Paul Gallagher takes a look at the range of electric trolleys on the market and it seems there is no shame in using them these days

There was a time when golfers' of a certain age would only pitch up on the first tee sporting an electric trolley to transport their wares around the course. Those days are now gone as golfers' of all standards, and more importantly, all ages ease the burden with a battery-powered trolley.

"There used to be a stigma, particularly among younger players, attached to using a trolley let alone a battery operated one," explains Ross Methven from the Golf Centre in Lisburn. "Not any more, you only have to look at any of the major GUI championships to see how many elite players are using an electric trolley."

After all, it makes perfect sense if playing 36-holes in one day to have the load eased in any way possible. It's these small margins that can save a shot or two when fatigue kicks-in on the back nine.

Undoubtedly, the market leader is a company called Powacaddy, who offer a wide range of their product from the classic style to a remote control version - for the golfer who likes their gadgets.

"At one time an electric trolley made for the ideal retirement present. You will always get the older person using an electric trolley but in recent years Powacaddy deliberately and successfully targeted the younger guys for their product," added Methven.

These contraptions are not exactly cheap as most start around €400, rising to over €1000 for the remote control, but given they will last for years they make for a sound investment.

McGuirk's Golf has a special offer of €399 for the Powacaddy Classic, the same price as high street retailer Nevada Bob's. This model breaks down into three pieces, with handle and front wheel coming away from the main frame. Alternatively the Freeway model folds down compactly if thinking about boot space in the car.

Most electric trolleys are made with lightweight titanium frames and have rechargeable batteries, which will comfortably power-up for one round. For an additional charge - between €30-€50 - there is a stronger 30 amp battery available to ensure two rounds usage before the need to recharge.

The Golf Glider is a more robust alternative to the Powacaddy range. Like the steel Fraser Cart both are very sturdy but still fold down well for storage.

If it's all about show the Powacaddy Freeway Sport with spoke-wheels and distance control could be for you. Press a button once on the handle and you can stop the trolley 15 metres away, twice for 30 metres and three times for 45 metres. I can't see why you'd spend over €100 extra for this feature.

If opting for the Shank's mare method without battery assistance push/pull trolleys start for as little as €25 up to €100 for the Powacaddy three-wheeler. If there is just no room left in the boot perfectly adequate trolleys can be hired for €5 or less at virtually every golf club in the country.

Either way it seems there is no shame in using an electric trolley these days.