experts give their verdict on the best push carts currently on the market
Golf carts have grown sharply in popularity over the past few years because they make walking the golf course that little bit easier. Carrying your clubs for 18 holes is tiring enough, even more so when you factor in your shots in between.
Additionally, push carts are a relatively cheap way of getting around the golf course a little more easily and they should last a long time as well as offer value for money. Nowadays, the quality of a push cart is as good as it’s ever been, with manufacturers creating a number of superb options.
WHY CHOOSE A PUSH CART OVER AN ELECTRIC MODEL?
Brands like Motocaddy, Stewart Golf, BagBoy, Sun Mountain, Powakaddy, to name but a few, have manufactured, refined and developed push carts, electric carts and even remote control golf carts to make the job of walking the golf course more convenient and, importantly, easier on the body. While electric models sit atop the tree when it comes to golf technology, the push cart market has a wide range of brands offering unique and high-quality products. But why specifically would you choose a push cart over the best electric golf trolleys?
For starters, push carts are far cheaper, with the very best costing under $450, which is considerably less than electric trolleys which can cost almost double. Push carts are also simpler to set up when you get to the course and require less fuss as there’s no battery to worry about. They also have great storage options on the handle of the chassis that can house your golf balls, tees, scorecard and other items.
Gone are the days when the best golf carts were heavy and cumbersome while being difficult to push and maneuver around the golf course. These days, modern push carts are light and easy to use making the experience less physically demanding compared to carrying your golf bag. Additionally, push carts are easy to assemble and have mechanisms that allow them to fold down compactly so they easily fit the trunk of your car or garage space. They also tend to be significantly lighter.
If these qualities sound like something you’re interested in then we have created a guide on the best push carts available right now. Alternatively, if you are in the UK, it would be worth checking out our guide on the best golf push trolleys as well.
BEST PUSH CARTS FOR GOLF
BAG BOY NITRON PUSH CART
An Editor’s Choice Award recipient
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 48 x 32 x 55cm
Weight: 7.6kg
Material: Aluminium
Colors: 7 (Grey & Green, Green, Red & Blue, Red & Black, Silver & Black, Black, Black & Red)
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Folds down easily and compactly
+ Well thought out storage areas for water bottle and phone
+ Very little bag twisting on over rough terrain
REASONS TO AVOID
– Wheels perhaps could have been bigger
If speed is what you are after, then the Bag Boy Nitron is also an excellent option, with the mechanism to fold and unfold lightning fast. In testing, we found that it opens up in one smooth action and then folds closed again just as easily, with the wheels also able to be taken off and put back on again.
Away from the mechanism, it is very lightweight and compact when folded down, which makes it perfect for storing. Also, the Nitron isn’t as heavy or bulky as other similar carts on the market and has a number of features which exceed other models. These include an integrated beverage holder, mobile device holder and golf ball storage, handle-mounted parking brake and bungee straps that secure the golf bag with ease, making this incredible value.
BEST VALUE
EZEGLIDE SMART FOLD PUSH CART
A lightweight and easy to push model
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 79 x 58 x 40cm
Weight: 7.2kg
Material : Aluminium
Colors: 2 (White & Black)
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Easy to assemble
+ Lightweight and folds quickly
+ Holds a carry bag easily
REASONS TO AVOID
– Not as compact as some more expensive models
The Eze Glide is a lightweight and durable aluminium frame that weighs only 7.2 kilogrammes (15.9 pounds). It is lightweight and compact, measuring only 79 centimetres by 58 centimetres by 40 centimetres when folded. As a result, it will take up little storage space in your home. A wide scorecard holder, dry storage for valuables and equipment, an umbrella holder, and two wheel covers are just a few of the features included with this backpack, which provides excellent value for money.
When we were out on the course, we were amazed by its manoeuvrability due to its lightweight design, which allowed it to easily navigate the golf course. In addition to its manoeuvrability, it is basic enough to appeal to a diverse range of consumers. It has a foot brake and an adjustable handle, which allow you to be as comfortable as possible while pushing.
The final helpful feature of this type is that it can hold both a lightweight carry bag and a larger tour bag. The arms can also wrap over the bag, and the elasticized bungees can be utilised to keep our clubs in place.
