14 Best Gym Backpacks in 2024

Searching for the best gym backpack? You’re in the right place. Below are the top fitness backpacks based on our expert team’s recommendations. Whether you’re a dedicated weightlifter, a cardio enthusiast, or a cross-trainer who needs a multi-purpose bag, we’re confident you’ll find the ideal fit in one of these products.

For this article, our team of certified personal trainers and professional athletes has tested 46 products and 14 of them were considered to be the best. We’ve dedicated a total of 460 hours to testing most of these backpacks and examining hundreds of online reviews. The backpacks’ evaluations were based on 5 key parameters. We’re updating our list regularly, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.

Let’s get started!

Top 14 Best Gym Backpacks Reviewed

1. 2POOD PERFORMANCE BACKPACK 2.0 – Top Pick
2. Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Team Backpack – Runner-Up
3. 2POOD XL PERFORMANCE BACKPACK – Best Large Backpack
4. GORUCK – RUCKER 4.0 – Best With Plate Pockets
5. TOPO DESIGNS PACK BAG – Best Budget Lightweight Pack Bag
6. TOPO DESIGNS 22L KLETTERSACK
7. 2POOD Performance Gym Bag – Best Duffle Bag
8. Cico Rider Multipurpose Bag – Best 3-in-1 Gym Bag For Men
9. MIYCOO Gym Bag – Best 3-in-1 Gym Bag For Women
10. ARENA Spiky III Team Backpack – Best For Swimmers
11. Luckin Packin Tactical Backpack 3 – Best Tactical Backpack
12. BeeGreen Drawstring Backpack – Best Backpack With Drawstring
13. Valinov Mini Tactical Backpack – Best Mini Backpack For Men
14. Adidas Women’s Airmesh Mini Backpack – Best Mini Backpack for Women

Product	Total	Durability	Material Quality	Capacity	Comfort	Price/Quality
2Pood 2.0	49.5	10	10	9.5	10	10
Under Armour	49	10	9	10	10	10
2Pood XL	48.5	10	10	10	8.5	9.5
GORUCK	48	10	10	8.5	9.5	10
TOPO Pack Bag	47.5	9.5	10	8	10	10
TOPO Klettersack	47	9.5	10	8.5	9	10
2Pood	46.5	9.5	9	10	9	9
Cico Rider	46	9	9	9	9	10
MIYCOO	46	9	9	9	9	10
ARENA	45.5	9	8.5	9	10	9
Luckin Packin	45	9	9	10	8.5	8.5
BeeGreen	44.5	8.5	8.5	9	9	9.5
Valinov	44	8.5	9	8	9	9.5
Adidas	44	8.5	8.5	8	10	9

1. 2POOD PERFORMANCE BACKPACK 2.0 – Top Pick

Starting off our best gym backpack list is the 2Pood Performance Backpack version 2.0. The second iteration brought back many things we liked about the previous one and added some new surprises. The result is a feature-packed and versatile backpack for work and gym needs.

• Dimensions: 19” H x 14” W x 7” D
• Storage capacity: 24 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: No
• Color options: Black, Gray, Army Green, Midnight Blue, Operator Camo, Sunflower
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Lifting belt loop, laptop sleeve, external velcro section, YKK® zippers

The backpack is constructed from durable nylon commonly used in tactical gear. Compared to the previous version, this bag has extra stitching at major points of wear and tear and uses quality YKK® zippers all around. On the outside, you’ll find a loop section primarily designed for attaching your weightlifting belt, making it convenient for carrying this otherwise bulky piece of equipment. Additionally, you can easily secure other gear to it.

Thanks to its ample capacity and multiple storage compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve, this backpack seamlessly transitions between work and the gym in a single day. There’s no need to return home to switch bags. The small front compartment is great for carrying everyday essentials like keys and wallets. Besides, it’s padded, so you can safely stow your phone knowing it won’t get bumped around in the bag.

