Big Max Aqua Eight G Stand Bag Review
Big Max are one of the most recognized bag brands in golf and, in this review, Matt Cradock puts their Aqua Eight G Stand Bag through its paces
The Big Max Aqua Eight G is just a great stand bag that does everything you would ever want. Its sizeable pockets can store all your necessities, whilst the lightweight, bulky nature means it can fit onto a cart or be carried seamlessly
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Incredibly spacious pockets
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Smart, premium look
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Lightweight despite size
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Depending on bottle size, cooler pocket can slightly obstruct front pocket below
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
We've always been fans of Big Max golf bags, so much so that a number of their models feature in our best golf bags' guide. Now, we have finally got our hands on the Aqua Eight G Stand Bag, which only adds and heightens their iconic Aqua range.
I actually own the Aqua Seven stand bag and adore it, so was excited to test out the Aqua Eight G and, straight off the bat, it's good news, as the overall look of the Eight G is superb. Adorned with various splashes of color and trim, it follows the same style as previous models, as Big Max have given this particular bag a seven-way divider, six spacious pockets, various handles for easy carrying and full waterproof protection.
Admittedly, when I first picked up and put the Aqua Eight on my shoulders, it did feel and look bigger than some of the other best golf stand bags on the market. However, when fully packed up with golf clubs, tees, balls etc, the bag still felt very light, with the carrying experience near faultless as the weight was evenly distributed.
Providing me with two thickly padded straps, what I really liked was that the leg lock system is hidden within the bag, so it's less likely to break, and the legs stay up when the bag is placed on the shoulders. What's more, the pockets, especially the cooler pocket, are easily accessible, but just be wary of the plastic protector on the left side of the bag which, occasionally, did hit the back of my leg.
In regards to the design of the bag, you can tell that those who like golf are involved, as the pockets are cleverly laid out and very spacious. The biggest pocket on the right hand side is large enough to hold waterproofs and a rain cover, with the waterproof pocket above it ideal for storing your phone and other necessities when out on the course.
Another two pockets feature on the left side, whilst the cooler pocket can store a medium-large sized water bottle when out on the move. The only slight downside is the larger the bottle the more it obstructs the pocket below, but I could still easily move my hand down and around it to access the golf balls that were stored in that particular pocket.
As mentioned, the bag comes across slightly larger than some of the other carry bags available, but there was no issue storing it in the trunk of my car or a cupboard at home. Also, when strapped onto a golf cart, the Aqua Eight G stayed perfectly stable so, if your budget doesn't stretch to any of the best golf cart bags, then the Aqua Eight G could fit the bill nicely.
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by what Big Max have produced here, which is a great performing bag that does everything it should. Its minimalist looks will appeal to all, whilst the well thought-out design provides excellent ease of use. Put simply, it's a great lightweight bag that will keep your equipment dry and protected in the harshest conditions.
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Matt joined Golf Monthly in February 2021 covering weekend news, before also transitioning to equipment and testing. After freelancing for Golf Monthly and The PGA for 18 months, he was offered a full-time position at the company in October 2022 and continues to cover weekend news and social media, as well as help look after Golf Monthly’s many buyers’ guides and equipment reviews.
Taking up the game when he was just seven years of age, Matt made it into his county squad just a year later and continues to play the game at a high standard, with a handicap of around 2-4. To date, his best round came in 2016, where he shot a six-under-par 66 having been seven-under through nine holes. He currently plays at Witney Lakes in Oxfordshire and his favourite player is Rory McIlroy, despite nearly being struck by his second shot at the 17th during the 2015 BMW PGA Championship.
Matt’s current What’s In The Bag?
Driver: Honma TW747, 8.75°
Fairway Wood: TaylorMade Rocketballz Stage 2, 15°, 19°
Hybrid: Adams Super Hybrid, 22°
Irons: Mizuno MP54, 5-PW
Wedges: Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 Tour Satin, 50°, 56°, 60°
Putter: Cleveland TFI 2135 Satin Cero
Ball: Titleist Pro V1x
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