If you’ve ever read my equipment reviews, you’ll know that I’ve always had a soft spot for golf bags. I love finding just the right pockets for my tees, balls, cigar cutter and lighter, gloves, flask, and assorted accoutrements. And I love that new-bag smell.

And now that golf bags have gotten high-tech, the flip-out stands and ultra light-weight designs allow just about anyone to walk and carry their clubs, the way God and the Scots intended for the game to be played.

The latest in whiz-bang stand bags is the Aficionado III by Club Glove (MSRP $179). This is the first bag that can be customized to fit your needs, with three detachable pockets. That’s right – on days when I decide I don’t need the cigars and flask (say, on those days when my swing is actually behaving itself), I can snap off that pocket and leave it in my trunk.

Think of it as the TaylorMade r7 Quad of golf bags.

The military spec parachute material is tough, the styling is cool without being over the top, and the dual shoulder straps are broad and comfy. With all pockets attached (and empty), the Aficionado III weighs 5.6 lbs., and with all three optional pockets removed it weighs 4.9 lbs. The dual shoulder straps can also be converted into a single strap, in case you use a caddie (caddies dislike dual straps).

Interestingly, you can buy the individual parts for the bag separately. So when your buddy’s cell phone rings AGAIN, and you unsnap the pocket where the infernal contraption resides and throw the entire thing into a lake, he can order a replacement pocket. Now that’s convenience.

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