The shoe compartment is separate from the main bag and located at the bottom. It offers plenty of room, accommodating footwear of various sizes and shapes. Moreover, the compartment is vented, allowing air circulation to cool it post-workout and prevent odors and bacteria buildup from sweat and heat. The large external velcro section is also a great addition, providing a space to personalize your bag with favorite patches. This section not only showcases your personal style but also allows you to add identification markers for your bag — very helpful for travel.

2. Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Team Backpack – Runner-Up

For our runner-up best workout backpack, we chose the Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Team Backpack. This mid-size bag offers ample carrying capacity for gym visits, school/university, and light travel. Additionally, Under Armour benefits from being a highly recognizable and reputable brand that is globally available, so most people should easy to get compared to other athletic backpacks.

• Dimensions: 20.1" H x 6.3" W x 12.6" L
• Storage capacity: 29 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Polyester
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Gray, White, Royal, Navy, Red
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Water-repellent materials, laptop sleeve, two side water bottle pockets

This exercise backpack is structured with three main compartments — two on top and one at the bottom. The main compartment is large and stretchable, for example, easily accommodating two size 7 basketballs. It also has a separated fleeced laptop sleeve suitable for laptops around the size of a 15-inch MacBook Pro.

The second top compartment is slimmer but has decent depth. While not overly spacious, it serves as excellent secondary storage. For example, it can hold a couple of notebooks, folders, or a tablet. It also features three slim pen-sized pockets plus a larger one for carrying additional accessories.

At the bottom of the backpack is a spacious compartment accessible through another zipper, which is great for storing shoes or dirty laundry when traveling. However, it shares the room with the main compartment, which can provide a slight challenge when packing. You might need to load it first before adding other items in the main compartment to see if everything fits.

The backpack is made of polyester, which isn’t the highest-quality material but keeps the price low. It's also water-repellent thanks to Under Armour's patented US Storm technology. The back panel is made from breathable mesh, providing comfort for the back and preventing excessive sweating. Lastly, the bag features two mesh bottle pockets on the sides, ideal for carrying a water bottle and thermos.

3. 2POOD XL PERFORMANCE BACKPACK – Best Large Backpack

Next up, we have the 2Pood XL Performance Backpack. If you like our top pick but need extra room to fit all your stuff, get this one instead. It’s the perfect choice for larger athletes or those who go to multiple training sessions per day and need to carry extra gear and a change of clothes.

• Dimensions: 24” H x 15” W x 8” D
• Storage capacity: 35 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: No
• Color options: Black, Gray, Operator Camo
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Lifting belt loop, laptop sleeve, YKK® zippers

The 2Pood XL large gym backpack is a larger and more spacious variant of the 2Pood Performance Backpack. It sports the same durable nylon build with reinforced stitching, YKK® zippers all the way around, lifting belt loop, and padded front pocket. The same separate and vented shoe compartment is found at the bottom, as well as the laptop slot inside. A slight downside may be that it comes in fewer color choices. Overall, it is an ideal weightlifting backpack.

4. GORUCK - RUCKER 4.0 – Best With Plate Pockets

The Rucker 4.0 is a unique combined carry and training backpack. It will immediately pique the interest of people into outdoor workouts - hiking, calisthenics, military/survivability training, and similar. However, it might not be the ideal fit for the casual gym goer looking for a simple carry backpack.

• Dimensions: 18" H x 11.5" W x 5.5" D or 20" H x 12" W x 6.75" D
• Storage capacity: 20 or 25 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Cordura®
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Ranger Green, American Tiger Stripe
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Weight plate pockets, reflective stripes, sternum training strap

The main features of this backpack are the weight plate pockets meant to slot in weights as well as dimensions designed for carrying small sandbags. Both of them are meant to add weight to the backpack and bring an additional challenge for the carrier and their exercises. This product is a great choice if you plan on training outside using, for example, backpack drills common in military strength tests or just want to strengthen your back and core while walking or cycling to the gym.

On top of the regular shoulder carry handles, the rucksack has four additional handlebars on the top, at the bottom, and on each side. They let you grip the backpack in any direction, allowing for a variety of carry-on or push/pull exercises, such as weighted pushups, front and back squats, and even modified arm curls or chest presses. Additionally, the backside is fit with 10mm thick EVA foam padding that fits the natural curve of your back.

