The Best Lightweight Golf Bags (2024), Tested and Reviewed

Updated 2/11/2024
Cutting to the chase: The Datrek Carry Light Stand Bag continues to hold the top spot on our list of the best lightweight carry bags of 2023 and 2024, it is a solid choice for most people with a great combination of what we are looking for when we are testing. It combines great durability, light weight, ample storage options, and a pleasing overall design that is useful for a wide range of golfers. You can read even more about the bag in our review below.

Golfers who are looking for the best lightweight golf bags have plenty of options to choose from but finding the best one can be a challenge. With so many different brands and models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one will be the best fit for your needs. In this review article, we will take a look at some of the best lightweight golf bags to carry while walking and golfing.

Lightweight golf bags are a popular choice for many players because they are easier to carry around the course and more comfortable to use. As some courses can be as long as 5 to 7 miles a good lightweight bag can help prevent fatigue. They can also be more convenient to transport to and from the course, and they are often more agile and easier to maneuver around the course. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced golfer, a lightweight bag can be a great choice for your game.

In this review, we will be looking at a range of different lightweight golf bags, including stand bags, cart bags, and carry bags. We will consider factors such as durability, weight, storage options, and overall design. We will also be taking into account the price of each bag to help you find the one that offers the best value for money. Whether you are looking for a bag to use on the course or a golf bag to travel with, this review will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Below are what we think are the best picks based on our research and customer reviews.

Best Lightweight Golf Bags: Links to Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag
Runner Up: Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag
Solid Contender: Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag
Coolest: Stitch Golf Bag
Best Value: DG Lite II Cart Bag
Best Premium: Titleist Players 4 Sta Dry
Best For Walking or Riding: Datrek Go Lite Hybrid Stand Bag
Best Bag with Cooler: Chiller Cart Bag
Lightest Golf Bag: Callaway Hyperlite Zero Double Strap

What to look for in a lightweight golf bag

Best Overall - Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag
The Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag is a lightweight and compact golf bag that is designed for players who prefer to walk the course. It features a four-way top with full-length dividers to help keep clubs organized and easily accessible. The bag also has seven pockets, including a valuables pocket, apparel pocket, and ball pocket, to provide plenty of storage space for all of your golfing essentials.

One of the standout features of the Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag is its built-in stand system, which allows the bag to stand upright on the course. This makes it easier to access clubs and other equipment while you're on the course. The stand system also includes leg locks, which help keep the bag stable and prevent it from tipping over. In terms of weight, the Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag is extremely lightweight, with a weight of just 3.9 pounds. This makes it one of the lightest stand bags on the market, making it an excellent choice for players who prefer to walk the course.

Overall, the Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag is the best lightweight golf bag on the market. It is incredibly light, weighing in at only 3.9 pounds, and features a 4-way top with full-length dividers so you can easily organize your clubs. Even with your golf shoes in the bag, it will be pretty light. The bag also has seven pockets to store your accessories and a rain hood to keep your clubs dry and protected.

Additionally, the ergonomic design of the bag and adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to carry the bag on the course. The Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag is a great choice for beginners and seasoned golfers alike looking for a lightweight, reliable bag on the course.
Pro's
  • Four full-length dividers
  • Ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps for comfort
  • Very light at 3.9 pounds
  • Cushioned hip pad
  • 5 Zippered Pockets including a fleece-lined valuables pocket
  • Full-sized garment pocket
  • Insulated drink pocket
Con's
  • Limited options with respect to styling

Runner Up: Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag

Initial Impressions of the Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag

The initial impression of the Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag is quite striking. This lightweight golf bag distinguishes itself with a sleek design and various color options. When compared to other golf bags in the light walking category, the Ryder 23's compact size is particularly appealing to those who favor a more manageable golf bag. The durable construction and premium materials suggest that this golf bag is built to last.

Designed with golf bag pockets in mind, the Ryder 23 offers ample storage space for your golfing necessities. Each pocket in these golf bags is thoughtfully positioned for maximum accessibility, making it a top choice for golfers who value convenience.

