Is the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Worth $350? Well…

When I think of Sun Mountain, I think of innovation, durability, and value.

That’s been their calling card with a steady evolution of mostly stand bags and push carts. They aim to serve the golfer who wants a product that’s cutting-edge and built to last but who doesn’t want to shell out for the ultra-high-end more prestigious brands.

So what about their new Ridgeline 3 golf push cart? Does it hold the Sun Mountain line as another innovative, durable, value-driven product?

Well, first off, the Ridgeline 3 is the first golf push cart with a fully adjustable bag bracket, meaning it can easily accommodate any-sized golf bag.

Innovation? Check.

And, like everything Sun Mountain, the Ridgeline 3 is built like a tank. Solid materials. Super-smart design. Nothing at all cheap-feeling.

Durability? Check.

But this push cart retails for $349.99. That’s $60 more than their previous generation cart. And if you look around the market, I think you’ll find that $349.99 is on the high side for best golf push carts in 2024.

So, value? Let’s find out.

I’ll tell you right now that the Ridgeline 3 is a nice golf push cart. But you already knew that. After all, it’s Sun Mountain.

The question is, how nice?

I’ve used this Ridgeline cart for multiple rounds now. And, for good measure, I’ve pulled out a couple of my other golf push carts to see how it compares. Read on for my honest take on whether or not the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 holds up to its price tag.

Sun Mountain Ridgeline First Impressions: So Much More Compact

I’ve owned a Sun Mountain Speed Cart GX for about four years. And even after scoring several other push carts through my golf reviewing gig (hey, someone’s gotta do it), I still play often with that Speed Cart because it’s just so damn reliable.

But here’s the thing: The Sun Mountain Speed Cart is bulky as hell in the folded-down position. If I didn’t have a decent-sized car trunk, I think it’d present a transport issue. As it is, I never take it with me on a road trip because it just takes up too much space.

So the very first thing that struck me about the new Ridgeline 3 is how compact it is when folded. Seriously, I was like, “Is this really a Sun Mountain?!” That’s how much better the Ridgeline folds down compared to my Speed Cart.

When folded, the Ridgeline 3 transforms into a tidy 26” x 16.5” x 15” cube that weighs 18 pounds. That compact shape makes it easier to store and transport than many other push carts on the market, including the Speed Cart, which folds into a bulkier, more irregular shape.

The Ridgeline isn’t the most compact push cart I’ve come across. That distinction goes to the Big Max Blade Trio and its flat-fold design. But the Ridgeline’s folded dimensions are impressively compact enough that I think it immediately becomes a great candidate for anyone tight on trunk or storage space.

Another thing that I enjoyed upon unboxing the Ridgeline 3 is that it comes fully assembled in the box. With some carts, you’ve got to put on the wheels or handle yourself. Not with this cart. You could literally pull it out of the box in the golf course parking lot and be ready to play in about a minute.

The Ridgeline comes with an extra-large cup holder and an umbrella holder, which are both very nice accessories to find included. And there’s a knob on each side of the handle for snap-on attachment of any after-market Sun Mountain accessories.

Adjustable Bracket: Secure Fit for Any Bag

Sun Mountain’s main pitch in selling the Ridgeline 3 is that it includes a patent-pending adjustable top bag bracket that slides up and down the mainframe post so that it can securely fit any-sized golf bag. They call it Vertical Fit Technology.

If you’ve used different types of push carts with different sizes of bags, you know that this is a very welcome feature.

Some carts do great with stand bags but are a bit too small for cart bags. I’d put the Big Max Blade Trio in that category.

Other carts work very well with larger cart bags but don’t provide a snug enough fit for smaller carry bags. That’s definitely the case with the MGI Zip Navigator and MGI Ai Navigator GPS+.

With the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3, I tried both stand/carry bags and cart bags and, thanks to that adjustable top bracket, each one fit perfectly.

Now, if you only own one golf bag, does this feature really matter? I guess it does in the sense that you know if you buy the Ridgeline, you won’t have to worry about whether your bag will fit.

And I suppose it’s nice to know that your push cart is future-proof in the event that you change out golf bags. After all, with as durable as this cart is built, you can expect it to outlast your golf bag.

Another use case for the Ridgeline 3 is for a junior golfer growing into the sport. This push cart can accommodate a junior bag and will still be of use when that kid transitions into their full-size adult bag.

The top bracket adjustment is simple to operate. You just pull one lever to unlock the bracket, then slide it up or down the post until you reach your desired height, and then re-lock the bracket.

For golfers who share a cart among family members or switch between different bags, the Ridgeline 3 is definitely the cart to own. It’s the most versatile golf push cart I’ve tested.

I’m also a big fan of Sun Mountain’s new bag strap system. On both the top and bottom adjustable straps, you’ve got a very robust buckle or clasp system that makes securing your bag really easy. Older model Sun Mountain carts include bungee straps with a connecting clip that’s a lot less beefy. I really like the new style.