The backpack itself is made from a military-grade Cordura®, which is an advanced blend of nylon. It comes in two carry sizes — 20 and 25 liters. The material is highly flexible, resistant, and has decent water-repelling properties, although it’s not fully waterproof. The front of the bag features three rows of MOLLE straps for attaching outside gear, such as water bottles with carabiner clips. Included in the package is an adjustable and removable Sternum Training Strap, helpful for distributing the weight across your upper body when carrying higher capacities.

5. TOPO DESIGNS PACK BAG – Best Budget Lightweight Pack Bag

For the more casual gym goer who carries no more than a quick change of clothes, the TOPO Designs pack bag will fit your needs perfectly. It’s budget-friendly, compact, and sustainable, with enough room for your workout shoes, a couple of t-shirts, and track pants, for example.

• Dimensions: 14" H x 10" W x 3" D
• Storage capacity: 10 L
• Weight: 0.5 lbs
• Material: Cordura® exterior, mesh inner sleeve
• Water-repellent: No
• Color options: Olive, Black
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Compact size, YKK® zipper

This packing cube can easily be carried in one hand or under your arm, much like a folder or laptop. However, this convenience comes at the cost of lower volume and weight capacity. If you highly value sustainability, you'll be pleased to know that it is made from Cordura® manufactured from 100% recycled nylon, colored with non-toxic dyes, and under Fair Wear labor standards. The outer layer is surprisingly abrasion-resistant, and the bag is secured with a heavy-duty YKK® zipper. It's also an excellent choice for organizing specific clothing items when packing a larger travel suitcase.

6. TOPO DESIGNS 22L KLETTERSACK

Another spot on our list is reserved for TOPO Designs 22L Klettersack, this time featuring a more traditional outdoor rucksack. This bag is proudly manufactured in the U.S.A., specifically in Boulder, Colorado. Each unit undergoes manual inspection for faults, guaranteeing the highest quality.

• Dimensions: 19" H x 12" W x 6" L
• Storage capacity: 22.4 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Cordura® exterior, coated pack cloth liner
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Charcoal
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Leather lash tabs, water bottle side holders, inner laptop sleeve

The outer fabric used is the 1000d Cordura® we mentioned a few times on this list already. In addition to the material’s naturally high resistance, the inner side is lined with moisture-resistant pack cloth protecting the contents inside from light rain. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like backpacking and hiking, too. That said, while it is highly functional, it lacks the sort of ergonomic features that make carrying it comfortable for extended periods.

The exterior hardware, including the zippers and clasps, is made of heavy-duty plastic, while the stretchable and durable straps are made of seatbelt-quality webbing. Although its 22.4 liters of carry capacity may not seem that high compared to some other bags on this list, this rucksack is spacious inside, the material can be stretched without tearing, and it can be filled to the top with items.

In terms of storage space, it has one large compartment that also features a laptop sleeve. For quick-reach items, such as phone, keys, or wallet, you can use the top flap pocket. Additionally, there are two water bottle holders found on each side as well as natural leather lash tabs that allow you to hook on items on the outside; for example, hanging your shoes to air dry.

7. 2POOD Performance Gym Bag –  Best Duffle Bag

There’s a saying that you can never go wrong with the classics. If you want the best traditional duffle bag, 2Pood has you covered there as well. 

• Dimensions: 13" H x 12" W x 20" D
• Storage capacity: 51 L
• Weight: Not specified by the manufacturer
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: No
• Color options: Black, Gray, Operator Camo
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Lifting belt loop, YKK® zippers, removable shoulder strap, shoe compartment

Duffle bags naturally have more room than athletic backpacks. This bag in particular holds 51 liters, which is about twice as much as the average backpack on this list. Additionally, you can carry it over your shoulder or remove the shoulder strap altogether and use only the small hand straps.

