Whether you’re new to the gym or a seasoned regular, a quality gym bag can streamline your workouts. But before purchasing, Nicholas Duran, NASM, CPT suggests considering your workout routine—whether it involves group classes or solo sessions—and any specialized equipment you might need, like weightlifting shoes or a pickleball paddle. The best gym bags not only fit your gear, but they should also be comfortable, durable, and suit your style. It's important to choose a size and design that fits your body well to prevent back strain, especially when fully loaded.
To find the best gym bags, we first consulted fitness experts to determine key features. We then thoroughly researched dozens of options, and even tested a few top-selling gym bags, evaluating them based on design, capacity, durability, overall value, and more.
Top Picks
Best Women's Overall
Under Armour UA Undeniable Signature Duffle Bag
Durable
Spacious
Versatile outer storage
No interior pocket
Few color options
Crossbody strap isn’t padded
The lightweight, spacious Undeniable Signature bag from Under Armour is our top overall pick for women because it’s made from durable polyester and can hold plenty of gear without weighing you down. It has separate compartments to keep things fresh and pockets on both ends—a vented pocket for shoes or clothes and a mesh pocket for a water bottle or other essentials.
Forget your hair tie at home? No sweat! The zipper pull on the third front pocket doubles as a strand-friendly hair elastic. The bag has elastic straps on the front for a yoga mat or foam roller, making it a handy studio-class companion.
Its impressive side pocket extends the full length of the bag for gear, garments, books, small electronics, and more. The main compartment’s top-entry flap is easy to access while wearing. And we love that the large, interior mesh pocket keeps personal items handy, although some may need more interior organization. While this newly updated duffle only comes in a few colors, its stylish options make for a nice carry-on or weekender bag outside the gym.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 20 x 9 x 10.5 inches Storage Capacity: 31 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 4 Water-Resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles, elastic front straps
Best Men's Overall
Nike Duffel Bag
Padded shoulder strap
Large capacity for bigger items
Lots of compartments
May be too big for some
This super spacious bag is our top pick for men thanks to its large capacity and choice of six compartments to keep you organized for every heavy and long haul. Whether you’re heading to lift or catching a pickup game, you can toss large gear in the main compartment and keep small items safe in the small pocket. Like Under Armour’s Undeniable Duffle, this bag has pockets on each end and a large, zippered front pocket.
What we love most is this bag’s bottom compartment, which is great for wet clothes or sweaty shoes. And the durable bottom of the bag is waterproof, so it can withstand rough courts and wet locker room floors. We appreciate the long, adjustable crossbody strap that fits a variety of heights, a shoulder pad for heavy carrying, and velcroed handles to keep the bag stable en route.
This sustainably-made Nike bag is unisex, budget-friendly, and comes in a few neutral color schemes and prints—it’s a class for years to come.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 25 x 12 x 12 inches Storage Capacity: 60 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 5 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles
Best Unisex
Under Armour Undeniable 5.0 Duffle
Many sizes and color options
Structured design
Comes in many colors
Crossbody strap isn’t padded for smaller sizes
In its fifth version to date, Under Armour’s Undeniable 5.0 Duffle Bag is popular for versatility, storage, and affordability. We love that it comes in five sizes (XXS-XXL) and many colors, so you can choose the best bag for you. The water-resistant coating helps to protect your gear with plenty of pockets, inside and out, to tote and protect your gear.
We love the exterior loops to clip your keys or other items to and the mesh slip pocket, which can hold several water bottles in slots on the small size and above. We also like that even the x-small bag has a couple of side compartments for separating shoes and sweaty clothes.
This bag has a bit more structure than others thanks to its TPU-coated and foam-lined bottom and side, which helps to keep even the bigger sizes from feeling floppy. The larger sizes dwarf many of the largest duffles on our list and are excellent for transporting gear for field or court sports, boxing, and more. The one downside is that the smallest sizes don’t have a removable, padded shoulder strap.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 8.2 x 7.5 x 15.6 to 16.5 x 16.1 x 33.5 inches Storage Capacity: 18 to 144 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 4 to 6 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles
Best Budget
Adidas Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag
Spacious
Comes in many colors
Convenient carry loop
Crossbody strap isn’t padded for smaller sizes
We recommend Adidas' Defender Duffel Bag for the exerciser on a budget who needs a reliable and well-rounded bag. It has two spacious side pockets and an easy-access top entry, like our best overall pick. The durable, water-resistant base protects contents from a wet field or locker room floor. Plus, Adidas stands behind the Defender’s reinforced stitching and overall quality with a lifetime warranty.
