Not All Push Carts Are Created Equal
Deciding to walk the course is a big step. And finding the right push cart is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when making that switch. It’s not just about getting your clubs from tee to green. It’s about comfort, convenience and making walking something you actually enjoy doing round after round.
As a push cart company, we’ve seen firsthand how the right cart can make all the difference (and how easy it is to overlook a detail that ends up driving you crazy halfway through your first round). Do you need a cart that’s light enough to lift in and out of your trunk without a second thought? One with enough storage to make up for all the riding cart real estate you’re leaving behind? More stability for those hilly courses you love to play? It all depends on your game and how you play.
This guide breaks down what actually matters when choosing a push cart, based on years of experience, feedback from thousands of golfers and plenty of walking rounds ourselves. The goal? To help you find the cart that fits your walk, your routine and your round.
3 Wheels vs. 4 Wheels: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start from the ground up. Most push carts come in either 3-wheel or 4-wheel setups. While 3-wheel models are more popular, both have their place depending on your needs.
3-wheel carts are typically lighter and easier to steer. They’re great for golfers who walk tighter courses with narrow paths or frequent turns.
4-wheel carts offer more stability, especially if you play on hilly terrain or carry a heavier bag. But with that extra wheel comes more bulk—these carts usually take up more space when folded and aren’t as compact.
To figure out which is best for you, ask yourself:
- What kind of terrain do I usually walk?
- How large or heavy is my bag?
- Do I prioritize tight turns and quick steering or all-out stability?
Some quick rules of thumb:
- Hilly home course? Go 4-wheel.
- Compact car or tight storage space? Go 3-wheel.
- Carry a massive, fully loaded bag? 4-wheel.
- Play tight courses with small bridges and narrow walkways? 3-wheel.
Weight: How Much Is Too Much?
Every pound matters. A cart that’s too heavy becomes a chore, whether you’re lifting it into your trunk or pushing it uphill on the back nine.
While a few extra pounds might not seem like a big deal at first, heavier carts increase resistance as you walk. That extra effort adds up over the course of 18 holes, leading to more fatigue, potential back strain and even a subtle impact on your swing.
Our magic number? Keep it under 20 pounds.
Anything above that can start to create issues with maneuverability and energy drain. And if it’s heavier than 20 pounds, it really should be an electric cart with battery support to justify the extra weight.
Fold Size: Storage Space Is Critical
Your cart isn’t staying at the course; it’s coming home with you. It’ll live in your trunk, garage, closet or shed, and sometimes all of the above. If it doesn’t fold down small enough, it’s going to be in your way.
Also important: it’s not just your push cart you’re packing. You’re also bringing your golf bag, shoes and whatever else has taken up permanent residence in your trunk. A bulky cart can easily become the reason you slam your trunk shut with a little too much force, and your clubs don't deserve that.
Think about:
- Where you’ll store it between rounds
- How much space your car/trunk/life allows
- How often you need to move it around
For city golfers, sedan drivers or anyone in a smaller space, compact folding matters. That’s why we designed carts like the Slimfold, which fits easily in lockers and offers a specially designed carry bag for transit. Or the Compact 3, where the front wheel folds into the body to minimize its footprint. (There’s even a Reddit post showing it fit inside a frunk.)
Setup Speed: Time > Frustration
Some carts are over-engineered to the point where you need a manual or a YouTube video to figure out how to set them up. Multiple levers, locks, awkward steps... it’s a lot to deal with just to get walking.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Modern carts have caught up with modern expectations. There are models now that open in seconds. Why spend five minutes unfolding something before every round when you could be warming up or grabbing a snack?
Look for carts that open in two steps or fewer.
We may be biased, but we built the Nitron push cart specifically to solve this problem. It uses nitrogen-powered pistons to spring open automatically. No clicks, no locks, no levers. Just simplicity and ease that makes users immediately see why it's the #1 cart in golf.
Storage Features: Fit Everything
Storage might be the most overlooked (and most important) factor when switching from riding to walking.
On a riding cart, there’s space for everything from your drinks, your phone, your rangefinder, your jacket and your wallet. When you walk, all of that now needs a new home.
Look for a push cart with:
- A console that fits your phone, balls and tees
- Secure cupholders (not the kind that dangle and break)
- An umbrella holder for shade or sudden rain
- Magnetic mounts for rangefinders, speakers, towels and more
Also think about long-term needs. Many golfers eventually want to customize their setup and maybe add a cooler bag, fan, seat or umbrella extension. The cart brand you pick now will define what accessories are compatible down the road.
Pro tip: Not all accessories are universal, so check that your cart brand offers the add-ons you think you’re going to want later.
Conclusion: Find What Fits Your Game
Picking a push cart isn’t always easy, but it is simple. Think about how you play, where you play and how often. Then choose a cart that meets those needs.
Whether you prioritize light weight, compact fold, setup speed or storage space, the right cart will make walking the course a whole lot more enjoyable—and something you’ll want to keep doing.
Still not sure? Check out this article discussing What to Look for in a Golf Push Cart.