The shoe compartment fits any size of shoes, but it shares space with the main compartment, which might make it tricky to pack to the fullest. On the front, there's a big mesh pocket for a water bottle or gear like knee pads or basketball sleeves. There's also a cushioned side pocket for your valuables, such as a phone or a wallet. Like other 2Pood bags, you can attach your weightlifting belt to the belt loop without putting it inside the bag, but it will be exposed to the weather.

8. Cico Rider Multipurpose Bag – Best 3-in-1 Gym Bag For Men

Everyone loves a cost-effective purchase. Getting a separate bag for different needs can be costly and take up unnecessary amounts of space, not to mention when it stays unused for a while. If you’re switching back and forth between work, travel, gym, etc., and need an affordable all-in-one bag, then check this one out.

• Dimensions: 10” H x 10.5” W x 21.5” L
• Storage capacity: 40 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: PU leather, nylon, polyester
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Gray, Army Green, Camo Green
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Multiple handlebars, wet pocket

The bag features a PU leather bottom and sides, polyester on the front and back, and water-repellent nylon lining along the seams. It's divided into three sections: the main compartment, the shoe compartment, and a handy wet pocket on the front. While the first two aren’t unique to fitness backpacks, the wet pocket is a welcome addition, as it’s useful for storing sweaty gym clothes, swim towels, or a change of attire on a rainy day. Additionally, the bag’s inner compartment offers four inside pockets to keep small essentials organized.

What sets this bag apart from other men's gym backpacks is its versatile design. It easily transforms from a duffle bag to a backpack or a carry-on travel bag, all while remaining airline-friendly. The shoulder straps can be stowed away, and the overhead strap can be attached or detached for a quick change in carrying style. The manufacturer-recommended maximum load is 110 lbs or 50kg, which means it’s good for carrying more than just clothes. Topping it off with an affordable price, this bag provides excellent value for money.

9. MIYCOO Gym Bag – Best 3-in-1 Gym Bag For Women

Much like our previous recommendation for men, the MIYCOO gym bag is the perfect 3-in-1 carry option for women. The appealing color options and an affordable price point make it one of the best women’s workout backpack choices.

• Dimensions: 12.6” H x 7.09” W x 18.11” L
• Storage capacity: 42 L
• Weight: 1.52 lbs
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Multiple handlebars, wet pocket, two-way accessible

The main compartment offers two access points: a wide-mouth zipper on top and a smaller one in front. This dual entry makes packing and retrieving specific items a breeze without the need to unload the bag entirely. Inside, you'll discover a sizable separate pocket ideal for storing a laptop, notebooks, a towel, or neatly stowing away wet clothes.

The main material the bag is made of is water-repellent and wrinkle-resistant nylon. The shoe compartment is separated from the main storage area and perfectly accommodates women’s size shoes. The bag features multiple sets of handles, allowing for easy transitions between a backpack, duffle bag, or handbag styles, making it an ideal companion for a full day out.

10. ARENA Spiky III Team Backpack – Best For Swimmers

We would also like to mention the best sports backpack fit for swimmers and other water sports. ARENA is a well-known and respected brand in that area, so they know how to make a bag that can fit pool essentials and keep wet and dry items separate.

• Dimensions: 20” H x 11” W x 14” L inches
• Storage capacity: 45 L
• Weight: 1.94 lbs
• Material: Polyester, Nylon
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: 14 different patterns
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Waterproof swim bag included, YKK® zippers

The ARENA Spiky III team backpack is a spacious and functional backpack designed for swimmers, offering an impressive 45 liters of storage space. It features a large main compartment with a wide-mouth zipper for easy access, divided into two compartments to separate wet and dry clothes. Additionally, it boasts three zip pockets with mesh openings on the outer side, providing convenient storage for essentials like water bottles, goggles, and sunscreen, all easily accessible or for air-drying items.

Furthermore, with each purchase, you receive a separate swim bag for storing wet items. The interior fabric of the main compartment is water-repellent, preventing any dripping from the inside. The reinforced bottom allows you to place it on wet surfaces without accumulating water and risking wetting the stored items. The back panel is made of mesh to promote airflow and prevent sweating and is padded for added comfort.