We love that the duffel comes in three roomy sizes and is available in several colors, making it a versatile staple for all types of users. We also appreciate the carry loop on one end of the bag that lets you clip on additional gear. Like Nike’s Brasilia and Under Armour’s Undeniable Bags, this duffel has convenient handles that can be velcroed together for a secure grip. But while we appreciate that the larger sizes have a padded crossbody strap, we wish the smaller sizes were also padded.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 20.5 x 11 x 11.75 to 29 x 14.5 x 14.75 inches Storage Capacity: 44.5 to 101.6 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 5 Water-Resistant: Yes, at the base Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles
Best for Large Gear
Elite Convertible Boxing Gear Gym Bag and Backpack
Expandable and convertible
Laptop compartment
Insulated cooler pocket
Only one color option
Elite Sports’ Convertible Gear Gym Bag is a two-in-one bag that can be worn as a padded backpack or duffle. The bottom of the bag unzips and expands into an extra large compartment for storing large gear like boxing gloves, balls, and other equipment. And we love that the heavy-duty PVC coating is extremely durable and water-resistant, so your belongings stay protected.
When we tested this bag, we found that the mesh pockets and multiple entry points provided organization and added ventilation. We love that the insulated exterior pocket keeps protein shakes and snacks cold, making refueling quickly after working out easier. This well-designed bag even has a separate laptop compartment and top hardshell pocket for fragile valuables, like your phone or sunglasses.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 9 x 16 x 19, expands to 9 x 16 x 27.5 inches Storage Capacity: 44.8 to 64.9 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 6 Water Resistant: Base only Straps: Convertible and adjustable backpack straps, adjustable crossbody strap, top handle
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The Elite Sports Convertible Bag offers a generous storage capacity and can hold heavy gear. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Elite Sports Convertible Bag has a water-resistant coating and multiple entry points. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The Elite Sports Convertible Bag is a two-in-one design that can be used as a backpack or a duffel. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best for Runners
lululemon Active Backpack
Breathable mesh panel
Reflective details
Padded harness shoulder straps
Only one color option
Expensive
Whether running to the gym, the office, or on a long trail, you need a comfortable backpack to hold all your essentials. lululemon’s Active Backpack has a streamlined design, a breathable mesh back panel for airflow, and plenty of storage pockets. With sternum chest straps that buckle close to the body, this pack’s secure fit prevents your valuables from bouncing as you hustle to the gym.
When we tested this product, we appreciated the many ways to store your stuff: We made good use out of the pockets in the shoulder straps, a hydration sleeve, side pockets for water bottles, and the external drawstring bungees for exterior storage. We also loved the comfortable design, which is super sleek and sporty.
Made from durable but lightweight water-repellent polyester and nylon, this pick will last long enough to make it worth its pretty high price. And we like that the backpack has reflective details for visibility as you run or travel in low-light conditions.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 13.8 x 3.3 x 16.1 inches Storage Capacity: 10 liters Materials: Polyester, nylon Compartments: 5 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable shoulder straps, top handle
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We love that this backpack features side pockets, making it easy to carry a water bottle or a snack. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The adjustable shoulder straps and chest straps make this backpack comfortable to wear for hours. Credit: Verywell Fit -
With ample storage and a lightweight feel, this backpack is designed for both running and hiking. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best With Shoe Compartment
KXKS. Kicks Kase Sneaker Bag & Travel Duffel Bag
Removable, adjustable organization
TSA-complaint
Fits four large pairs of shoes
Expensive
If you like to take your shoes and sneakers on the go, we recommend Kicks Kase’s Premium Sneaker and Travel Duffel Bag. We love that the four large shoe slots are big enough for four large pairs of men’s size 14 shoes and other essentials. And the bag has a removable insert with adjustable dividers to customize your space—whether you’re packing a change of clothes or maxing out the bag with sneakers.
Shoes aside, this duffle offers additional storage pockets inside and out to easily access personal items, clothes, accessories, and more. It also has a designated laptop sleeve. We like that the bag is structured, water-resistant, and super durable—making it well worth the price. It’s also TSA-compliant, so this bag counts as your carry-on for plane trips.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 22 x 9.5 x 13 inches Storage Capacity: 44 liters Materials: Nylon Compartments: 11+ Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles
Best With Multiple Compartments
Shrine Sneaker Duffel Bag
Protective compartments
Designated areas for items
TSA-compliant
Expensive
Only one color option
Another great option for storing shoes and large accessories, Shrine’s Sneaker Duffel Bag is a spacious solution. The bag unzips and unfolds to reveal three large, structured, and ventilated compartments for clothing and shoes and two tiny zippered pouches for smaller valuables, like your favorite pair of workout headphones.
