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Best gym bags of 2024: We put 22 options through the paces, from duffels to totes
Our top picks from brands like Adidas, Nike and Lululemon start at just $30.
Gym routines are as diverse as gym-goers themselves. Whether you're hitting the weights, pounding the pavement or diving in for laps, there's one must-have: the ideal gym bag. And when it comes to choosing the right one, not all bags make the cut. Before you buy, keep a few key factors in mind.
Best overall
Adidas Original Canvas Duffel
Best budget
Focus Gear 20" Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0
Best large duffel
Gymshark Everyday Gym Bag Small
Best for weekend warriors
Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Bag
Best small tote
Lululemon Daily Multi-Pocket Tote
Best splurge
Caraa Sport Yoga Tote
Best for basketball
Nike Hoops Elite
Best for swimming
Speedo Teamster Bag 2.0
Best tennis/pickleball
Doubletake NYC Backpack
Best minimalist
All About Vertical Crossbody Bag
Best for work-to-gym commute
Ogio Fuse Backpack 20
Best yoga bag
Manduka Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier
Best for organization
Ogio Locker Bag
"Functionality is key. There is definitely not going to be one-size-fits-all in this category. We all need different things out of our fitness accessories," says Marshall Weber, owner and personal trainer at Jack City Fitness. "It all depends on the commute into the gym, our preferred workout types and even how we prioritize fitness and health in our lives."
Start by thinking about all the accessories you tote to the gym: water bottle, phone, keys, towel, change of clothes — you need room to accommodate your pre- and post-workout items. If you travel from the office to the gym, you might need even more room. Versatility is important.
"A bag that can transition from the studio to errands or other workouts is a major win," says Echo Wang, CEO and founder at Yoga Kawa, who uses a Manduka Go Steady bag for her needs. "It fits everything I need for class, keeps my sweaty stuff contained and works great for other gym activities."
With these needs in mind, I set out to find the best gym bags. Consulting fitness experts for insights, I reviewed dozens of products and selected 22 bags to test firsthand. I assessed each for durability, pocket and compartment functionality, special features like water resistance and versatility in real gym trips. Understanding that people's preferences vary, I also examined hundreds of user reviews to see what works for different gym-goers. I chose the best gym bags from this research, including budget-friendly, splurge-worthy, sport-specific and compact options. Continue reading to see which gym bags came out on top.
Best overall gym bag
Dimensions: 15"x10"x9" | Materials: Cotton, canvas | Capacity: 22L | Colors: Beige, black | Special features: Lightweight, shoe tunnel, adjustable straps
Adidas is one of the most recognizable names in the fitness realm, with equipment and bags covering almost every sport and activity imaginable. If you're looking for style, affordability and functionality, the Adidas Original Canvas Duffel fills the bill.
With a separate shoe tunnel and multiple compartments, it'll hold all your gym essentials and then some. The canvas and cotton materials are sturdy enough to withstand whatever you put it through, whether tossing it on the court or shoving it into a locket.
The adjustable strap allows you to carry the bag multiple ways, or you can detach it and use the handles instead. Coming in at $80, it's not the least expensive option on our list, but it's far from the most expensive too. If you're looking for a solid choice and you need a general bag that checks almost all of the boxes, this Adidas duffel should do the trick.
- Adidas members get savings and free shipping on all online purchases
- Separate shoe tunnel
- Multiple compartments
- Some may find it too small
- Limited color options
More gym bags we like in 2024
Dimensions: 20"x11"x10.5" | Materials: Canvas, polyester | Capacity: 20L | Colors: Black, silver, blue, charcoal, green, red, teal | Special features: Water bottle holders, wet pockets, separate shoe compartment
Focus Gear proves you don't have to spend a fortune to get a quality bag. For less than $30, the Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0 features 10 compartments, including a separate space for keys and phone.
