Lululemon’s New Crew is sold as a backpack rather than a duffel, which is the actual current product in this line. Based on manufacturer specs and aggregated owner reviews, it combines a padded laptop sleeve with gym-friendly side pockets, making it popular with people who go straight from the office to the gym.Reviewers highlight the water-repellent shell and organized interior, while noting the backpack shape holds less bulky gear than a traditional duffel.
Check price on AmazonFinding the right gym bag can make or break your workout routine. Whether you are heading to a yoga class, hitting the weight room, or squeezing in a session before work, you need a bag that keeps your gear organized, fits your essentials, and matches your style. We compared the most popular women’s gym bags on the market based on owner reviews, expert rankings, and key features like compartments, comfort, and durability.
Our roundup includes seven top-performing bags from brands like Lululemon, Gymshark, Nike, and adidas. Each bag earned its spot by offering great organization, comfortable carrying options, and long-lasting materials. We focused on real owner feedback to highlight what works and what doesn’t, so you can choose with confidence.
How we rank
We analyzed over 4,000 owner reviews, expert roundups from publications like Verywell Fit and Shape, and brand specifications to rank these bags by overall value, organization, comfort, and style. See our method.
Quick picks
| Best for | Product | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Lululemon New Crew Backpack | Women who want a versatile, stylish bag for gym, travel, and everyday use |
| Best Value | Apex Medium Duffle Bag | Fitness enthusiasts who want a high-quality bag without overspending |
| Best for Organization | Nike Brasilia 9.5 Training Duffel Bag (Medium) | Women who need multiple pockets to keep gear neatly separated |
| Best Premium | adidas by Stella McCartney Barricade Duffle Bag | Women who want a designer gym bag with premium materials and style |
| Best for Durability | Under Armour Unstoppable Duffle Bag | Women who need a rugged bag that can handle daily abuse and heavy loads |
| Best Lightweight | Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Duffle Bag | Women who want a lightweight, packable bag for travel or quick gym sessions |
| Best Backpack | Puma Phase Backpack | Women who prefer a backpack style for hands-free carrying to and from the gym |
The picks, compared
Lululemon New Crew Backpack
Lululemon’s New Crew is sold as a backpack rather than a duffel, which is the actual current product in this line. Based on manufacturer specs and aggregated owner reviews, it combines a padded laptop sleeve with gym-friendly side pockets, making it popular with people who go straight from the office to the gym.
Reviewers highlight the water-repellent shell and organized interior, while noting the backpack shape holds less bulky gear than a traditional duffel.
- Padded laptop sleeve suits gym-to-office use
- water-repellent nylon shell handles light rain
- side pockets fit a water bottle
- Backpack format, not a duffel, so less room for bulky gear
- premium price point
Apex Medium Duffle Bag
The Gymshark Apex Medium Duffle Bag offers a sleek design with a ventilated shoe compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and multiple internal pockets. It is made from durable polyester that resists water and wear. This bag balances style and function at a competitive price point.
What owners say: Owners highlight the bag's lightweight feel and comfortable carry, with many saying it fits all their gym essentials plus a laptop. A few note the shoe compartment could be larger, but overall satisfaction is high.
- Ventilated shoe compartment keeps gear fresh
- Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15-inch laptops
- Durable water-resistant material
- Shoe compartment is a bit snug for larger shoes
- Zippers can stick occasionally
Nike Brasilia 9.5 Training Duffel Bag (Medium)
The Nike Brasilia 9.5 is the current version of Nike’s long-running Brasilia duffel line, replacing older Brasilia generations that are no longer sold. Based on manufacturer specs and aggregated owner reviews, the medium size offers a roomy 60L main compartment plus a separate end pocket designed for shoes or a wet change of clothes.
Owners consistently point to the tough polyester shell and reinforced base as reasons it survives daily gym-to-car use, though some note the shoulder strap could use more cushioning on longer carries.
- Durable water-resistant polyester holds up to daily gym use
- dedicated shoe/wet compartment keeps gear separated
- wide range of sizes and colorways
- Medium size can feel bulky for short trips
- shoulder strap padding is modest on longer carries
adidas by Stella McCartney Barricade Duffle Bag
The adidas by Stella McCartney Barricade Duffle Bag combines high-fashion aesthetics with gym functionality. It features a roomy main compartment, a separate shoe pocket, and a padded laptop sleeve. The bag is made from recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish.
What owners say: Owners love the chic design and comment that it gets compliments everywhere. They appreciate the eco-friendly materials and the organization pockets, though some wish the strap were a bit longer.
- Stylish design from a luxury collaboration
- Eco-friendly recycled polyester material
- Padded laptop sleeve and separate shoe pocket
- Higher price point for the brand
- Shoulder strap length may be short for taller women
Under Armour Unstoppable Duffle Bag
The Under Armour Unstoppable Duffle Bag is built tough with a tear-resistant TPAR fabric and a water-resistant base. It has a large main compartment, a ventilated shoe pocket, and multiple organization pockets. The adjustable, removable shoulder strap and padded top handle add comfort.