The outside pockets include a zippered laptop sleeve on one side and a velcro pocket sleeve on the other. Despite its large hauling power, it also qualifies as a carry-on—making it great for on-the-go individuals. Shrine’s Sneaker Duffel is a pricier option and comes in just a few colors, but you can snag it in various NBA team editions or upgrade to their beautiful (and pricier) leather version.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches Storage Capacity: 42 liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 5 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles, end grab handle
Best For Swimmers
TYR Backpack
Breathable
Budget-friendly
Large capacity
Straps are not supportive enough for heavy gear
We recommend this bag for swimmers because it can hold everything from goggles and swimsuits to kickboards and towels. When we tested TYR’s Big Mesh Mummy Backpack, we were impressed by its storage capabilities and appreciated the mesh lining that helps wet items dry quickly. Unlike many drawstring bags, this pick has a zippered side pocket and water bottle pouch so items won’t get lost in the main compartment.
Lightweight with adjustable straps, the bag comes in 11 bright colors and patterns. A barrel-lock closure keeps everything inside secure but also easily accessible. The one downside to keep in mind is that the straps may not be strong or supportive enough to lug around heavy gear.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 19 x 25.25 inches Storage Capacity: 40 Liters Materials: Polyester Compartments: 3 Water-Resistant: Yes Straps: Backpack straps and top handle
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This gym backpack is spacious and has breathable mesh that allows wet items to air out quickly. Credit: Verywell Fit -
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack is budget-friendly and has a mesh zippered front pocket. Credit: Verywell Fit
Best Backpack
lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L
Stylish design
Water-resistant
Has a luggage strap
Expensive
Slightly clunky zippers
Backpacks are a great option to limit strain on one shoulder and evenly distribute weight between both shoulders—especially if you’re lugging around heavy gear. lululemon’s Everyday Backpack is a sleek and stylish option. Our experts agree that lululemon bags have great durability, washability, style, and ample storage.
When we tested this bag, we appreciated its water-resistant material, attractive color options, and several storage compartments. The backpack features one main compartment, two easy-access side pockets, and an exterior laptop sleeve. While it doesn’t have a sternum strap, this lightweight backpack is easily adjustable and can comfortably hold plenty of gym essentials.
lululemon’s Everyday Backpack is quite expensive, but it has quickly become one of our favorites. It’s super durable, versatile, and stylish—and even has a trolley sleeve for easy carry during travel.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 11.4 x 5.9 x 16.5 inches Storage Capacity: 23 liters Materials: Nylon, Polyester Compartments: 7 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Backpack straps and top handle
Verywell Fit
Best Compact
Gymshark Small Gym Bag
Compact size with space for daily essentials
Contains wet compartment
Chic, neutral design
Lacks interior storage compartments
One of the smallest duffles on our list, we recommend this lightweight bag for storing daily essentials in style. It comes in trendy neutrals, bright hues, and three additional sizes (a medium, large, and mini version). When we tested this bag, we were surprised by how much it could fit, despite its smaller size.
We love that it’s waterproof—one of our testers got caught with this bag in a thunderstorm, and when she arrived home, she was happy to report that all valuables were completely dry and protected. Along with a main compartment and a few slip pockets, the Everyday Gym Bag offers a shoe tunnel and wet pocket to keep your sweaty shoes and clothing separate from the rest of your gym bag essentials.
The only downside we found is the lack of interior storage compartments for organization. But we still love this stylish, versatile, budget-friendly option for everyday wear.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 18 x 7.9 x 8.7 inches Storage Capacity: 34 liters Materials: Polyester, PVC Compartments: 4 Water-resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles
Best for Yoga
BAGSMART Zoraesque Bag
Concealable yoga mat strap
Hidden water bottle loop
Removable crossbody strap
Few color options
No shoe compartment or bag
This stylish duffel with a concealed yoga mat strap has enough space to transport blocks, shoes, clothes, and more. Unlike many yoga bags on the market, Bag Smart’s Weekender Bag has plenty of pockets and compartments to organize all types of essentials. We love that it includes a laptop compartment, a hidden water bottle loop, a USB charging port, and anti-theft zippers for added protection.
While this bag doesn’t come with a shoe or garment bag, it does have a sleeve that slips over rolling luggage for use as a carry-on. While the practical, neutral colors go with everything, there are only two color options to choose from. But the removable crossbody strap and two size options add to this bag’s impressive versatility.
If you prefer a backpack style, we also tested Aururae’s Yoga Multi-Purpose Yoga Backpack—another great option for yogis.
