Active men would know the struggle of finding a good gym bag. Some of them are too sturdy. Others are too flimsy and loose. On the other hand, some include a lot of storage pockets while others none at all. Not to mention if this is your first time looking for a gym bag. You might wonder what size of bag you need or which type suits you best. Overall, it can be tough to choose. But we’ve made it easier for you. Here’s a list of 13 of the best gym bags for men!
How to Choose the Best Gym Bags for Men
As mentioned before, there are plenty of gym bag types. First, they vary in size and capacity. Therefore, some are bigger than others. Also, you need to keep in mind what you’ll mostly use it for. Is it for heavy or light workouts? And do you plan on using it for swimming or water activities? Each gym bag is different. By considering these key features, you should be able to find the best for yourself.
Bag Material
Gym bags are usually a mixture of one or two materials. Depending on what type of material it’s made of, each bag provides different levels of resistance. For example, polyester gym bags tend to be water-resistant. If you plan on carrying wet gym wear or be around water, polyester is your best pick. Nylon is another common material. It makes the bags lightweight, but it’s also less durable than polyester. Some gym bags are made of leather. This material is stronger, but it stains easily and tends to retain bad odors. As you can see, all of the materials provide different benefits. When picking your ideal gym bag, keep this aspect in mind.
Size
Size is probably the most important feature. You don’t want to buy an extra-large bag if you only plan on carrying a few items. Large bags tend to be flimsier when they’re not full. So, a smaller bag would be your best option. However, if you plan on carrying gym wear, toiletries bag, shoes, and everything else, bigger bags are better. In general, gym bags usually come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. When choosing a style make sure you also choose the correct size. Keep in mind that the bigger the bag, usually the more expensive. You can find a decent size bag at affordable prices.
Design
Nowadays, there are many bags that not only work as gym bags but also as travel bags. So, the designs tend to vary. This is great because you can invest in one bag for multi-purposes. Gym bags are characterized by having multiple storage options such as pockets, pouches, and shoe compartments. Also, they tend to be waterproof for carrying wet clothing. And the most common gym bag designs are duffel bags or totes. So, choose whatever design works best for you.
Your workout routine
This contributes to many things. If you like swimming, chances are you’ll have to pack wet clothes. So, a waterproof bag will be your best option. In fact, we do recommend a waterproof feature even for a daily workout that has nothing to do with water. However, if you don’t mind packing another waterproof bag for your wet clothes, then this shouldn’t matter. Any gym bag will serve you.
On another note, if you carry a yoga mat or small weights, you’ll need a stronger bag. A large capacity gym bag with firm bottom would be ideal. There’s plenty of gym bags available, more than one will fit your needs.
Compartments and straps
Lastly, you also need to consider the storage options a gym bag has. Lucky for us, gym bags usually come with plenty of organizing options, which is convenient. Internal mesh pockets let you keep toiletries secured. Meanwhile, exterior pockets allow you to keep smaller belongings accessible. Also, some bags include water bottle holders, which for obvious reasons, is extremely convenient. An ideal gym bag should feature all of these. We recommend checking our list of best gym bags with water bottle holder, too. However, some of you may prefer those with just one big compartment. There’s nothing wrong with that. Just check this feature first before you decide to click the “Buy Now” button.
ZOORON Gym Bag (CU)
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Our first recommendation is ZOORON Gym Bag. Designed for both men and women, it’s a gym bag with large capacity. It features one main compartment and three separate pockets. Great for keeping your belongings organized. The main compartment has a U-design which provides easy opening and packing. The bag’s nylon fabric and metal zippers are waterproof. You can take this bag anywhere, even to the swimming pool.
Another best feature is the 3-way straps included. With this, you can wear the bag as a cross-body bag, duffel bag, or backpack. Yes! It comes with shoulder straps that are tucked neatly in the back when not in use. The choice is yours! The straps are also padded for extra comfort. No more uncomfortable weight on your shoulder. Lastly, this bag is one of the most affordable gym bags for men.
What We Love
A versatile gym bag that can also be your backpack.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- With shoe compartment
- 3-way straps
- Includes three extra pockets
- Three color options available
Cons:
The bag’s material makes it sturdy and can be uncomfortable for some.
Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffel Bag
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Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffel Bag is a great alternative for a gym bag. Despite not being cataloged as one, it works just as good. It’s big enough to fit clothes, accessories, and any other item you might need for your workout. Size-wise, it’s also good: 20 inches long and 15 inches tall. Keep your dirty shoes or clothes separated inside the shoe compartment. So everything else stays fresh and clean! Also, the material is breathable, so it will not retain bad odors.
The polyester material gives it a sleek and fancy look. The colors range from black to denim pattern. It comes with top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap that’s also removable. Therefore, if you prefer to carry it by hand, you can just easily remove it. And if you don’t mind spending the extra bucks, this is a great option.
What We Love
Stylish and practical, perfect for the gym, and even traveling.
Pros:
- Removable shoulder strap
- Easy-access hoe compartment
- Several stylish variations available
- Roomy interior
- Two sizes available
Cons:
Other than the shoe compartment, it doesn’t have any other pocket.
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PUMA Evercat Contender 3.0 Duffel Accessory
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PUMA offers not only outstanding gym wear but also a great selection of gym bags. And PUMA Evercat Contender 3.0 Duffel bag is the proof. Made of 100% polyester fabric, the bag is perfect to store your gym essentials. Despite its 21 x 10.5 x 9.5 inches dimension, it offers a roomy main compartment. Your pair of shoes, a towel, changing clothes, and toiletries can fit in. And the zipper closure provides security and easy opening.
It also includes two side pockets and a “quick-access” front compartment. Perfect for your earphones, wallet, or phone! The bag has dual top handles. But if you prefer, an adjustable shoulder strap is also included. The best part is probably its price. You can find it on Amazon for less than 20 USD! So, if you’re budget-conscious, this is your ideal bag.
What We Love
The most features at the best price point!
Pros:
- Comes with two side zip pockets
- Adjustable and removable shoulder strap
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Four color options available
Cons:
It’s not waterproof.
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Adidas Diablo Small Duffel Bag
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Just like PUMA, Adidas also makes great gym bags. Adidas Diablo Small Duffel Bag is the best option for quick workouts at the gym. Considered a small bag, it has a dimension of 18.5 x 10 x 11 inches. However, this doesn’t mean it won’t fit everything you need. Despite not having side pockets, its main compartment is big enough to fit your gym essentials. Even a size-5 soccer ball can fit in it!
The 600D polyester material makes it endure heavy use. The zippered main compartment delivers quick and effortless access to the items inside. You can carry it with the top handles or turn it into a cross-body bag with the shoulder strap. It’s also adjustable to your height. If you don’t like bulky bags and prefer packing light, you’ll love this bag. So, don’t think twice, because this is one of the best gym bags for men.
What We Love
The perfect small, practical gym bag!
Pros:
- Shoulder strap option
- Made with durable 600D polyester
- Lifetime warranty
- Adjustable to your height
- Compact
- Eight color options available
Cons:
It’s not waterproof.
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NIKE Brasilia Training Duffel Bag
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Nike Brasilia Training Duffel Bag is the next on the list. This bag is one of the biggest ones available on the market. It comes with three size options and each of them has plenty of room, including the smallest one. Also, each has one zippered main compartment and one exterior mesh pocket. Convenient for small items! The bag’s polyester fabric enhances durability and resistance.
Due to its size, it’s very versatile. You can use it as a gym or training bag and also as an overnight travel bag. If you like to carry small gym equipment, then this bag will satisfy your needs. Its design evenly distributes weight. Plus, it allows you to carry heavy weight without hurting you. Thanks to the padded strap! But if you don’t like it as a shoulder bag, you can switch to dual handles included.
What We Love
An ideal bag for a heavy workout!
Pros:
- Padded shoulder strap
- Four color options available
- Wide interior
- Three sizes available: small, medium, and large
- Includes an exterior mesh pouch
Cons:
Its larger size doesn’t fit in most gym lockers.
