Last Updated: February 13, 2022
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Best Backpacks For Athletes

If you’re a professional athlete or just a regular athlete, a normal backpack doesn’t quite cut it when you’re going from one training session to the next and then back to work again.

Your sweaty clothes are mixed in with pungent shoes along with your laptop and maybe even your shoes! Something isn’t right here, surely there is an athlete’s backpack out there that solves all these issues.


At A Glance: Our Top 3 Backpacks For Athletes


Well, there is and I’m here to take you through all the best backpacks for athletes. We’ll look at gym backpacks, a specific sports backpack or two, and lots more so you can find the best backpacks for your needs.

Top Product Overview

Under Armour Men's UA Hustle 3.0 Backpack OSFA Black
  • Built from a durable material that is rain resistant
  • Numerous compartments plus a shoe pocket and laptop pocket
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Soccerware ATHLIO Legendary Drawstring Gym Bag - Waterproof | For Sports & Workout Gear | XL Capacity | Heavy-Duty Sackpack Backpack (Graphite)
  • Perfect if you’re on a budget
  • Folds up for storage at home
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adidas Stadium II Backpack, Black, One Size
  • Good looking & affordable
  • Dual ball carry system (internal/external)
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  • Well made from high-quality materials
  • Is designed with water-resistance
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Speedo Unisex-Adult Large Teamster Backpack 35-Liter
  • Removable interior pouch for wet/dirty clothes
  • The spacious larger size easily fits lots of towels and clothes
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Nike Hoops Elite Pro Backpack MIDNIGHT NAVY/BLACK/MTLC COOL GREY
  • Special storage space for a ball
  • Compartments for shoes
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TETON Sports 18L Oasis Hydration Backpacks, Hydration Backpack for Hiking, Running, Cycling, Biking, Hydration Bladder Included. Plus a Sewn-in Rain Cover
  • Durable design that will last
  • Hydration compartment and bladder included
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Under Armour UA Undeniable 3.0 Backpack OSFA Gray
  • Durable build with a stylish look
  • A good amount of storage space
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Under Armour UA Storm Hustle II Backpack OSFA Black
  • Quality build from a trusted brand
  • Light and easy to carry
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Nike Club Team Swoosh Backpack Midnight Navy/Black/White One Size
  • Durable and rain resistant
  • Dedicated spaces for everything
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  • Well made and very durable
  • Large main compartment for all your gear
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Best Backpacks For Athletes


Best Allrounder

Under Armour Team Hustle 3 Backpack

Under Armour Men's UA Hustle 3.0 Backpack OSFA Black

The Under Armour Team Hustle 3 Backpack is an awesome all-around gym backpack that is ideal for daily life as it doubles up as a work backpack too.

This is a durable backpack made from a highly durable water-resistant material with a reinforced water-resistant bottom and valuables pocket.

This means this gym backpack is going to last and it’s going to keep your gear dry and safe at the same time too.

This great backpack is covered with special pockets that make keeping your work gear, gym gear, and more separated and organized. You’ll find two main compartments, a separate shoe compartment for your shoes and sweaty workout gear, and lots more.

Inside the large main compartment is a padded laptop sleeve that fits a 15-inch mac with ease, there are two water bottle pockets and a separate compartment in the form of a front pocket with easy access for things like your wallet and keys.

All these separate compartments combined with its durability and carrying comfort make this an awesome lightweight backpack for all athletes.

Pros

  • Built from a durable material that is rain resistant
  • Numerous compartments plus a shoe pocket and laptop pocket
  • Two water bottle holders
  • Great shoulder straps for carrying comfort
  • Lightweight design with great functionality
  • Convenient access to multiple pockets
  • Very affordable price and great for everyday use
  • One bag for everything

Cons

  • No sternum straps
  • Water bottle holder is quite tight

Product Information

  • Capacity: 18 L
  • Materials: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 6+
  • Dimensions: 13.58 x 9.29 x 18.9 inches
  • Weight: 1.8 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-repellent
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Best On A Budget

Soccerware Drawstring Gym Bag

Soccerware ATHLIO Legendary Drawstring Gym Bag - Waterproof | For Sports & Workout Gear | XL Capacity | Heavy-Duty Sackpack Backpack (Graphite)

The Soccerware Drawstring Gym Bag is one of the most versatile and best gym bags in the entire world as it’s ideal for all sports as it has everything an athlete could want from a bag.

These gym bags are perfect for carrying anything and everything with a waterproof main compartment that can hold a soccer ball as well as wet swimming gear, and more.

There are two shoe or water bottle sleeves on the outside as well as two internal mesh pockets inside and one accessory pocket on the outside.

It doesn’t matter what kind of athlete you are, if you’re looking for one bag to take to training, this is it.