The tunnel pocket keeps your clothes separate from your dirty gym shoes, and a hidden water-resistant pocket keeps the rest of your stuff dry so you can stash your swimsuit or sweaty items without worry. Reinforced stitching holds everything together for one durable bag. "It’s great quality. Large enough to be an over the weekend bag too. Good carry on. Plenty of extra pockets. Shoe portion is perfect for dirty clothes too!" said one reviewer.
Need hydration on the go? The bag comes with two water bottle compartments, so you'll never be without a drink. However, some reviewers report that the zippers come off their tracks. This isn't a problem I experienced, but something to keep in mind.
- Sturdy, water-resistant bottom
- Wet pouch for sweaty clothes or swimming gear
- Big mouth opening for easy access
- Some reports of zippers coming off tracks
Dimensions: 18.5" x 7.9" x 8.7" | Materials: Polyester, PVC outer | Capacity: 34L | Colors: Black, fresh blue, pebble gray, silver lilac, depth purple, autumn brown | Special features: Shoe tunnel, wet pocket, padded straps
At 34L, the Gymshark Everday Gym bag fits all your essentials and then some. Elastic mesh pockets keep things organized and secure, while the shoe tunnel and wet pocket help keep things hygienic and dry. If you commute from the office to the gym or vice versa, the padded shoulder strap and handles make commuting more comfortable.
Bonus: The Everyday Gym Bag is stylish with a debossed logo design, six modern color options and rubberized zipper pulls. One 5-star Amazon reviewer said, "This is a really good bag! I use it for my cycling gear and it fits my cleats, helmet, water bottles, accessories and enough room for a change of clothes. It’s durable and the zippers are pretty sturdy. Highly recommend if you want a small bag to dedicate to a particular sport or hobby."
- Fashionable color options
- Padded carrying handles and shoulder straps
- Shoe tunnel and wet pocket
- Not machine washable; wipe clean only
Dimensions: 21"x15"x12" | Materials: Recycled polyester | Capacity: 35L | Colors: Woods, chestnut, black, tempest, desert | Special features: Outer carrying straps, made from recycled materials, wet pocket, luggage handle pass-through
The Cotopaxi Viaje Weekender Bag is great for gym-goers who need extra space to accommodate lots of gear. This is especially true if you do weekend events — think CrossFit competitions or races — where you want to be able to travel with your workout items but also have enough space for toiletries and extra changes of clothes. With accessory pockets and substantial room for towels, clothes and equipment, the Viaje Weekender is ready for your gym journey.
Users happily reported that it doubles as an overnight bag or carry-on. One Amazon reviewer said, "There is nothing that I don’t like about this bag. It is colorful, has an outside pocket for your phone and a strap to attach it to a rolling suitcase. The pocket on the bottom is super for dirty clothes, as it goes up into the bag — as you use your clothes, put it in the bottom and it uses up the space in the bag itself. So clever!"
You can also feel good about this purchase: Cotopaxi is committed to sustainability by using eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester, maintaining low-emission practices and upholding fair labor standards. Plus, the brand backs its products with a lifetime warranty and offer repairs, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable, responsible production.
- Made from recycled materials
- Outer straps for yoga mat or longboard
- Doubles as overnight or travel bag
- Some colors may be out of stock depending on popularity
Dimensions: 20.1"x5.9"x13.8" | Materials: Recycled nylon, polyester | Capacity: 20L | Colors: Garnet/black, peach bellini/white opal, pow pink tone/bone, gray eucalyptus, legacy green, black, fawn brown/black | Special features: Water-resistant material, stand-alone design
There's a reason Lululemon continues to be a favorite among gym and exercise enthusiasts. The company combines style and function into quality bags, just like this Daily Multi-Pocket Tote, which retails for just under $70.
The tote shape makes it outstanding for slinging over your shoulder, and the hard-surface bottom enables it to stand independently. Exterior drop pockets and internal zipped pockets keep your personal items secure.
