The Technical Edge: Max Togisala on Adaptive Golf Cart Features

I’ve played over 200 rounds and competed in six tournaments with my VertaCat. I've learned that picking the right adaptive golf cart isn't a chase for specs. It's a claim to independence. The biggest difference isn't always what you might expect.

The right equipment liberated me. I've even shot my lowest score ever using it.

Some technical features actually matter when you're navigating fairways, bunkers, and greens in an adaptive golf cart. Others are just window dressing. Here’s how you can tell the difference.

Standing Capabilities & Stability: The Game Changer

When you spend most of your time sitting down, you sometimes forget what it means to stay upright—especially when playing golf.

Standing opens up your game, and that’s what people notice most with an adaptive golf cart. It gives them the opportunity to play golf like anyone else. 

What really changed my game over the past three years is the stability when I swing. I feel secure when I'm swinging, and I never feel like I'm going to fall out. 

Just as important, it doesn't hurt to golf. This gives me confidence going into tournaments. When I'm standing in the adaptive cart, I can focus on my swing and the game—rather than worrying about my balance or safety. This alone means everything for anyone who thought their golfing days were over.

Here's how I secure my equipment before playing:

Terrain Navigation & Power

It's hard to go through grass in my wheelchair. With the VertaCat, I feel like I can go anywhere on the golf course. It has plenty of power to get through the grass and sand.

I've tested it on some extremely challenging courses with steep hills that would be difficult for anyone to walk, let alone drive through in a cart. Playing through these tough terrains proved to me that I could play virtually any course. I also wouldn't have to worry about battery life or accessing my ball in difficult spots when preparing for tournaments, and the cart would warn me if I’m on a steep hill. I appreciate the extra caution when playing through my rounds.

This is my approach to navigating difficult terrain:

Course-Specific Features & Adaptability

Many people have asked me if my device can go into bunkers and if it's allowed on greens. Yes, it can do both. There is enough horsepower to navigate sand traps, which makes it easier to play through some less-than-ideal lies.

As for the greens, the wide tires don't damage the turf—as long as you're not turning too sharply. And the USGA has done studies that show adaptive carts on greens do not affect ball roll. This means I can access all areas of the course, including greens, without compromising play for myself or others.

Everything about the cart is surprisingly user-friendly. If you need to adjust the seat height, just loosen a simple screw. The machine might seem complex at first, but it's designed to be straightforward and intuitive, allowing you to focus on your game rather than operating the equipment. 

Also, with the double battery, I can play more than just 18 holes–up to 36 plus holes on a single charge, which is about 15 miles of travel distance.

Let me show you the controls in action:

Finding Joy in the Game Again

To anyone hesitant about using adaptive equipment, I'd say have someone right next to you at first. Start by just driving your device around—it doesn't even have to be on steep hills. Drive around the neighborhood, go over some bumps, and feel how the machine responds. You'll quickly gain confidence as you realize it won't tip over. Remember that being out there is a miracle in itself.

I've golfed my entire life and competed in tournaments before my injury. I didn't want to stop playing the game I love. If you're wondering whether you can still play certain courses or shoot the same scores, you can—and I say that from experience. 

For me, golf has always been a sport that teaches important life lessons. When you have a bad shot or a bad hole, you move on. Don’t dwell on that shot; just move forward and keep having fun. My dad taught me this lesson, and once I figured it out, it made golf much more enjoyable. 

Now, with the VertaCat, I'm just grateful to be out there playing.