MOST COMPACT
MOTOCADDY CUBE PUSH CART
One of the most compact golf carts money can buy
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 55 x 36 x 18cm
Weight : 6.8kg
Material: Aluminum
Colors: 3 (Blue, Lime, Red)
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Compact and light while folded and simple to unfold
+ Easy to push even on hilly courses and provides ample storage
REASONS TO AVOID
– Lightweight design means you have to be a little careful on side slopes
Despite the fact that Motocaddy is known for producing some of the most stunning electric golf carts on the market today, the company is also well-versed in the concept of small carts, with the Cube serving as a prime example. It’s one of the smallest golf carts money can buy, and it’s exceedingly easy to store, as you’d expect from a product named Cube.
In addition to being simple to unfold with only a few button clicks and movements, it includes friction-free big wheels as standard. Furthermore, the tram’s wheels were equipped with rubber tyres that required little maintenance and were easy to remove if necessary. This makes the tram incredibly easy to move around the course.
One of the things we liked best was its compatibility with Easilock, which allows any bag to be securely displayed on the cart. This bag is a fantastic choice for a range of golfers because it has adjustable bag supports at both the top and bottom, a 24-month warranty, and plenty of storage space.
BEST LOOKING
POWAKADDY MICRA PUSH CART
A great looking and simple to fold out cart from a premium brand
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 53.5 x 35.5 x 38cm
Weight: 7.5kg
Material: Aluminium
Colors: 3 (Yellow Trim, Blue Trim, Red Trim
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Folds up incredibly compactly
+ Two click folding mechanism
+ Glides easily across fairway and rough
REASONS TO AVOID
– Key Lock system only useful with a separate PowaKaddy bag
PowaKaddy was the first manufacturer to introduce the Micra, and it quickly became the most popular model among the push carts available today. The grounds for this include its folding and compact frame, extremely stable ride, and sheer amount of functionalities.
We observed that the cart was easy to drive across the terrain, with a smooth performance and excellent build quality, giving us confidence in our ability to tackle the steepest hills. This cart was selected for our Editor’s Choice Awards. Among the many things that must be mentioned is the great attention to detail that was put into the cart. The footbrake is located in an incredibly handy location behind the left wheel, and it is painted a bright yellow, making it impossible to miss. Furthermore, whenever you activate it, it emits a ‘click’ sound, letting you know that it is on. This eliminates the need to guess when you let it go down a slope.
Overall, the Micra is a vehicle with many great attributes. Not only does it have an astoundingly compact dimension and can be assembled with remarkable ease thanks to a smart mechanism that folds up in a short period of time, but the multi-feature handle console provides a significant amount of storage space for your belongings. PowaKaddy has also included a designated area for storing your water-resistant cell phone, a scorecard holder, a pen or pencil holder, and storage for your balls and tees.
MOST LIGHTWEIGHT
BIG MAX BLADE TRIO PUSH CART
A premium design from one of the best brands in the cart market
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 71 x 59 x 21cm
Weight: 6.7kg
Material : Aluminium
Colors: 5 (Grey, Black, Black & Red, White, White & Pink)
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Premium materials used throughout
+ Very user-friendly, space-saving folding mechanism
+ Effortless to push on course
REASONS TO AVOID
– Rear wheelbase could be wider
When it comes to the shopping cart with the most effective folding mechanism, the Big Max Blade Trio is hard to pass up. This cart has a two-step assembly process that takes only a few seconds. The Blade Trio cannot be folded up until the handle is folded down into the chassis. Following that, the primary component must be dragged inward, and the Blade Trio will fold up!
The cart’s chassis and handlebars, which weigh 6.7 kilogrammes (14.7 pounds), are made of high-quality materials. Furthermore, the cart has a lot of storage capacity thanks to the XL mesh net positioned beneath the handle. The mesh can be utilised to keep golf balls, rangefinders, and GPS devices close at hand.
If this is the case, how does the Blade Trio perform? However, when we were on the golf course, we thought it was incredible because the cart glided effortlessly across the surface. There is one little concern: the rear wheels do not have a particularly long wheelbase. Despite the fact that there is still a high level of stability over rough terrain, a very heavy Tour bag may not be appropriate for use on the Blade Trio. Finally, while this model is only accessible in the United States and continental Europe, individuals in the United Kingdom can benefit from a folding system that is quite similar to the one found on the Big Max Blade IP push cart.
