Contents
Finding the best gym bag for swimmers can be hard. The adidas Power Gym Bag is our top pick because it has a roomy main compartment, perfect for swim gear. The JELUTAR Drawstring Backpack is a great value option, but it sacrifices organization for a more compact design. You need to decide between having more space or a simpler bag.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Gym Bags Reviewed in Detail
These bags are perfect for carrying your swim gear and essentials. Let’s take a closer look at each option.
1. Top Pick
adidas Power Gym Bag – Lightweight Small Duffel, Black/White, OSFA
- BUILT FOR THE GYM-AND-SCHOOL ROTATION: A roomy main compartment with wide-opening zipper holds a training apparel rotation, gym shoes, water bottle and the rest of your gear — for daily gym carry, school days, after-school practice, weekend training and casual day trips. Sized for athletes, students and active casual wearers from middle school through adult.
- WIDE-OPEN MAIN COMPARTMENT: An extra roomy main compartment with a wide-opening zipper stands tall for easy packing — quick access to your gear at the gym, the locker room, the dorm, the school hallway, the practice field and the car. No fishing for what’s at the bottom of the bag through your daily training and school rotation.
- ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER STRAP + PADDED HAUL HANDLE: An adjustable shoulder strap lets you wear the bag at the length you like across walking commutes, gym carries, school hallway hauls and weekend errands. A padded haul handle delivers comfortable hand carry for short distances, locker room hops, rideshare drops and dorm move-in walks.
- WIPE-CLEAN DURABLE BUILD: A durable polyester build wipes clean with a damp cloth between training sessions, weekend trips and after-school practice. Reinforced stitching for fray resistance through years of athletic, school and travel use across the daily rotation.
- BUILT TO LAST: Backed by the adidas Lifetime Warranty against material and workmanship defects for 5 years, the typical life of a well-used bag.
The adidas Power Gym Bag is our top pick. It is lightweight and has a roomy main compartment. This space is perfect for your swim gear and other essentials. Compared to others, it stands out for its wide-opening zipper and organized interior. It also makes carrying your items easy. However, some may find its size a bit too small for larger loads. It is still a great choice for daily use and school.
Pros
- Lightweight design for easy carrying
- Roomy main compartment for swim gear
- Wide-opening zipper for easy access
Cons
- Might be small for larger loads
- Limited external pockets for quick access
Best for: Swimmers looking for a compact, easy-to-carry bag. Not ideal for: Those needing to carry large or bulky items.
A great lightweight option for swimmers with ample space for essentials.
2. Best for Swimmers
adidas Defender Duffel Bag, Black, OSFA
- BUILT FOR THE GYM-AND-TRAVEL ROTATION: A roomy main compartment holds a full load — cleats, training apparel, a change of clothes, a foam roller, post-workout shoes — for gym workouts, training sessions, weekend trips, athletic team travel and weekday athletic rotation. Size medium in the Defender 5 family (Small / Medium / Large) for athletes, students and active adults who carry a lot.
- AIRS OUT WET CLEATS AND GEAR: A dedicated zippered shoe compartment with ventilation keeps cleats, sneakers and sweaty post-workout footwear separated from clean clothes and tech, airing out odor on the ride home. Built for daily gym rotation, weekend tournament travel, baseball and softball travel team weekends, hockey gear haul, soccer game day and overnight team stays.
- STAYS DRY ON WET FLOORS AND FIELDS: A water-resistant base helps keep contents dry on locker room floors, rainy parking lots and damp practice fields. Multiple webbing clip points let you attach keys, a 32 oz water bottle or a carabiner light for fast access between training sessions and travel days. Built for the wet-floor realities of the gym and tournament rotation.
- PADDED SHOULDER STRAP FOR HEAVIER LOADS: A padded shoulder strap helps ease heavier loads when the bag is full — walking commutes, locker-room hops, rideshare drops and gate-to-rideshare hauls. A feature of the Medium and Large Defender 5 sizes (the Small size doesn’t have a padded strap). Multiple zippered pockets keep training essentials sorted across the rotation.
- BUILT TO LAST: Backed by the adidas Lifetime Warranty against material and workmanship defects for 5 years, the typical life of a well-used bag.
