Product Review: Jones Rover bag

I play golf in a lot of different ways: Riding, walking, local, traveling, push cart, however I can get out.

The Rover bag has a unique place in the Jones Sporting Co. golf lineup. It’s for the golfer who loves to walk and carry, but isn’t ready to go Full Sunday Mode.

I ordered a Jones Rover using my points in the GolfN app. For starters, I absolutely love the design and the blue-and-green color scheme. It’s also a bit cheaper than the larger Trouper model.

Ultimately, I have decided this particular model Jones, is not my “main” but an extremely satisfying side. Let me break down the Rover for you.

Jones Rover golf bag: What I love

This bag is incredibly well-built, with tons of clever little perks. I’ve used it for several months now, and there is no noticeable wear. The base splits in half when you set it down, creating a really efficient and solid ground support. There’s Velcro on the bag below the straps to air out a glove. The lumbar support up top that hits your back is a nice touch when you’re carrying. Shoulder straps are sturdy and easy to adjust.

Despite its minimal nature there is an outside holder for an umbrella and a clip for your rangefinder. Everything just looks really sturdy and built to last, from the zippers to the stand to stitching. The classy green-blue color scheme is subtle but pops more than a bag in a single color. Overall it’s just a very timeless look built with materials I expect to last a while.

Jones Rover golf bag: What it lacks

Make no mistake, choosing this model requires trade-offs. Yes, you can fit all 14 clubs, but they are a little snugger in there than in a full-sized bag. There are technically five pockets, but the overall space across them is significantly less than you may be used to. There is no full-length pocket, so items like full rain gear is a no-go. The top accessories pouch is useful but really thin. You can barely fit a wallet in there.

Compared to the Trouper model’s insulated beverage pouch, the lower center pouch is just standard nylon. It can fit a lot in there. I even put my water bottle in there for easier access.

I also found that I really miss the top-of-bag handle that Jones and so many other models have now. The Rover handle in the traditional spot is fine.

Jones Rover Golf Bag: The Verdict

The Rover is exceptionally designed and built by Jones, and ideal if you like to walk and carry a full 14 clubs instead of using a push cart or golf cart. But you need to be a golfer who is choosy with your toys. If you’re trying to stick sweaters, sunscreen, bug spray, speaker, a launch monitor, a month's worth of balls, and whatnot, you’re going to run out of room.

The Rover's smaller size actually compelled me to carry more often than to use a push cart. And it’s so lightweight and comfortable to carry, it just made more sense to do that, especially for 9-hole rounds. When I traveled back to Michigan in the summer and had no room for a push cart in the car, I carried it everywhere.

If you only keep one golf bag, I’d advise getting something bigger. If Sunday bags are just too small, this is perfect for you.

The best thing I can say about the Rover is that it has sound fundamentals, cuts out the noise, and forces you to be organized and intentional - something that translates well to your golf game.

The Jones lineup is available in the GolfN app to redeem with points, or use cash and earn GolfN points back with your purchase. Use my promo code ‘btuck’ for a free month of Silver when you sign up and you could earn enough for a Rover after a couple of months of golf. DOWNLOAD