Jones Utility Trouper First Impressions

madeinguam81 · April 25, 2020

I own a Hoofer Lite and a Jones Stripeshow . I've been using the Stripeshow more and more, not just walking but also when riding on a cart. Even though there is club tangle, especially when on a cart, I really love the look and simplicity. Having said that, there are times when I need to use the Hoofer Lite, for example when I take my kids on the course and need to use a push cart and/or need the double straps for a balanced carry so I can also push a stroller.

Enter the Trouper. My thought process is that it has the functionality of the Hoofer Lite but with the styling of a Jones bag. This SHOULD be the best of both worlds.

I received the bag yesterday and walked 9 holes while pushing a stroller and here are some initial impressions, in no particular order:

The bag is surprisingly lightweight and feels comparable to the Hoofer Lite.Not a fan of the buckles at the top of the bucket. I know it's a Jones cosmetic choice, but I don't get it.Carabiner feels too "techie" for a Jones bag. Like it should belong on a 90's Ogio bag. The thought of cutting if off has crossed my mind.Still unsure about the drawstring pouch and flap. I guess I'll put my balls in there? If so, I don't like not being able to really see what I'm grabbing.I really like having the putter well.The top valuables pouch is large enough and convenient for my large Bushnell X7 rangefinder (see pic). . ally like not needing an external rangefinder case.The carry this morning was......fine. While no clubs were spilling out, it felt somewhat unbalanced at times and that I needed to keep a hand on the bag. I think I need to tweak the straps some more.Speaking of straps, I feel that I had to stretch way too hard to get the second strap on, and I'm not a big guy either (5'10, 187lb). I adjusted the strap to close to its max length to make that process easier but it shouldn't have been that difficult to begin with. Once on, the straps do feel comfortable. The middle club divider fabric appears to have come undone (see pic). This doesn't look right. I'll call Jones on Monday.******I have not had a chance to use it on the push cart.******

These are just my first impressions but overall, I do like the look but it doesn't feel the same as my Stripeshow. I will give this bag a fair shot and report back.

madeinguam81 · April 25, 2020

Forgot to mention that I carried 14 and there was absolutely ZERO club tangle. The dedicated putter well helps that a lot.

Haber · April 26, 2020

I am loving this bag. I have the stripeshow as my fair weather bag and this one when there’s chances of rain or adverse conditions. I’m 6’2 and had to adjust the straps to max to comfortably carry it as well. Definitely a great bag and if I’m playing with someone new they almost always ask what kind of bag it is at some point in the round.

dmbrill719 · April 26, 2020

Throw an izzo double strap on it if you want to make it a better carry bag. Having one large plush straight strap and one slimmer curved strap is dumb. I really like the style of the Jones bags, but it's time for them to give up some of their old school traditions for more functional features.

woofelfin · April 27, 2020

solid post- I agree with most of it. Still waiting to take mine out for the first time.

Dont see your pics tho?

madeinguam81 · April 27, 2020

Not sure why they didn't post. Thanks for the heads up.

jkimmsn · May 2, 2020

I love this bag. It is very light so that I can carry 9-10 clubs without difficulty. I can also load it up and put it on my cart. My only complaint is the top strap connection. In the standard configuration the bag tips towards the top so that I have to keep adjusting as I walk or I feel like the clubs spill out. I’ve found a fix. I attached a nylon strap to the curved loop at the top and routed it over the top of the grab handle. This shifts the balance point higher. Now the bag hangs more with the bottom lower. I’ve attached a photo.