Utilizing the Ryder 23 golf cart bag is effortless, whether you're strolling the fairways or riding in a cart. This golf bag is designed with a cart strap pass-through, which keeps your essentials within reach, whether it's mounted on a powered cart or a push cart.

The comfortable, self-balancing strap system and memory foam shoulder straps, which are padded shoulder straps, make the golf bag easy to carry. Despite its lightweight golf bag design, the Ryder 23 can comfortably hold 14 clubs, making it a versatile choice for every golfer.

Features and Accessories of the Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag

Ryder 23 Golf Bag Features
The Ryder 23, one of the best stand golf bags, is brimming with features that meet the varied demands of golfers. This lightweight stand bag includes a five-way top for improved club organization and tips the scales at under five pounds, ensuring effortless portability.
Moreover, the Ryder 23 is equipped with a self-balancing shoulder strap system, providing comfort and easy adjustment to fit the golfer's stature and preferences. This golf bag also boasts an insulated pocket, aptly named the 'Frosty Pocket,' perfect for keeping beverages chilled on the course.

Ryder 23 Golf Bag Accessories
Unveiling the Sunday Golf Ryder 23 Stand Bag reveals a collection of delightful golf accessories. Inside, you'll discover a Sunday Golf Sharpie marker, a playful warning tag proclaiming 'this golf bag is highly addictive,' and even a themed air freshener, infusing a touch of whimsy into your golfing gear.

Pro's
  • Easy to carry: Perfect for golfers who prefer walking, with a comfortable strap design.
  • Lightweight: Works well on both powered and push carts, offering versatility.
  • Functional pockets: Plenty of storage space for all your golfing essentials.
  • Stylish design: Fun and sleek look that will turn heads on the course.
Con's
  • Golfers who like to carry many items may find the golf bag too small.

Contender: Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag
The Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag is an ultra-lightweight and versatile golf bag designed for use on the course. It features a nine-inch, six-way top with two full-length dividers to keep clubs organized and easily accessible. The bag also has six pockets, including a valuables pocket, ball pocket, and apparel pocket, to provide plenty of storage for all of your golfing essentials.

One of the standout features of the Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag is its built-in stand system, which allows the bag to stand upright on the course. This makes it easier to access clubs and other equipment while you're on the course. The stand system also includes leg locks, which help keep the bag stable and prevent it from tipping over. In terms of weight, the Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag is relatively lightweight, with a weight of just 4 pounds. This makes it easy to carry around the course, especially if you're walking the course instead of using a golf cart.

Overall, the Sun Mountain 2.5+ Stand Bag is a high-quality and well-designed golf bag that is suitable for players of all skill levels. It offers a good balance of storage, organization, and portability, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and functional golf bag.
Pro's
  • Full-length club dividers
  • Comfort grip handle
  • X strap convertible strap system 
  • Six pockets including a fleece-lined valuables pocket
  • Ultra-lightweight golf bag
  • One of the lightest bags at 4 pounds
  • Includes a matching rain hood
Con's
  • Can feel a little tight with all 14 clubs
  • Handle is in an awkward position when carrying with X straps

Coolest: Stitch SL2 Golf Bag
New customers often get 15% off their first purchase
The Stitch SL2 golf bag is a high-quality, stylish golf bag that offers a number of features that will appeal to golfers of all skill levels. In this review, we will take a closer look at the design, construction, and performance of the Stitch SL2 golf bag.

Design:
The Stitch SL2 golf bag is a sleek and modern-looking golf bag that is available in a variety of color options. It has a minimalist design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The bag features a 4-way top with full-length dividers, which provides ample space for your clubs and keeps them organized and protected during transportation.

The bag also features a number of pockets, including a large apparel pocket, a valuables pocket, and multiple accessory pockets. Perfect to keep your rangefinder handy. There is also a water bottle pocket and an umbrella holder. The zippers are high-quality and easy to use, and there are also two molded handles for easy lifting and transporting.