The JELUTAR Drawstring Backpack is designed for convenience. It features a spacious main area and a separate shoe compartment. This design is perfect for swimmers who want to pack their gear easily. Compared to the adidas Power Gym Bag, it offers less organization but has a simpler design. Its lightweight, compact style is great for quick trips and casual use. However, it might not hold larger gear as effectively, limiting its use for serious swimmers.
Pros
- Large capacity for swim gear
- Separate compartment for shoes
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Lacks multiple compartments for organization
- May not fit larger items comfortably
Best for: Casual swimmers needing a simple bag. Not ideal for: Those requiring extensive organization for their gear.
A simple and lightweight option for casual swimmers.
3. Best for Daily Use
JELUTAR Drawstring Backpack Gym Bag with Shoes Compartment, Black
- Large Capacity: Measuring 12.5 x 18.5 inches, this roomy gym bag provides plenty of space for your soccer gear, swimwear, beach essentials, or workout items; It’s perfect for those who need a spacious, versatile drawstring backpack for all kinds of activities
- Comfortable to Carry: Featuring wider, adjustable drawstring straps, this draw string back bag offers a comfortable, customized fit, even when fully loaded; Say goodbye to shoulder strain whether you’re at the gym or on the beach
- Separate Shoe Compartment:This drawstring bag comes with a dedicated shoe compartment, a must-have feature for any sports enthusiast; It keeps your shoes and sports accessories separate from your other items, preventing them from getting dirty or damaged
- Wet-proof Pocket: Crafted from durable, water-resistant oxford cloth, this swim bag keeps your belongings safe from rain or splashes; The wet-proof pocket is perfect for storing damp items like swimwear and towels, making it ideal for beach, pool, or gym days
- Versatile and Lightweight: Whether you’re going to the gym, beach, or traveling, this lightweight yet durable sports backpack is designed for both men and women, offering the perfect solution for all your active lifestyle needs
The adidas Defender Duffel Bag is perfect for gym and travel. It provides ample room for swim gear and other essentials. This bag shines in its versatility, making it great for both workouts and trips. Compared to the JELUTAR, it offers more space and pockets for organization. The downside is that it is bulkier, which might not suit those who prefer a smaller bag. It remains a strong option for swimmers who want a bag for various activities.
Pros
- Spacious main compartment for gear
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Versatile for gym and travel
Cons
- Bulkier compared to other options
- May be too large for casual use
Best for: Swimmers wanting a versatile bag for various activities. Not ideal for: Those preferring a compact size.
A spacious and versatile choice for active swimmers.
4. Best Budget
Uarition Gym Bag for Men & Women – 50L Large Duffle Bag for Travel, Black
- 【Large Capacity & Spacious Design】 Measuring 20″ (L) x 12″ (W) x 12″ (H) inches with a 50L capacity, this duffle bag is perfect for gym, travel, or sports. It easily holds all your essentials, from workout gear to weekend travel items.
- 【Multi-Pocket Organization】 Stay organized with this gym bag featuring 1 main compartment, 1 front zipper pocket for sweaty clothes or toiletries, and 2 side zipper pockets for quick access to small items like keys and phones.
- 【High Quality & Durable】 Made from high-quality polyester fabric and reinforced with high-density nylon lining, this gym duffle bag is tear-resistant and shockproof. There are two-way zipper heads and smooth rubber-tooth zippers that provide long-lasting durability to handle everyday activities.
- 【Versatile Carrying Options】 Designed for convenience, this duffle bag comes with double handles, adjustable shoulder straps, and detachable velcro shoulder straps and shoulder strap buckles. Use it as a handbag, shoulder bag, or messenger bag to suit your needs.
- 【Perfect Gift for Any Occasion】 Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or a birthday, this stylish and functional duffle bag makes an ideal gift for men and women. Start your adventure with confidence!
- GUARANTEE: Try our Uarition Sport Duffle Bag with NO WORRY! Any feedback for features and improvements are appreciated!
The Uarition Gym Bag is designed for gym and travel. With a 50-liter capacity, it holds plenty of gear. It includes multiple pockets for organization, which is essential for swimmers. Compared to the adidas Defender, it offers more space but may lack some style. The main limitation is that it could be too large for casual use. For swimmers who need a lot of room, it is a solid choice.