11. Luckin Packin Tactical Backpack 3 – Best Tactical Backpack

For lovers of tactical gear and military-style appearance, we suggest the Luckin Packin Tactical Backpack 3. The iconic look is instantly recognizable and will stand out compared to typical sports bags at the gym.

• Dimensions: 19.6" H x 11.8" W x 11.8" L
• Storage capacity: 45 L
• Weight: Not specified by manufacturer
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color Options: Black, Green, Khaki, Red
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Four compartments, MOLLE webbing

Like all top-tier military gear, this bag is constructed from heavy-duty nylon reinforced with double stitching on the inside for enhanced durability and water resistance. Its four main compartments offer ample storage space adaptable to your needs. For instance, the small front pocket easily accommodates your everyday essentials, while the slightly larger compartment below is ideal for athletic shoes. Additionally, the main compartment contains a dedicated laptop sleeve for added convenience.

The bag also features multiple rows of MOLLE webbing on the front and both sides, along with a velcro section for attaching patches. Moreover, those with military experience or a passion for outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, and camping will instantly recognize the hydration bladder port, which allows for seamless access to your hydration pack and ensures you stay refreshed while on the move. In summary, it's an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and gym-goers alike.

12. BeeGreen Drawstring Backpack – Best Backpack With Drawstring

Drawstring packs are a favored choice for carrying gym or sports gear, especially among the youth, due to their lightweight and convenient nature. While they normally offer limited space, the BeeGreen drawstring backpack found some creative ways to solve this issue and add extra pockets.

• Dimensions: 20" H x 16" W x 5" L
• Storage capacity: Not specified by manufacturer
• Weight: 0.66 lbs
• Material: Polyester
• Water-repellent: No
• Color Options: Black, Blue, Green, Gray, Lime, Maroon, Navy, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Royal Blue, Teal
• Shoe Compartment: Yes
• Extra features: Machine-washable, reflective strip, two mesh pockets

This bag impresses with its clever compartmentalization. The main section, accessed from the top, is spacious enough for a full set of gym clothes. Tucked inside is a small pocket at the top, where you can keep your essentials secure and avoid losing them in the bag. Moving to the outside, an additional zipper reveals a smaller front pocket, which is perfect for stashing your phone and charger, for example. To the side, another zipper opens up the shoe compartment, and while it shares space with the main section, it's a great way to keep your shoes and sweaty clothes separate when you’re done working out.

Furthermore, there are two mesh pockets, one on each side, ideal for holding a water bottle, umbrella, or similar items that would take up too much space in the main bag. The large reflective strip on the back ensures you're easily visible at night, which is especially useful if you bike to and from the gym during late hours. Lastly, this backpack is easy to clean as it's machine-washable - just flip it inside out and toss it in the machine.

13. Valinov Mini Tactical Backpack – Best Mini Backpack For Men

If you want something more stylish and versatile than a drawstring but still compact and light, you might like the Valinov mini tactical backpack. Essentially, it’s a smaller version of your typical military backpack.

• Dimensions: 11” H x 8.7” W x 4” L
• Storage capacity: Not specified by manufacturer
• Weight: 0.88 lbs
• Material: Nylon
• Water-repellent: Yes
• Color options: Black, Green, Tan, Cano
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Adjustable straps, MOLLE webbing, carabiner included

Made from upgraded 600D military-grade nylon, this bag is both water-resistant and durable. It's equipped with highly adjustable straps and offers various carrying styles, such as a shoulder bag, chest bag, backpack, or hand carry.

The bag is designed with one large main compartment, a smaller front pocket, side water bottle holders, and a discreet zip-up pocket on the backside. While it may have slightly limited space compared to others, it can reliably fit a pair of men’s size shoes and a change of clothes, especially when using military roll-packing to save on space.

The front pocket is handy for storing small items like phones, chargers, keys, or cardholders within reach. It also features multiple rows of MOLLE webbing for attaching additional items, and one carabiner is already included in the package. Overall, this mini gym backpack is a great choice for guys, especially if they’re into military-style gear.