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MIER Gym Duffel Bag (CU)
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If you like items that serve you multiple ways, this is the bag for you. MIER Gym Duffel Bag is a stylish multipurpose bag. It’s great for the gym, traveling, and even for the office. And with a dimension of 19.5 x 11 x 11 inches, this bag works nicely as carry-on luggage, too. It includes a footwear compartment, great for keeping dirty shoes separated. You could also put your dirty gym wear in there. The bag also includes a toiletry bag, perfect for putting all your hygiene essentials. Showering at the gym has never been easier!
The SBS zipper and high-quality polyester fabric ensure sturdiness. This material is what makes the bag scratch-resistant, anti-tear, and waterproof. Due to its large capacity, the tent has a padded shoulder strap, ensuring comfort. But if this doesn’t appeal to you, it also has a soft dual-handle as an option. Regardless of what you want it for, it’s one of the best gym bags for men.
What We Love
From storage options to comfort, this bag has it all.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Breathable material
- Lightweight
- Multifunctional
- Two colors options available
Cons:
Its large capacity might not be convenient for everyone.
Everest Sports Duffel with Wet Pocket
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Everest Sports Duffel with Wet Pocket is a 600D polyester bag. It has a large main compartment with a zippered clamshell opening, allowing easy access. The two front pouches come with mesh pockets. Storage is not a problem for this bag! Also, your other stuff will remain clean after your workouts. Thanks to the large side pocket for dirty shoes or gym wear. And, on its left side, there’s another mesh pocket. Even more storage available!
The bag’s dimension is 18 x 11.5 x 10.5 inches, a perfect size that fits almost everyone. It also features a padded holder, useful for keeping your travel water bottle in place. A detachable shoulder strap enhances comfort. Additionally, the strap can be adjusted up to 50 inches for convenience. All of these features make it one of the handiest gym bags.
What We Love
This Everest bag can carry all you need and so much more.
Pros:
- Includes a bottle holder
- Five color options available
- Lightweight
- Large side shoe compartment
- Two front bags with mesh pockets
Cons:
It’s not waterproof.
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Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag
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Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag is a highly practical gym bag. We love it when a gym bag offers versatility. This one also offers two ways of carrying: as a shoulder bag and as a backpack. For this, it includes extra straps that tuck away neatly when not in use. The tarpaulin fabric of the bag provides water-resistance. Therefore, it’s great for workouts that involve water. This material also allows for easy folding. So it won’t take any space in your storage.
Also, it’s great for organizing. Its interior mesh pockets allow you to store your outfit and other items organized. The external stash pocket keeps your smaller items accessible. Even better, it also includes zippered side pockets, allowing more space for your workout gear. Conveniently, these pockets are lockable for safety purposes. No more worrying about someone stealing anything from your gym bag! All of these aspects make it one of the most convenient gym bags for men.
What We Love
The safest gym bag available!
Pros:
- External stash pocket
- Waterproof
- Four color options available
- Can be carried as a backpack
- Four sizes available
Cons:
On the pricey side compared to other gym bags for men.
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MarsBro Sports Gym Bag
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This gym bag is great for many reasons. First, the 600D durable polyester fabric makes it water-resistant. And with a dimension of 19.7 x 9.8 x 9.3 inches, the bag is roomy and spacious. It also comes with plenty of storage options. The main compartment fits your gym outfit, towel, toiletries, and others. Meanwhile, the front zippered pockets keep your essentials accessible. Things like your phone, keys, or wallet won’t get lost in between the clothing. And it incorporates an interior pocket for keeping any valuable item safe.
Its solid hard bottom provides sturdiness. It also prevents the bag from falling when full. Besides, it also has low friction features that ensure stability. For your comfort, the bag comes with a cushioned adjustable strap. But if this doesn’t suit your style, you can use the dual handles too. MarsBro Sports Gym Bag is one of the best options you can find online.
What We Love
Neither storage nor water leakage is a problem for this gym bag.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Seven color options available
- Shoe compartment included
- Lightweight
- Anti-tear material
Cons:
The footwear compartment doesn’t fit shoe size 13 and up.
