The Best Types of Golf Bags (And How to Choose the Right One)

Golfers have more gear choices today than ever before — but when it comes to your golf bag, it all comes down to function, style, and how you play the game.

Whether you’re walking 9 holes at a local course or loading up your clubs for a weekend trip, knowing the different types of golf bags can help you pick the right one for your style.

Here’s a breakdown of the best types of golf bags and what makes each one unique.

Carry bags — sometimes called Sunday bags — are designed for golfers who walk the course. They’re lightweight, simple, and focused on the essentials.

These bags are about simplicity. They hold just the essentials: a few clubs, a handful of balls, and maybe a water bottle or rangefinder.

Key Features of Carry Bags:

• Extremely lightweight (2-4 lbs)
• Minimal pocket layout
• Single or double shoulder strap
• No stand legs (sometimes)
• Slim, clean silhouette

Who Carry Bags Are For:

• Golfers who prefer walking
• Par 3 course players
• Minimalists who want to carry fewer clubs
• Players looking for an easy-to-transport option (travel, city golf, quick 9 holes)

Pros:

• Lightest bag type
• Easy to carry
• Classic, understated style

Cons:

• Very limited storage
• No stand legs (unless hybrid design)
• Not for golfers who pack a lot of gear

Best Materials for Carry Bags

Carry bags are all about being lightweight, durable, and simple.

Recommended Materials:

• Canvas — Classic, soft, durable, and develops character over time. Perfect for walkers and minimalists.
• Nylon or Polyester — Lightweight and weather-resistant but can feel synthetic.
• Leather Accents — Great for straps or pocket trim to elevate style.

Why Canvas is Perfect for Carry Bags:

Canvas carry bags (like those from Lopar) offer a vintage-inspired look while staying rugged and functional. They hold up well with regular walking use and get better with age.

Stand bags are the most popular type of golf bag because they work well for both walking and riding.

These bags feature built-in legs that allow the bag to stand upright on the course. They have more storage than carry bags but are still light enough to walk comfortably.

Key Features of Stand Bags:

• Lightweight (~4-6 lbs)
• Built-in stand legs
• Comfortable backpack-style straps
• Multiple pockets for storage
• Versatile use — walking or cart-compatible

Who Stand Bags Are For:

• Golfers who walk occasionally
• Players who ride sometimes but still want to carry
• Golfers looking for balance between weight & storage
• Weekend players who want an all-around bag

Pros:

• Versatile for any style of play
• Built-in stand legs for convenience
• Good storage capacity

Cons:

• Heavier than a true carry bag
• May feel bulky for pure walkers
• Some stand legs aren’t as durable long-term

Best Materials for Stand Bags

Stand bags need to balance durability with being light enough to carry.

Recommended Materials:

• Nylon or Ripstop Polyester — Lightweight, weather-resistant, and durable for regular walking.
• Carbon Fiber or Aluminum Legs — Strong but light for reliable stand functionality.
• Water-Resistant Coatings — Helps in wet conditions.
  

Material Consideration:

Stand bags get exposed to more terrain (grass, mud, rough ground) so synthetic materials often work well for durability and weight savings.

Cart bags are designed specifically for use on a golf cart or push cart. They are heavier and larger but offer the most storage and features.

These bags aren’t meant for walking but excel at organization and convenience.

Key Features of Cart Bags:

• Larger and heavier (~6-8+ lbs)
• No stand legs
• Tons of pockets and compartments
• Cart strap compatibility
• Full-length dividers for club organization

Who Cart Bags Are For:

• Golfers who ride 90%+ of the time
• Players who want maximum storage
• Golfers using push carts
• Tournament players or long-course golfers

Pros:

• Most storage space
• Easy access to gear while riding
• Sturdy & stable on carts

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky
• Not suitable for walking
• Takes up more storage space off the course

Best Materials for Cart Bags

Cart bags are built for storage, so materials focus more on durability and structure.

Recommended Materials:

• Synthetic Leather or PU Coating — Adds structure and luxury look.
• Heavy-Duty Nylon — Strong and water-resistant for riding in various conditions.
• Molded Base Materials — For cart stability.
  

Material Consideration:

Since you’re not carrying a cart bag often, it can be heavier and more structured — so durability and weather resistance take priority over weight.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I walk the course regularly? → Carry or Stand Bag
• Do I ride most of the time? → Cart Bag
• Do I want to carry just the essentials? → Carry Bag
• Do I need versatility for any course setup? → Stand Bag

Choosing the right golf bag is about playing your game, your way.

At Lopar, we believe in walking the course, carrying less, and playing with intention. That’s why our new line of canvas carry bags was built for golfers who value simplicity, style, and function.

Launching Summer 2025 — limited availability.