What owners say: Reviewers praise its ruggedness, saying it withstands years of use without fraying or tearing. Many appreciate the water-resistant base for setting down on wet floors.
- Extremely durable tear-resistant fabric
- Water-resistant base protects against moisture
- Ventilated shoe pocket and multiple interior pockets
- Heavier than other bags in its class
- Limited color options
Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Duffle Bag
The Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Duffle Bag weighs only 0.9 lbs and folds into its own pocket for easy storage. It is made from neoprene that is water-resistant and stretchy, allowing you to pack extra items. It includes a ventilated shoe pocket and a small interior zip pocket.
What owners say: Owners love how light and compact it is, perfect for throw-and-go. Many say it fits a surprising amount despite its small size, though some wish for more organization pockets.
- Ultra lightweight and packable design
- Water-resistant neoprene material
- Folds into its own pocket for storage
- Limited pockets for small items
- Less structured shape when empty
Puma Phase Backpack
The Puma Phase Backpack offers a versatile, sporty design with a large main compartment, a padded laptop sleeve, and a front zip pocket for quick access. It has adjustable padded shoulder straps and a top grab handle. The polyester material is durable and easy to clean.
What owners say: Reviewers appreciate the comfortable straps and the laptop sleeve for work or school. Many say it fits gym clothes, shoes, and a laptop with ease, though it can be tight on space for a full change plus extra gear.
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps for all-day wear
- Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15.6-inch laptops
- Sleek, modern design available in multiple colors
- Limited internal organization pockets
- May be too small for carrying both gym and work gear simultaneously
How to choose
- Capacity and Size. Choose a bag that fits your gear without being too bulky. A 20 to 30 liter bag is ideal for daily gym use, while larger bags suit travel or heavy equipment. Consider your typical items: shoes, clothes, toiletries, and extra gear like a yoga mat or foam roller.
- Organization Features. Look for separate compartments for shoes, wet items, and valuables. Interior pockets help keep small items like keys, phone, and headphones accessible. A laptop sleeve is a plus if you go to the gym before or after work.
- Material and Durability. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and water-resistant, while neoprene offers stretch and packability. For heavy use, choose reinforced stitching and water-resistant bases. Consider if you often set your bag on wet locker room floors.
- Comfort and Carry Options. Padded shoulder straps or a crossbody strap distribute weight evenly. Top handles are useful for carrying short distances. Test the strap length if you are taller to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Style and Versatility. Choose a bag that matches your personal style and can transition from gym to daily life. Neutral colors and minimalist designs work well for multiple settings. Some bags have convertible shapes or can be used as a tote or backpack.
Frequently asked questions
What size gym bag do I need for women?
A bag with 20 to 30 liters of capacity is generally sufficient for most women's gym sessions. It can hold a change of clothes, shoes, towel, and toiletries. If you also carry a laptop or extra gear like a yoga mat, consider a 30 liter or larger bag.
Should I get a duffle bag or a backpack for the gym?
Duffle bags offer easy access and often better organization with dedicated compartments, making them great for gear-heavy workouts. Backpacks are better for hands-free commuting and even weight distribution. Choose based on how you plan to carry your bag: duffles favor shorter trips, backpacks suit longer walks or bike rides.
How do I keep my gym bag clean and odor free?
Look for bags with water-resistant materials and separate wet/dry pockets. Empty the bag after each use and air it out. Many bags can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and water, avoiding machine washing unless the manufacturer states it is safe.
What features should I look for in a women's gym bag?
Key features include a separate shoe compartment to keep dirty shoes away from clean clothes, a ventilated pocket for sweaty gear, multiple interior pockets for small items, and a padded laptop sleeve if you combine gym and work. Durable, water-resistant materials are also important.
Are expensive gym bags worth the money?
Higher priced bags often use premium materials like recycled polyester or neoprene, have better construction, and include thoughtful organization features. They tend to last longer and offer more style. However, many mid-range bags from brands like Gymshark and Nike provide excellent value and durability.
Can I use a gym bag for travel?
Yes, many gym bags double as carry on luggage or weekend bags. Look for bags with a compartment for shoes and a laptop sleeve for versatility. Lightweight and packable options like the Dagne Dover Dakota are particularly travel friendly.
The verdict
The Lululemon Lululemon New Crew Backpack earns the top spot for its superb organization, durable water-repellent fabric, and versatile design that suits both gym and daily use. If you want a more affordable option without sacrificing quality, the Gymshark Apex Medium Duffle Bag is an excellent value with similar features. For those who prioritize lightweight portability, the Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Duffle Bag is a standout choice for quick workouts and travel.