There is a special spot for everything from valuables to shoes and even sweaty clothes which are guaranteed to keep your gear separate plus deodorized & clean

The bag is also super durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. The shoulder straps are a little thin but with the limited storage space, this bag is never going to be very heavy and will always be comfy to carry.

Pros

  • Perfect if you’re on a budget
  • Folds up for storage at home
  • Comes in a range of color options
  • Space to carry everything for training
  • Waterproof and ideal for swimming
  • Separate shoe storage area
  • Great for the gym and other sports too

Cons

  • Not the most supportive shoulder strap design

Product Information

  • Capacity: 12.5 L
  • Material: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 4+
  • Dimensions: 19 x 16
  • Weight: 12 ounces
  • Waterproof: Yes
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Best For Ballers

Adidas Stadium II Backpack

adidas Stadium II Backpack, Black, One Size

The Adidas Stadium Backpack is a great bag for an athlete to take to practice or to the gym for training.

The bag has a great shape to it with lovely lines that give it a good like plus you can brand it yourself with your team’s name.

It features a large main compartment for all your gear, a dedicated footwear compartment, and there is even a dual ball carry system letting you choose to carry in inside the bag or outside it to save internal space.

The sides feature dual water bottle sleeves and the bottom of the bag is designed to stop any water from seeping in.

Adidas has ensured the straps and pack shape make it comfy to carry fully loaded but the zippers can break after a year or so.

Pros

  • Good looking & affordable
  • Dual ball carry system (internal/external)
  • Dedicated area for footwear
  • Dual water bottle sleeves
  • Water-resistant base
  • Comfy to carry
  • Great size
  • Dedicated brand spots

Cons

  • Black zippers don’t last too long

Product Information

  • Capacity: 32 L
  • Material: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 5+
  • Dimensions: 9.5 x 20 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Diadora Squadra II Backpack

The Diadora Squadra Backpack is specially designed for soccer players or basketball players as it comes with multiple compartments for both shoes and either a soccer ball, basketball, or any ball for that matter.

This sports backpack is made from a 420D water-resistant nylon material that is also highly durable with all the separate compartments an athlete could need.

The main compartment features ample storage room plus a media zippered pocket and earphone pass-through slot.

There are two mesh pockets on the side which are vented and designed for shoes and dirty clothes and then a large ball pocket with is perfect for a soccer ball and any other ball too. You’ll also find a side accessory pocket too.

This backpack also comes with a padded shoulder strap design which makes carrying it super comfortable. The one downside is the lack of water bottle pockets and that this is not a work backpack as there is no laptop compartment and it doesn’t have a style you’d take into the office.

Pros

  • Well made from high-quality materials
  • Is designed with water-resistance
  • Multiple compartments and pockets
  • Pockets for accessories both inside and on the outside
  • Comfortable enough to carry when full
  • Separate spots for smelly shoes and dirty clothes
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Very affordable price

Cons

  • Not stylish and not for work
  • No water bottle holders

Product Information

  • Capacity: NA
  • Materials: 420 denier nylon with PVC backing
  • No. of Pockets: 4+
  • Dimensions: 18 x 17 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-Resistant
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Speedo Large Teamster Backpack

Speedo Unisex-Adult Large Teamster Backpack 35-Liter

The Speedo Large Teamster Backpack is specifically designed for swimmers but the swoosh design and great features will suit all athletes, to be honest.

One of the best features of this backpack is that it comes with a detachable compartment that is ideal for wet gear or dirty clothes which keeps moisture and smells away from gear like your laptop.

Inside the main compartment is a raised laptop sleeve, there are more compartments too that make keeping things separated and compact easy, plus mesh outer pockets that are great for water bottles.

The back is built with a water-resistant material and the bottom uses a more waterproof material to ensure no wet spots around the pool go home with you. It’s overall exceptionally durable too and is a large backpack this going to last.

The one drawback is that the top opening is small and makes packing athletic items harder. Also, the backpack tends to fall forwards and not sit upright.

Pros

  • Removable interior pouch for wet/dirty clothes
  • The spacious larger size easily fits lots of towels and clothes
  • Great quality fabric for durability
  • Versatile for everyday use
  • Lots of padding around the laptop compartment
  • Practical design and works for commuting
  • Low price and good value for money

Cons

  • Not very stylish
  • The top opening is small for the big stuff

Product Information

  • Capacity: 35 L
  • Materials: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 5+
  • Dimensions: 15 x 6 x 20 inches
  • Weight: 9.6 ounces
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Nike Hoops Elite Max Air Team 2.0 Basketball Backpack

Nike Hoops Elite Pro Backpack MIDNIGHT NAVY/BLACK/MTLC COOL GREY

This backpack is made by one of the biggest brands out there, Nike, and these Nike backpacks are designed for basketball players.