Key Specs:
Dimensions: 18.5 x 8.7 x 11 to 21.3 x 8.7 x 12.6 inches Storage Capacity: 29 liters Materials: Cotton, nylon Compartments: 8 Water-Resistant: Yes Straps: Adjustable crossbody strap, handles, yoga mat strap
How We Selected and Tested the Best Gym Bags
To choose the best gym bags, we first spoke with personal trainers Nicholas Duran, NASM-CPT, and Amanda Barton, CPT, to get their expert advice on the key features to look for in a gym bag. Then, we researched dozens of bags from the top, trusted brands.
We also tested several gym bags to help us narrow down the best options on the market. Our team of fitness testers each used a gym bag in their regular routines over several weeks. Consistently incorporating the product into their fitness routines and daily lifestyles, we thoroughly evaluated each bag.
We only chose to include gym bags on our list that ranked highly in key areas, including quality of construction, materials, size, design, and storage. We also considered comfort, durability, additional features, and overall value. Finally, our writer, a certified personal trainer and frequent gym-goer, used her personal and professional experience to evaluate each product on our list.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Gym Bag
Quality Construction
When it comes to hauling your gear, you need a bag that’s durable and made to last over dozens of gym, work, and travel trips. According to our experts, high-quality hardware, like zippers, buckles, rivets, or clips, should be hefty enough to hold a bag full of equipment yet easy to adjust.
You should also check a bag's stitching to ensure it’s strong and reinforced, especially on handles or areas you’ll be grabbing and lifting the bag.
Materials
Polyester, nylon, canvas, leather, and vinyl are the most commonly used materials for gym bags. Choose materials that match your style, budget, and desired function. “I like the exterior to be chic and stylish, but with wipeable interiors that are water resistant and washable,” Barton says. We recommend a bag with materials that are lightweight but durable, breathable, and easy to clean.
Water-resistant or waterproof lining, sections, and coatings inside and outside of your bag will help protect your belongings. For swimmers, a wet bag or waterproof compartment is especially useful. Water-resistant linings can also help keep sweat or smells from soaking into the bag and are easier to wipe clean. Waterproof coatings on the outside can protect your gear from rain. Gym bags may be completely water-resistant or not at all, so shop accordingly.
Size
The size of your gym bag will depend on what you need to carry. You want to ensure your bag is large enough to hold all your essentials. This will vary based on the kinds of classes or workouts you are doing and whatever you need before or after the gym, says Barton. You'll also want to ensure your bag fits into the lockers or storage areas at your gym and isn’t too large to carry safely without causing future back injuries.
Storage and Compartments
Many gym bags come with pockets and compartments for organization. “My favorite organization feature is a specific compartment for sweaty clothing so that you can keep everything else separated,” Barton says.
But some bags only come with one or two main compartments. You’ll want to purchase a bag that fits your organizational style. If you wear special shoes for certain types of workouts, it's good to have a shoe compartment.
Style and Design
Gym bags vary in carry style and storage design—backpacks and duffels are the most common. A backpack is a great option for a hands-free commute that also provides balanced weight distribution on both shoulders, which can be safer for your back. And a duffel may give you more storage space and a large capacity for big gear and accessories.
“If you're commuting to or from work, a duffel or backpack with compartments for dirty clothing is great,” says Barton. If not, Barton recommends a small drawstring, crossbody, or tote bag for the essentials. “It doesn't even need to be designated for gym use,” she says, “but the cleanability is important so you don't have a stinky bag.”
You also might consider investing in a bag that includes helpful design features. Gym bags are often designed with specific sports in mind.
Comfortable Straps
A bag designed with a good support system, like a duffel with a padded crossbody strap or a backpack with a sternum strap, will help prevent back injuries. Adjustable straps can increase comfort and support by ensuring a closer fit to your body. If you usually carry a lot of gear or heavy items, padded straps that don't dig into your skin or chafe are essential. Loading and wearing your gym bag properly will also keep you strain-free.
Our Experts
- Nicholas Duran, NASM, CPT
- Amanda Barton, CPT
Why Trust Verywell Fit
A life-long athlete, Verywell Fit writer, and certified personal trainer, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, knows her way around the gym and regularly researches the latest and best options in fitness gear. She understands how beneficial an organized and durable gym bag can be. Jessica prefers versatile bags with lots of storage and designated compartments, like Beis’ Hanging Duffle. For this guide, she researched and prioritized brands that provide item durability, safety, versatility, innovation, and value. Dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers, she is careful to recommend trustworthy products and brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their core values.
