Before we start talking about golf bags, we probably need to figure out what constitutes minimalist golf. The most common definition is playing golf with less clubs. Instead of playing with a full set of 14, a minimalist golfer uses only 6 to 8 clubs. That being said, we believe it’s deeper than just the number of clubs you carry.
Minimalist golf is an attitude. What is your “why” when you drive to the course? Do you enjoy grinding out a round for the lowest possible score or are you looking to enjoy the day? The minimalist golfer is out there to have a good time. Spend time and talk some trash with friends. Get some exercise on a sunny afternoon. Enjoy a cold beverage. Sure, playing well is great, but it isn’t how you measure the success of your day.
The mantra for a minimalist golfer is “keep it simple,”. If this is your approach to the game, your equipment and gear should be consistent with that attitude. Every minimalist golfer needs a minimalist golf bag.
What Are Minimalist Golf Bags?
You may have heard them called Sunday golf bags. A minimalist golf bag is smaller and weighs significantly less than a standard bag. They’re typically designed to hold between 6-10 clubs and all of your golf essentials (balls, tees, glove, etc.). They’re perfect for a trip to the driving range or a par 3 course. The right minimalist golf bag can be used for a quick weekend getaway or an afternoon 18. Basically, anytime you’re looking to relax by hitting some golf balls.
A minimalist golf bag can be your primary or secondary bag. If you want a full-size bag for your serious tournament rounds, use the minimalist bag for practice sessions. If you don’t believe in serious golf, the minimalist bag may be the only one you need. All golfers will find value in having one.
How Do You Find The Best Minimalist Golf Bags?
It can be hard to find minimalist golf bags in your golf superstores. For the most part, they only carry full-sized bags. The good news - you’ll find plenty of options online. Be careful as you start to research - there are some low-quality bags out there. Here are the key features you should consider when shopping for a minimalist golf bag.
Quality And Appearance
The best minimalist golf bags have a sleek, clean look. They have a “cool factor” about them. If you find one that looks cheap, the quality is most likely low, so keep searching.
Price
keep your budget in mind. From our perspective, a minimalist golf bag shouldn’t cost you the same as a full-size option.
Weight
The whole idea of minimalist golf is to keep things nice and easy. Don’t weigh yourself down. Save your back and enjoy your day.
Stand
Do you want a stand on your minimalist golf bag? Sure you clubs can lay on the ground, but they tend to get wet or dirty. For our money, a stand is a requirement.
# of Clubs
The number of clubs that a minimalist golf bag can hold varies between products. How many do you “need” to play a round? We think you can enjoy the game with 6-8, but you need to determine this for yourself before you start shopping.
Storage
Yes, the definition of a minimalist golfer implies you don’t need much storage, but you do need a way to carry the essentials.
Bonus Features
Are there additional features that you need to enjoy the game? A drink pocket? An attachment for a golf towel? You know what you like - make sure your new minimalist golf bag supports how you enjoy the game.
With these things in mind, you are ready to start your search. We can help. Next we share some of our favorite minimalist golf bags.
The Best Minimalist Golf Bags
Overwhelmed by the options? Here are five minimalist golf bags for you to consider.
1. Loma XL by Sunday Golf
The Loma XL by Sunday Golf is like the very popular LOMA bag, but on steroids. Just like the Loma, you get a lightweight bag (3.4 pounds) that is perfect for golfers of all ages. You still get the bonus features we love including a frosty pocket and a valuables pouch.
So how is the Loma XL different? You can comfortably carry two more clubs (8) and you get get a double shoulder strap. This makes the Loma XL the perfect minimalist golf bag!
Don’t worry, it still looks great. You can choose from four different color combinations that will turn heads on the driving range or on the course! Select Heather Gray, Matte Black, Midnight Green, or Seafoam.
2. Titleist Carry Bag
Titleist is a well known golf brand and their Carry Bag will work for the minimalist golfer. It’s lightweight and has a few smaller pockets for your golf essentials.
Positives for this minimalist golf bag are the double-shoulder strap and the full-length apparel pocket on the side of the bag. One downside is that it does not come with a stand, so your clubs will be laying on the ground.
You can choose from 4 different colors (Black/Red, Heathered Navy, Heathered Charcoal, Heathered Forest).
3. SHAPLAND Sunday Bag
The SHAPLAND Sunday Bag is a high-end, luxury minimalist golf bag. Unique features include a “pillow-like” double-shoulder strap, UV and water-resistant canvas material, an umbrella holder, and premium leather trim.
A beautiful minimalist golf bag, but it’s quite expensive and a bit heavier than other choices on our list. Similar to the Titleist Carry Bag, it does not have a stand. You can choose from 5 different colors (Black, Gray, Green, Navy, Burgundy).
4. Orlimar Pitch & Putt
The Pitch & Putt by Orlimar is the smallest bag on our list with the least amount of storage. It does offer a detachable shoulder strap and has a stand. Probably better suited for the minimalist golfer looking to use it for practice and not on the course.
If you are looking for variety, Orlimar offers this minimalist golf bag in 8 different colors/designs. Pick from Black, Orange, Blue, Midnight Blue, Brick Red, USA, Rose Pink, or Slate Gray.
5. Mizuno BR-D2
The BR-D2 by Mizuno is a bit heavier than others on our list, but with the weight you get more storage. It features several pockets including a place for your drink and your valuables. This minimalist golf bag comes with a mini-stand and the bottom of the bag is waterproof. You will have to bend over to get your clubs, but they will stay dry.
The BR-D2 comes with a rain hood and a double shoulder-strap. You will pay a little more than the lower priced options on our list. You can select from black or blue.
Comparison Of The Top 5 Minimalist Golf Bags
Top 5 Minimalist Golf Bags |
Quality |
Price |
Weight |
Stand? |
# of Clubs |
Storage |
Bonus |
Loma XL by Sunday Golf |
H |
$$ |
3.4 |
Y |
8 |
M |
H |
Titleist Carry Bag |
H |
$ |
2.1 |
N |
8 |
M |
M |
Shapland Sunday Bag |
H |
$$$ |
3.5 |
N |
10 |
H |
H |
Orlimar Pitch & Putt |
M |
$ |
1.95 |
Y |
6 |
L |
L |
Mizuno BR-D2 |
H |
$$ |
3.1 |
Y* |
8 |
M |
H |
*BR-D2 has a half stand
Chart Legend:
- Quality, Storage, Bonus Features (High, Medium, Low)
- Price ($= < $120, $$ = $125 - $200, $$$ = >$200)
- Weight in LBs.
- Stand (Yes, No)
- # of Clubs (how many clubs the minimalist bag is designed to hold)
The above chart should help you compare our top 5 in a quick glance. What’s important to you?
Wrapping Up
Minimalist golf is a new movement in the game. In order to grow, golf needs to become simpler, easier, and less expensive. The minimalist golf bag is the perfect product to help stimulate this growth.
The right minimalist golf bag is perfect for all players. Beginners or seasoned veterans. Juniors or seniors. Competitive or weekend warriors. It can be someone’s primary or secondary golf bag. A truly flexible product that will help you get more enjoyment out of the game you already love. Keep it simple. Carry less and enjoy more.
If you know someone that enjoys the game, they would love a minimalist golf bag. The perfect holiday gift for the golfer that has everything. Are you looking for other golf-related gift ideas? Here are 107 more!