Trendy colors and water-resistant fabric make this one of Lululemon's most durable totes. "Absolutely love this bag! I use it for the gym, when I’m on the go, etc! It fits so much and is so easy to clean," says one review on the Lululemon site.
- Made from recycled materials
- Water-resistant
- Internal and external pockets
- Spot clean only
- Snap closure
Dimensions: 14"x21.5"x8" | Materials: Recycled nylon | Capacity: 30L | Colors: Black, ivory | Special features: Removable backpack straps, separate shoe compartment, exterior yoga bag strap, antimicrobial interior liner
If cost is no object, consider the Caraa Sport Yoga Tote. With detachable backpack straps, the bag easily transforms from a backpack to a tote. An expandable, zipped bottom is superb for dirty clothes, shoes or anything else you want to keep separated from the rest of your stuff. Seven total compartments and pockets, a yoga bag strap and a luggage sleeve make this bag versatile in every way.
However, the best feature has to be the water-resistant, antimicrobial interior. This means that bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are stopped from growing and spreading on contact, a definite bonus considering how germy gyms can be.
- Spacious design
- Multiple compartments
- Durable, high-quality fabric
- Separate shoe compartment
- Exterior yoga mat straps
- High price point
- Limited color options
Dimensions: 11"x19"x9" | Materials: Recycled polyester | Capacity: 32L | Colors: Lime green and orange on the Nike site; more options available on Amazon | Special features: Chest strap, ball compartment
Plan on hitting the court for your next workout? Consider the Nike Hoops Elite, made specifically for professional and amateur ballers alike.
With a large main compartment plus separate space for your ball, shoes and odds and ends, this bag has room for large and small items. And because Nike knows you'll be heating things up on the court, the straps are made with patented air units that help filter air to keep you cool and dry after working up a sweat (or, you know, just wearing the backpack around on a hot day).
A stabilizing chest strap helps distribute the weight of your pack, and a hauling loop gives you an alternative option for carrying it. "Great space. Bag has some different kind of zippers and pockets. Just gets getting used to the new set up," said one Amazon reviewer.
- Breathable straps
- Separate ball and shoe compartments
- Made from recycled materials
- Zipper pulls can become detached after some wear and tear
Dimensions: 20"x 17" | Materials: Polyester | Capacity: 35L | Colors: Black, electric blue, nautical navy, navy/red, sapphire, yellow | Special features: Water- and abrasion-resistant
A good bag can make or break a swimming practice. And because Speedo is synonymous with aquatics, it makes sense that the brand makes one of the best swim bags on the market.
Hidden ventilation ensures your wet clothes can breathe and not go moldy, even if you forget them for a day or two. The water-resistant bottom means you can place it on the changing room floor without worrying about water seeping through. A dedicated, elevated laptop sleeve keeps electronics dry and cushioned from bumps or drops — which is pretty much unheard of in a bag for swimming gear. The generous side pockets keep all your smaller or important items (like your cell phone or keys) within reach for easy access.
"This is the best backpack ever. The double zippers that open like a hood rather than the crosswise one way or even double zip zippers. Holds a lot extremely roomy and has waist straps and wide shoulder straps that quite comfortable," says one satisfied reviewer.
- Water-resistant bottom
- Laptop sleeve
- Numerous color options
- Hand wash only
Dimensions: 13"x19.5"x8" | Materials: Aluminum hardware, eco-friendly fabrics | Capacity: 24L | Colors: Carbon, steel | Special features: Water bottle and ball canister pockets
It's safe to say that pickleball isn't just a fad. The paddle-centric sport is here to stay. And if you play the game, you know the right bag is essential. Meet the Doubletake NYC Backpack, which also doubles as a tennis bag.
This bag has room for three standard tennis rackets or two pairs of pickleball paddles, plus outer pockets for water bottles or ball canisters. A fuzzy sunglasses compartment, wet pocket and plush phone compartment round out the offerings. You can also carry it as a backpack or a tote.