Construction:
The Stitch SL2 golf bag is constructed using high-quality materials, including a durable nylon fabric that is both water-resistant and scratch-resistant. The bag also features premium leather accents that add to its overall look and feel.
The bag is lightweight, weighing in at just 4 pounds 10 ounces, which makes it easy to carry and maneuver around the course. The shoulder straps are comfortable and adjustable, and there is also a strap that allows you to easily attach the bag to a cart.

Performance:
The Stitch SL2 golf bag performs exceptionally well on the course. The 4-way top and full-length dividers keep your clubs organized and protected, and the ample pocket space allows you to bring all of your necessary gear with you. The lightweight construction and comfortable shoulder straps make it easy to carry around, even for a full 18 holes.

Pro's
  • Very light at 4 lbs. 10 oz.
  • Water and stain resistant with sealed zippers
  • Attachable black nylon rain hood
  • 4-way divider
  • Gunmetal hardware & finishes
  • Insulated water bottle pocket & hip pad
  • Wider stand feet for improved stability 
Con's
  • A bit on the pricey side
New customers often get 15% off their first purchase

Best Value: DG Lite II Cart Bag
The DG Lite II Cart Bag is an excellent option for a golfer on a budget. This bag is well-designed for the cart golfer with storage for everything you might need during a round. It even comes with a camo option.

It has 15-way full-length dividers including the rubberized putter well that is designed to fit today's oversized grips. It includes seven total pockets that provide ample storage including two oversized apparel pockets, a large ball pocket, a fleece-lined valuables pocket, and an insulated cooler pocket.

With over 750 customer reviews on Amazon and a 4.7 out of 5 rating, you can be sure the bag is well-tested. At the moment, color combinations appear to be a bit limited, but you will have a hard time finding a better solution for the money. 
Pro's
  • Great value
  • Large apparel pocket
  • 15-way top with full-length dividers
  • Durable grab handle for easy maneuvering
Con's
  • Not available in too many color combinations or patterns 
  • A few reports of the carry strap sliding off shoulders (this is a cart bag)

Best Premium: Titleist Players 4 StaDry
The Titleist Players 4 StaDry golf bag is a high-performance golf bag designed for serious players. It features a nine-inch, 4-way top with full-length dividers to keep clubs organized and easily accessible. The bag also has seven pockets, including a valuables pocket, a ball pocket, an apparel pocket, and a magnetic open pocket for your rangefinder. It will provide plenty of storage space for all of your golfing essentials.

One of the standout features of the Titleist Players 4 StaDry golf bag is its waterproof construction. The bag is made from waterproof materials and has waterproof zippers to keep your gear dry in wet conditions. In terms of weight, the Titleist Players 4 StaDry golf bag is relatively lightweight, with a weight of just 3.8 pounds. This makes it easy to carry around the course, especially if you're walking the course instead of using a golf cart. If you get caught in a rainstorm while walking the course, this is the bag you will want to have in play.

Overall this is a great bag for those who are willing to pay a bit higher price and want waterproof performance.
Pro's
  • Impressive waterproof construction and durability 
  • Four full-length dividers
  • High-strength aluminum legs
  • Available many several colors
  • Full-length apparel pocket
  • Very lightweight for a premium bag
Con's
  • High price relative to many other bags on this list
  • No "pass through" for strapping it to a cart

Best For Hybrid: Datrek Go Lite Hybrid Stand Bag
The Datrek Go Lite Hybrid Stand Bag is a lightweight and versatile golf bag that is suitable for both walking and riding the course. It features a 14-way top with full-length dividers to keep clubs organized and easily accessible. The bag also has six pockets, including a valuables pocket, an apparel pocket, and a ball pocket. It will provide plenty of storage space for all of your golfing essentials.

One of the standout features of the Datrek Go Lite Hybrid Stand Bag is its hybrid design, which allows it to be used as both a stand bag and a cart bag. The bag has a built-in stand system that allows it to stand upright on the course, as well as swivel attachments for easy shoulder strap separation. It also has top lock technology for attaching the bag securely to a car. This makes it a very versatile bag that can be used in a variety of different situations.

