course.  It carries the clubs and accessories you need and forces you to eliminate everything else.  You’ll walk the course unburdened and play with more energy, promoting your own style rather than being a walking billboard.

Conclusion

For under $200, the Half Light Sunday bag is one of the best values in golf bags.  This will last much longer than your average bag, and the light weight will help your energy levels last longer on the course.  Whether you’re a seasoned minimalist or just considering a new approach, this is a great bag to own.

Buy the Half Light Sunday Bag HERE

The post Half Light Sunday Bag Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.