The Mazda Miata is a beloved sports car known for its compact size and nimble handling. While it excels in many areas, its limited cargo space has left golf enthusiasts wondering if they can squeeze their golf clubs into the trunk. In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s possible to fit golf clubs in a Miata and offer some practical tips for doing so.
The Challenge of Fitting Golf Clubs in a Miata:
The Mazda Miata is a two-seater convertible or coupe, and it’s not designed with cargo space as a top priority. The trunk of a Miata is relatively small compared to other vehicles, which makes fitting golf clubs a bit of a challenge. Golf bags and clubs can be quite long and may not easily fit in the Miata’s trunk, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Choosing the Right Golf Bag:
If you’re determined to take your Miata to the golf course, start by selecting the right golf bag. Opt for a compact and lightweight stand or carry bag rather than a bulky cart bag. These smaller bags are designed for golfers who prefer to walk the course and can be easier to fit into tight spaces.
Disassembling Your Golf Clubs:
To maximize the chances of fitting your golf clubs in a Miata, consider disassembling them. Remove the clubheads from the shafts and store them separately. Many modern golf bags have divided club compartments that can help keep your clubs organized and prevent them from getting tangled.
Rear Seat or Passenger Seat?
While the Miata’s trunk may not provide ample space for golf clubs, you can utilize the interior of the car. If you’re golfing solo, fold down the passenger seat and place the golf bag there. Be cautious with this approach, as it may obstruct your view or be uncomfortable during the drive.
Roof-Mounted Options:
Another option for Miata owners who are golf enthusiasts is to invest in a roof-mounted rack or carrier system. These racks can securely hold your golf bag and clubs, freeing up interior space. However, it’s essential to ensure that the rack is properly installed and can accommodate the size and weight of your golf bag.
Practice Loading and Unloading:
Before heading to the golf course, practice loading and unloading your golf clubs in the Miata. This will help you find the most efficient way to fit everything while avoiding damage to your clubs or the car’s interior.
Consider a Second Vehicle:
If you’re an avid golfer and frequently play with a group, it may be worth considering a second vehicle with more cargo space for your golfing gear. While the Miata is a fantastic sports car, it’s not the most practical choice for transporting golf clubs regularly.
Compact Golf Bag Options:
When choosing a golf bag for your Miata, look for features that can help you maximize space. Consider a bag with a smaller profile, fewer pockets, and less padding. While these bags may offer less protection for your clubs, they are more likely to fit in the limited trunk space of a Miata.
Choosing the Right Golf Clubs:
Golfers often carry a full set of 14 clubs, but for a day on the course with limited space in your Miata, consider paring down your club selection. Select only the clubs you’ll need for the specific course and conditions. This not only saves space but also reduces the weight you’ll need to carry.
Soft-Sided Travel Covers:
If you frequently travel with your golf clubs and own a soft-sided travel cover, you can use it to help protect your clubs and trunk space. The cover can provide an extra layer of padding and may help you fit more clubs into your Miata’s trunk while keeping them safe during transport.
Telescopic or Collapsible Clubs:
In recent years, some golf club manufacturers have introduced telescopic or collapsible club designs. These clubs can be extended to their full length when you’re on the course but can be collapsed to a more compact size for storage and transport. While they may not offer the same performance as traditional clubs, they can be a space-saving solution for Miata owners.
Loading and Unloading Tips:
When loading your golf clubs into your Miata, start with the longest clubs first and arrange them diagonally to make the most of the available space. Ensure that the bag is securely placed and won’t move around during your drive. Use towels or soft materials to pad and protect the interior of your car from potential scratches.
Roof Storage Considerations:
If you choose to go with a roof-mounted carrier, make sure to check the weight limit and installation instructions carefully. Properly securing your golf bag and clubs is crucial to avoid accidents while driving. Also, be mindful of the added height to your vehicle, especially when entering low-clearance areas.
Golf Club Types and Sizes
| Club Type | Length (inches) | Shaft Type | Loft Angle (degrees) | Clubhead Size (cc) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driver | 45 | Graphite | 10.5 | 460 |
| Iron 3 | 39 | Steel | 21 | N/A |
| Iron 7 | 37 | Steel | 34 | N/A |
| Wedge SW | 35 | Steel | 56 | N/A |
| Putter | 34 | Steel/Graphite | N/A | 330 |
| Hybrid 5 | 40 | Graphite | 25 | 250 |
| Fairway Wood | 42 | Graphite | 15 | 190 |
| Iron 9 | 36 | Steel | 46 | N/A |
| Wedge PW | 35 | Steel | 46 | N/A |
| Hybrid 3 | 41 | Graphite | 19 | 200 |
Miata Trunk Dimensions (in inches)
| Trunk Location | Length | Width | Depth | Total Volume (cubic inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trunk Floor | 45 | 36 | 15 | 24,300 |
| Trunk Width (at | ||||
| narrowest point) | 31 |
Golf Bag Sizes
| Golf Bag Type | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Height (inches) | Capacity (clubs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stand Bag | 35 | 10 | 8 | 14 |
| Cart Bag | 36 | 14 | 10 | 14-15 |
| Staff Bag | 35-36 | 9-10 | 10-11 | 14-15 |
| Carry Bag | 35-36 | 7-8 | 7-8 | 10-12 |
| Travel Bag | Varies | Varies | Varies | Multiple Sets |
Golf Club Storage Options in a Miata
| Golf Club Arrangement | Description |
|---|---|
| Horizontal Layout | Lay clubs flat in the trunk with headcovers on. |
| Vertical Layout | Stand clubs upright in the trunk using a divider. |
| Driver Removal | Remove driver and other long clubs for better fit. |
| Split Bag Approach | Split the golf bag and store it in two parts. |
| Passenger Seat | Place shorter clubs on the passenger seat with care. |
| Roof Rack | Use a roof rack or carrier for additional storage. |
Golf Club Brands and Models
| Brand | Model | Type | Length (inches) | Shaft Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Callaway | Epic Flash | Driver | 45 | Graphite |
| TaylorMade | SIM2 Max | Driver | 45.75 | Graphite |
| Titleist | T100 | Iron | 38.5 | Steel |
| Ping | G425 | Iron | 38.75 | Steel |
| Cleveland | RTX ZipCore | Wedge | 35.5 | Steel |
| Odyssey | White Hot Pro 2.0 | Putter | 33 | Steel/Graphite |
| Cobra | F-Max Airspeed | Hybrid | 39 | Graphite |
| Callaway | Mavrik | Fairway | 43 | Graphite |
| Mizuno | JPX921 | Iron | 38 | Steel |
| Titleist | Vokey SM8 | Wedge | 35.75 | Steel |
Conclusion:
Fitting golf clubs into a Mazda Miata requires careful planning, the right equipment, and some creative thinking. While it may not be the most practical choice for transporting golf gear, Miata owners can still enjoy a round of golf with some adjustments. Remember that safety, both for your clubs and your car, should be a top priority. Explore options like compact bags, collapsible clubs, or roof-mounted carriers to find the best solution that suits your needs. Ultimately, with a little ingenuity and preparation, you can hit the golf course in your beloved Miata without sacrificing your golfing passion.
