Luke is an avid weekend-warrior golfer from the East Coast who plays golf more than he cares to admit.
Leather Golf Bags are a statement accessory for both men & women golfers.
In this Guide: How to select the right bag & what to expect as an owner.
Let’s dive in.
How to Select the right leather golf bag
Not every leather bag for golf is made equal. The quality of the leather will range based upon the price you pay. You also need to decide what features you want on your bag.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a leather golf bag:
Purpose of the Golf Bag
Are you looking for a bag to carry all of your golf clubs, or just your driver and a few clubs? If you only need a small bag to carry a minimal amount of clubs, then a less expensive option may be best for you.
Conversely, if you are looking for a durable bag that can handle all of your golf clubs, then you will likely need to spend.
Type of Leather
The type of leather used on the bag will also affect the price. More expensive bags will use better quality leathers that are resistant to wear and tear.
Storage Space
Another important consideration is how much storage space you need. Bags come in all shapes and sizes, so make sure to select one that has enough room for your needs.
Additional Features
There are a variety of additional features that you may want on your leather golf bag. These can include things like pockets, a rain cover, a stand, or a built-in GPS system.
Some of our experts describe their perfect bag as being made out from the finest materials, come with a single shoulder strap, AND a matching rain hood with an umbrella attachment.
Owners Of Luxury Golf Bags – what to expect
Once you have purchased your leather golf bag, there are 3 things you should expect as an owner:
First, be prepared to take care of your bag if you want it to last. This means regular cleaning and conditioning, especially if you live in a wet climate.
Second, be prepared to receive compliments. A leather golf bag is sure to turn heads on the golf course. Enjoy the attention!
Third, be prepared to spend a little extra money on maintenance. leather golf bags require more care than other types of golf bags, so expect to pay for upkeep over the years – but more on that later.
Premium, Naked, Chestnut Leather Differences
Just like there are different types of fabric materials, you will come across the different types of leathers.
Premium Leather:
This is the most expensive and highest quality leather. It is usually used on high-end bags and is very durable.
Naked Leather:
As the name implies, this type of leather is left in its natural, unfinished state. It is less expensive than premium leather, but also less durable.
Chestnut Leather:
This is a middle-of-the-road option that offers good durability at an affordable price. It is not as high quality as premium leather, but it is also not as prone to wear and tear as naked leather.
What are golf bags typically made of?
You have a material called Waxed Cotton Duck Canvas as well as Treated for a treated canvas bag, and nylon aka nylon bag.
The waxed cotton duck canvas is a natural fiber that has been waxed and treated for water repellency. This material is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Nylon is a synthetic fabric that is also water repellent. It is less expensive than waxed cotton duck canvas, but it is not as durable.
Treated canvas is a mix of both materials. It is more expensive than nylon, but less expensive than waxed cotton duck canvas. It offers the best of both worlds with durability and water repellency.
A Waxed canvas bag is the most popular material for golf bags because it is the most durable.
Which type of leather golf bag should I buy?
When looking to purchase a leather golf bag you have a few different types of leather to choose from: premium, naked, or chestnut.
Leather handmade craftsmanship has style
Leather golf bags are known for their excellent craftsmanship. The leather is usually top-grain and full-grain, which means it is thick and durable. The seams are usually well-stitched and the hardware is high-quality.
Depending on the bag, you might notice American made brass hardware , YKK zippers, and thick cowhide leather.
Premium
The most popular leather type is the premium leather.
This type of leather is the most expensive and highest quality. It is usually used on high-end cart bag and is very durable.
Naked
The next most popular golf bag option is the naked leather. As the name implies, this type of leather is left in its natural, unfinished state. It is less expensive than premium leather, but also less durable.
Chestnut
The final golf bag option is chestnut leather.
This is a middle-of-the-road option that offers good durability at an affordable price. It is not as high quality as premium leather, but it is also not as prone to wear and tear as naked leather.
How to Clean and Condition Your Leather Golf Bag
Now that you’ve selected your perfect leather golf bag, it’s important to know how to properly take care of it.
Leather bags require regular cleaning and conditioning if you want them to last. This is especially important if you live in a wet climate.
Here are a few tips for keeping your leather golf bag in good condition:
- Clean your bag with a damp cloth after every use. Be sure to remove all dirt and debris, and then dry the bag completely before storing it.
- Apply a leather conditioner once a week. This will help keep the leather soft and protected from moisture damage.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents when cleaning your bag. These can damage the leather and cause it to crack or peel.
Three leather golf bags you may know
If you’re on the lookout for luxury golf bags here are three pretty prominent ones on the market:
- Airliner style golf bag
- Mackenzie golf bag
- Piel leather deluxe
Airliner style golf bag
This leather golf bag is perfect for those who want a bag that looks like a piece of luggage. It has a sleek and stylish design that will turn heads on the golf course.
History behind the Airliner style golf bag:
In the early days of commercial air travel, passengers were not given much luggage allowance. They would often have to purchase a golf bag at their destination airport. To solve this problem, some clever passengers began stuffing their clothes and other belongings into a small piece of luggage, which they then checked in as their “airline bag.”
The main downside to the Airliner style golf bag is that it is not very durable but made from the finest materials. The leather is not very thick and the seams are not very strong.
Airliner style golf bag dimensions:
- Height: 36 inches
- Width: 16 inches
- Depth: 9.5 inches
Mackenzie golf bag
This is a classic style leather golf bag that is popular with both men and women golfers. It is made of top-grain leather and is very durable. This golf bag does not have a lot of features.
One at a time, expert artisans create each MacKenzie golf bag to the exacting standards of their discriminating clients.
Features of the Mackenzie leather golf bag:
-14-way divider top
-5 zippered pockets
– velour lined valuables pocket
Specific to the mahogany Mackenzie golf bag:
- made from mahogany leather
- trimmed in bittersweet & gold leather
- custom metal badge
- 8” opening w/ 1 pocket
Piel leather deluxe golf bag
This is a high-quality leather golf bag that is popular with both amateurs and pros.
The Piel leather deluxe golf bag offers a lot of features, including:
- 14-way top with individual dividers
- 5 zippered pockets
- 2 lift up handles
- built in umbrella holder
- rain hood
This carry golf bag is perfect for those who want a high-quality leather golf bag that will last.
Leather golf bags & Upkeep
Leather golf bags require regular cleaning and conditioning in order to protect them from moisture damage. Clean the bag with a damp cloth after every use, and apply a leather conditioner once a week. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents when cleaning your bag.
How do you condition a leather golf bag?
Conditioning a leather golf bag is very easy. Just apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a cloth and rub it into the leather. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas that seem dry or cracked. Allow the conditioner to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
Are leather golf bags good?
Yes! A Leather golf bag is good because they offer a lot of features, they are very durable, and they come in a variety of styles. They also require very little upkeep, making them a great choice for busy golfers.
Are expensive golf bags worth it?
Yes! An expensive golf bag is worth it because they are made of high-quality materials and offer a lot of features. They also last longer than cheaper golf bags, making them a wise investment for avid golfers.
Which leather golf bag is right for me?
There is no one “right” leather golf bag for everyone. It all depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what features are important to you, and then choose the golf bag that best meets your needs.
