First Look: Vessel Player V Stand Bag

The new Player V stand bag

You cannot go to a golf course in Southern California these days without seeing at least one Vessel golf bag in the clubhouse area or out on the course. This Carlsbad, Calif.-based luxury bag maker is growing in popularity by the day. And with great reason – the bags are incredibly well made with high-quality products and craftsmanship. They look fantastic. And they even smell great – at least when they’re brand new.

True story: First time I ever used one a few years ago, I showed up to the course. My buddy quickly remarked “Oh this must be their new model. I’ve been carrying their bag for two years.” And that exact scenario has happened since several times, when I went to meet other friends for a quick 18 – regardless of where in the country I was playing.

I bring this up because Vessel has just debuted its Player V stand bag ($429) that promises to provide “the ultimate carry experience” – according to the company. From its hidden valuables pocket to beverage compartments, each pocket has been carefully designed and placed to improve organization, accessibility and on-course convenience. It uses patented technologies, such as the padded, ergonomic “Equilibrium” double strap that has a pivot mechanism to keep a stable, comfortable carry. The four-point swivel disc self-adjusts for a balanced carry over one or both shoulders. Intentionally placed high strap-attachment points promote further balance and eliminate club fallout while the bag is being carried. Then there’s the rotator stand that, combined with a wide, low-profile base, allows the bag to sit flush against the ground when the legs are fully deployed for the most-possible stability and a better club spread.

The bag is made with tour-grade synthetic leather that has a smooth matte finish. You’ll swear it’s real leather. And it cleans super-easy with a wet towel. Another key feature upgrade of this stand bag is the addition of a cart strap pass-through tunnel for added protection, if you decide to ride or use a push cart. Although you can get a 6-way top to divide your clubs into six velour-lined slots, I opted for the 14-way model that separates each club individually and full-length, so that they won’t clang into one another while I’m carrying it. Both versions weigh just less than seven pounds – which is a shade heavy for a carry bag, but honestly not very noticeable once you’re out on the course

There’s antimicrobial lining in the personal pockets, genuine leather zipper pulls and top handle, premium water-resistant zippers, magnetic rangefinder pocket with internal divider and velour lining, hidden velour-lined valuables pocket, quick-access magnetic side pocket, a pair of cooler-lined bottle sleeves, insulated cooler pocket with a drain, large garment compartment with an interior lock pocket (yes, the lock is included), exterior valuables pocket, ball pocket, velcro glove patch and a combination bottle opener/towel ring. It’s amazing attention to detail all throughout. And it comes in four colors.

There are a lot of good stand bags on the market from various manufacturers. But if you’re looking for a slight upgrade – or if you’re seeking a holiday gift for the discerning golfer in your life – this new model is worth checking out.

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