If you’ve been shoving your gym clothes into the corner of your purse, bag, or briefcase next to all of the other essentials we just mentioned there is a better way.
Similarly, if you’re stuffing your gear into a raggedy old bag from college (or worse, toting around some freebie tote from who knows where)… Your old backpack or duffel bag — no shame in that! Unless it’s really showing its age, you may also need to take a look at some of the best gym bags.
It is another investment that is on par with spending a fair amount of money on high-quality kinds of workout leggings or sneakers, which means that a good gym bag is able to not only suit your style perfectly but also look just as good in your hands as you go to the office in the morning and as you leave the gym with a freshly-done workout.
In addition, we understand your needs and have made a selection of the best gym bags for women.
Our list encompasses a variety of offers to meet the tastes and needs of different gym-goers, whether you like duffels, totes, or backpacks. After having tested all the options, here are our favorites.
This gym bag is made of an incredibly water-resistant finish, meaning you can take on any weather – a great thing. In addition, it has a special compartment for shoes and is packed in front to accommodate a yoga mat or foam roller.
And the most valuable thing in this gym bag turned out to be a puller on the front pocket, which works great as a hair bracelet.
From practice with this gym bag, we can say that it is just perfect. It has enough pockets and bags to fit in everything you need.
The gym bag has quite a lot of space and an attractive design. The gym bag also perfectly holds its shape, unlike some other gym bags that fall apart inside.
Under Armour is considered by every gym-goer with its affordable price tag.
The only negative aspect we discovered was the wrist was designed to securely stow your yoga mat, wrist strap sections were not quite lengthy enough for a conventional-sized mat and ended up pinching instead of cinching it into place.
PROS
- Very durable
- Big enough for you or a basketball
- Attach a yoga mat or foam roller to the front straps via the loops, then stuff your raincoat into one of four expandable pockets and wear this 18-liter pack in comfort all day.
CONS
- Though working your yoga mat through the straps isn’t easy.
This wonderful gym bag is priced at less than $20 and it is not surprising that it is highly popular with over 11,000 customers who provided it with a 5-star rating.
In addition to the spacious main compartment equipped with a large, waterproof PVC zip pocket for keeping your damp items, its exterior boasts several compartments.
These include a shoe compartment and two water bottles, among others. The bag is very easy to carry and you can rest it on your carry-on rolling luggage.
If you think regardless of its cheap price, this might be one small bag outside in our record.
Those combined with water-resistant fabric, a padded strap, and solid hardware make it seem like an option worth some higher-priced peers.
It is the best lightweight gym bag if you are looking for it because this specific one comes at around 1 pound while some of them others we tested were more than double that weight!
PROS
- Lightweight
- Loaded with features and pockets
- Fun color options
CONS
- The strap is a little on the skinny side as well.
A classic gym duffel is more than what it seems. It hides quite a few surprises within its utilitarian exterior. What you do, is on one side, a ventilated compartment designed for your sweaty sneakers.
On the other, a waterproof, insulated pocket will keep anything post-workout and wet from leaking through or your water cold.
Also, the insulated pocket can double as a thermal compartment, if you are storing your lunch in it.
Not as sporty, perhaps, as some of the other gym bag options – but it serves to be a great all-purpose and travel carryall that is not too conspicuous.
Moreover, there is plenty of space inside. You can also take this option with you as a carry-on for traveling anywhere.
It is presented in a few color options as well as a beautiful faux leather option. So, the bag is affordable, opportunity to choose the color and purpose.
Get ready for a trip with this stylish backpack from Adidas. Ideal for wearing during traveling, weekends, and other adventures, this bag has a 15-inch laptop sleeve so as to be a perfect work or school bag.
This backpack boasts two water bottle pockets and an easily accessible exterior compartment for your phone or wallet.
Featuring interior pockets and enough space for you to pack an extra change of clothes, sneakers, and other essentials, this backpack was designed to meet all your needs.
We’ve tested this backpack ourselves, and we dubbed it our “bag with endless pockets,” as it features four main compartments, of which some are further divided.
Despite the ample storage, it doesn’t feel bulky and is very comfortable, with padded shoulder straps protecting your spine from the increased weight.
PROS
- Two mesh side water bottle pockets that can hold a bottle up to 32 oz.
- Pocket sleeve that can keep a 15-inch device
- Padded and adjustable straps
CONS
- The material can be removed but is not water-resistant.
A good option for those who are looking for a reliable gym bag is the classic duffel from Puma.
It boasts a simple, yet very functional design. Indeed, the item has a capacious interior allowing one to store a variety of items.
Furthermore, most of the exterior is equipped with zippered pockets to facilitate access.
At the same time, there are also compartments for such items as keys, phones, or wallets. Finally, another notable feature is a separate storage space for sneakers.
The design may not be revolutionary, but all those cubic feet of storage sure do make a statement. It’s one of the biggest gym bags we tested, so you’ll have plenty of space for all your necessities (like shoes, a change of clothes, towel and whatever else you might need to carry around).
And while it isn’t fully water resistant, its polyester build should mean that keeping the chair dry and tidy is going to be a breeze.
PROS
- Great value
- Convenient shoe compartment
- Spacious interior
CONS
- A bit bulky
In case of doubt, always bet on Nike fitness gear. One quick and easy option for enthusiasts who prefer a simple way is a drawstring sack.
It was designed to fit your water bottle, sneakers, and everything you need. There is nothing complicated about this solution, and that is exactly the point.
This item probably does not have any fancy features, but it does not need them.
Moreover, this drawstring sack is made from super light and water-resistant material and has increased airflow as the ventilated bottom.
It will be perfect for storing all your things that are wet after working out at your local gym. Finally, an interior divider saves your time from pulling everything out of the pack every time you need your keys.
It’s also very beginner-friendly. Although it’s not as cheap as other items, I’m sure it’s a helpful purchase for all active persons. After all, it’s narrow enough to fit even devilishly small gym lockers.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Functional
Cons:
- None
Disclaimer: At Thriven Authority, we strive to provide clear and helpful information for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by our editorial team, but we recommend using your discretion and seeking an expert’s opinion before using them. Prices and availability may change after publication. If you buy something via the links in this article, we may earn a commission.
