Big Max Aqua V1 Bag - Review

[A.T]

To give some background, I've been in the market for a new bag, as my old Titleist Staff bag I've had for the last 12 years, has served me well, but it's time to update to something lighter, with full length dividers, and waterproof.

 

After checking out various makes and models such as Ogio, Sun Mountain, BagBoy, Callaway and Ping, I discovered Big Max. Keen to check out there offerings, I was impressed with their Aqua bag, but held off for two reasons - to see the new 2017 Titleist bags, and also wait for the 2017 Big Max Aqua V1. I was really impressed with the Titleist StaDry offering, but eventually went with Big Max.

 

During my search it was really difficult to find any reviews on this product, so I thought I'd provide a basic review for those who might be in the market for a new bag. (PS I'm not affiliated with Big Max, it's just one blokes opinion of a product)

 

So first up, the bag has 14 full length dividers and a separate well for your putter or umbrella. It's 100% waterproof, and interestingly, has a V-Lock system for your drivers, fairway woods or hybrids. This is similar to the Ogio Silencer, where your clubs are kept in place. The V-Lock system seems to have a spring at the bottom, so to secure your club, simply press down and slightly twist the club to lock. To remove, simply pull on the club, or push down to release. I have various grip widths on my clubs, and this system holds all without any issues.

 

The bag is 100% waterproof, and has sealed seams and waterproof zips. It comes with a shoulder sling, which can be used both sides of the bag with the weight evenly distributed. It has 14 pockets, which there are multiple cooler pockets, and two compartments for your Phone/GPS/personal items, one of which is velour lined.

 

One of the biggest reasons I went with Big Max, was that i wanted to use my bag on a trolley. Some cart bags, are that, for the cart and not trolley. Meaning that most of the bags when put on a trolley are back to front with the handle on the underside, or the pockets facing the wrong way.

 

Overall I'm really happy with the purchase. I thought the V-Lock was a bit of a gimmick, but I have no issues, and in the trolley is where I noticed it most. It provides separation, woods don't get tangled, as well as making it easier to view the remaining irons in your bag. The dividers also make a difference with less chatter coming from a 6 way divider bag. There's more than ample space for everything, pockets a plenty, and your electronics (GPS/Phone etc) are safe in the allocated pockets which are 100% waterproof. I highly recommend the bag to anyone who's in the market for a new one, but as always YMMV.

 

I hope this helps anyone interested in the Big Max offerings, and/or those who are simply looking to update their current bag.

 

See pics below;

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[xjohnx]

If the bag is as nice as their push carts, you've got a winner.

[Ricey155]

great review, glad I found it as looking at that or the Aqua sport version, currently £100 cheaper but same principal

 

How is it fairing 2 months on ?

[A.T]

Hey mate,

 

The bag is holding up really well. I still can't believe how light it is, however, I did have an old staff bag. I've had a few compliments on the bag too.

 

Weather has turned pear shaped down this way, and had its first test out in the rain. No issues at all, waterproofing on the bag is brilliant, kept everything dry and you couldn't tell it had been drenched the day after. The v-lock system works well, no issues. One thing I have noticed is they drop ever so slightly forward if the bag is in a push cart. When I say moved, I'm talking a minimal 2-3mm. I thought being locked in, they would remain dead straight, but if you think about it, it makes perfect sense that the club would move ever so slightly.

 

The 14 dividers and seperate putter divider are a treat, less chatter on the course.

 

 

Hope that helps mate ;)

[JMH1220]

Are these available in the States yet? Why is the V lock system not for every club?

[A.T]

Are these available in the States yet? Why is the V lock system not for every club?

 

I'm unsure if these are in the States yet? The V-Lock system is for your Woods and Hybrids, as you can rotate the heads allowing you full view access to your bag. I must admit, it could be used on the entire bag. It's a great little system.

[Adam_W]

Hi @A.T, I know this is a really old thread but struggling to find any reviews on this bag so would appreciate your help. 

 

Just wondering if 3 years on you would still recommend this bag? 

 

I am torn between the big max aqua tour 3 and the big max aqua v4 (locking system one) 

 

Is the locking system still as good as the day you got it? Wondering if when you lock the woods / hybrids and turn them towards the putter well do they block you from getting your putter out? 

 

Curious as to what colour you went for as well! 

 

Hope you are still around to answer, looking at dropping £230 on this bag so want to make sure it is right! 

 

Thank you