- Can be used for tennis or pickleball
- Water bottle pockets double as ball canister holders
- Limited color options
Dimensions: 8.4”x 6.6”x 2” | Materials: Polyester/recycled polyester | Capacity: Not indicated | Colors: Perennial olive, black, coastal | Special features: Water-repellent, detachable strap
When you need nothing more than a bag to carry small toiletries, your wallet, phone and keys, there's no need to lug a big duffel around. To be honest, choosing the best minimalist bag was a toss-up, but this vertical crossbody from Athleta won out against the competition (Lululemon's Everywhere Crossbody Bag 2L came in a very close second).
We love that it has a slightly larger capacity that allows you to throw a small makeup or cosmetics bag inside. The fabric is water-repellent, and the strap is removable. This offers additional functionality, allowing you to use it as a toiletry tote on days when you need a bigger gym bag — just throw this bag inside (sans strap) and it'll do the trick. It also has a small, exterior, zippable pocket that's excellent for storing your wallet, while an interior pocket allows for more organization.
Another Athleta bag (the Reflective All About Crossbody Belt Bag) that was a close contender stood out for its fully reflective exterior, making it a great choice for anyone walking or biking to the gym in the dark. We wish this vertical option had the same, reflective exterior, which is our main complaint when testing this bag.
- Compact, yet spacious
- Detachable strap
- Water repellent fabric
- Machine washable
- No reflective exterior
Dimensions: 18"x11.5"x7.0" | Materials: Ripstop Cordura | Capacity: 20L | Colors: Black, cobalt | Special features: Duffel bag opening, laptop compartment
If you're the type of gym-goer who goes straight from the office to the gym (or vice versa), chances are you need a bag that can hold your laptop, tablet and extraneous work files along with clothes and toiletries, without risking the two touching each other. While there are a few totes on this list that can do the trick, they're not going to be very functional on days you want to bike or walk to your daily commitments.
We found the Fuse Backpack 20 from Ogio to be incredibly functional for this purpose. It's a small backpack with a duffel-bag vertical zipper opening so you can throw all your gym clothes or supplies inside and access them easily when you're ready to hit the showers. The fabric is water-resistant ripstop Cordura, making it super lightweight and durable, and there's a sort of half-sleeve protector on the bottom half of the backpack so if the zipper were to unzip while you're wearing it (unlikely, but just in case), it's less likely that anything would fall out.
Most important, there's a separate, padded compartment that fits up to a 17-inch laptop comfortably, and an interior tablet sleeve that's also padded to help protect your electronics.
The most glaring problem we noticed was the lack of an exterior water bottle pocket — it seems like it would be an easy addition that would turn this already-functional gym bag into an even better product. It also lacked a separate pocket to store wet or sweaty items, and while it features a few reflective tags, it would be nice if there were more reflective strips across the back. Truly, though, for $40? You're getting a lot of bang for your buck with this duffel backpack.
- Separate zippered laptop compartment
- Padded interior tablet compartment
- Duffel access to main compartment
- Backpack straps
- Luggage passthrough
- No water bottle sleeve
- More reflective features would be helpful
- No separate pocket or sleeve for wet clothing
Dimensions: 30”x7”x8.25” | Materials: Polyester | Capacity: not indicated | Colors: Black | Special features: Ventilated mat pocket, additional interior and exterior pockets for props, adjutable strap
If your gym trips include yoga classes, chances are you'll be hauling a yoga mat with you (check out our favorite mats) ... which isn't the most compact item you could carry around. While a few of the other bags on our list include exterior straps to carry a mat, if you're a serious yogi, it's nice to have a bag that keeps your mat protected from the elements.
