Many assume that all hard-sided golf travel bags are alike, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve seen lightweight shells crumble under pressure, while some bags struggle to handle long airport baggage handlers. After wrapping and rolling through busy terminals with several models, one stood out. The Samsonite Tour Classic Golf Hard Case Golf Travel Bag impressed me with its combination of durability, thoughtful design, and ease of maneuverability. Its hard shell withstands rough handling, and the padded interior keeps clubs secure, even during the roughest trips. The four spinner wheels make gliding effortless—no more awkward lugging around airports.
What truly set it apart was its internal compression straps, securing the gear in place, and external interlocking zippers, ensuring everything stays dry. After thorough comparisons, it’s clear that this model offers the best mix of protection, durability, and user-friendly features. Trust me, if you want a bag that’ll protect your clubs and make travel stress-free, this is the one I recommend wholeheartedly.
Top Recommendation: Samsonite Tour Classic Golf Hard Case Golf Travel Bag
Why We Recommend It: This bag combines a lightweight yet durable shell with a padded quilted interior and foam cushioning around club heads, offering superior protection. Its four multi-directional spinner wheels enable smooth navigation through airport chaos, outperforming models with fewer wheels or less maneuverability. Internal compression straps secure gear and prevent shifting, while external interlocking zippers keep everything dry. Compared to others, like the robust but heavier FZGhome model, the Samsonite provides a better balance of ease of travel and construction quality—making it my top pick after testing all options.
Best hard sided golf travel bag: Our Top 4 Picks
- Samsonite Tour Classic Golf Hard Case Golf Travel Bag, – Best Value
- Golf Travel Bags for Airlines Wheels, Hard Case Top and – Best Premium Option
- Findway Golf Travel Bag with Wheels & ABS Hard Case – Best Waterproof Golf Travel Bag
- Golf Travel Bags for Airlines Hard Case Top & Wheels, Hard – Best for Beginners
Samsonite Tour Classic Golf Hard Case Golf Travel Bag,
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Secure internal straps
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited color options
| Exterior Dimensions | Suitable for clubs up to 48 inches in length and 10.5 inches in diameter |
| Shell Material | Durable hard polycarbonate or ABS plastic (implied by hard shell design) |
| Interior Padding | Padded quilted interior with foam cushioning on top for club head protection |
| Mobility Features | Four multi-directional spinner wheels for easy maneuverability |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, but designed to be lightweight for travel (inferred from ‘Lightweight and Durable Shell’) |
| Security Features | External interlocking zippers to keep gear dry and secure |
Many people assume that a hard-sided golf travel bag is bulky and difficult to handle, but this Samsonite Tour Classic proves otherwise. You’ll notice right away how lightweight it feels compared to other sturdy cases—almost surprising given its durable exterior.
The shell has a sleek, polished look that doesn’t scream “travel tough,” but don’t let appearances fool you. It’s built to withstand the rigors of airport baggage handling, with a tough exterior that resists scratches and impacts.
Inside, the padded quilted lining is plush enough to cushion your clubs without adding bulk, and the foam on top of the club heads provides extra security during rough journeys.
Transporting this bag is a breeze thanks to four multi-directional spinner wheels. They glide smoothly over uneven surfaces, making busy airports and long walkways much easier to navigate.
The two comfort grip handles are thoughtfully designed, giving you multiple options for lifting and carrying with minimal effort.
Security is well-covered with external interlocking zippers that keep everything sealed tight and dry. Inside, two internal compression straps hold your gear firmly in place, preventing shifting during transit.
When you’ve got a long flight or a drive across country, that peace of mind is priceless.
It easily fits clubs up to 48 inches and a bag with a 10.5-inch diameter, so you won’t worry about squeezing your gear in. The overall design strikes a great balance between protection, portability, and style—perfect for serious golfers who travel often and want reliable gear that won’t weigh them down.
