Hybrid stand bags are becoming more and more popular. But what is a hybrid golf bag? Simply put, it's a golf bag that can be used both as a stand bag and as a cart bag equally effectively. I've tested a handful of these types of bags now - like the Motocaddy EliteFlex and Big Max Dri Lite Hybrid Prime - and think I've cracked the exact type of golfer these bags are for. They're a niche category, but Sun Mountain’s new offering is one of the few lightweight and fully waterproof options in this space.
To me, a hybrid golf bag is for the golfer who uses a trolley or ride-on cart 80% of the time, but does have the want or need to carry their bag the other 20% of the time. The hybrid bag allows this type of golfer to buy one type of golf bag, instead of having to buy one of the best stand bags and one of the best cart bags at the same time.
So, why this Sun Mountain? I’ve always banged this drum, but I think Sun Mountain make the best waterproof bags in the business. All the seams on the bag are taped and sealed to prevent water in, while the fabric is treated for water resistance on both sides, not just the outside, like some. If waterproofing is high on your list of wants, I’d always recommend one of the best Sun Mountain bags.
Another unique addition to this bag is the VLO technology. This is the area of the bag where, when using a trolley, the top handle attaches to the bag. Sun Mountain has lowered the stand system and developed a specific area of the bag built to withstand the strain of a trolley handle. Whereas other hybrid bags lower the stand system, few take time to reinforce this area, like Sun Mountain has. It certainly makes the punchy £369 RRP a little more bearable, considering the superb build quality of this bag.
When you use this as a conventional stand bag instead of a cart bag, it also excels. At 2.6kg, it’s one of the more lightweight bags in this category, and the padding on the straps and hip pad is superb. The soft, spongy materials used take strain away from your shoulders and make sure the bag doesnt rub against your back as you carry it.
All in all, I can’t fault what this bag offers. Yes, it’s a niche type of golf bag, but it has absolutely nailed everything it has tried to set out. Excellent waterproofing, dedicated areas that allow it to sit perfectly on a trolley and a lightweight build with excellent padding that makes it as easy to carry. Yes, it's expensive, but having tested this over several rounds, I think it is worth every penny to the dedicated golfer who plays all year round.