14. Adidas Women's Airmesh Mini Backpack – Best Mini Backpack for Womenop

It’s hard to imagine gym backpack reviews without mentioning Adidas at least once. If you’re looking for a compact daily carry option while you’re out and about that can quickly turn into a mini women’s workout backpack, this bag is a quality and stylish choice for a reasonable price.

• Dimensions: 8.5” H x 4.25” W x 5.5” L
• Storage capacity: Not specified by manufacturer
• Weight: 0.53 lbs
• Material: Knit mesh
• Water-repellent: No
• Color options: Beige, Purple
• Shoe Compartment: No
• Extra features: Two carrying styles

The bag is made from a breathable knit mesh — or Airmesh as Adidas likes to call it. It lets air flow right through it to prevent heat and sweat on your back. However, keep in mind that it can get quite damp in rainy conditions. The bag comprises the main compartment, which is large enough to fit a women’s size pair of shoes and some gym clothes, and a front pocket for packing a few essentials. Thanks to the adjustable handlebars that can be stretched up to 67 inches, the bag can quickly be turned from a backpack to a carry-on and every style in between.

When Would It Be Better to Use a Backpack Instead of Other Gym Bag Types?

Fitness backpacks are a great choice for the gym when you need to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings across both shoulders, making them more comfortable to carry. They’re particularly useful if you have a longer commute or need to carry additional items, like a laptop or work clothes, alongside your gym gear. Additionally, if you prefer a hands-free option that allows you to move your arms freely, such as cycling or walking/running to the gym, a backpack is the way to go. Besides, a backpack is a versatile piece of gear suitable for various activities, making it a practical choice.

Benefits of Backpacks for Going to the Gym Compared to Other Bags

Does the bag you carry really make a difference? Absolutely. Here are some of the reasons why you might prefer a backpack over other bag types:

✅ Even Weight Distribution

The biggest benefit of a backpack compared to other bag types is its ability to distribute weight evenly across the body, which makes walking, running, and exercising much easier. Additionally, it allows you to carry heavy loads by utilizing your entire body for support. On the other hand, satchels, duffels, and similar shoulder bags can be challenging to carry and may lead to unhealthy back, hip, and foot positioning as you try to balance the weight from one side to the other. Studies examining different bag styles showed that backpacks were the most spinal-healthy option. In comparison, shoulder bags and handbags led to greater muscle force and increased stress on the lumbar spine. It brings us to our next point.

✅ Best for Heavy Loads

Studies examining different styles of backpacks showed that a traditional backpack with a chest strap was the best for carrying heavy loads. This enduring design choice is evident in both military and outdoor backpacks, emphasizing its enduring practicality. The effects become particularly significant when you're carrying more than just a light change of clothes in your gym bag; for example, a work laptop, books, or anything else that might add a few pounds.

✅ Less Energy to Carry

Studies observing backpacks vs. shoulder carry methods showed that backpacks were more energy-efficient. The subjects exhibited notably lower heart rates and oxygen uptakes when using a backpack as opposed to carrying the load on their shoulders. This advantage can be particularly beneficial for those with demanding schedules, allowing them to carry their bag throughout the day before heading to the gym while preventing premature exhaustion.

✅ Unrestrictive Arm Motion

When you wear a backpack, your arms are free and your Range of Motion is less restricted. It can prove especially helpful in daily life, allowing you to easily handle tasks like checking your phone, carrying groceries, or even holding onto handrails in a crowded train or bus. Having your arms free is a level of convenience that other bag types simply can't match. Besides, it makes a huge difference if you’re into outdoor exercising, such as hiking, running, or using the backpack to simulate army exercises.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Gym Backpack?

A single backpack is not going to be the ideal choice for everybody. People have different needs, tastes, and budgets, among other preferences. So, what makes the best workout backpack? Here are some factors that might sway your purchase:

1. Sizing

The sizing of your exercise backpack will play a role in how easy and comfortable it is to carry. When you wear a backpack, you must feel easy to move around — it shouldn’t interrupt your movement. Thus, the biggest backpack is not always an advantage, and we listed backpacks of different sizes for this reason.