Pros
- Large capacity for swim gear
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Suitable for gym and travel
Cons
- Possibly too large for casual swimmers
- Bulkier design compared to others
Best for: Swimmers needing ample space for gear. Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer smaller bags.
A spacious option for swimmers with lots of equipment.
5. Best Design
Under Armour unisex Undeniable 5.0 Duffle MD, 012 GRAY, OSFM
- MEDIUM: Dimensions When Full: 12.1″”W x 11.4″”H x 24.6″”L, Volume: 58L
- Removable, padded, HeatGear shoulder strap easily stows away in side pocket, Padded top grab handle
- Large front zippered organization pocket & molle webbing attachment points
- Large vented pocket for laundry or shoes & internal slip pockets for organization
- Tough, TPU-coated & foam-lined bottom & side panels for added durability & structure, Dual water bottle slip pocket
- UA Storm technology delivers an element-battling, highly water-repellent finish
The Under Armour Undeniable Duffle MD offers a great blend of style and function. It features multiple compartments, including a large vented pocket for shoes. This makes it suitable for swimmers who want to separate wet items from dry gear. Compared to the Uarition, it has a more compact design, making it easier to carry. However, it may not hold as much gear, which could be limiting for some. It remains a stylish choice for those who want function without sacrificing design.
Pros
- Stylish design with functional features
- Vented pocket for shoes or wet items
- Compact size for easy carrying
Cons
- Less space for gear compared to larger bags
- Limited storage for extra items
Best for: Swimmers who value style and functionality. Not ideal for: Those needing to carry a lot of equipment.
A stylish yet functional choice for swimmers who prefer a compact design.
6. Best Splurge
Fitgriff® Gym Bag for Men & Women with Shoe & Wet Compartment – Duffle Bag for Travel, Sports, Fitness & Workout (Full Black, 19 x 10 x 10″ (Small))
- ATHLETIC & STYLISH – Discover the multi-purpose FITGRIFF bag, an ingeniously crafted bag perfect for gym, travel, swimming, beach, sauna, or for use as a weekend carryall. Its compact size also makes it ideal as carry-on luggage on flights.
- WITH EXTRA SHOE POCKET & WET POCKET – Equipped with an isolated waterproof wet pocket, it’s great for storing swimwear or sweaty workout wear. The shoe compartment is ventilated, ensuring your sneakers are stored separately and orderly.
- CONVENIENT & PRACTICAL: Crafted from sturdy exterior fabric with a waterproof base for easy care and maximum protection. The extended zipper pulls allow for hassle-free access to your belongings.
- DURABLE ZIPPERS – Made with high-quality zippers designed for lasting performance. Built to withstand frequent use, ensuring your bag stays reliable over time.
- 6 SEPARATE POCKETS: 1 spacious main compartment with a small inner pouch. 1 waterproof wet pocket, 1 breathable shoe pocket, 1 medium-sized front pocket, and 1 side mesh pocket.
The Fitgriff Gym Bag is perfect for those who need a compact option. It includes an isolated wet pocket and shoe compartment. This makes it an excellent option for swimmers. Compared to the Under Armour bag, it is smaller but offers good organization. However, it may not suit those who need to carry large gear. It is a great choice for casual swimmers who prefer a smaller bag.
Pros
- Compact size with organized compartments
- Wet pocket keeps items separate
- Ideal for casual trips to the pool
Cons
- Limited capacity for bulkier items
- Not ideal for serious swimmers
Best for: Casual swimmers needing a small bag. Not ideal for: Those looking to carry larger gear.
A compact option for casual swimmers with organized storage.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0: The Durable Crowdsource Designed Duffel Bag with 10 Optimal Compartments Including Water Resistant Pouch (Black, Medium (20"))
- Pockets Galore: With 10 total compartments, organization is a breeze. Includes large internal phone pocket and key loop, plus 2 external zippered pockets for other small items. Velcroed back pocket for easy access.
- Full Length Shoe Pocket: Dedicated compartment to separate your dirty shoes from the rest of your gear. Fits up to a men’s size 14 shoe!
