What You Need to Know About Golf Trolleys

It feels like these days the majority of golfers you see out on the course are using a trolley - be it electric or a manual push trolley. This back relieving golf accessory can be a real game changer, freeing your back and shoulders from the fatigue of carrying your bag for hours as you approach the final few holes. However, there are still the stalwart troopers out there who refuse to give in and will carry on with the bag slung over the shoulders. Should you be in the camp of bag carriers looking to give your back and shoulders some much needed relief, this article is for you. 

The Different Kinds of Trolleys

Trolleys come in all different shapes and sizes, each having their own unique features and additions. Here are some of the most common trolleys on the market at the moment.

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

Manual Push/Pull Trolley

Most often the cheapest and most affordable type of trolley. These require you to push or pull the trolley yourself. They often have two or three wheels, are lightweight and come easy to pack away at the end of your round. 

Electric Trolleys

Often powered by a rechargeable or interchangeable battery, these trolleys drive themselves as you steer them along the fairways. These are often loaded with different kinds of features, such as on-course GPS and different speed settings to suit yourself. The main con with these trolleys is they may not be as light as other trolleys, and they may take up more room in storage. 

Remote-Controlled Trolleys

These are the real deal in golf these days, trolleys that are remote controlled along the course. Many of these come with a remote that can be placed in your back pocket, as the trolley follows you around - like a robotic caddie almost. These will also be stacked with the advanced features found on other electric trolleys, but they may also come with the extra need for storage space. 

Why Should You Buy a Golf Trolley

The reasons for buying a golf trolley are plain and simple. The fatigue you save your body from not having to carry the clubs can be immense - and genuinely game improving, especially on the back nine. 

Furthermore, for older players or players with recurring injuries, trolleys can do a lot of work in saving the longevity of your game and physical health. Removing the strain and effort of carrying your bag for 18 holes could be real saviour and you aren't even aware of it. 

Finally, the game improvement aids that some trolleys come with. Many trolleys are now manufactured with built in GPS tracking technology, allowing you to see your distances from the green and other hazards all on a screen. This is an addition we all what to bring to our game, I think we can agree. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Golf Trolley

Before purchasing a golf trolley, there are a few final things you may need to consider before making your purchase. These are...

• Weight & Portability

Ensuring the trolley will fit in your car alongside your golf clubs is crucial before picking one up. Also ensuring the trolley is lightweight and practical for you to manoeuvre is important. 

• Battery Life

For those of you who may be looking into getting an electric trolley, be sure to check out the battery life on offer. If the battery provided has a short life span you may end up stranded on the course, pushing round a heavy dead battery for the remainder of your round. 

• Wheels

How many wheels does the trolley have? And are they going to be effective in the winter months and on hilly terrain. Most trolley manufacturers offer winter wheels for the wetter months of the year, ensuring the trolleys are effective throughout the year. 

• Brakes

Make sure to check out the brakes before buying. Nobody wants their brakes to fail as they watch their clubs race away down a hill into the bushes (speaking from experience!).

• Storage & Accessories

Does the trolley come with good storage options? Most trolleys on the market will come with specific places for balls, tees, pencils and scorecards. Although not major, it's the small things that count. 

• Build Quality

Arguably the most important thing to consider before buying a new trolley, how does the build quality look? If the wheels and frame looks cheap and flimsy, then unfortunately the trolley in question may not have the life expectancy you would desire. If buying second hand, check for any rust or wear and tear around the joins and wheel bearings. 

Trolley Manufacturers

Golf trolleys are a popular thing and in the golf world we are not short on trolley manufacturers. Here are some of the most recommended brands...

• PowaKaddy

Known for their sleek and efficient models, with easy storage and good durability.

• Motocaddy

One of the most seen trolley manufacturers on the course. Known for their advanced electric models, with all the high class features you could be looking for. 

• Clicgear

Slightly different to the other brands listed, Clicgear are known for making some of the best manual trolleys on the market. 

• Stewart Golf

Some of the more expensive models on the market, but with the finest features available.

• BIG MAX

Manufacturers of high end push trolleys, BIG MAX is known for Flat-Fold storage and the quality of its products.

Final Considerations

Remember, a trolley isn't a normal purchase, it is a game improving, fatigue relieving investment for your golf game and physical health. Golf is meant to be enjoyed, and the fatigue of carrying your bag for over three hours can be a real killer on the course. Be sure to consider all of these things before purchasing your golf trolley.