Best Gym Backpacks for Work and fitness: For people who balance their training routine with job commitments, gym bags provide a practical and hands-free alternative. Whether you’re shuttling between home, the gym, and the office, a reliable gym backpack can help keep your essentials organized and easily accessible. Yoga instructor Tamara Teragawa promotes the benefits of backpacks for gym goers, pointing out their convenience and usefulness over shoulder bags or duffel bags.
There are important things to think about when looking for the ideal exercise bag. It needs to be cozy, sturdy, roomy, and furnished with numerous storage spaces to hold your equipment.
Additionally, it should be adjustable to suit your body size and designed to distribute weight evenly to prevent back strain when fully loaded.
To identify the best gym backpacks, Verywell Fit testers rigorously assessed various options over several weeks. They assessed the comfort, fit, adjustability, stability, chafe protection, storage, and price of these backpacks.
An experienced personal trainer from their Review Board also ensured the accuracy of the information regarding the benefits and proper use of these backpacks.
Top Picks for Best Gym Backpacks
When selecting a gym backpack that effortlessly transitions between the gym and work, certain features are essential. Here are the top picks:
1. Best Men’s Overall: Nike Utility Speed Training Backpack
Pros:
- Large main compartment
- Sternum strap for added support
- Comfortable straps
Cons:
- Not as stylish
- The interior mesh sleeve isn’t secure
The Nike Utility Speed Training Backpack stands out as the top choice for men. Your things will fit comfortably because of its roomy and sturdy design. The bag’s flat-opening feature allows easy access to the roomy main compartment, while multiple pockets keep you organized. It scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for storage. Although roomy, testers found it comfortable and not overly bulky. The air-cushioned straps relieved shoulder pressure, earning it a 5 out of 5 for comfort and fit. Additionally, the backpack has convenient cargo loops for securing additional stuff.
2. Best Budget: Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- Waterproof pockets for electronics
Cons:
- Not as durable
- Straps may be wide for some
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack is a solid choice. With compartments specifically dedicated to shoes, clothing, gadgets, and more, it has a lot of cargo capacity. A felt-lined laptop sleeve and a waterproof front pocket for your phone or sunglasses are included with this ventilated bag. Ergonomic shoulder straps provide comfort, but some wearers may find them too wide, leading to a 4.5 out of 5 rating for chafing protection.
3. Best for Yoga Mat: Aurorae Yoga Multi-Purpose Yoga Backpack 2.0
Pros:
- Carries mat vertically
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Padded laptop compartment
Cons:
- The bag can feel off-balance
- Straps may not tighten enough for some
If you’re a yogi, the Aurorae Yoga Multi-Purpose Yoga Backpack 2.0 is designed with your needs in mind. It features a vertical mat-carrying pocket for easy transportation. The bag distributes weight evenly with padded shoulder straps, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort and chafing protection. However, some wearers with small frames may find the straps less adjustable. With side mesh pockets for water bottles and outside attachment loops for extra gear, the bag also provides enough storage.
4. Best Large: Elite Convertible Gear Gym Bag and Backpack
Pros:
- Converts into a duffel
- Water-resistant
- Insulated cooler pocket
Cons:
- Limited color options
For those with heavy gear, the Elite Convertible Gear Gym Bag and Backpack is an excellent choice. It features padded, quick-release backpack straps that can be stowed to convert into a duffel bag. Even petite testers found it comfortable when fully expanded, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating for comfort and fit. Your possessions will be safeguarded by the water-resistant PVC coating on this robust backpack. Exterior pockets and breathable mesh pockets keep your belongings dry and orderly, respectively.
5. Best Small: The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack
Pros:
- Compression bungees can hold extra gear
- Wide range of colors
- Made with recycled materials
Cons:
- External water bottle pockets are small
The Borealis Mini Backpack from The North Face may be small, but it has a ton of storage. Perfect for walks, hikes, or light outings, it earned a 4.5 for comfort and storage. Ergonomic straps ensure comfortable wear, while shell loops and compression bungees allow you to bring all your essentials. Two water bottle compartments are present on the bag, but they can only hold 12-ounce bottles. It is also environmentally friendly, constructed of recycled materials, and offered in a variety of vivid hues. For individuals who require extra space, the company sells a bigger version of the Borealis Backpack.
What to Look for in a Gym Backpack
Material:
The typical materials used to create gym backpacks are leather, canvas, mesh, nylon, and polyester. When choosing the material, take durability, water resistance, and comfort next to your skin into account.
Size:
Choose a backpack size that suits your needs and body size. A medium-sized backpack (around 30 liters or less) is generally sufficient for gym essentials. If you plan to carry a laptop or extra clothing, opt for a larger backpack (at least 40 liters).
Fit:
Ensure the backpack provides a comfortable and adjustable fit. Adjustable straps, chest and waist straps, breathable mesh fabrics, and cushioning are essential for strain-free wear.
Storage:
Look for a backpack with various compartments and pockets to keep your essentials organized. Think of any specialized storage requirements, like a place for a laptop or a water bottle.
Conclusion
Incorporating the finest gym backpack into your daily routine is crucial for both work and exercise. When choosing, give importance to versatility, toughness, style, storage, and comfort. With the right backpack, you’ll have a reliable companion that keeps you organized and prepared for both gym sessions and work commitments.
FAQs
What kind of bag is best for the gym?
A gym duffle bag with separate compartments for shoes and sweaty clothes is best for the gym.
Are backpacks good for the gym?
Backpacks can be suitable for the gym if they have enough space and compartments for your workout gear, but duffle bags are often more convenient due to their larger capacity and separate compartments for shoes and sweaty clothes.
Which backpack is best for daily use?
A versatile and comfortable backpack with padded straps, multiple compartments, and a durable build is ideal for daily use. Specific brands and models may vary based on personal preferences and needs.
What is a good size for a gym bag?
A good size for a gym bag is typically around 20-30 liters, providing enough space for your workout essentials without being too bulky.
Features and Products Image sourced from Amazon