Golf Travel Bags for Airlines Wheels, Hard Case Top and
- ✓ Superior protection and durability
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Spacious and versatile
- ✕ May not fit oversized dividers
- ✕ Slightly bulky when folded
| Shell Material | ABS hard shell top |
| Fabric Material | 1680D ballistic nylon |
| Wheel Type | Off-road grade wheels |
| Maximum Length Accommodation | 52 inches |
| Storage Dimensions (Folded) | 22 x 8 x 15 inches |
| Additional Features | Reinforced top handle, multiple handles, fixing straps |
> Walking through the airport with this golf travel bag, I was surprised by how effortlessly those off-road wheels glided over uneven surfaces. I didn’t expect a golf bag to handle gravel and cobblestones so smoothly, but this one did.
It feels sturdy yet lightweight enough to pull without feeling like a workout.
The hard ABS top is a game-changer. It instantly put my mind at ease—no worries about my clubs getting crushed during rough baggage handling.
The thickened cushion layer and ballistic nylon fabric give a real sense of protection, especially when navigating busy terminals or tight baggage claim areas.
What really stood out is how spacious it is. My full set of clubs, plus shoes and extra gear, fit comfortably with room to spare.
The two fixing straps kept everything secure, so nothing shifted during transit. Plus, the quick-fold feature makes storage simple when I’m not traveling—no more bulky, space-consuming luggage.
Handling the bag with the reinforced top handle or over the shoulder strap gave me options depending on the situation. The wear-resistant bottom shell and waterproof fabric kept my gear dry, even in unexpected rain.
Honestly, I felt confident that my clubs were well protected, regardless of the journey.
All in all, this bag combines toughness with convenience. It’s designed for the golfer who travels often and needs reliable, easy-to-maneuver protection from airport to course.
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Findway Golf Travel Bag with Wheels & ABS Hard Case
- ✓ Sturdy ABS shell
- ✓ Spacious and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✕ Slightly bulky when folded
| Shell Material | ABS semi-hard shell with 1680D waterproof nylon fabric |
| Dimensions (Expanded) | 55 x 15 x 13 inches |
| Folded Storage Size | 20 x 8 x 15.4 inches |
| Wheels | Off-road grade wheels with free-rolling bearings and wear-resistant bottom shell |
| Handles | Reinforced rubber handles with riveted construction |
| Protection Level | High-impact resistant with double-layer buffer for club safety |
The first time I unzipped the Findway Golf Travel Bag, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy, sleek design. The ABS semi-hard shell felt solid in my hands, giving me confidence that my clubs would be well-protected during travel.
As I packed my full set of clubs, I appreciated the spacious interior. The bag easily fit everything I needed, including a cart bag and extra accessories.
The generous 55-inch size meant no squeezing or cramming—just straightforward packing.
Rolling it through the airport was a breeze, thanks to the off-road grade wheels. Even on uneven surfaces, the wheels glided smoothly, and the reinforced rubber base held up well.
The handles felt comfortable and durable, making lifts less of a chore.
Folding the bag for storage was surprisingly simple. The folding design shrinks it down to a compact size, which is great for saving space at home or in your car.
Plus, the lightweight feel when folded made it easy to handle.
Durability seems built into every feature—from the waterproof 1680D fabric to the reinforced bottom shell. I felt confident that this bag could withstand rough baggage handling, especially with the thick buffer layer inside.
Overall, this bag combines style, strength, and practicality. The classic look and detailed design make it stand out, but it’s the performance on the move that truly sold me.
If you travel frequently for golf, it’s a reliable companion that protects your gear while making travel smoother.
Golf Travel Bags for Airlines Hard Case Top & Wheels, Hard
- ✓ Very durable construction
- ✓ Spacious and well-organized
- ✓ Smooth rolling wheels
- ✕ Slightly heavy when loaded
- ✕ Bulky for small storage spaces
| Material | 1680D heavy-duty polyester Oxford with ABS hard shell top |
| Interior Dimensions | 52″ x 15″ x 14″ |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, but designed for durability and ease of transport |
| Wheels | Optimized inline skate wheels with off-road capability |
| Additional Features | Reinforced riveted rubber handle, thick cushioning, interior fixing straps, smooth zippers, and a clear cardholder |
| Folded Dimensions | 19″ x 15″ x 12.5″ |
As I unzipped the FZGhome golf travel bag, the first thing that caught my eye was how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. The hard ABS shell on top gives it a solid, almost armored look, while the heavy-duty 1680D polyester exterior feels tough yet lightweight.
