 Golf bags go light
with features galore
By Mark Marney,
The Golf Warehouse (tgw.com) Remember when you'd retrieve your luggage from the baggage-claim belt, hoist it over your shoulder and lug it across the airport with the strap digging into your skin? We called it "The Big Hurt." Then common sense kicked in. Why not put most wheels on luggage? That industry's tag: The 1990s Paradigm Shift. The similarities between the luggage and golf bag categories start with the same user-friendly theme. In the case of golf bags, it's "enjoy golf; don't kill yourself." Therefore, lightweight is the catch phrase in 2004. The secondary catch phrase is organization and ease of access to golfers' tools on the links.
Here's what some of the golf-bag manufacturers have to say about their stand/carry bags: Callaway DP 3.5 UL Stand Bag
Some people have had porterhouse steaks in one sitting that weighed more than this bag. It's extremely functional, too, starting with pockets aplenty: a large, zippered apparel pocket; hidden sunglasses/valuables pocket; double zippered bottom ball pocket; two zippered side pockets for accessories. A hip pad increases carry comfort. There's an umbrella holder, accessory ring. A rain hood is included. The bag stand: top-mount legs won't kick out during loading and unloading. NIKE 2004 Air Skinny Stand Bag
Extremely lightweight yet notably sturdy and durable despite its size. The 400 denier nailhead material provides protection from wear, tear and the elements. The enhanced, cart-compatible stand system is designed for optimum stability. The carry system incorporates NIKE AIR technology that disperses weight over a wider area for enhanced cushioning and comfort. The top/dividers are six inches round with a two-way top opening, thus providing ample room for numerous clubs.  Titleist x46 LW Stand Bag
Hassle-free for the serious walker, it weighs only 3.9 lbs. A four-point adjustable back-pack strap with foam-padded contoured slings promotes comfort while the lower assist handle helps in lifting the bag in and out of car trunk. For versatile storage: a full side-saddle apparel pocket; three-zipper accessory pockets, one being velour lined; side saddle ball pocket with zippered accessory pocket; pen pocket; and a full-size ball pocket. Additional features: foam-padded "comfort mesh" covered hip pad; towel loop strap; umbrella loop strap; and matching zippered rainhood. As we get into the core golf season, I'll feature several golf bags for golf carts that'll please non-walkers. Mark Marney is CEO of The Golf Warehouse at www.tgw.com, the world's largest golf e-tailer. His columns appear monthly at travelgolf.com. He reports about golf products, emerging trends, and he let's golfers know what's new and hot.
Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.
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