In terms of weight, the Datrek Go Lite Hybrid Stand Bag is relatively lightweight, with a weight of just 5.2 pounds. This makes it easy to carry around the course, whether you're walking or using a golf cart.
Pro's
  • Well-designed for both walking and riding
  • Economical price point
  • Good storage-to-weight ratio
  • Ergonomic shoulder straps
  • Top lock technology for secure cart use
  • Full-length dividers to protect clubs
Con's
  • Not the most lightweight of all the bags on our list 
  • Lacks a cart strap pass-through

Best With a Cooler: Bag Boy Golf Chiller Stand Bag
The Bag Boy Chiller Stand Bag is our favorite golf bag with a cooler. It includes a removable, insulated cooler bag that holds six 12-ounce cans. Perfect for those hot days when you want to keep your drinks cold. It also has an ergonomic single shoulder strap with a hidden cart strap sleeve and a Top Lock system to secure your bag to the cart. The top is designed with a 14-way divider that has a putter slot designed for today's oversized putter grips.

The Chiller Hybrid features eight zippered pockets including two oversized garment pockets, an oversized ball pocket, and a fleece-lined valuables pocket. It also includes an umbrella holder with a matching rain hood and lockable stand legs with slide-resistant feet. A neat feature is the hidden golf ball retriever slot in a pocket. With all these features, it still weighs in under 7 pounds.
Pro's
  • Insulated cooler that holds s 12-ounce cans
  • 14-way divider with putter well for oversized grips
  • Matching rain hood and umbrella holder
  • Top lock system to secure the bag to the cart
Con's
  • A little on the heavy side at 6.4 pounds
  • Few color choices

Lightest - Callaway Hyperlite Zero Double Strap
The lightest golf bag on our list. The great thing about lightweight golf bags is that you can easily carry them around the golf course without becoming overly fatigued. This Callaway lightweight golf bag is one we find to be well-suited for the golfer that likes to walk and carry the bag. The Hyperlite Zero weighs less than 3 pounds and is Callaway’s lightest golf bag.

The top of the bag has a 4-way separator, and the dividers are full-length. The strap is a self-balancing X Act Fit Strap System. It is very easy to get the straps to fit perfectly across your back. Buyers give it great reviews for comfort and ease of use. Many indicate using it as their Sunday bag for walking. Some indicated it was a bit less durable than some of their other bags, but probably to be expected in a bag that weighs under 3 pounds.

Pro's
  • Ultra-lightweight golf bag at under 3 pounds
  • Compact 4-way top with full dividers
  • Velour lined pock with waterproof zipper
  • Self-balancing and ergonomic padded shoulder straps
  • Strong carbon fiber legs
  • Reasonable storage for such a light bag
Con's
  • Pocket technology and accessories are not as advanced as other bags 
  • A bit on the higher price side

How to Pick the Best Lightweight Golf Bag
When evaluating the best lightweight golf bags, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure you find the one that is the ideal choice for you. Even with the lightest bag, features to consider are:

Bag Weight

The most important feature to consider when looking for the best lightweight golf bag is, of course, the weight of the bag itself. You should look for a bag that is as light as possible while still providing sufficient storage and protection for your clubs and other gear.

Storage Capacity and Pockets

While a lightweight golf bag will generally have less storage space than a heavier bag, you should still consider the amount of space you need for your clubs, balls, gloves, and other gear. Look for a bag that has enough pockets and compartments to hold everything you need like your golf rangefinder, while still being lightweight.

Club Dividers

One of the first things to go when a bag gets lighter is the club dividers. Club dividers do a great job of keeping golf clubs protected, but they will add weight to the golf bag. For an excellent lightweight bag, look for at least 4 dividers. You will notice that the bags with lots of dividers are considerably heavier.

Organizational Features

The organizational features of the golf bag are what will help you keep all of your gear organized and easily accessible throughout your round of golf. These features can include a rangefinder pocket, club cleaners, magnetic pockets for balls and tees, valuables pockets, and even something like a Velcro glove patch.