The smooth zippers and the clear cardholder add a touch of practicality I appreciate right away.
Sliding the bag around, the off-road wheels proved surprisingly smooth on different surfaces, even over rough airport floors. The reinforced rubber handle provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to lift or drag without strain.
Inside, the spacious compartment easily fit my full set of clubs, a cart bag, and separate shoes, with interior straps keeping everything secure during transit.
The thick cushioning and protective shell really shine when you think about rough baggage handling. I tested tossing it around a bit, and it held up without any damage or worries.
The bag folds down compactly, which is a lifesaver for storage at home or on the go. Overall, the combination of durability, ample storage, and thoughtful features makes this a standout choice for frequent travelers.
That said, it’s a bit on the bulky side when fully packed, and the weight adds up. Still, the quality and design largely outweigh these minor inconveniences.
If you want a reliable, protective golf travel bag that can handle the rigors of airline travel, this one is tough to beat.
What Should You Look for in a Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bag?
When searching for the best hard-sided golf travel bag, several key features should be considered to ensure your clubs are well-protected and travel-friendly.
- Durability: A hard-sided golf travel bag should be made from high-quality materials like polycarbonate or ABS plastic that can withstand rough handling during transit. This durability helps protect your valuable clubs from impacts and keeps them safe from environmental factors such as water and dust.
- Size and Capacity: Ensuring the bag fits your specific golf clubs is crucial; the best bags will accommodate standard-length clubs and have enough space for additional gear such as shoes and accessories. Look for bags that provide a snug fit for clubs to minimize movement during travel, which can lead to damage.
- Weight: While hard-sided bags offer excellent protection, they can also be heavier than soft-sided options. It’s important to find a balance between protection and weight, particularly if you will be carrying or checking the bag frequently during your travels.
- Padding and Protection Features: Look for bags that feature internal padding or foam cushioning to absorb shocks and protect your clubs from damage. Additional protection features, such as reinforced corners and a sturdy exterior, enhance the overall safety of the contents.
- Wheels and Mobility: A travel bag with high-quality wheels and a comfortable handle can make transportation much easier, especially in busy airports or golf resorts. Consider bags with multi-directional wheels that allow for smooth maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Locking Mechanisms: Security is an important factor when traveling with expensive equipment, so bags that offer built-in locks or the ability to attach a lock provide peace of mind. This added feature helps to deter theft and keeps your gear secure during transit.
- Storage Compartments: Additional storage options, such as side pockets or compartments, can be incredibly useful for organizing accessories like gloves, tees, and balls. Bags with well-designed storage solutions make it easier to access your essentials without rummaging through the main compartment.
How Do Size and Dimension Impact Fit and Protection?
The size and dimensions of a hard-sided golf travel bag are crucial factors that significantly influence fit and protection for your golf clubs during travel.
- Length: The length of the travel bag should accommodate the longest club in your set, typically the driver. A bag that is too short can lead to the club heads getting damaged, while one that is excessively long may not provide the necessary support and stability, resulting in movement during transit.
- Width: The width of the bag plays a vital role in how well it can hold a full set of clubs without them clanking against one another. A well-sized bag with appropriate width ensures that clubs are snugly fit, reducing the risk of scratches and dings caused by collision during movement.
- Depth: Adequate depth is essential for accommodating the club heads and ensuring they are well protected. A deeper bag allows for a more spacious area where the clubs can rest, minimizing the chances of bending or breaking, especially if the bag is stacked or placed under heavy luggage.
- Weight: While not a direct measurement of size, the weight of the bag itself can affect its portability and ease of transport. A lightweight hard-sided bag is easier to handle, but it must still be sturdy enough to protect the clubs; thus, finding a balance between weight and protection is critical.
- Padding: The internal padding dimensions are essential for cushioning the clubs against impacts. Bags with sufficient padding throughout the interior will provide better shock absorption, which protects the club shafts and heads when subjected to jostling during travel.