This bag from Manduka is water-resistant and well-made and includes just about everything you could want in a mat bag. In addition to the storage space for your mat itself (which is sizable enough even for oversized mats), there's a large secondary zippered compartment for clothes, a yoga towel or straps, and hidden interior pockets that are great for tucking away your phone, keys or wallet. When compared with a similar mat bag from Alo (see our notes below), we found this mat's space for storing yoga accessories like blocks was more substantial — you can even store two mats or a couple yoga blocks in the double compartments if you're so inclined.
There were a few standout features the Alo bag offered (like an exterior mesh pocket that's appropriate for wet clothes or a water bottle), but ultimately when we compared prices, the Manduka option won out — this bag costs $70 versus the $128 for the Alo bag (although it's currently on sale for a much more reasonable $89). We just weren't sure the extra features the Alo bag offered were worth compromising the extra space and better price of the Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier.
- Two large compartments large enough to hold any size yoga mat and accessories, including yoga blocks
- Additional interior storage for smaller personal items
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- One hidden interior zippered pocket good for phone or wallet storage
- Vented mat storage
- Only one color
- No water bottle holder
Dimensions: 16"x12.75"x7.75 | Materials: 600D polyester/recycled nylon | Capacity: 32L | Colors: Black | Special features: Locker "door," interior shelves, lots of options for interior and exterior organization, vented shoe compartment
You won't need to rent a locker at your gym if you have Ogio's Locker Bag at your side. We could have also given this product the "most innovative" superlative because we were truly impressed by its functionality and how it works just like a locker.
Unlike most gym bags that open at the top or across the back, this structured Locker Bag fully unzips at the side, opening up like a locker door. Inside there's a divider that works as a shelf, allowing you to fold and place your clothes on top and keep your shoes (up to size 14) in the vented section on the bottom. The "door" of the locker has multiple mesh pockets just right for organizing deodorant, small toiletries or even supplement powders or pills.
Then on the outside of the bag, there's a large mesh zippered pocket for wet items and additional zippered pockets that are ideal for storing small gym equipment (like jump ropes or resistance bands) and your personal necessities, like cell phone, wallet and keys.
You can carry the bag with a handle on the top or you can use the adjustable shoulder strap to make it easier to haul. There were just two things that struck us as areas for improvement: the addition of backpack straps to make this a bag you could take with you on a bike and a water bottle pocket.
At $140, this Ogio bag isn't cheap, but it's a pretty sweet addition to your gym routine if you're a stickler for organization.
- Vented shoe storage
- Exterior mesh pocket for wet items
- Easy-to-organize clothing storage
- "Door" storage pockets for toiletries or supplements
- Additional exterior pockets for bands, jump ropes or other small gym equipment
- Protected exterior pocket for wallet, phone, keys
- No water bottle sleeve
- No backpack straps
- Expensive
Types of gym bags
Gym bags come in many styles, each designed with unique features to suit different needs. Here’s a look at some of the most popular types and what sets them apart.
Duffel bags: Duffels are usually cylindrical and have one large compartment with outer side pockets. They should work fine if you don't have many smaller items to keep organized. They are easy to reach in and out of, making them a popular choice for a gym bag.
Backpacks: Backpacks distribute the weight of the bag evenly between both shoulders. If your gear is heavy, a backpack can help make it easier to carry around. External and internal pockets help keep things organized.
Tote bags: A tote bag is a medium-sized option with handles that can be carried or slung over a shoulder. The number of internal and external pockets varies by design. Some even have external straps for yoga mats.
Shoe bags: Many gym bags feature a special shoe compartment that keeps your cleats, basketball shoes or running shoes separate from the rest of your belongings. This keeps things fresh and sanitary.
Crossbody bags: A crossbody bag has one long strap. Your arm goes through one end, and you lay the strap across your body, much like a seatbelt, which keeps your hands free.
Wet/dry bags: Some gym bags have a wet/dry pocket, while others are designed to keep wet clothes inside the main compartment. The purpose is to keep wet clothes separate from dry clothes.