Construction and Durability

You should also consider the materials and construction of the bag. A bag made from lightweight but durable materials, such as high-density nylon material or polyester, can be a good choice. Look for a bag with sturdy zippers and reinforced handles and straps to ensure it will hold up over time. Carbon fiber or aluminum legs are also signs of good materials.

Bag Stand System

If you are looking for a stand bag, you should consider the stability and durability of the stand system. A bag with a sturdy stand system will be easier to use and will be less prone to tipping over when you set it down on the course. High-strength legs are important to keep your clubs secure when using the stand.

Carrying Options

Consider whether you prefer to carry your bag or use a cart. If you plan to carry your bag, look for one with padded shoulder straps or a padded hip pad for added comfort. If you plan to use a cart, consider a bag with a cart strap pass-through or a cart-friendly design.

Rain Protection

If you live in an area with frequent rain, or if you plan to play in wet conditions, you should consider a water-resistant bag with rain protection features. Look for a bag with a waterproof nylon material or water-resistant construction, waterproof zippers, and one that comes with a rain hood or cover.

Brand and Warranty

Consider the brand and reputation of the bag you are considering. A bag from a well-known, reputable brand from well-known manufacturers may be more expensive, but it may also come with a better warranty and be of higher quality.

Look and Styling

There are so many bags and so many color options available today. Everything else being equal, perhaps the tour-inspired look of a golf bag or the color options of the line will be the tipping point in making your choice. Once you find a bag you like, be sure to maintain your golf bag for optimal lifespan.

Price

Finally, consider your budget when looking for a lightweight golf bag. There are options available at a range of price points, so you should be able to find a bag that meets your needs and fits your budget. By considering these key features, you should be able to find a lightweight golf bag that is perfect for your needs and will help you enjoy your time on the course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cart bags be lightweight?

Some golf cart bags are lightweight, but they are typically heavier than the stand bag. They tend to be designed with a few more features, more pockets, bigger storage compartments and more room for your clubs. That said, most of the weight you'll carry will come from your gear and supplies. 

How much does a lightweight golf bag weigh?

Lightweight carry golf bags are about three pounds, while stand and cart bags can weigh between 5 and 11 pounds. A full golf bag with clubs and balls can weigh between 25 and 35 pounds.

What is the average weight of a full golf bag?

A full golf bag with clubs and balls can weigh between 25 and 35 pounds. Most of that weight will come from the clubs and balls as an empty golf bag is between 3 and 11 pounds.

Why is a lightweight golf bag better?

A lighter golf bag is easier to carry around the course, which can be especially helpful if you are walking the course or carrying your own bag. A lighter golf bag is easier to maneuver and lift in and out of a cart or to carry on your shoulder. It is also easier to travel with and may not cost extra when taking it on an airplane. 

What is the best lightweight golf bag?

We think the best overall lightweight golf bag is the Datrek Carry Lite Stand Bag.
 

Conclusion

Lightweight golf bags are a great choice for golfers who want to enjoy the game without the added strain and discomfort of carrying a heavy bag. These bags are comfortable to carry around the course, easy to maneuver and lift in and out of a cart, and are a great choice for traveling with your clubs. They are also often more affordable than heavier bags. Overall, lightweight golf bags are a practical and convenient choice for golfers of all skill levels.

We hope our review will help you choose the golf bag for your needs.

If you enjoyed reading about the benefits of lightweight golf bags, you might also be interested in the following related articles:

Malbon Golf Bags: check out the newest hot brand
Golf Hitting Mats: Get the best practice mats for your home
Golf Simulator Projectors: See the 10 best golf simulator projectors
Motorized Push Carts: We rate the top 16 motorized push carts
Golf Rangefinders: See the best ones to suit your needs

​REID COLSON
Reid Colson is a seasoned data professional with a distinguished career at various Fortune 500 companies, including his recent role as Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Markel. With expertise in analytics, data warehousing, and business intelligence, Reid excels at coaching and people development. Alongside his professional pursuits, he is an avid golfer with over 40 years of experience, and his passion for the sport led him to share his knowledge through Yardstick Golf. When not on the golf course, Reid enjoys quality time with family and friends, boating, and listening to audiobooks and podcasts.