Setting up your Stitch golf bag with its dual-strap system can feel a bit counterintuitive at first, but it's actually a streamlined design once you understand its logic. It's a question many golfers have, so you're in the right place to get it sorted out. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, helping you go from a single strap to a comfortable, balanced dual-strap carry so you can focus on enjoying your walk on the course.
Understanding the Stitch Carry Philosophy
Before we attach the straps, it helps to understand why a Stitch bag feels a little different. These bags are designed with a minimalist, clean aesthetic in mind, harking back to the traditional bags carried by caddies. Most Stitch bags come standard with a single strap, which is fantastic for that classic look, hopping on and off a cart, or heading to the driving range. It's simple, quick, and fuss-free.
However, for the golfer who loves to walk 18 holes, carrying your own bag is part of the experience. That’s where the dual-strap system, which Stitch calls its Interchangeable Strap System (I.S.S.), comes in. Distributing the bag's weight across both shoulders makes walking significantly more comfortable and can even help reduce fatigue, keeping your body fresh for that back nine push. The genius of the Stitch design is that you don't have to choose - you can swap between a single strap and double straps depending on your plans for the day. This article is all about making that swap to the double straps as easy as possible.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Attaching Your Dual Straps
Let's get down to the business of putting those straps on. The process is straightforward and should only take a couple of minutes once you know where everything goes. The key is understanding that Stitch generally uses an elegant three-point attachment system, which is different from many bags that have four points of connection.
Step 1: Get Your Gear Ready
First, lay your Stitch bag down on the floor or a table so you have easy access to it. If you've just unboxed your bag, go ahead and remove the standard single strap if it's already attached, this will clear the way and avoid any confusion. Now, grab your dual-strap attachment. You'll notice it's designed in a "Y" shape. There's a primary section where both straps come together at the top, and then two individual strap ends at the bottom. Identify the clips or carabiners on each of these three ends. They're typically sturdy, high-quality metal clips that are built to last.
Step 2: Locate the Bag's Attachment Points
This is the most important part of the process. A Stitch bag (like the popular SL1 or SL2 models) is built for strength and simplicity, so it doesn't have loops and rings hanging everywhere. You are looking for three specific points:
- The Top Attachment Point: Look near the very top of your bag, right by the main grab handle and the bag's top cuff. You will find a single, robust metal ring or loop. This is your anchor point for the entire strap system. It's built to handle the majority of the bag's weight.
- The Lower Attachment Point(s): Now, look down the spine of the bag. About two-thirds of the way down, you'll find a second metal D-ring. On most Stitch models, there is only one lower attachment point. This is by design. Some newer or different models might have two separate points, but the a single lower ring is far more common. This is the spot that trips most people up, as we’re usually programmed to look for two separate lower clips.
Step 3: Connecting the Top of the Dual Strap
Grab your dual-strap harness and find the single clip located at the top of the "Y" section, where the two shoulder straps merge. This is the main connection point.
Take this clip and fasten it securely to the top metal ring you identified next to the grab handle. You should hear a distinct and satisfying "click" as the carabiner gate closes. It's good practice to give it a little jiggle or a light tug to confirm it's locked in place. The entire system hangs from this point, so you want to be positive it's secure before you load it onto your shoulders.
Step 4: Securing the Bottom Straps
Now for the part that's unique to Stitch. Take the two remaining strap ends and connect them to the single lower D-ring on the bag's spine. Yes, both clips attach to the exact same point.
It can feel a bit odd initially, but this three-point tripod design is what allows the bag to sit so stably andcomfortably against your back, preventing it from swaying or shifting too much as you walk. When properly attached, the two lower straps should form a neat "V" shape leading down to that single anchor point. You’ve now successfully installed the dual straps!
Step 5: Adjusting for a Comfortable, Professional Fit
Attaching the straps is half the battle, the other half is adjusting them for a proper fit. Carrying a poorly adjusted bag is uncomfortable and can even throw off your posture. Here's how to dial it in like a pro:
- Position it High on Your Back: A golf bag should sit fairly high on your back, centered neatly between your shoulder blades. It shouldn't be slumping down toward your lower back. When you pick up the bag and put it on, the top cuff should rest just below your neck.
- Tweak the Strap Length: Put the bag on both shoulders and stand up straight. How does it feel? Is one shoulder taking more weight than the other? Use the adjustment buckles on each strap to either lengthen or shorten them. Make small adjustments, one strap at a time, until the weight feels evenly distributed and the bag is snug against your back. You want it secure but not so tight that it restricts your movement.
- Check the Balance: Walk a few paces. The bag shouldn't rock excessively or feel like it’s pulling you backward. A well-adjusted bag moves with you, almost like a part of your body. Take your time with this step - a few minutes spent on adjustment here pays off over 18 holes of walking.
Pro Tips for Carrying Your Stitch Bag
Once your straps are attached and adjusted, keep these simple coaching tips in mind to make your experience even better.
Tip 1: Balance Your Clubs
How you arrange your clubs in the bag has a big impact on how it carries. As a general rule, place your longer clubs (driver, woods, hybrids) in the top sections, closer to the straps, and your shorter clubs (wedges and putter) in the bottom sections. This helps keep the bag's center of gravity stable and prevents it from feeling "top-heavy" and wanting to tip over.
Tip 2: Practice the On-and-Off
Getting a dual-strap bag on can feel awkward at first. Try this technique: with the bag standing upright, slide your right arm through the right strap, then slightly bend forward and swing the bag around so you can easily slide your left arm through the left strap. It becomes a smooth, fluid motion with a little practice and is much better for your back than awkwardly trying to lift and twist at the same time.
Tip 3: The Pre-Round Check
Make it a habit to give your strap clips a quick check before you head to the first tee. Just a quick glance and a gentle pull to make sure everything is secure can give you peace of mind and prevent any mid-fairway mishaps. It’s a simple two-second check that’s well worth it.
Final Thoughts
Turning your Stitch bag into a comfortable walking companion is all about understanding its unique three-point strap system. Once you see how the 'Y' strap connects to the single top ring and the two lower straps anchor to the single bottom ring, the setup becomes simple, and the balanced, secure feel on your back makes perfect sense.
Thinking through the small details, like a well-adjusted strap, is a simple way to remove distractions and play with more confidence and enjoyment. For those moments on the course when you face a challenge that goes beyond your equipment - like deciding on the right club for a tricky yardage or how to play out of a tough lie - our Caddie AI works the same way. We offer instant, on-demand strategic advice and answers to your golf questions, 24/7. Whether it’s course management, a rules query, or help analyzing a tough shot, you have an expert opinion right in your pocket to help you feel more certain over every shot.