Best CrossFit Gym Bags for 2024 – Quick Buying Guide + TOP 14 Bag Reviews
You’re not using that bag for the gym, are you?
Are you schlepping around some old backpack instead of a proper gym bag?
Is an old school bag really the best CrossFit gym bag?
If you are tired of hunting through your bag looking for your chalk and grips, or shoving sweaty gym clothes and shoes in with your other gear listen up!
I am here to help!
Below is a short guide to finding the best CrossFit gym bag, plus an in depth review of 14 of the best CrossFit gym bags I could find to help you upgrade your CrossFit gym bag.
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CrossFit Gym Bags |
Our Rating |
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PUMA Evercat Contender Duffel Bag
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Puma Men’s Contender Duffel |
PUMA Evercat Contender Duffel Bag
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Modular Gym Bag (Black w/Orange Straps)
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Orange Mud Modular Gear Gym Bag |
Modular Gym Bag (Black w/Orange Straps)
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Sale
Nike Brasilia (Medium) Training Duffel Bag, Flint Grey/Black/White, One Size
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NIKE Brasilia Medium Training Duffel Bag |
Sale
Nike Brasilia (Medium) Training Duffel Bag, Flint Grey/Black/White, One Size
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Under Armour Storm Undeniable II Duffle
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Under Armour Storm Undeniable II Duffle |
Under Armour Storm Undeniable II Duffle
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Contents
- What Champions are Made of: Mechanics of the Best CrossFit Gym Bag
- CrossFit Gym Bags FAQs
- TOP 14 Best CrossFit Gym Bags for 2024
- Bear KompleX Gym Bag
- Rogue Gym Bag
- Under Armour Storm Undeniable II Duffle
- Nike Brasilia Medium Training Duffel Bag
- Puma Men's Contender Duffel
- Orange Mud Modular Gear Gym Bag
- King Kong Jnr Kong Small Gym Bag
- King Kong Giant Kong Large Gym Bag
- King Kong Original Gym Bag
- King Kong Backpack II
- Venum Trainer Lite Sport Bag
- Zoot Sports Ultra Tri Bag
- Adidas Squad III Duffel Bag
- Topo Designs Ballistic Rover Pack
What Champions are Made of: Mechanics of the Best CrossFit Gym Bag
Breathability
Ok, this is super important.
I want you to think about this carefully.
Your gear needs circulating air and materials that inhibit microbes, and what the bag is made of, and how it is constructed, play a part in this.
Picture this:
If you have ever done any boxing or martial arts using pads or gloves, you know what I am talking about. That equipment can get stinky!
Blech.
Do yourself and those around you with sensitive noses, a favor. Look for a bag that is:
- Well ventilated. Think mesh windows or mesh panels.
- Made of material that breathes. Natural material like cotton and hemp breath better than nylon or synthetics. Look for antimicrobial material as well.
Whatcha got in there?
This is easy. Gather your CrossFit equipment. Place it in a pile on the floor or bed. Items might include:
- Workout Clothes
- Towel
- CrossFit Shoes for Men / CrossFit Shoes for Women
- Change of clothes
- Gloves
- Straps
- Knee Sleeves
- Water Bottle
- Shaker Bottle
- Phone
- Sunglasses
- Wallet
OK, once you know what you have, you will know what size bag and what bag features you need.
If you change at the gym or box, you need a bag that can accommodate a towel and change of clothes.
Look for a bag that holds your water bottle, because everyone should bring one. If you like to drink a shake before or after, make sure the mesh pouch fits the shaker cup.
Careful here, some mesh pouches don’t fit a standard shaker bottle, and that’s a shame.
Shoe Compartments
Many Crossfiters carry lifters when heavy lifting is on the WOD.
If you change shoes, look for a bag that can store the shoes away from other gear.
Organization Pockets
Look for bags that have small fleece lined zippered pockets that protect valuables like wallet, phone and sunglasses.
Look for organization pockets that can hold your gear separate from clothes and towels, so you are not digging, like a squirrel looking for a nut trying to find the gear you need.
Keep gear separate. Let’s stay organized here, folks!
Wet, Dirty and Nasty
The best CrossFit bags have a separate waterproof compartment for wet, dirty and nasty items. The elite of the elite made the wet bag removable.
Any way you slice it, you need a wet bag, so look for a bag that has one.
Backpack or Duffel?
The best CrossFit bags come in two styles, the backpack or the duffel.
While this is largely a preference issue, may I suggest those that travel with their bag may be more comfortable with a backpack.
Those that throw the bag in the backseat or trunk of the car might prefer a duffel.
CrossFit Gym Bags FAQs
What Gear Should I Pack in My CrossFit Bag?