- Wet Pocket: Hidden water-resistant pocket is perfect for storing wet clothes and swimsuits. Great for swim practice or sweaty gym clothes.
- 2 Bottle Holders: Includes two external mesh pouches designed to fit a 32oz water bottle and standard size protein shaker. Easy access from the side of your bag for optimal hydration.
- Quality Construction: Firm, water-resistant bottom panel helps bag keep its structure and stay dry, while reinforced stitching on key stress points ensures this bag is made to last a lifetime.
- The Essential Workout Bag: Use our duffle for all your sports and fitness activities, including yoga, running, and sports practices. Main pocket unzips completely for easy access to your exercise equipment and accessories such as weights, lifting belts, boxing gloves, and resistance bands.
- Perfect for Travel: Our small duffle is the ideal carry-on size for airplane luggage or overnight weekend trips. Use our large size for longer vacations and outdoor adventures.
- Easy to Carry: Adjustable, detachable shoulder strap can be shortened, lengthened, or removed based on your carrying preference and is padded for optimum comfort. Dual handles with velcro connection for easy transport while traveling.
- Size: At 11.5″H x 10.5″W x 20″L our bag is designed to fit vertically in most standard gym locker sizes.
The FocusGear Best Gym Bag brings durability and organization together. With ten compartments, it offers great storage options. The full-length shoe pocket keeps dirty items away from clean gear. Compared to the Fitgriff, it has more storage capacity, making it suitable for serious swimmers. The limitation is that the size may be too large for casual users. For those who want a well-designed bag, it is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Ten compartments for excellent organization
- Separate shoe pocket for cleanliness
- Durable and built to last
Cons
- Size may be too large for casual use
- Heavier compared to smaller options
Best for: Serious swimmers needing extensive organization. Not ideal for: Casual users who prefer smaller bags.
A highly organized option for serious swimmers with lots of gear.
8. Best Value
adidas Power Gym Bag – Lightweight Small Duffel, Team Dark Grey/White/Black, OSFA
- BUILT FOR THE GYM-AND-SCHOOL ROTATION: A roomy main compartment with wide-opening zipper holds a training apparel rotation, gym shoes, water bottle and the rest of your gear — for daily gym carry, school days, after-school practice, weekend training and casual day trips. Sized for athletes, students and active casual wearers from middle school through adult.
- WIDE-OPEN MAIN COMPARTMENT: An extra roomy main compartment with a wide-opening zipper stands tall for easy packing — quick access to your gear at the gym, the locker room, the dorm, the school hallway, the practice field and the car. No fishing for what’s at the bottom of the bag through your daily training and school rotation.
- ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER STRAP + PADDED HAUL HANDLE: An adjustable shoulder strap lets you wear the bag at the length you like across walking commutes, gym carries, school hallway hauls and weekend errands. A padded haul handle delivers comfortable hand carry for short distances, locker room hops, rideshare drops and dorm move-in walks.
- WIPE-CLEAN DURABLE BUILD: A durable polyester build wipes clean with a damp cloth between training sessions, weekend trips and after-school practice. Reinforced stitching for fray resistance through years of athletic, school and travel use across the daily rotation.
- BUILT TO LAST: Backed by the adidas Lifetime Warranty against material and workmanship defects for 5 years, the typical life of a well-used bag.
The adidas Power Gym Bag in Team Dark Grey is similar to our top pick. It offers spacious storage with a wide-opening zipper. This design is perfect for swimmers who need easy access to their gear. Compared to the original Power Gym Bag, it features an updated color scheme. The main downside is that it does not have unique features compared to the first version. It is still a reliable choice for anyone in need of a gym bag.
Pros
- Spacious design with easy access
- Wide-opening zipper for convenience
- Updated color scheme for style
Cons
- Similar to the original Power Gym Bag
- Lacks additional features or compartments
Best for: Swimmers who prefer a stylish, reliable bag. Not ideal for: Those seeking innovative features.
A reliable option for swimmers with easy access to gear.