Factors to consider when purchasing a gym bag
Make a game plan before purchasing your gym bag. This means considering factors that would make the bag work for you.
"The size and setup of a gym bag are important and will vary depending on your needs. Think about everything you want to be able to put in your gym bag and make sure it’s big enough to fit it all. Consider which of these items you’d like to place in separate areas or compartments," says Anna Passalacqua, co-founder, director and teacher at Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy. "I like to have a bag with a place where I can put dry, clean clothes, a place for clothes that are damp and sweaty, a larger pocket for my shoes and a smaller pocket for valuables like my keys, phone, wallet and jewelry. For me, it's also helpful to have a strap or clip that I can use to secure my yoga mat to my gym bag.
Capacity and Storage: Think about how much you need to carry, both to the gym and beyond. Choosing a gym bag that fits all your essentials is ... well, essential. If you plan to use it for other purposes, like travel, make sure it has enough room for those needs too. "When buying a gym bag, it's useful to get one that's versatile, with options such as expanding sections for those days when you are taking more gear with you," says Kate Macfarlane, certified running coach at We Run.
Durability: Are you planning to put your bag through the ringer? Will it be on the court, the field or a locker? Make sure that your gym bag's material can keep up with you. Also, be aware that some bags cannot be washed; they are only wiped or spot-cleaned.
Comfort and ergonomics: For a more comfortable experience, opt for bags with adjustable, padded straps that evenly distribute weight. Think about how you'll carry it — whether by handles, a crossbody strap or as a backpack — and choose the most ergonomic style for your needs.
Water resistance: If you're a swimmer, you'll need a water-resistant bag to carry your wet suit and protect your bag from the changing room floor. However, a water-resistant bag is also suitable for storing sweaty clothes. Look for a bag with a wet pouch to keep your other belongings dry and safe.
Style and aesthetics: Gym bags can be simple or extravagant. Some people prefer muted colors, while others prefer loud colors and patterns. As for style, choose the most comfortable option based on what you'll be carrying (and how much it weighs), whether a crossbody, tote or duffel.
Price: The prices of gym bags vary greatly, so be sure to set a budget and stick to it. Name brands always cost more than lesser-known options.
How we chose the best gym bags
Choosing the best gym bag required a combination of hands-on testing, expert insight and user feedback. To begin, I reviewed dozens of products and narrowed them down to 22 standout bags that I personally put to the test (along with help from a few family members and friends). Each bag was evaluated based on durability, design, functionality and unique features.
I also assessed each bag's versatility by using it in real-life scenarios, from gym trips to quick errands, to ensure it could transition effortlessly between various settings. I analyzed hundreds of user reviews to gain a broad view of each bag's strengths and weaknesses, paying close attention to feedback on comfort, durability and overall value.
From this extensive research, I selected the best gym bags for each category as well as an overall winner.
FAQs
What size gym bag do I need?
The ideal gym bag size depends on what you plan to bring to the gym. For example, swimmers will need space for both wet and dry clothing, while basketball players might need compartments for a ball and shoes. If you're going straight from the office, a larger bag is beneficial to hold a change of clothes, shoes, your work supplies and any workout gear. Similarly, tennis players will require a bag big enough for rackets and other essentials.
Weber says to think of it like packing for different workout routines. A professional boxer, for instance, needs room for gloves, wrist wraps and other gear, whereas someone just beginning their fitness journey might only need space for a water bottle and a towel. You can find the bag size that best fits your routine by considering what you need to carry.
What material is best for a gym bag?
Most gym bags are made from polyester or nylon because both materials are durable and water-resistant. "When buying a gym bag, one of the first things I consider is its material. Is it water-resistant if I get caught in the rain or my water bottle leaks? Is it something durable yet still environmentally friendly, like recycled canvas? Does it have ventilation to help sweaty gym clothes and shoes air out?" explains Passalacqua. The answers to these questions can help you identify a high-quality bag.
