Golf Gear

GOLF IS A WALKING

By ED TRAVIS

Let’s face it. Golf is best when we walk. It is more relaxing plus there is the allure of a truly positive connection to the great outdoors not to mention walking is better exercise and for some of us even our game seems to improve.

Whether the last is true or not, the feeling is certainly there.

We have been through some very trying times for the past year and a half and almost immediately golf became a great antidote to “cabin fever” and the number of golfers and number of rounds played exploded…but so has the number of us choosing to walk rather than ride.

The staff of California Golf + Travel likes to walk and carry our bag but on the days we rather not carry the choice of a trolley can make a big difference. Here a few bags and trolleys we like, and think are worth your consideration.

MGI Zip Navigator Electric Caddy

A remote control directs the Zip Navigator in any direction forward or reverse and allows speed to be matched to player’s pace. When going downhill speed is automatically adjusted for safety and uphill a foldable rear fourth wheel increases stability. Power comes from two 230-watt motors driven by a longlasting lithium ion 24-volt battery that MGI says is rated for 36 holes. Weight with the battery installed is 35 lbs. and in just three steps it folds for transport to 27.5 x 18.5 x 16.5 inches. Without the battery the frame is just 28.6 lbs., and a nice feature is the Zip Navigator can be folded with the battery in place.

Users will also like that the Zip Navigator has MGI’s patented Gyroscope Straighter Tracker technology, so the buggy maintains direction across rough patches of terrain. The rear wheels have a rugged tread for gripping even on slopes and the dual front wheels swivel 360° for precise maneuvering but are also lockable when desired. Numerous accessories are available as add-ons such as an umbrella bracket, scorecard holder, smartphone or GPS holder, a handy drink holder and a travel bag. Learn more at mgigolf.com

Cobra Ultralight Stand Bag ($189)

This very light—just 4.5 lbs.— bag has a dual strap making it convenient to carry and the wide stance legs and flexible base of the Ultralight make it stable when on the ground. The top has five full length dividers and there are eight pockets for “stuff.” The large apparel pocket has a handy clip for keys and the valuables pocket is fleece lined. The beverage pocket is insulated and even accommodates a large water bottle.

Linksoul Linksouldier Sunday Carry Bag ($180)

A single/double strap makes this the perfect lighter weight (a mere 2.8 lbs.) carry bag for a quick nine after work or a leisurely round with the kids with a few clubs. Lots of pockets and they didn’t forget a cozy little slot for your resealable adult beverage container or water bottle. Side pocket with Linksouldier patch unzips completely for embroidering and there are durable handle grips on both ends for lifting.

Ping Hoofer 14 Stand Bag ($250)

This 14-way top version of an old favorite Hoofer weighs 5.5 lbs. and has the rain hood attached inside the hip pad, which solves the problem of finding it when it is really needed. The strap converts from single to double and there is a channel for the cart strap when riding. Eleven pockets including ones for a rangefinder, a full-length apparel pocket, valuables, and a beverage. Five color combination from which to choose.

Vessel Player III Stand Bag ($375)

Made from a quality synthetic leather the Player III is both durable and water resistant. The bag weighs just 6.3 lbs. and a 14-way top with full length dividers for club protection and a 6-way top is also available. A self-adjusting double strap is standard and stability on the ground is a sure thing with the wide carbon fiber legs and rotator base. There is a range finder pocket plus ones for valuables, apparel, and beverages plus even a pen.

Sun Mountain 3.5 LS Stand Bag ($240)

This light (3.8 lbs.) stand bag is packed with features golfers want starting with Sun Mountain’s comfortable X-Strap that is thicker for added padding and serves both as a double or single strap. The ultra-lightweight carbon fiber legs hold the bag in position even on uneven terrain. The 9-inch top is 4-way, and the bag has nine pockets including a full-length apparel pocket and a water-resistant velour lined for valuables.

MNML Golf Bag V2 ($249)

This minimalist design has some neat features such as a solar battery pack and charger for your smartphone and a built-in Bluetooth speaker for tunes on the course plus there is a pocket on the left side that holds your phone in a convenient position to video record your swing. At 5 lbs. with a backpack strap, the V2 is easy to carry and has an internal stand mechanism. Four dividers—two full-length—plus a beverage pocket.

Sun Mountain Pathfinder 4 Pushcart ($230)

Though the Pathfinder 4 has been on the market for a couple of years it still compares favorably with other pushcarts because it has the features golfers want. It is light at just 17 lbs. and folds to 26 x 16 x 14 inches in two easy steps plus the bungee cords on the upper and lower brackets hold your bag securely over uneven surfaces. The handle console is roomy and there is a mesh basket below plus a velour lined pouch.