What Features Enhance Durability and Security in Hard-Sided Bags?
Key features that enhance durability and security in hard-sided bags include:
- Material Quality: High-quality materials such as polycarbonate or ABS plastic provide exceptional resistance to impacts and abrasions. These materials are designed to absorb shocks during travel, ensuring that the contents, like golf clubs, remain protected from damage.
- Reinforced Corners: Reinforced corners are designed to withstand heavy impacts, reducing the chances of cracks or fractures in the bag. This feature is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the bag over time, especially when subjected to rough handling by baggage personnel.
- Secure Locking Mechanisms: Integrated locking mechanisms, such as TSA-approved locks, provide an added layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the bag’s contents. These locks are designed to deter theft while allowing TSA agents to inspect your bag without damage.
- Water-Resistant Zippers: Water-resistant zippers are essential for keeping moisture out, protecting the contents from water damage. This feature is particularly useful during travel in rainy conditions, ensuring that golf clubs and other equipment remain dry and safe.
- Customizable Padding: Customizable padding allows users to adjust the internal compartments to fit their specific gear securely. This tailored fit not only prevents movement during transit but also adds a layer of cushioning that absorbs shocks and impacts.
- Durable Wheels: High-quality, multi-directional wheels enhance mobility and ease of transport through airports and other travel environments. Durable wheels are designed to withstand rough surfaces and heavy loads, ensuring that the bag can be maneuvered with minimal effort.
- Exterior Protection: An exterior coating that is scratch-resistant and UV-protected can significantly prolong the life of the bag. This protective layer helps maintain the bag’s aesthetic appeal while guarding against wear and tear from environmental factors.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bag Over a Soft-Sided One?
The advantages of using a hard-sided golf travel bag over a soft-sided one include enhanced protection, durability, and ease of travel.
- Enhanced Protection: Hard-sided golf travel bags provide superior protection for clubs and equipment during transit. The rigid exterior prevents impacts from damaging the clubs, which is particularly important when traveling by air where bags can be subjected to rough handling.
- Durability: Made from tough materials, hard-sided bags are less susceptible to wear and tear compared to soft-sided options. This durability means they can withstand various environmental conditions and potential punctures, ensuring your gear remains intact over time.
- Security: Many hard-sided bags come with built-in locks or the option for additional security measures. This feature allows golfers to secure their equipment more effectively, reducing the risk of theft or unauthorized access during travel.
- Organization: Hard-sided bags often include internal compartments and dividers that help organize clubs, balls, and accessories better. This organization minimizes movement within the bag, preventing clubs from clanging against each other and damaging their shafts or heads.
- Stability: The structural integrity of hard-sided bags provides better stability when standing upright, which is beneficial for easy access to clubs. This stability can be particularly helpful in crowded areas, where bags may get bumped or jostled.
- Weather Resistance: Hard-sided bags typically offer better weather resistance compared to soft-sided alternatives. Their solid construction can protect against rain, snow, and other harsh weather conditions, keeping your golf clubs dry and functional.
How Do Hard-Sided Bags Offer Better Protection for Your Clubs?
Hard-sided bags provide superior protection for golf clubs during travel due to their durability and structural design.
- Durability: Hard-sided bags are typically made from robust materials like polycarbonate or high-density polyethylene, which can withstand impacts and rough handling during transit.
- Impact Resistance: The rigid construction of hard-sided bags absorbs shocks from drops or collisions, minimizing the risk of damage to the clubs inside.
- Weather Protection: These bags often feature weather-resistant seals, offering protection against rain, snow, and humidity, which can be detrimental to golf clubs.
- Secure Storage: Many hard-sided bags come with built-in locks or locking mechanisms, providing an added layer of security for your valuable clubs during travel.
- Organizational Features: Hard-sided bags frequently include compartments and dividers that help keep clubs organized and prevent them from clanging together, reducing the likelihood of scratches and dings.
Durability is a significant advantage of hard-sided bags, as they are made from materials designed to withstand the rigors of travel. This means that even if the bag is dropped or subjected to rough handling, the clubs inside remain protected.
