In recent years, there has been a growing trend in the popularity of pencil bags, also known as Sunday bags. This surge in demand has led to a wider selection, providing golfers with more choices for assembling the perfect lightweight setup. Below, we'll explore some benefits of using a pencil bag and how it could significantly enhance your enjoyment of the game - and potentially even improve your scores!
When searching for a pencil bag, the first consideration is whether to opt for a single or dual-strap design. Many leading manufacturers, such as Titleist, TaylorMade, Callaway, and PING, offer dual-strap options with padded straps on all their pencil bags. This provides added comfort while carrying and distributes the bag's weight evenly across the back and shoulders, rather than concentrating on one side.
On the other hand, many traditionally-designed pencil bags, like those from MacKenzie, Camino Golf, or Jones, feature a single-strap option. These bags evoke a more "old-school" aesthetic, and with sufficient padding, many find them just as comfortable as their dual-strap counterparts.
Regardless of whether you prefer a single or dual-strap design, opting for a pencil bag is likely to significantly lighten your load compared to a full set of clubs in a stand bag. This lighter weight helps alleviate the strain of carrying, reducing fatigue throughout your round. It stands to reason that the fresher you feel at the end of your round, the more likely you are to finish strongly - hence, reason #1 for how a pencil bag can positively impact your scores!
Another benefit of pencil bags is their compact size, making them easy to transport in your car or store at home. Their unmatched portability allows for quick outings after work or even taking them along on public transport without needing an extra seat!
This neatly leads us to the second reason why a pencil bag can benefit your game.
With clubs readily accessible, swinging by the course or driving range for a quick practice session becomes much more practical, giving you fewer excuses to neglect your game. Moreover, while many of us have taken a club or two to the range, having your full set available allows for working on different shots. A pencil bag facilitates this without the need to appear overloaded with equipment at the range.
Pencil bags can also earn you favor with the greenkeeping staff at your club, especially during the typical British winter. Many greenskeepers dislike trolleys being dragged across courses during this season, as the grass may not fully recover until spring. However, carrying a full set of clubs in a stand bag can be challenging for some golfers. A pencil bag often provides the solution, allowing you to bring the majority or all of your clubs while keeping overall weight minimal. This makes pencil bags ideal for winter use, especially with companies offering versions with waterproof bases and small stumps to elevate the bag's opening off the ground.
