VESSEL Lux Cart II Golf Bag Review

50 Words or Less

The VESSEL Lux Cart II builds on its stellar heritage with improved organization and refined details.  Premium, refined aesthetics.  Available in 7-way or 15-way top.

Introduction

Before jumping into a review of the fabulous new Series II Lux Cart bag, I want to revisit something that we haven’t mentioned lately – ‘buy a bag, give a bag.’  BABGAB for short, this is VESSEL’s promise to provide backpacks to school children in need around the world.  And as the name suggests, it’s a simple concept – you buy a bag and VESSEL donates a bag.  In fact, the ID number inside each VESSEL bag is more than unique identifier, it’s the running count of backpacks given to children to help them “gain access to an education and a better future.”  My first VESSEL bag, the Lux Cart 2.0 [review HERE] is number 0013547, and according to my math, that’s a lot of donations since.

The Lux Cart Series II, more commonly referred to as the VESSEL Lux Cart II, should not to be confused with the afore mentioned 2.0.  The VESSEL Lux Cart II is the evolution of the Lux Cart [review HERE] which for three years now has been my faithful home course bag when riding.  The Series II also includes a larger Lux Pro II, and I’ll give you a brief rundown of what distinguishes that bag towards the end of this review.  VESSEL says “these next-generation cart bags elevate the riding experience with smarter organization, refined detailing, and uncompromising performance.”  Time to put those claims to the test.

Looks

With her first glance, my wife summed up the VESSEL Lux Cart II perfectly – “That’s really nice looking.”  From the curves of the large side pocket zippers, to the shaping of the central pockets, the Lux Cart II has wonderful visual appeal.  Well known for the luxurious look of their synthetic leather, it’s the details like the stitching shown below that elevate the overall look.

As typical with VESSEL bags, branding is minimal – as are the color options.  The VESSEL Lux Cart II is available in navy, white, black, and grey.

Features

Discovering many of the features of the VESSEL Lux Cart II was a pleasant journey.  I was accustomed to cool features like the towel hook that’s also a bottle opener, the included lock for the internal pocket, and the magnetic closure bottle sleeves.  But then I noticed that in addition to the top magnetic pocket pod that lifts for the cart strap, VESSEL designers included pass-through strap slots.

Those that keep their bag on their golf cart full time will appreciate the Velcro straps VESSEL added.

And I really appreciate the shoulder strap pocket – which also can double as a trolley battery storage pocket per VESSEL.

Back to the front of the bag, I love what VESSEL has done with those pockets.  Both magnetic closure pods are now velour lined with two storage zones.  And a big golf clap for adding three internal compartments to the large ball pocket – so much more functional now.

The biggest surprise was the small VESSEL tab interestingly positioned at the back of the ball pocket.  Turns out it’s an Air Tag pocket – clever.

Performance

The VESSEL Lux Cart II is offered with a 7-way or 15-way top with full length dividers in both models.  Coming from a 14-way top, I enjoyed tinkering with a fresh club arrangement and having a dedicated slot for my alignment sticks.  Club pulls were unhindered, and the dedicated putter well is generous enough for even the largest of putter grips.

As much as I liked the clean look the pass-through strap slots created, I found the strap ended up in an awkward position for running through the securing mechanism of the cart.  As a result, my bag crept crooked after a few bumps and turns.  The good news is that the garment and cooler compartment zippers were unencumbered by the cart strap.

From my own experience and watching cart attendants, the large plastic handles on the edges on the top opening are well positioned for maneuvering the VESSEL Lux Cart II bag.  There’s also a good size handle on the back for a quick carry.  And for longer walks, the removable single shoulder strap offers ample padding.

As for the pockets and zippers, they are all well positioned and easy to engage.  VESSEL found the sweet spot for their magnet closures – securely staying closed while opening with a firm pull.  I don’t envision ever utilizing the full length insulated cooler pocket for beverages, but I’ve enjoyed having the extra space for seasonal storage needs – currently housing a vest, FJ Wintersof gloves, and stocking cap.

Lux Pro Cart II

The big difference in the Pro version is 9 more pockets for storage and organization.   Externally, the Pro adds half garment pockets and magnetic pockets to both sides of the bag, plus a zippered compartment on the top pod.  Inside each extra magnetic pocket I found something I’d never seen before – a small velour pocket for your wedding ring.  As useful as that might be for some golfers, I can imagine the panic when they open the wrong side to find no ring.  If “more is better” is your mantra, the VESSEL Lux Pro Cart II is your choice for maximum storage and more features.

Conclusion

Not surprisingly, my clubs and gear never left the VESSEL Lux Cart II after testing.  The segmentation of the two magnetic pockets plus the internal compartments on the ball pocket are wonderful improvements that I enjoyed immediately.  The layout of the 15-way top is great for getting that quick visual confirmation that all my clubs are present before driving to the next tee box.  With a retail price of $519, the VESSEL Lux Cart II is a serious investment, but it’s a serious bag.  And as someone who’s been gaming a variety of VESSEL bags more many years, I can attest that VESSEL bags are built to last.

Visit VESSEL HERE

Matt Meeker
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