Rolling with Ease: The Power of EZ Glyde Wheels

The Ridgeline 3’s EZ Glyde wheels deserve special mention.

I initially thought this feature was all marketing hype. But I’ve got to say, this cart pushes smoother and with less effort than any of my other push carts. It’s noticeable in the grass and on the cart path.

The credit goes to stainless steel bearings that reduce friction so that the wheels glide smoothly without as much force required.

I’m certainly not saying this is reason enough to buy the Ridgeline 3, but I do think that you’ll appreciate an effortless roll when you’re walking 18.

The Ridgeline 3 also supposedly includes anti-tip technology. And I will say that this cart is very stable. Then again, I’d say the same about my Sun Mountain Speed Cart, so take that for what it’s worth.

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Braking System: Hand vs. Foot

There are two types of pushers in this world: Those who prefer a hand brake and those who’d rather a foot brake.

I am 100 percent in the hand brake camp. And, thankfully, the Ridgeline 3 includes a hand brake. To me, a hand brake is totally superior. It’s much easier to reach, especially if you’re trying to hit the brake quickly.

With a foot brake, you’ve got to somewhat awkwardly kick your leg out and visually search for the brake to get it engaged. With a hand brake, I can find it without even looking.

If I was shopping for a golf push cart, a hand brake would be a must. So, at least for me, score another point for the Sun Mountain Ridgeline.

Where the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 Falls Short: Mesh Pocket Design

While the Ridgeline 3 excels in many areas, it does have some drawbacks —particularly with its mesh pocket configuration.

For starters, the early-generation Sun Mountain Speed Cart that I have includes a small top mesh pocket and a large bottom mesh pocket. The bottom pocket is perfect for storing garments or larger items.

But the Ridgeline only includes the top mesh pocket. That means there’s nowhere to quickly discard something like a pullover or rain gear. Instead, you’ll have to take the extra steps of cramming them into your golf bag.

I also don’t like how the Ridgeline’s top mesh pocket is configured. The pocket opening is kind of tucked underneath the cart’s large accessory tray. It’s just not very easy to access when you’re walking behind the cart. I sometimes like to quickly reach into the pocket as I’m moving, but this design makes that impractical.

Is this a deal breaker? Of course not. But I definitely do find it annoying.

Accessories and Customization

Like with other Sun Mountain carts, the Ridgeline includes a very nice, spacious accessory tray with a flip-top lid. It’s great for storing valuables.

Another practical accessory is an included slot for your cell phone with a bungee strap to keep it locked in place. This is a nice feature if you like to have your phone screen visible and at the ready as you play. Perfect, for example, if you’re using your phone to access GPS yardages.

As I mentioned, the Ridgeline comes with a cup holder and umbrella holder. Sun Mountain also offers a range of optional accessories that are compatible with the cart, including a seat, sand/seed bottle, and cooler.

One detail that caught my attention is the hard plastic of the Ridgeline’s handle. My Sun Mountain Speed Cart’s handle is made of a more spongy material that’s definitely more prone to aging with exposure to the sun and rain. The Ridgeline handle strikes me as much more durable.

Final Ridgeline 3 Review Verdict: A Smooth Ride With a Few Minor Bumps

At $349.99, the Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 sits in the higher price range for push carts. But I’ve got to say, considering the rising prices of most everything, I think the features and performance of this cart justify its cost.

Its combination of an adjustable bag bracket, smooth-rolling wheels, and compact folding design make it a standout option.

For those golfers looking for a cart to accommodate different-sized bags, I think this may be your best option.

And if you’re tight on space, I think you’ll like the Ridgeline 3 better than previous Sun Mountain carts.

I’m annoyed by the mesh pocket situation with the Ridgeline, but that’s not too big of an issue to get over.

Do I think the Ridgeline 3 is revolutionary enough to replace the golf push cart you already own? Unless yours is one of the very specific use cases discussed, probably not. I’d bet that the Ridgeline is nicer than what you’re currently using. But not so much nicer that you need to run out and drop another $350.

But if you’re in the market for a new golf push cart, and certainly if you’re looking for a more versatile or easier-to-store option, I think the Ridgeline 3 deserves your serious consideration. Sure, it’s pricey, but I think it’s a cart you’re going to enjoy for many years.

Innovative, durable, and, yes, value-driven. With the Ridgeline 3, Sun Mountain’s done it again.

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A Top-Tier Golf Push Cart that Doesn't Reinvent the Wheel.

8.8 Great

The Sun Mountain Ridgeline 3 is one of the best golf push carts out there. It's durable, adjustable, and does everything you'd hope it would be. Is it revolutionary? Not particularly. Is it cheap? Not really. But will it do everything you need it to for many years to come? Absolutely.

The Good

1. Built like a tank
2. Practical accessories and solid hand brake system
3. Relatively compact

The Bad

1. Pricey
2. A little disappointed in storage space and options

• Presentation 9
• Performance and Quality 10
• Features 9
• Price 7
• Personal Affinity 9