Gym Bags Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows the best gym bag for swimmers. Each column highlights key features, sizes, and storage capabilities. This will help you find the right fit for your swimming needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | adidas Power Gym Bag | Top Pick | adidas | $18 | Check |
| 2 | adidas Defender Duffel Bag | Best for Swimmers | adidas | $37.5 | Check |
| 3 | JELUTAR Drawstring Backpack Gym Bag with Shoes Compartment | Best for Daily Use | JELUTAR | $15.99 | Check |
| 4 | Uarition Gym Bag for Men & Women | Best Budget | uarition | $23.99 | Check |
| 5 | Under Armour unisex Undeniable 5.0 Duffle MD | Best Design | Under Armour | $39.95 | Check |
| 6 | Fitgriff® Gym Bag for Men & Women with Shoe & Wet… | Best Splurge | Fitgriff | $35.95 | Check |
| 7 | Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0: The Durable Crowdsource Designed… | Best Heavy-Duty | FocusGear | $27.99 | Check |
| 8 | adidas Power Gym Bag | Best Value | adidas | $18 | Check |
| 9 | BAGSMART Duffle Bag for Travel | — | BAGSMART | $29.99 | Check |
| 10 | G4Free 3-in-1 Duffle Bag Travel Gym Sports | — | G4Free | $39.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our information comes from reputable online retailers and expert reviews. We looked at many gym bags, focusing on those designed specifically for swimmers.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 30 gym bags and narrowed them down based on size, compartments, and materials. This helped us focus on the best gym bags for swimmers.
What we ruled out and why
We removed bags that were too small or lacked water-resistant features. Any bag without a shoe compartment or multiple pockets was also excluded.
What we did not do
No bags were tested by hand. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. All data was collected from verified online sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every few months. This ensures that we always include the best gym bags available.
How to Choose Gym Bags
Consider Size and Capacity
Look for a bag that can hold your essentials. A capacity of at least 40 liters is ideal for swim gear. This allows space for your swimsuit, towel, and other items.
Look for Water-Resistant Material
Choose a bag made from water-resistant materials. This keeps your gear dry, especially when carrying wet swimsuits. Polyester or nylon are good options.
Check for Separate Compartments
A bag with separate compartments helps keep wet and dry items apart. This can prevent your clean clothes from getting wet. Look for a bag with a dedicated shoe pocket.
Test the Comfort of Straps
Comfortable straps are essential for carrying your bag. Look for padded or adjustable straps. This helps if you plan to carry the bag for long periods.
Assess the Bag’s Durability
Select a bag made from high-quality materials. This ensures it can withstand regular use. Check for strong stitching and reliable zippers.
What to look for
Size and Organization
The size of a gym bag is critical for swimmers. A good bag should have enough space for swimwear, towels, and accessories. Look for bags with multiple compartments for better organization. This keeps wet items separate from dry clothes.
Material Quality
Choose gym bags made from durable, waterproof materials. Nylon and polyester are common choices. These materials help protect your gear from water damage. The right fabric ensures the bag lasts through daily use.
Comfort and Portability
Comfort is important for carrying a gym bag. Look for padded straps for shoulder comfort. Adjustable straps can help fit the bag to your body. A bag with a comfortable handle makes it easier to carry.
Accessibility of Pockets
Consider bags with easy-access pockets. Quick access to your phone or keys can be very helpful. A separate pocket for swim gear keeps everything organized. Think about what you will need to grab quickly.
Design and Style
While functionality is key, style also matters. Choose a bag that reflects your personal taste. A bag that looks good can boost your motivation. Find one that fits your look and feels good to carry.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gym bag for swimmers?
The best gym bag for swimmers is the adidas Power Gym Bag. Its roomy main compartment is perfect for swim gear.
What features should a swimmer’s gym bag have?
A swimmer’s gym bag should have enough space, water-resistant material, and separate compartments for wet items.
How big should a gym bag for swimming be?
Look for a gym bag with at least 40 liters of capacity to fit your swim gear and towels.
Is a waterproof gym bag necessary for swimmers?
Yes, a waterproof gym bag helps protect your gear from getting wet. It is especially important for carrying wet swimsuits.
Can I use a regular gym bag for swimming?
Yes, but a bag specifically designed for swimmers offers better organization and water-resistant features.
Shopping around? We have 17 more gym bag guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- HHS physical activity guidelines U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services
- National Park Service camping National Park Service
About the author
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