The simple design features three compartments, two on the side and one main compartment in the middle. The side compartments are designed for shoes, dirty clothes, or gym clothes, while the main compartment has enough space for a basketball.

This is not the most spacious backpack around though as once it’s filled with shoes and a ball, chances are your water bottles aren’t going to fit in there.

The backpacks are made with impressive durability and feature numerous layers that allow you to store smelly dirty gear and clean ger for long periods without them affecting each other – a real added bonus.

Overall this lightweight and unique bag is great for going to the court and back or to workouts but it doesn’t have much room for extra stuff.

Pros

  • Special storage space for a ball
  • Compartments for shoes
  • Built from durable fabric
  • Stylish look to it
  • Works well if you pack light
  • Easy packing thanks to the sleek design
  • Padded straps for carrying comfort
  • Breathable back panel

Cons

  • Not enough space with a ball inside
  • Quite a high price tag
  • Not very versatile

Product Information

  • Capacity: 18 L
  • Materials: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 5+
  • Dimensions: 20.94 x 15 x 2.91 inches
  • Weight: 1.9 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Teton Sports Oasis Hydration Backpack

TETON Sports 18L Oasis Hydration Backpacks, Hydration Backpack for Hiking, Running, Cycling, Biking, Hydration Bladder Included. Plus a Sewn-in Rain Cover

If you like to stay hydrated while hiking or running, then the Teton Sports Oasis Hydration Backpack might just be the gym backpack you have been looking for.

As far as backpack brands go, Tenton is a good one as they maintain high build quality and durability across all their backpacks since they use a high D ripstop nylon.

These backpacks are made for anyone on the move and feature a hydration compartment with an included hydration bladder.

The main compartment is spacious and has enough room to pack and store everything you need for a day on the trail plus some other things. There are smaller pockets on the outside too other things you want access to.

What makes this a great choice is how practical it is. The shoulder straps, sternum straps, and back panel are anatomically designed to be as comfortable to carry as humanly possible and breathable so you don’t overheat.

Pros

  • Durable design that will last
  • Hydration compartment and bladder included
  • Spacious compartments with enough room
  • Small pockets for smaller items
  • Comfy to carry with padded shoulder straps
  • Side pocket a for water bottle
  • Includes a rain cover
  • Small perfect practical size

Cons

  • Doesn’t have much style

Product Information

  • Capacity: 18 L
  • Material: Rip stop nylon
  • No. of Pockets: 5 +
  • Dimensions: 18.5 x 7 x 10 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Under Armour Adult SC30 Undeniable Backpack

Under Armour UA Undeniable 3.0 Backpack OSFA Gray

The Undeniable backpacks are one of our top picks if you’re looking for a gym bag that has enough room to carry all your essential items from work to workout clothes, plus the many features mean you can pack in an easy, organized way.

These lightweight durable backpacks are almost waterproof and are padded to provide extra protection to anything you store inside.

The main compartment is top-loading which is perfect for easy accessibility and it features a laptop sleeve with padding which will protect your laptop if you drop your bag. There is also enough space for all your athletic or sports gear inside too.

You’ll find sleeves for water bottles on the side, a front organizational pocket, and a small stash pocket on the lid.

These backpacks are a great gym bag that double up for work but they aren’t so great for athletes as there are no separate storage places for shoes/sweaty gear.

Pros

  • Durable build with a stylish look
  • A good amount of storage space
  • Versatile for use as a work/gym bag
  • Comfy to carry
  • Padded for extra protection
  • Comes in a few color options
  • Pockets for small items on the outside
  • Easy to pack and access through the top lid opening
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • No separated interior compartments for shoes etc

Product Information

  • Capacity: 31 L
  • Material: 83% polyester/17% nylon lining
  • No. of Pockets: 6+
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 12 x 19.5 inches
  • Weight: 1.44 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Under Armour Storm Hustle II Backpack

Under Armour UA Storm Hustle II Backpack OSFA Black

The Under Armour Storm Hustle II Backpacks are designed to keep your things dry through heavy weather, hence the name.

Built from excellent materials, these backpacks have a great look to them and come with all the spaces you need for a work-life gym balance. The main area has loads of space so you can pack everything you need for a day out plus it features an internal laptop compartment.

It also features a second compartment with quick access, a small stash pocket, and even a spot for dirty laundry and smelly footwear. You’ll be able to pack everything you need across all the different features of this bag and carry it comfortably too.

Pros

  • Quality build from a trusted brand
  • Light and easy to carry
  • Comes in various color options
  • Special spots for dirty laundry
  • Includes a laptop sleeve
  • Easy to pack
  • Good amount of room

Cons

  • Standard features compared to other models
  • High price for the features

Product Information

  • Volume: 31 L
  • Material: Polyester
  • No. of Pocket: 7+
  • Dimensions: 17.72 x 12.99 x 7.87 inches
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Nike Club Team Swoosh Backpack

Nike Club Team Swoosh Backpack Midnight Navy/Black/White One Size

The Nike Club Team Swoosh Backpack is built to make the life of a working athlete as simple as possible. Built from quality fabrics and in a great size, this pack will carry everything you need for a day at the office and a day of training.