BEST STORAGE
SUN MOUNTAIN 2022 SPEED CART V1R PUSH CART
An easy to push cart that offers highly functional accessories and storage
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 40 x 33 x 94cm
Weight: 8.1kg
Material : Aluminium
Colors: 10
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Incredibly stable on any terrain
+ Glides effortlessly across the turf
+ Highly functional, user friendly design
REASONS TO AVOID
– Not the most compact in its folded position
Sun Mountain produced its first Speed Cart in 1999, drastically altering the push cart market for future generations. The business introduced the V1R decades after its foundation. Following our testing, we found that this approach will ensure that the Sun Mountain Speed Cart franchise maintains its market leadership.
A range of features are offered, just like in the other versions on our list. These features include a mesh basket and a storage tray, which can be used to store items like headcovers, phones, and wallets while the machine is in use. As a result of our testing, we noticed that the V1R is easy to set up, and it also has a drink holder and an umbrella attachment. Despite the fact that it is easy to fold and unfold, it should be noted that when folded, it does not have the most compact capacity.
Not only does the V1R have a nice design and is simple to use, but it is also extremely sturdy and easy to manoeuvre on the course. It’s conceivable you’re inquisitive about how it does this. The cart appears to be considerably lighter than it is when in use due to its ergonomic design. As a result of this, we observed that walking was more enjoyable than pushing a bag.
BEST DURABILITY
CLICGEAR 4.0 3-WHEEL PUSH GOLF CART
This 4.0 model is a robust and feature-packed golf cart
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 60 x 38 x 33cm
Weight: 8.45kg
Material: Aluminium
Colors: Multiple
Wheels: 3
REASONS TO BUY
+ Feature packed
+ Improvements on previous design
+ Sturdy
+ Travels smoothly
REASONS TO AVOID
– Can be fiddly to assemble
– Hefty in size
Initially, this ClicGear model is marketed as weighing only 8.45 kilogrammes. However, when we compared it to other push and electric carts, we found that it was slightly heavier when folded. The other side of the coin is that it is not very huge and does not take up a lot of space in the car’s trunk.
The fact that it is hefty does not detract from the fact that it provides a lot of transportation for the price. The frame’s remarkable longevity is due to the fact that it is manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminium. Despite the fact that the silicone strap system is our favourite feature of this cart, the fact that it can accommodate both a stand and a cart bag is a major plus. When compared to standard elastic style straps, we observed that these straps were not only far more comfortable to use, but they also performed quite well, keeping our golf bag firmly in position.
Overall, we are delighted with the Clicgear 4.0; but, some golfers may prefer a cart that appears to be less sturdy. One of the most important reasons contributing to its great performance in competition is its ease of use across a wide range of slopes and terrains. Furthermore, it is jam-packed with a slew of other features that many people will find really useful.
BEST 2-WHEEL
KADDEY SWITCH CART
A space-saving cart that can be pushed or pulled
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions Folded: 38cm Wheels, Frame Without Wheels 86 x 40 x 14 cm
Weight: 4kg
Material: Aluminum
Colors: 2 Frame (Black, White) 9 Wheelcaps
Wheels: 2
REASONS TO BUY
+ Lightweight and space-saving design
+ Can be pushed or pulled
+ Premium materials used throughout
REASONS TO AVOID
– Bag straps aren’t elasticated
The Kaddey Switch is a more unique type that has made this list of the top push carts. It is designed to be securely attached to any golf bag, making setup at the course as quick and simple as possible. Furthermore, due to its shape, the cart takes up very little room and can be easily stowed in even the smallest of locations, such as the trunk of a house.
During our testing, we noticed that assembling just took a few seconds. This is owing to the XL wheels’ ability to mount to either side of the cart. Finally, while on the course, we were amazed by the cart’s adaptability, which allows it to be readily pushed or pulled according on the terrain.
In addition to its amazing performance, the Kaddey Switch allows you to record your own golf swing, which is a nice feature that demonstrates how cleverly it was created. Stretchy phone straps on the central console make this possible, and once the handle is positioned closer to the ground, the camera will function properly. Overall, it is a model of extraordinary quality that is truly unique.