Oleksiy Torokhtiy says:

“Fun fact about me: I love lifting weights. Besides basic gym apparel, I always carry weightlifting gear: my leather belt, liquid chalk, lifting straps, etc. Occasionally, I carry two pairs of shoes (one for lifting, one for other exercises) and even bring my own barbell clamps. Naturally, I require more space than the average person, but I also want the bag to be convenient to carry. The 2Pood XL Performance Backpack has my back in these regards, pun intended.”

2. Capacity 

It's important for the bag to have enough room and good organization space for everything you want to bring. In this regard, the best gym backpack for women won’t be the same size as the best gym backpack for men. Women typically carry more essential items, so they might need a bit more room or at least better-organized space.

3. Material quality

Most gym backpacks are made of nylon because it's strong, durable, and not expensive. Like any material, nylon also comes in different levels of quality. That’s why you’ll see more expensive bags use Cordura® (an advanced version of nylon) or military grading (1000D, 600D, etc.). Higher-quality bags are more often than not more expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly bags from lesser-known brands that use excellent materials.

4. Usability

Before purchasing, think about what you'll use the backpack for. Is it just for the gym or could it be used for something else? Versatility is certainly a great factor, but it’s not crucial to everyone. That’s why we added a mix of traditional sports backpacks and some multi-purpose options.

Jacek says:

“Personal opinion from a combat sport athlete: Never had a backpack for training - they are too small for a gi/kickboxing gear. I stick to large gym bags that can also be worn like backpacks.”

5. Extra Features

Extra features beyond the bag itself are always a plus, assuming they don’t interfere with the backpack’s basic functionality. One great feature most of these bags have is water-repellent properties. Attachment loops such as MOLLE straps are great, but not everyone is going to use them. Multiple sets of handles for different carrying methods can turn a regular gym bag into a multi-purpose accessory that you’ll be using every day.

Sergiy Putsov says:

“Opt for a gym backpack with multiple pockets to keep your stuff organized. Look for one that's comfortable to wear and can fit all gym gear and daily items. The top pick from 2Pood here is the best one for me!”

6. Extra Compartments

Having separate spaces in your backpack is really important. They help keep the bag clean and organized. Shoe compartments and water bottle holders are a usual feature of athletic backpacks. Otherwise, it’s always a welcome addition to have additional storage in the form of wet pockets, laptop sleeves, and small pockets to fit essentials.

7. Comfort

Since you'll be carrying it on your back, the comfort of your training backpack is important. Most quality bags have a mesh back to prevent heat and sweating. Other than that, make sure the straps are adjusted to your size and evened out to evenly spread the load on your body. Extra padding is always nice, so we’ll give extra points to bags that have it.

Tips for Using a Gym Backpack

Backpacks are simple and intuitive in design, and yet people still use them incorrectly all the time. Here are some tips to get the most out of your favorite exercise backpack:

1. How to Wear It

A study published in the International Journal of Pediatrics showed that as many as 85% of students carry their backpacks incorrectly. Furthermore, over 40% were using a backpack of suitable size for their body structure. If you frequently carry your backpack — for example, for school, work, and exercise — and you do so incorrectly, you may develop bad habits and risk future musculoskeletal issues.

2. How to Pack It

When packing your backpack, always start with essentials, then move on to other things. Items like shoes and water bottles have a fixed shape, so place items that can be folded, such as t-shirts, shorts, etc., around them. Start by placing heavier items at the bottom to distribute the weight evenly. Separate your hand-on essentials like your phone, keys, or wallet into small pockets or compartments so that you don’t accidentally lose them when you pack/unpack other stuff. Finally, use separate compartments for dirty and clean clothes to avoid making a mess.

3. How to Clean It

Did you know that a majority of people at the gym do not clean their bags regularly? Reports have found that as much as 60% of gym bags carry high levels of bacteria. Professional gyms get cleaned and sanitized regularly, but remember that your bag isn’t present just at the gym: you carry it around in public, on the bus, in the back of your car, people bump into you on the street, etc.