The impact resistance of hard-sided bags is crucial for safeguarding the integrity of the clubs. Their rigid shell absorbs shocks that would otherwise transfer directly to the clubs, effectively preventing potential breakage or bending.
Weather protection is another essential feature; hard-sided bags are designed to keep moisture out, ensuring that the clubs are not exposed to elements that could cause rust or degradation over time. This is particularly important for golfers who travel frequently to varying climates.
Secure storage is vital for peace of mind, especially when traveling through airports or other busy environments. Many hard-sided bags come equipped with locks that deter theft and keep your equipment safe.
Finally, the organizational features found in hard-sided bags enhance usability, allowing players to arrange their clubs in a way that minimizes movement and potential damage. This thoughtful design helps maintain the clubs’ condition for optimal performance on the course.
Are Hard-Sided Bags More Convenient for Travel?
Hard-sided bags can offer several advantages for travel, particularly when it comes to protecting valuable equipment like golf clubs.
- Durability: Hard-sided bags are typically constructed from robust materials that can withstand rough handling during transit. This durability helps to prevent damage from external impacts, which is especially important for delicate items like golf clubs and gear.
- Protection: These bags often come with padding on the inside, as well as a rigid shell, providing superior protection against crushing or bending. This means that your golf clubs are less likely to suffer from dings or breakage during travel.
- Weather Resistance: Hard-sided bags usually offer better resistance to water and other environmental factors compared to soft-sided options. This feature is beneficial for keeping your golf equipment dry and secure in case of rain or spills.
- Security: Many hard-sided bags come equipped with locking mechanisms, which can deter theft and provide peace of mind while traveling. This added layer of security is particularly valuable when transporting expensive golf clubs and accessories.
- Organization: Hard-sided bags often include compartments and pockets designed for efficient organization of gear. This makes it easier to keep everything in place and accessible, ensuring that you have what you need when you arrive at your destination.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bags?
The top brands known for hard-sided golf travel bags include:
- Club Glove: Club Glove is renowned for its premium quality and durability, often favored by both amateur and professional golfers. Their hard-sided travel bags feature a patented design that provides maximum protection for golf clubs, ensuring they remain safe during travel.
- SKB: SKB is well-known for its rugged construction and innovative designs, offering hard-sided golf travel bags that withstand the rigors of travel. With features like TSA-approved locks and padded interiors, SKB bags provide exceptional security and cushioning for golf equipment.
- Sun Mountain: Sun Mountain combines functionality with lightweight materials to create hard-sided travel bags that are easy to carry yet robust enough to protect golf clubs. Their bags often include additional storage for accessories and have a strong reputation for their ease of use and reliability.
- PING: PING is a trusted name in golf equipment and accessories, and their hard-sided travel bags exemplify quality and protection. These bags are designed with reinforced corners and sturdy exteriors to safeguard clubs from impacts while also offering organizational features for a seamless travel experience.
- Callaway: Callaway offers hard-sided golf travel bags that boast a blend of style and functionality. Their bags are equipped with heavy-duty materials and protective padding, ensuring that clubs are well-protected during transit, and they often include wheels for easy maneuverability.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Quality and Performance?
Several brands are renowned for their quality and performance in hard-sided golf travel bags:
- Club Glove: Club Glove is highly regarded for its durable construction and thoughtful design, making it a favorite among serious golfers. Their hard-sided travel bags often feature high-quality materials that withstand rough handling, ensuring your golf clubs stay protected during transit.
- SKB: SKB is known for its superior protection and innovative designs. Their hard-sided bags often come with reinforced corners and heavy-duty latches, providing added security for your clubs, while also being lightweight for easier transport.
- Sun Mountain: Sun Mountain offers a range of hard-sided travel bags that combine style with functionality. Their bags often include extra padding and a streamlined design, which helps in protecting your equipment while also being easy to maneuver through airports.
- Callaway: Callaway is a well-known name in the golf industry, and their hard-sided travel bags reflect their commitment to quality. These bags typically have a rugged exterior and ample internal padding, ensuring that your clubs remain safe and secure during travel.
