Single Strap vs. Double Strap Golf Bags: Which One To Choose

How often do you think about the strap on your golf? It is more important than you might think, and we are here to help you make the right choice. Let’s explore using a single strap versus a double strap and decide which one will improve your experience on the golf course.

What’s The Difference Between Single Strap And Double Strap Golf Bag?

Don’t be a wise guy! We know that one difference is the number of straps. Let’s dig a bit deeper than the obvious answer.

Single Strap Golf Bag

It may sound strange, but the smallest and the largest golf bags come with a single strap. Par 3 golf bags like the Loma and cart bags, are sold with a single strap. A single strap is perfect when you are only going to carry your bag a short distance at a time. 

Pros:

• Easy to put your bag on your shoulder
• Easy to adjust to get your bag at the perfect height while you carry
• Quick & efficient - takes seconds to grab your bag and start walking

Cons:

• All of the weight of your bag and clubs is carried by one shoulder
• Due to the lack of weight distribution, your shoulder and lower back can become sore

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Would you be interested in adding a double strap to your single strap par 3 bag? No problem, click here. 

Double Strap Golf Bag

The double strap golf bag was invented in the mid-1990s and it quickly became the standard for golfers who walk and carry their clubs. It was a “game changer” for college players and competitive amateur players. The Ryder bag is a great example. 

Pros:

• The weight of your golf bag and clubs are evenly distributed across your shoulders and back
• Comfortably rests on your shoulders - similar to carrying a backpack to school or on a hike

Cons:

• Adjusting the straps to get the correct fit can be challenging at first
• It takes a bit longer to slide both arms into the straps - once you figure it out, it will become second nature

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Golf Bag Strap According To Golf Bag Type

The type of golf bag strap you use is a personal preference, but we can make a recommendation based on the type of bag you own. 

Par 3 Bag

A par 3 bag is small, lightweight, and designed to carry up to 6 golf clubs. This type of golf bag is also perfect for a driving range practice session. If this is how you enjoy playing the game, we would recommend a single strap. 

You aren’t carrying much weight and you don’t have to carry it very far, so it makes sense to go with the simple and more efficient strap option. 

Carry Bag

A carry bag is used to play a casual round with friends. You can bring most of your clubs (8), and you don’t have to worry about the weight of the bag. A Carry bag is a close call - they will typically come with a double strap, but you could easily use a single strap.

Stand Bag

A stand bag is the most popular type of bag for golfers who enjoy keeping score and competing. The El Camino and the Ryder are great examples. They are engineered for the player who plans to walk the course and takes the game of golf seriously. 

A double strap is the correct option for this bag type. You want to keep your back and shoulders fresh when you are walking and carrying for 18 holes. 

Cart Bag

If you are shopping for a Cart Bag you enjoy riding the golf course. You don’t mind carrying your bag from the parking lot to the pro shop, but you are not interested in lugging it around the links. 

You don’t have to carry it very far, so go with the simple option of a single strap, like our Big Rig that doesn’t require you to travel light. 

Staff Bag

A Staff bag gets its name because the golfer using it is “on staff.” In other words, the golf company is paying the player to use this bag. You will see these bags on the PGA tour; your local club professional has one. They are very similar to a cart bag.

The typical option for a staff bag is a single strap, but if the player in question has a caddy, the caddy will probably add a double strap. A staff bag is large and heavy - not much fun for a caddy on a summer afternoon. The double strap makes it an easier gig. 

How To Choose The Perfect Golf Bag Strap For You

We have talked about the Pros and Cons and the types of golf bags, but this decision just comes down to your preference. Which type of golf bag strap works best for you? Here are a few factors you should consider before making a selection. 

Player’s Physical Condition

Your age and your level of fitness are important. A double strap makes handling the weight of your golf bag and golf clubs easier. If you want to walk the course and are worried about handling the physical challenge, go with a double strap. 

Frequency Of Play

Do you play every weekend or only a few times a year in company outings? A simple mantra to remember - the more you play, the more straps you want. If you head to the course every chance you get, we would recommend the double strap.

Type Of Golf Course Terrain

If you have played different courses you know not all of them are the same. A course can be easy to walk if it is relatively flat and the next tees are close to the last green. On the other hand, other tracks are up & down and feel like a hike. A challenging walk is made easier with a double strap.

Comfort

As you have probably noticed, in most situations, we recommend a double golf bag strap, but it still comes down to your preference. You may find it more comfortable to use a single strap. If so, go with it. A comfortable golfer plays better and we want you to play your best!

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Golf Bag Strap FAQs

How to carry a single strap golf bag?

Put the strap of the golf bag over your shoulder. Most right-handed golfers carry this type of golf bag on their left shoulder, but either shoulder will work.

How to carry a double strap golf bag?

Slide the strap onto one shoulder and then the other (similar to how you put on a backpack). Most right-handed golfers will start with their left shoulder and then slide their right arm into the other strap. This is the most comfortable way to carry your clubs. 

How do you adjust the shoulder straps on a golf bag?

The mechanism may vary slightly by brand, but all golf bag shoulder straps allow you to adjust the length. You want the top of your bag to be higher so your clubs don’t fall out while you walk. Use “trial and error” until you find the perfect “fit.” 

How do you attach golf bag straps?

This will be different depending on the brand of golf bag. Some are permanently attached, while others have a clip so you can take the straps on and off as needed. 

The Correct Golf Bag Strap Can Help You Play Better Golf

Don’t you think your golf bag strap can impact your score? If your back, shoulders, and arms are tired & sore at the end of your round, you may have a hard time finishing strong. It is important to make sure all of your golf equipment is helping you play well!

We want you to birdie 18 and strut into the 19th hole. You never want to be the golfer who is limping towards the locker room, looking for the Icy Hot. Use the correct golf bag strap and enjoy your day. Play well!