Big Max Dri Lite Feather Stand Bag
When I think of the ideal all-purpose golf bag, I think of a sturdy and durable lightweight stand bag that can easily be carried if necessary and has enough room to comfortably fit the essentials for golf in almost any condition. This is no easy task when it comes to bag design. The Big Max Dri Lite Feather stand bag, however, checks all of these boxes. Its water repellent design features six pockets, a five-way top, and comes in at a mere 3.5 pounds.
The Looks
Big Max currently offers the Dri Lite Feather stand bag in three different colors. Pictured here is the grey-black colorway which is somewhat modest, but still has a sleek look to it. The other two colors available are a navy-white-red and a black with red accents similar to the Dri Lite Seven I reviewed here. What I appreciate about the looks of this bag is that it has enough space for adequate storage, but the bag doesn’t look bulky whatsoever and still has really clean lines. Additionally, the little touches go a long way. Though a small detail, I really enjoy the feather icon underneath the spine carry handle.
Design & Features
As mentioned in the intro, the Big Max Dri Lite Feather stand bag features a five-way top. I really like this format in a stand bag as it makes for a little smoother process in club removal but it doesn’t add more bulk to the bag. It also allows for just a bit more club separation than a three or four-way top.
Big Max also put an integrated cooler pocket on the spine just above the ball pocket. This not only keeps your beverages cooler longer, but it also prevents condensation from getting other areas of your bag wet. Or god forbid you spring a leak in whatever vessel is carrying your drink and escapes inside the pocket. (It happens…)
While the bag is water repellent, it’s not 100% waterproof. Playing in a Tropical Storm, you’ll definitely take on some water. That said, the clearly labeled “Mobile Phone” pocket has a waterproof zipper that holds out moisture much more to protect your valuables. If you’re playing in a drizzle or light rain, the water repellent Dri Lite Feather will certainly weather the storm just fine. Just don’t throw it in a lake.
On-Course Performance
For this section, I’m largely focusing on the Big Max Dri Lite feather stand bag’s performance as a walking golf bag. Weighing only 3.5 pounds, the Dri Lite Feather is about as light as a full stand bag gets. Add in just enough padding in the shoulder straps and the Dri Lite Feather is an easy carry over 18 holes. Another added touch to make the carry a little more comfortable are the channels in the hip/back pad. This allows for air to flow better so you don’t get a big sweat spot from carrying your bag.
I would say the sacrifice for that reduced weight comes at the cost of a really slim top handle and the overall feel of the bag isn’t as “rigid” as a heavier bag. Don’t worry, the bag still has a sturdy foundation when deployed and certainly isn’t going anywhere. Personally, having had numerous bags in this category over the years, I’d much rather have a little less “rigidity” than cheaper materials and fabrics that have poor durability, tear easily, and the bag won’t last. With the Dri Lite Feather, the materials are going to hold up to long and regular use.
Final Thoughts – Big Max Dri Lite Feather Stand Bag
To many, a golf bag is just something to hold your golf clubs. Others like me are super picky about their golf bag and getting one that’s just right is never easy. The Big Max Dri Lite Feather stand bag does a pretty good job of this. Its lightweight profile makes for a comfortable and practical carry, but you don’t feel short of features at any time. There’s plenty of storage should you choose to utilize it and it’ll keep your gear dry on damp days. All in all, I’d say the Dri Lite Feather stand bag is one of Big Max’s better all around golf bags – especially for the serious walking golfer.