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Adidas Team Issue Duffel Bag
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Adidas Team Issue Duffel Bag is one of the best looking gym bags for men. It’s a versatile bag available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large. Great for everyone! The size options also make it an ideal travel bag. It comes with a polyester body and lining that makes it water-resistant. Also, this material makes the bag even more durable. And even if it breaks, the lifetime warranty got your back.
Even if you opt for the smallest size, it’s still big enough to fit your essentials. The main compartment is ideal for your workout outfit, towels, and toiletries. Meanwhile, the four exterior pockets are great for your essentials. Besides, it includes a ventilated side storage pocket, perfect for dirty shoes. Another great feature is the front space available for team or group branding.
What We Love
The perfect bag for you and your teammates!
Pros:
- Three sizes available: small, medium, and large
- Waterproof
- 21 color options available
- Lifetime warranty
- Includes an exterior ventilated mesh pocket
Cons:
The price varies depending on the color you choose.
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Under Armour Undeniable Duffle 4.0 Gym Bag
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Under Armour makes some of the best athletic wear and equipment. Under Armour Undeniable Duffle 4.0 Gym Bag isn’t one of the best gym bags for no reason. Made with UA Storm technology, the bag is waterproof. The two side panels and a sturdy bottom enhance the bag’s stability. Also, it’s abrasion-resistant, makes it durable for heavy use. Five size options are available, but even the biggest one maintains a compact design.
The bag provides three storage options. First is the main compartment, great for your clean clothes, towels, and other essentials. Then you get two front zippered pockets for your smaller essentials such as earphones. Last but not least, it includes a spacious interior compartment that fits dirty shoes or outfit. Unlike other gym bags, this one has a considerably larger footwear compartment. For versatile carrying options, it includes padded grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. These characteristics make this bag one of the most durable and convenient gym bags for men.
What We Love
The perfect big yet non-bulky gym bag!
Pros:
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Highly water-resistant
- Five sizes available
- Material is abrasion-resistant
- More than 10 color options available
Cons:
You should keep in mind that prices vary depending on the color choice.
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Adidas Defender II Duffel Bag (CU)
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Once again, Adidas bags have made it to the list. This time is with Adidas Defender II Duffel Bag. This gym bag has a 100% polyester lining that makes it water-resistant. However, when it comes to cleaning, you can easily do it by hand. Considered as one of the best gym bags for men, it endures heavy use. The reinforced 3D-ripstop material enhances its durability. Toss it freely in your trunk or gym locker without worrying about it tearing apart.
This bag also provides excellent organization. It comes with two zippered end pockets that perfectly fit dirty or clean footwear. On the inside, it has a small zippered pocket to keep your valuable items safe. You can bring as much as you need (or want) to the gym. For comfort purposes, it includes haul handles and a padded removable shoulder strap. If you still don’t know which gym bag to choose, pick this one. You won’t regret it.
What We Love
Design, comfort, storage, and resistance make this gym bag the best.
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Three sizes available
- Storage pockets
- Firm structure
- Waterproof
Cons:
Some users complain about the bag not being true to its size.
Under Armour Undeniable Duffle 3.0 Gym Bag
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From all the gym bags we mentioned, it’s safe to say that this one is the best. Under Armour Undeniable Duffle 3.0 Gym Bag is the perfect gym bag for men. This bag withstands everything. Just like other UA bags, this one has UA Storm technology for water-resistance. It also comes with an abrasion-resistant firm bottom and side panels, providing stability and protection.
This bag is very similar to a previous UA bag on this list. However, small details make a big difference. This 3.0 model offers a more organized interior pocket, and this time it’s zippered. Plus, for your convenience, the shoulder strap is not only adjustable but also removable. Great features if you prefer to use the top handles. The vented shoe pocket helps with odor retention. Additionally, the main compartment is considerably bigger. You can fit everything you need without your bag looking cramped. For this, and much more, this UA bag is the best choice when it comes to men’s gym bags.
What We Love
Everything you look for in a gym bag (and more).
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Five sizes available
- 10 color options available
- Includes vented pocket for dirty wear
- Several organization pockets
Cons:
Only the small size fits under a plane seat (and only if it’s not fully packed).
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