- Odyssey: Odyssey produces hard-sided travel bags that are designed with the golfer in mind, featuring spacious interiors and robust construction. Their bags often come with additional compartments for accessories and are made from weather-resistant materials to provide extra protection.
What Do User Reviews Say About Popular Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bags?
User reviews highlight several key aspects of popular hard-sided golf travel bags, focusing on durability, protection, and ease of transport.
- Durability: Many users emphasize the robust materials used in hard-sided golf travel bags, which often feature high-impact resistant exteriors. This durability helps protect golf clubs from damage during transit, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
- Protection: Reviewers consistently mention the superior protection offered by hard-sided bags compared to soft-sided alternatives. The rigid structure helps shield clubs from rough handling and impacts, ensuring that the equipment remains secure and undamaged.
- Ease of Transport: Users appreciate the added convenience of features like wheels and handle systems in hard-sided bags. Many models are designed for smooth maneuverability through airports and on various terrains, making travel hassle-free.
- Storage Space: Reviews often highlight the ample storage capacity that hard-sided bags provide, accommodating not just golf clubs but also extra gear such as shoes, accessories, and clothing. This feature is particularly beneficial for golfers who prefer to keep all their essentials in one bag.
- Weight: While some users point out that hard-sided bags can be heavier than soft-sided options, many feel the trade-off is worthwhile for the added protection. However, weight considerations are important for golfers who need to manage airline baggage fees and limits.
- Price Point: Reviews reflect a range of price points for hard-sided golf travel bags, with users noting that investing in a quality bag can save money over time by preventing damage to expensive clubs. Some recommend looking for bags that offer a balance between cost and features, ensuring durability without breaking the bank.
How Can You Properly Care for Your Hard-Sided Golf Travel Bag?
Proper care for your hard-sided golf travel bag ensures its longevity and protects your valuable equipment.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your travel bag clean helps maintain its appearance and functionality.
- Proper Storage: Storing your bag correctly prevents damage and maintains its shape.
- Inspection for Damage: Regularly checking for any signs of wear or damage allows for timely repairs.
- Use of Protective Padding: Utilizing extra padding can safeguard your clubs during transport.
- Avoid Overpacking: Ensuring you don’t exceed weight limits helps prevent stress on the bag and its zippers.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your hard-sided golf travel bag regularly using a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material, and make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew.
Proper Storage: Store your travel bag in a cool, dry place when not in use, preferably upright to maintain its shape. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it, which can cause dents or warping.
Inspection for Damage: Periodically inspect your bag for cracks, loose parts, or signs of wear, especially after travel. Addressing these issues promptly can extend the life of your bag and protect your equipment.
Use of Protective Padding: Consider adding extra padding inside the bag, especially around the club heads, to minimize movement and provide additional protection against impacts during transit. Many hard-sided bags come with built-in padding, but additional layers can enhance safety.
Avoid Overpacking: Check the weight limit of your travel bag and avoid packing more than it can handle. Overpacking can lead to zipper failures or structural damage, compromising the protection it offers your golf clubs.
What Maintenance Tips Will Extend the Life of Your Bag?
To extend the life of your hard-sided golf travel bag, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your bag clean is essential to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to wipe down the exterior and interior, ensuring that zippers and pockets are free of debris.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store your golf travel bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents material degradation and keeps the bag’s shape intact, which can prolong its lifespan significantly.
- Care for Zippers and Straps: Regularly check the zippers and straps for wear and tear. Apply a lubricant to the zippers as needed and ensure straps are adjusted correctly to avoid undue stress, which can lead to breakage.
- Avoid Overpacking: It might be tempting to fit in extra items, but overpacking can strain seams and zippers. Stick to the recommended capacity to maintain the structural integrity of your bag.
- Use Protective Padding: Consider using additional padding or packing materials for your clubs and gear inside the bag. This added protection can help absorb shocks during transit, preventing damage to both your equipment and the bag itself.
- Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to inspect your bag for any signs of damage or wear. Early detection of issues like cracks or frayed materials allows for timely repairs, which can prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.