How do I keep my gym bag from smelling?
Keeping your wet clothes separate from your dry items can help keep things fresh. Also, consider airing out your gym bag between uses, as ventilation can help eliminate odors and wetness. Some gym bags, like the Caara Sport Yoga Tote, have an antimicrobial interior that stops bacteria growth. But you can mimic this effect by wiping out your bag with an antibacterial wipe or vinegar solution from time to time.
Other gym bags we tested
I tested a few other bags that didn't make the list.
Altheta All About Duffel: This bag was a tough contender, but I thought the Adidas duffel served the same purpose at a lower cost.
Under Armour Undeniable Duffel: While many gym-goers use this bag for basketball, I preferred the Nike Hoops Elite because it had a separate compartment for the ball, which keeps all your other belongings cleaner.
WOLFPack Mini Duffel: This one was just a little too compact. Reviews stated that there just wasn't enough room, and I agreed. If you're looking for a small duffel, the Ogio Fuse Backpack 20 is a similar size, but offers more functionality and comes at a much better price.
Athleta All About Large Crossbody Bag: We tested the version of this bag with reflective fabric, and we loved it. Truly. Being able to wear it across your back while biking to the gym is an excellent safety feature for being seen by drivers in dark conditions. That said, it didn't have as much capacity as the brand's Vertical version of this bag (which we selected as our top minimalist choice), and its strap doesn't unclip like the similarly-styled Lululemon option. This is why it didn't make the cut.
Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Bag 2L Metal Hardware: There's no denying this is a chic, attractive bag with lots of features that make it an excellent minimalist option. It's made of water-repellent fabric, has a number of interior and exterior pockets for organization, can be worn multiple ways and features a detachable strap, making it a good toiletry bag as well. The only reason it didn't make our superlatives list is that the Athleta Vertical All About Crossbody Bag had just slightly more capacity and equal functionality (at a lower price).
Alo Explorer Fanny Pack: There's really nothing bad to say about this fanny pack. It's well made and water-repellent, has lots of zippered storage options and is comfortable to wear. If you're looking strictly for a fanny pack to haul your stuff, this will do the trick. That said, at almost $100, it doesn't have the versatility (namely, the detachable straps) that our favorite minimalist bags featured.
Lululemon Large Slouchy Sling Bag: This is another bag we love from a general standpoint. Again, it's attractive and has some important features like water-repellent fabric and various pockets for organization. That said, from a gym bag standpoint, it just doesn't make a lot of sense. Compared with the other bags on our list, it's lacking the types of pockets or organizational options to separate wet and dry clothes or to store toiletries. There are two exterior pockets that would make excellent places for water bottles, but they're not functional as such. In short, this makes a great casual day bag but not the best gym bag.
Alo Yoga Mat Bag: The Alo Yoga Mat Bag has a lot going for it — substantial interior space for a mat of any size and clothing or yoga accessories, hidden interior storage pockets, an external mesh pocket good for carrying wet items or a water bottle and a well-padded adjustable strap. There were only two reasons the Manduka Go Steady 3.0 Mat Carrier took the top spot for yoga mat bags — storage space sufficient for carrying yoga blocks and price. We just didn't find the Alo Mat Bag was worth the extra cash.
Manduka Go Play 3.0 Mat Carrier: This mat carrier from Manduka is a nice, minimalist option if you're looking for something that's a step up from a basic carry strap but that's not as bulky as a full bag. This adjustable carrier includes a pocket large enough to store your phone, wallet and keys but not much else. It's certainly functional (and we like the $40 price tag), but we look for versatility in gym bags, and this one falls a bit short.
Meet our experts
Kate Macfarlane, certified running coach at We Run
Anna Passalacqua, co-founder, director, and teacher at Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy
Echo Wang, CEO and founder of Yoga Kawa
Marshall Weber, owner and personal trainer at Jack City Fitness
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.