There is a dedicated space for footwear, sweaty clothes, and a ball as well as a large main compartment with a laptop sleeve. You’ll also find lots of other zippered areas for smaller things like your wallet, phone, and more.

The bag is durable, keeps your things dry in light rain, but it comes in at a high price in my opinion. Overall, it does everything an athlete could want.

Pros

  • Durable and rain resistant
  • Dedicated spaces for everything
  • Simple and practical design
  • Comfy to carry
  • Includes a laptop sleeve
  • Lots of room

Cons

  • A little expensive

Product Information

  • Capacity: 32 L
  • Material: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 5+
  • Dimensions: 17.72 x 8.86 x 13.78 inches
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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Fuel Top Load Sport Backpack

The Fuel Top Load Sport Backpack is one of our top picks for kids thanks to its jazzy design and excellent functionality.

This backpack is well made with an excellent amount of room for everything one needs for a day of work/school and training. There is a dedicated side access laptop sleeve, a big main compartment for all your sports stuff, plus a front organizer panel and water bottle sleeves.

The back is well padded and so are the shoulder straps which might it a delight to carry for all ages. The design does suit kids more than adults though as it’s not so professional but it is quite fun.

Pros

  • Well made and very durable
  • Large main compartment for all your gear
  • Side access laptop sleeve
  • Padded back and shoulder straps for comfort
  • Front organization panel
  • Side water bottle sleeves
  • Great if you’re on a budget

Cons

  • More for kids than adults

Product Information

  • Capacity: 26 L
  • Material: Polyester
  • No. of Pockets: 6+
  • Dimensions: 9 x 13 x 7.5 inches
  • Weight: 1.4 lbs
  • Waterproof: Water-resistant
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What To Look For In The Best Backpacks For Athletes

Durability

The first thing to look for in any backpack is durability. No one want’s a backpack that falls apart and this is even more important for athletes who push their gear to the limit. Look for a backpack made with a high denier rating and water resistance to ensure it lasts a long time.

Compartments For Purpose

If you have read all the reviews above, you’ll notice from the reviews that all the bags featured have different layouts depending on an athlete’s needs. Make sure you pick a bag that has all the right storage options you need.

If you swim, make sure there is a waterproof area for wet things. If you’re looking for a gym bag to take to work, a separate area for smelly footwear and clothes plus a laptop sleeve are important.

Carrying Comfort

Bags that aren’t comfy to carry end up living in the cupboard and not being used. Make sure the bag you choose has enough padding and support for you to carry everything you need comfortably.

Our Favorite Backpacks For Athletes

If you’re on a budget then the Legendary Drawstring Gym Bag is our recommendation. It works for all sports, is waterproof, durable, and has all the pockets you need to keep things like footwear, wet clothes, and your accessories separate and safe.

Soccerware ATHLIO Legendary Drawstring Gym Bag - Waterproof | For Sports & Workout Gear | XL Capacity | Heavy-Duty Sackpack Backpack (Graphite)
  • CONVENIENT LIGHTWEIGHT SIZE – Fits workout equipment, clothes, towel, shoe, and any size laptop / school books. Easy to carry design weighs only 12 ounces, 19"x16" in. | 12.5L
  • ONE BAG FOR ALL SPORTS – Can carry basketball, soccer ball, tennis racket, wrestling, boxing gloves, volleyball, yoga mat, crossfit, weightlifting, golf, paintball, travel etc.

For anyone looking for a gym bag that is great for the office, the Under Armour Hustle 3.0 is the bag for you. With lots of room a laptop sleeve, great carrying comfort, and a spot for smelly gym gear, you can’t go wrong.

Under Armour Men's UA Hustle 3.0 Backpack OSFA Black
  • UA Storm technology delivers an element-battling, highly water-resistant finish|Tough, abrasion-resistant bottom panel|Soft-lined laptop sleeve—holds up to 15" MacBook Pro or similarly sized laptop|Water-repellent front valuables pocket to keep your stuff safe|Adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps for extra comfort|Large, gusseted front laundry/shoe pocket placed at bottom of bag|Two side water bottle pockets|Top grab handle

If you’re a pro baller then the Adidas Stadium bag is for you. These bags come with a dual ball carry system, dedicated footwear compartment, water bottle sleeves, and a large main compartment too. Plus they look awesome too!

adidas Stadium II Backpack, Black, One Size
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Zippered bottom ball pocket that can hold a size 5 soccer ball inside or be worn on the outside in a mesh pocket.