Once you’re home, empty your backpack to let it air dry and prevent odors or bacteria from forming. It is especially important if you have wet or sweaty clothes inside. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended way of cleaning. If it says machine washable, feel free to do so, but make sure to empty all the pockets first. Otherwise, you’ll likely have to wipe it down yourself. Once you’re done cleaning, flip it open and let it air dry thoroughly before packing again. That said, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can damage the material or ruin the look of your bag by fading colors.

4. Checking for Wear & Tear

As you’re cleaning your gym backpack, make sure to inspect it for potential wear and tear. The last thing you want is for the bag to fail on you when you need it most. Check whether the zippers work correctly, whether the straps are well adjusted and holding, and search for any tears in the material.

5. Using the Mesh Pockets for Drying

People often use exposed knit mesh pockets to carry stuff like water bottles or things they want to grab quickly. However, what many of them miss is that mesh pockets can be used for venting or air-drying clothes or shoes as well. Instead of stuffing wet and warm gym apparel back into your bag, consider putting them in a spare mesh pocket. It can be especially useful for air venting your shoes after an intense workout. Just make sure to have the foot openings turned outward to let the air in.

6. Label Your Bag

If you frequent a public gym or plan to travel with your new backpack, consider marking it in some ways to easily identify that it’s yours. Some of the bags we mentioned already have velcro straps for attaching patches, but you can also use stickers or badges as identity markers and ways to show off your interest and personality. Public gyms typically issue a locker to protect your belongings, but it’s still a good idea to mark your bag to avoid confusion once you have it out on the bench.

FAQ

Can I Use Backpacks as a Gym Bag?

Yes, many people prefer using a backpack for gym days over a traditional duffle bag because the former has a more evenly spread load, promotes better posture, and is often more compact to carry.

What Is Better: A Backpack or a Gym Bag?

It depends on your preferences. A backpack is easier and more ergonomic, as it redistributes weight more evenly on your upper body. On the other hand, a typical gym duffle bag provides more space.

Can I Build Muscle with a Backpack?

Yes, with a bit of creativity. High-quality athletic backpacks can withstand a heavy load, some even have specialized weight compartments. Load them up with some weights or sandbags and you can do weighted push-ups, pull-ups, dips, and more.

Conclusion

Thanks for checking out our best gym backpack top list. Between all of these great options, we’re certain you found the perfect match for your needs, taste, and budget. Most people underestimate the difference a new and improved exercise backpack can make and stick with using an old bag for far too long. Out of the 100s of bags we tried throughout the years, the 2Pood Performance Backpack 2.0 was our favorite. We found it has a good blend of style and functionality.

We’d also like to hear from you. Tell us what your favorite gym bag so far was and for how long you’ve had it. In addition, we’d like to know whether you prefer a backpack, duffle bag, drawstring, or maybe something else entirely. Let us know by leaving a comment, then give us a follow on social media for more useful fitness content.

Also Read:

• Best Belt for Olympic Weightlifting
• Best Gym Bags for Women
• Best Powerlifting Gym Bag
• Best Gym Bag For Functional Fitness
• Best Gym Bag With Shoe Compartment
• Best Gym Bag

References:

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4. “Gym Users' Bags Contaminated with Bacteria, Says Study,” European Cleaning Journal, http://www.europeancleaningjournal.com/magazine/articles/latest-news/gym-users-bags-contaminated-with-bacteria-says-study (accessed Oct. 10, 2023).
5. Matteo Genitrini, Francesca Dotti, Eleonora Bianca, Ada Ferri, “Impact of Backpacks on Ergonomics: Biomechanical and Physiological Effects: A Narrative Review,” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 11 (2022): 6737.
6. “Range of Motion,” Physiopedia, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Range_of_Motion (accessed Oct. 10, 2023).
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“What We Stand For,” Fair Wear Foundation, https://www.fairwear.org/about-us/labour-standards (accessed Oct. 10, 2023).