Gym backpacks are a convenient, hands-free way to organize your fitness gear. They should be comfortable, durable, and spacious, with enough compartments to hold all your gear. Our testers at Verywell Fit evaluated a variety of gym backpacks based on key categories like comfort, fit, adjustability, storage, and value. Here are the top 10 small sports backpacks that we recommend for active individuals.
When it comes to finding the perfect small sports backpack, it’s important to consider factors such as size, weight, durability, and functionality. Whether you’re heading to the gym, going for a hike, or simply need a compact bag to carry your essentials, these backpacks have got you covered.
Best Men’s Overall: Nike Utility Speed Training Backpack
The Nike Utility Speed Training Backpack is our top pick for the best men’s overall small sports backpack. This backpack offers a winning combination of style, functionality, and durability, making it the perfect choice for active individuals. With its spacious design and comfortable straps, it provides ample storage space without compromising on comfort.
The standout feature of this backpack is its large main compartment, which can easily accommodate all your gym essentials, including shoes, clothes, and accessories. The multiple pockets and compartments allow for effective organization and easy access to your belongings. The backpack also received high ratings for its durability, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Priced at $95, the Nike Utility Speed Training Backpack offers excellent value for its price. With dimensions of 18 x 11 x 6 inches and a storage capacity of 27 liters, it strikes the perfect balance between compactness and spaciousness. Whether you’re hitting the gym or heading out for a hike, this backpack will meet all your needs and keep you organized.
Key Features:
- Spacious design with a large main compartment
- Durable and comfortable straps
- Multiple pockets and compartments for effective organization
- Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 6 inches; Storage capacity: 27 liters
Best Women’s Overall: The North Face Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack
The North Face Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack is our top pick for women’s overall small sports backpack. It combines style and functionality with its sleek design and spacious storage capacity. Whether you’re heading to the gym or going for a weekend adventure, this backpack has got you covered.
The Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack features a functional design that includes a shoe compartment, perfect for keeping your athletic shoes separate from your other belongings. This dedicated compartment helps keep everything organized and prevents any unwanted odors from spreading to the rest of your gear.
This stylish gym backpack offers plenty of space for all your essentials. With its roomy main compartment and multiple pockets, you can easily store your workout clothes, water bottle, snacks, and other personal items. The backpack also has protective compartments for your electronics, ensuring they stay safe and secure while you’re on the move.
Key Features:
- Stylish design
- Functional shoe compartment
- Spacious storage capacity
- Protective compartments for electronics
Despite its impressive storage capacity, the Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack remains comfortable to wear. The padded shoulder straps and back panel provide cushioning and support, even during long periods of use. However, some users have mentioned that the sternum strap could be more supportive.
Priced at $139, the Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack offers excellent value for its quality and features. Its dimensions of 12.5 x 6 x 19 inches and storage capacity of 26 liters make it an ideal choice for active women who want a stylish and functional gym backpack.
Best Unisex: lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L
The lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L is our top pick for a unisex small sports backpack. This stylish and versatile backpack is designed to keep you organized while on the go. Made with water-resistant material, it can withstand light rain and keep your belongings protected. With dimensions of 16.5 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches and a storage capacity of 23 liters, it offers enough space to carry your essentials without feeling bulky.
One of the standout features of the lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L is its sleek and athletic design. It is perfect for individuals who value both style and functionality. The backpack has easy-access pockets that allow you to quickly grab your phone, keys, or other small items. It also features an exterior laptop sleeve, making it convenient to carry your electronic devices securely.
The lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L is a top choice for anyone in need of a unisex small sports backpack that combines style, convenience, and durability.
Another great feature of this backpack is the luggage strap, which allows you to attach it to your suitcase when traveling. This feature is especially useful for those who frequently find themselves navigating airports or busy train stations. It eliminates the need for carrying multiple bags and provides added convenience when on the move.
Why Choose the lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L?
- Stylish and athletic design
- Water-resistant material
- Easy-access pockets
- Exterior laptop sleeve
- Luggage strap for easy traveling
If you’re in search of a unisex small sports backpack that offers style, functionality, and water resistance, the lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L is the perfect choice. Priced at $98, it delivers excellent value for the features it offers. Whether you’re heading to the gym, commuting to work, or embarking on a weekend adventure, this backpack will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
| Dimensions | Storage Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 16.5 x 11.4 x 5.9 inches | 23 liters | $98 |
Best Budget: Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack
The Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack is the top pick for a budget-friendly small sports backpack. Priced at $55, this lightweight gym backpack offers excellent value for money. It features ergonomic shoulder straps for comfortable carrying, ensuring that it won’t strain your shoulders during long workouts. With its budget-friendly price tag, it’s an ideal choice for those who want a reliable and durable backpack without breaking the bank.
One of the standout features of the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack is its waterproof pockets. These pockets provide added protection for your electronics and other valuables, keeping them safe and dry even in wet conditions. Whether you’re hitting the gym or venturing outdoors, you can trust that your belongings will remain protected.
While the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack offers great value for its price, it’s important to note that the straps may be too wide for some users. Additionally, the bag may not be suitable for carrying heavy items, as it may not withstand the strain. However, if you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight gym backpack with ergonomic features and waterproof pockets, the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack is an excellent choice.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic Shoulder Straps | Ensures comfortable carrying |
| Waterproof Pockets | Provides added protection for electronics |
| Price | $55 |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 20 x 12.6 inches |
| Storage Capacity | 29 liters |
Best Convertible: Béis The Sport Duffel
The Béis The Sport Duffel is our top pick for a convertible small sports backpack. This multifunctional backpack is designed to meet all your needs, whether you’re heading to the gym or going on a weekend adventure. It offers a two-in-one design that can easily convert from a duffel bag to a backpack, providing you with the flexibility you need.
One of the standout features of the Béis The Sport Duffel is its multifunctional pockets. With an array of compartments, you can easily organize your gear, from gym clothes to electronics. The water-resistant interior ensures that your belongings stay dry, even during unexpected rain showers.
Additionally, this backpack comes equipped with a luggage strap, allowing you to secure it to your suitcase when traveling. This convenient feature makes transporting your gear a breeze, whether you’re navigating through busy airports or commuting to work.
FAQ
Are these backpacks suitable for both men and women?
Yes, all the backpacks featured in our top picks are unisex, designed to cater to the needs of both men and women.
Can these backpacks accommodate a laptop?
Yes, some of the backpacks, such as the North Face Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack and the lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0 23L, have designated laptop sleeves to keep your electronics protected.
Are these backpacks waterproof?
While some backpacks, like the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack, have waterproof pockets for electronics, not all of them are completely waterproof. It’s always a good idea to use a rain cover or protect your belongings in a waterproof bag if you anticipate exposure to water.
Can these backpacks hold shoes?
Yes, several of the backpacks, including the North Face Women’s Never Stop Utility Pack and the Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack, have designated shoe compartments to keep your footwear separate from your other belongings.
Do these backpacks come with a warranty?
The warranties offered on these backpacks may vary. It is recommended to check with the manufacturer or retailer for specific warranty information.
Source Links
- https://www.verywellfit.com/best-gym-backpacks-4689959
- https://packhacker.com/blog/general/best-mini-backpack/
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/style/travel-bags/small-mini-backpacks
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