TaylorMade 2021 FlexTech Carry Stand Bag Review
This review reflects improvements made for the 2021 TaylorMade FlexTech Stand Bag model. The only apparent modifications to the bag are a reconfiguration of the pockets and the zipper pulls have been changed.
A Little History: In 2017, TaylorMade introduced the FlexTech line of carry/stand bags. These bags replaced the PureLite series and came with:
- an upgraded base and leg system for greater stability, as well as
- a more adjustable, better-padded shoulder strap system
The upgrades in 2017 over the prior model line were significant improvements on top of an already solid lineup of bags. All changes since 2017 have been more gradual upgrades
Take a look at our 2021 Buyer’s Guide to see our preferred specifications for golf stand bags. Click here.
TaylorMade 2021 FlexTech Stand Bag Specifications and Features
Weight
The weight of the TaylorMade FlexTech Stand Bag is 4.5 pounds.
This weight sits in the sweet spot of our preferred range of weights. At 4 – 4.5 pounds, manufacturers can offer many features while still offering a relatively light bag.
Getting Clubs In and Out of the Bag
The TaylorMade FlexTech Stand Bag has a slightly elongated, five-way opening with full-length dividers and a top diameter of 10″.The opening of the bag is within our preferred size range. We like five tops in that they offer some club separation while not taking up too much space with padded dividers. The top design easily accommodates putters and clubs with over-sized grips.
Ease of Carrying the Bag
The bag has a self-adjusting, four attachment point, dual strap system. The straps can be individually adjusted in length. The straps come together at a center “slider,” which allows the straps to move in relation to each other to dynamically adjust the bag’s balance across a golfer’s back and shoulders.
The bag has top rim, spine, and bottom handles for easy lifting options.
The shoulder strap system is self-adjusting, comfortable, and easy to use. The three handles are what we expect with a high-quality carry bag.
Please read purchasing note at the bottom of the post for 2021 model insights
Storage/Pockets
TaylorMade adjusted its pocket configuration in 2021 probably based on customer feedback. The 2021 FlexTech Carry Stand Bag has 8* pockets, including:
- Full-length side apparel pocket
- Water-resistant, stretch pocket for valuables
- Over-sized water bottle sleeve
- Other accessory pockets
* For some reason, the Black/Camo color combination has an additional pocket located on the side of the bag with the full-length pocket.
In terms of other attachment points, the bag has an umbrella holder, Velcro glove patch, pen sleeve, and towel ring.
At eight to nine exterior pockets, the bag is within our preferred number and specialization of pockets.
Stability of the Bag
The TaylorMade FlexTech Carry Stand Bag has a patented, hinged, flex-base replacing their prior kickstand models. Also, the bag’s legs are slightly bent and hinge wider than some other bags. This base/leg combination is sturdy, sleek, and is an improvement when you choose to use a cart.When we inspected the bag, we found the stability features to be excellent. The flex bottom and leg release were solid. In general, we are big fans of the flex bottom in terms of its sleekness and that it makes it easier to position the bag on a cart. The stance of the legs is wide, and this increases stability.
Extras
The TaylorMade 2021 FlexTech Carry Stand Bag has:
- Four color combinations
- A matching rain hood
- A cart strap pass-through channel for use when a golfer takes a golf cart. By using the channel, the cart strap does not block any of the bag’s pockets
Value
TaylorMade’s suggested retail price is $234.99.
The $234.99 MSRP is in the mid to high range of our recommended full feature carry bags. It is a definite upgrade over their older PureLite line in terms of stability and comfort.
Click Below to Buy the TaylorMade FlexTech
Purchasing Note: When buying on e-commerce sites it can be difficult to determine whether a bag is one of the most current 2021 models. The prior year FlexTech model was a great bag, but some buyers are always looking to remain absolutely current.
The 2021 FlexTech has two noticeable differences from the prior year. There are two noticeable differences that can be seen in the stock e-commerce photos.
- The 2021 FlexTech is currently only offered in four color combination: Black/Camo, Slate, Titanium/Cool Gray, and Black/Lime Neon
- For 2021, TaylorMade switched its zipper pulls from open loops to closed loops
By saying that the base in “an improvement when you choose to use a cart”, is it still as competitive as the Sun Mountain range in that regard, or just as best to stick to the original PureLite range?
I’m looking for a stand/carry bag that’s lightweight and cart compatible… I’m a relative newbie to golf trying to cover all bases at least expense without too much compromise – a challenge!!
Thanks!
Definite improvement over the PureLite. Comparable to Ping (designed to be very similar). Can’t go wrong with the FlexTech, Ping or SunMountain.
But still no cart strap channel which the 4.5 and Hoofer/Hoofer lite both have.
The 2019 and 2020 FlexTech models both have a cart strap channel with the opening near the top of the bag and to the left of the full length clothing pocket.