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The Best Gym Backpacks to Seamlessly Take You From Work to Workout

Work your shoulders at the gym — not from a heavy tote bag.

gym backpacks
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Got a packed day ahead of you before you even hit the gym? There's no reason you should be toppling over with all of your possessions in tow. It'll make it much easier on you — and your shoulders — to use one of these gym backpacks. They're roomy enough to fit both your computer and your gym clothes, some have separate shoe compartments to keep the rest of your office clothes nice and tidy, and some also come with laundry bags. Plus, they're light and super comfortable on your back, and they don't take up as much space under your desk as a duffel would.

Because backpacks distribute weight more evenly than, say a tote bag, you can eliminate neck and shoulder pain and improve your posture overall by carrying one of these bags around. These picks for gym bags for both men and women can be used for everything from the workday, to a workout, or even a weekend trip if you're packing light.

The Best Gym Backpacks

    What to Consider

    Size: Depending on your go-to gym activity, you may have more to bring along with you than others. If, for instance, you’re packing work stuff, sneakers, a change of clothes, a water bottle, a basketball, and the like, you’re going to want a bigger bag. Stick to the basics, though, if you’re more of a “water bottle, deodorant, and fresh tee” kind of gym-goer.

    Pockets: Again, considering how much you bring, you'll likely want at least a pocket or two so you can at least keep things somewhat organized. A spot for your phone, wallet, and water bottle, most notably, are important things to consider. If you're a super sweater, or your activity of choice requires returning home with wet clothes, i.e. spending time in the pool or sauna, you also may want to consider a backpack with a separate waterproof pocket.

    Material: Waterproof materials or even mesh will keep things from getting everything wet or even help them dry faster. Should you require this — particularly if the backpack will be used outdoors for hiking, where rain can really put a damper (pun intended) on the experience, opt for waterproof.

    Whether you're looking for a versatile pick that can double as a weekender or something perfect for commuting, these are the best gym backpacks we recommend.

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    1
    The Transformer
    Livacasa Drawstring Gym Bag
    LIVACASA

    At an affordable price, this gym backpack has everything you could want: It has two exterior pockets, a hole for your headphones or portable phone charging cord, an interior zip pocket, and it's roomy enough to hold your water bottle, laptop, and/or any books or notebooks.

    Plus, it even has a handle so you can transform it into a tote! Make this your new everyday bag and you won't be disappointed. 

    More: The Best Travel Backpacks

    2
    The Best Basic
    Under Armour Adult Undeniable 2.0 Sackpack
    Under Armour

    The perfect grab-and-go to take with you for a post-work gym sesh or commuting on public transportation. This backpack from Under Armour comes in a plethora of colors and features two convenient front zip pockets, a larger drawstring section, and a D-ring on the front for any additional attachments.

    3
    Best for Training
    Nike Brasilia Medium Training Backpack
    Nike

    This sleek Nike backpack has a large compartment for storing your belongings, a laptop sleeve and side pockets for water bottles, and a post-workout protein shake or travel coffee mug. The straps come with some solid cushioning, so your shoulders won't be burdened from carrying this bag for a full day.

    4
    Best Drawstring
    Adidas Unisex Alliance II Sackpack
    Adidas
    Now 10% off

    You can always count on Adidas to bring high-quality materials to its products, and this simplistic gym backpack is no different. It has a front zip pocket so you can easily keep your valuables — wallet, phone, AirPods, etc. — close, as well as mesh slots for your water bottle and a drawstring compartment for your change of clothes. Did we mention the 17,500 five-star reviews, too?

    5
    Best One-Shoulder
    OutdoorMaster Sling Bag
    OutdoorMaster
    Now 30% off

    This versatile sling option can be taken to the gym or on a hiking trip. It's made from a lightweight, sturdy material featuring an exterior water bottle pocket and several zip compartments with plenty of room for your belongings — and a hidden anti-theft pocket for the things that are most valuable. 

    Bonus: It can be worn by lefties or righties thanks to its reversible padded strap.

    6
    Most Spacious
    Ogio 2020 XIX Backpack
    OGIO

    For fans of a top-loading, spacious bag, go with the Ogio XIX. There's a drawstring closure in addition to the buckle for additional security for your valuables. The back is extra padded to contour to your body, too, for added comfort.

    7
    Best Splurge
    The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack
    The North Face

    Because The North Face was a company essentially built for active people, you know any product you get will be both comfortable and durable. This backpack is no exception: It's a midsize bag with lots of compartments, and it comes with a sternum belt for extra support. We love that it also includes a laptop sleeve!

    8
    Best Expandable
    Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack
    Lululemon

    Not only does the fabric on this gym backpack look super sleek, but it's also water-repellent and can be wiped clean. It has an expandable pocket for your shoes or sweaty gear, a special pocket for your phone, and interior pockets for your laptop and water bottle. Aptly named, this bag is perfect for city folks on the go.

    9
    Most Versatile
    My Tagalongs Everleigh Backpack
    My Tagalongs

    The neoprene material of this bag makes it really easy to keep clean and also adds padding for your electronic devices. You can zip your phone, keys, or protein powders in the front pockets, and still have plenty of room for your work essentials.

    10
    Most Budget-Friendly
    Vorspack Drawstring Backpack
    Vorspack

    If you're a minimalist at heart, this water-resistant drawstring option is the gym backpack for you. There's an exterior pocket in the rear bottom to zip up either dirty clothes or your sneakers. It's also deceptively spacious, with enough room for your water bottle, phone, wallet, books, laptop, iPad, and more.

    11
    Best Mesh
    TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack
    TYR

    If swimming is your workout of choice, bump this mesh backpack from TYR to the top of the pile. It has an open-weave design for drying things quickly and a front zipper pocket so you can keep valuables away from dripping swim gear. If black is too boring for you, this bag comes in every color of the rainbow as well.

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