- Read our full Kaddey Switch Cart Review
SPECIFICATIONS TABLE
Model | Dimensions | Weight | Material |
Bag Boy Nitron Push Cart | 55 x 32 x 48cm | 7.6kg | Aluminium |
EzeGlide Smart Fold Push Cart | 79 x 58 x 40cm | 7.2kg | Aluminium |
Motocaddy Cube Push Cart | 55 x 36 x 18cm | 6.8kg | Aluminium |
PowaKaddy Micra Push Cart | 53.5 x 35.5 x 38cm | 7.5kg | Aluminium |
Big Max Blade Trio Push Cart | 71 x 59 x 21cm | 6.7kg | Aluminium |
Sun Mountain 2022 Speed Cart V1R Push Cart | 94 x 33 x 40cm | 8.1kg | Aluminium |
ClicGear 4.0 3-Wheel Push Golf Cart | 60 x 38 x 33cm | 8.45kg | Aluminium |
Kaddey Switch Cart | 38cm Wheels, Frame Without Wheels 86 x 40 x 14 cm | 4kg | Aluminium |
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PUSH CART
Push or electric cart?
Golfers who play the majority of their rounds on courses that are flatter are more suited to use push carts. They are also less expensive than the best electric carts, making them a more cost-effective method of transporting your clubs around the course. Another advantage of push carts is that they typically provide superior storage solutions on the handle console for products such as tees and balls.
Weight
Push carts need to be lightweight because you are the one who is providing the pushing power. This can be especially exhausting when playing holes that go uphill, so it is important to choose a push cart that is lightweight without sacrificing stability or durability on the other hand. The good news is that push carts are far lighter than electric carts. It is important to ensure that the wheel bearings are in good condition and smooth, as this will help reduce the amount of physical labour requirement.
Folding
It is common for push carts to fold up more compactly than electric carts. This is normally due to the fact that push carts have a simpler design (no electrics), which allows for more latitude in the design of the frame.
This means that they typically fold down more flatly, which might be more convenient for golfers who need to fit their golf bag in the trunk of their vehicle. Consequently, if you are extremely limited on area, a push cart can be the solution you need.
Manoeuvrability
Due to the fact that you are performing some of the work in terms of propulsion and direction when you are using push carts, it is essential that excellent models are simple to manoeuvre. Having a cart that is poorly constructed makes life more difficult, which is the exact opposite of what a cart is supposed to do. While it is true that there are some excellent four-wheel options available in this regard, such as the Big Max Blade Quattro, the design that we have discovered to be the most prevalent and provides the greatest ease of movement is the three-wheeled design.
Storage
Your push cart should have a certain amount of storage space, right? In the event that it is a significant amount, you should select a design that features a sizable central console. On the other hand, if you want to store all of your golf equipment within your golf bag, you should opt for a cart that does not require storage in its design.
Budget
Budget is the last consideration that we want you to take into account. There are a number of models available from a variety of firms, and each one comes in at a different price point. Because of this, you should be aware of how much money you are able to spend or how much money you want to spend. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a fantastic model at a lower price, you should be sure to read our guide to the most budget golf carts.
FAQS
WHICH IS BETTER: A PUSH CART WITH 3 OR 4 WHEELS?
The two are not that unlike from one another in any significant way. According to our point of view, push carts with three wheels are more convenient to manoeuvre around the course. Additionally, push carts with three wheels are more readily available currently. On the other hand, four-wheel carts provide a higher level of stability when traversing terrain that is both mountainous and bumpy.
ARE PUSH CARTS WORTH IT?
Absolutely, and this is especially true if you suffer from back and shoulder trouble and are unable to carry clubs, or if you wish to stop paying exorbitant fees to utilise ride-on carts at golf courses. The number of people who own push carts and use them has increased dramatically in the United States since the beginning of the pandemic. This is because people have been forced to stop using ride-on carts and have discovered the pleasures of walking around golf courses.
IS PUSH CARTS BETTER THAN PULL CARTS?
One of the numerous advantages of owning a push cart rather than a pull cart is that push carts travel considerably better and straighter over the fairways than pull carts do. This is just one of the many advantages of owning a push cart. In addition to the roll, there is also the health benefit, with a push cart being far better for your back and shoulders than a roll because it places less stress on those areas.
Do professionals use push carts?
As a matter of fact, push carts are not utilised by pros, at least not in the context of tournament play. According to the regulation book of both the R&A and the USGA, push carts are not allowed, and consequently, it is quite uncommon to come across one on the professional circuit.
WHAT WEIGHT CAN A GOLF PUSH CART HOLD?
A push cart is required to be able to support a significant amount of weight. If you give it some thought, it should be able to accommodate a golf bag, clubs, golf balls, waterproofs, and any other needs that you carry. Despite the fact that the majority of cart bags are constructed with aluminium frames and sturdy straps, they are able to support a significant amount of weight. The typical cart bag can hold between one and three kilogrammes of weight.