50 Words or Less
The Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 golf bag is designed for golfers who enjoy walking. Lightweight yet full-featured. New base design aids functionality and stability. 14 colorways.
Introduction
One reason I’ve been a big fan of Sun Mountain golf bags for many, many years is the company’s history of making great products better. Reading Matt Saternus’s proclamation that the Eclipse E-3.5 golf bag [review HERE] was “one of the best, most versatile bags that I’ve tested,” I knew Sun Mountain was staying true to their heritage. Realizing it had been several years since I tested a Sun Mountain bag, I decided to put the lighter weight Eclipse E-2.5 through the paces.
Looks
The Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 stand bag has a sleek, clean look. The black trim against the white fabric offers visual interest while highlighting the touch points. For those that prefer particular colors, the Eclipse E-2.5 comes in an impressive 14 colorways. There are even a couple variations with a touch of flair.
I was happy to see that Sun Mountain designers kept branding relatively subdued. Two “Sun Mountain” graphics clearly identify the brand at the main lift handle, while mountain logos appear in several locations around the bag – including the legs.
Features
If you’re familiar with Sun Mountain designations you’ll know that 2.5 represents the slimmer, lighter version of a model series. That holds true with the Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5, yet they did an incredible job retaining almost all the features of the larger Eclipse E-3.5.
As you’d expect, the pocket count is two less at 9 total, which includes 2 elasticized internal pockets. Of the latter, the pocket inside the front ball pocket was great for storing tees and ball markers – no more digging under balls to find them. The second internal pocket is in the decently sized apparel side pocket. The opening on this pocket is oriented towards the front making it a bit untrustworthy for heavier, small objects. I did find it useful for storing my FootJoy rain gloves.
A few other features deserve recognition. The first is the magnetic closure, velour lined pocket on the front above the ball pocket – great for my rangefinder. Second is the key lanyard inside the apparel pocket – I love the “GO OUTSIDE” message. Third is the umbrella sleeve that kept my umbrella neatly tucked and secure. And finally, the two differently sized accessory loops that offer plenty of options – including drying out a couple of golf gloves.
Performance
I found the Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 wonderfully suited to walking and more than adequate for strapping into a golf cart or push cart. There are several design elements that produce those scenarios, and I’ll start with the opening. Each segment of the 4-way top is full length divided. The divider top edges are only lightly padded, but I liked the rugged feel of the duratech mesh fabric for longevity.
The 7.5” wide x 7” deep top opening provided a cozy fit for my 13 club setup. Pulling a club was generally unencumbered with an occasional friction grab between adjacent grips. Any interference returning a club to the Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 was remedied when I lifted the bag. With a full complement of 14 clubs, the bag is still functional but crowded. For my liking, the ideal setup would be 3 clubs or less per section for a maximum of 12 clubs.
The X-Fit dual strap system was easily adjusted, and the central hub, which rotates and allows straps to pass through freely, kept the Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 well balanced. The padding on the straps was thick yet firm and felt comfortable on my shoulders. It’s been summer swelter hot during my testing and the fabric mesh seemed more breathable than others I’ve tested. I had the same thoughts regarding the similar padding/fabric on the hip section.
The Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 leg system worked flawlessly. To engage the legs, you press down on the front edge of the base instead of an external foot. This hinged bottom system is what Sun Mountain calls the Internal Compression Bottom. The large area of the base remains in contact with the ground with the legs extended and adds to the excellent stability of the bag. When I picked the bag up by the straps or handles, the sturdy legs retracted quickly and completely.
Speaking of handles – they are well positioned and thoughtfully designed. The rigid handle at the top of the Eclipse E-2.5 has a slight angle to it and ridges on the inside to facilitate lifting. The handle on the spine looks solid, but it actually has some flexibility, which my fingers appreciated during maneuvering. And kudos to the designers who placed a seemingly simple webbing handle under the ball pocket to assist with loading in and out of a trunk.
Conclusion
Weighing in just over 4 lbs., the Sun Mountain Eclipse E-2.5 is a golf bag regular walkers can appreciate. The straps are comfortable and legs reliable. The Eclipse E-2.5 offers plenty of options for storage and the well-executed design is rich with helpful features. Even the zipper pulls are designed to make the journey around the golf course more enjoyable. There’s a reason Sun Mountain has been an industry leader for over 40 years – attention to details.