HIP BELT APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR CARRYING A GOLF BAG

An apparatus and system for carrying a weight-bearing object (22), such as a golf bag, has a hip belt member (20) for supporting the weight bearing object (22) and reducing the load on the user's back and shoulders. An attachment member (34, 46) is coupled to the hip belt member for attaching the hip belt member to the weight-bearing object, and a belt fastener (72, 74) connects the hip belt member about the user's waist. Additional shoulder straps (102, 104) can be utilized to lift the object and stabilize and reduce movement of the weight bearing object about the user. Hip belt members and shoulder pads can have vent slots (188, 224, 246) for ventilation and improved comfort, while being worn in hot weather. Hip belt members and shoulder pads can have heat storage material (237) added to cool the user, while being worn in hot weather.