Knee sleeves, chalk, water bottle, shaker, jump rope, lifting belt, gym shoes, grips, keys, phone, wallet, sunglasses, gym towel, supplements, CrossFit shorts, CrossFit shirt and a change of clothes.
If you are in MMA, boxing or martial arts remember you need extra space for gloves, pads, headgear and all that. Try to find a 15 gallon bag or larger is you carry a lot of this kind of gear.
What is the Best Material for a CrossFit Gym Bag?
The best material I have seen for a CrossFit gym bag is 1680D Ballistic Nylon, which is both water-resistant AND heat resistant, up to 365 degrees!
This 1680D Ballistic Nylon is found on the Orange Mud bag, which is one of my favorites.
I would say at a minimum, look for 1000 Denier nylon or Kordura material to get the best CrossFit gym bag, on that will last a long time.
What Brands Make the Best CrossFit Bag in 2024?
Rogue, Topo Fitness, Reebok, Orange Mud, Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, King Kong, Datsusara, Puma, Ironman, and Bear Komplex all made reliable, hard wearing and functional CrossFit gym bags.
So, without further ado, let’s get to the reviews.
TOP 14 Best CrossFit Gym Bags for 2024
Bear KompleX Gym Bag
- QUITE SIMPLY THE BEST TACTICAL DUFFEL ON THE MARKET: Built for your unique needs. Multiple pockets, a spot for 2 pairs of shoes, a roomy main storage area, zipping side pockets, and side water bottle pockets. You can’t go wrong with the Bear Komplex duffel gym bag!
- BUILT TO LAST - Military Grade 1000D Nylon 20" x 12" x 12" versatile bag with reinforced grab and go handles, zippered lined pockets, inner/outer MOLLE web platforms, two external compression straps, and a contoured yoke shoulder strap system.
- ADD PATCHES AND MAKE THIS BAG YOURS! Mesh and nylon admin compartments, zippered water-resistant pockets, and a hook and loop area for nametape and flag patches.
- STAY ON THE GO: Rain, sleet or snow, the Water Repellent Coating will keep your gear protected.
Style: Duffle
Capacity: About 12 and a half gallons
Review: This Bear Komplex CrossFit gym bag has ample and well organized storage. It has two compartments to hold shoes, three outer organization pockets on the front, one zippered and one mesh pocket on the end, and a roomy main compartment.
It is made from tough nylon, and has a padded shoulder strap making it comfortable to lug around.
Pros
- 1000D Nylon.
- 2 stacked shoe compartments on one side.
- Ample and organized storage – many separate pockets.
- Padded shoulder strap.
Cons
- No good place to carry a water bottle on the outside of the bag.
Takeaway
Go big and get organized with this big bear Komplex CrossFit bag.
Rogue Gym Bag
Style: Duffle
Capacity: Almost 10 and a half gallons
Review: This Classic Style duffle by Rogue Fitness is tough and functional. It has a large main compartment, one small inside pocket and one small outside pocket.
It is made from seriously durable rip stop nylon on the outside and 1000 D Kordura on the inside. You can manhandle this bag and it will still last for years.
Pros
- 1000D Kordura on the inside, and rip stop on the outside.
- Zipper spans entire length of the top of the bag.
- Thick shoulder carry strap and reinforced handles.
Cons
- No separate compartment for shoes.
Takeaway
Rugged and ready to go, this Rogue bag will fit all your CrossFit gear and then some.
Under Armour Storm Undeniable II Duffle
- UA Storm technology delivers an element battling, highly water resistant finish
- Tough, abrasion resistant bottom & side panels
- Large front zippered organization pocket
- Adjustable, padded, HeatGear shoulder strap for total comfort
- Padded top grab handle
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 11 gallons
Review: This attractive Under Armour Storm Undeniable II CrossFit duffle bag is a winner. It has 4 zippered pockets on the outside, including a rather large one that organizes all your stuff.
The inside main compartment also has a smaller zippered pocket, and the bottom of the bag is lightly padded too.
The large vented side pocket is perfect for an extra pair of shoes or dirty gym clothes.
Pros
- Large vented exterior wet/dirty storage pocket.
- Luxuriously padded shoulder strap with UA logo.
- External zippered organization pocket.
- Water resistant.
Cons
- Shoe compartment needs to be a bit larger.
Takeaway
A stylish CrossFit Duffle gym bag with a shoe tunnel and good organization.
Nike Brasilia Medium Training Duffel Bag
- Durable, water-resistant bottom keeps gear dry.
- Spacious main compartment for versatile storage.
- Ventilated compartment handles wet and dry shoes.
- Large, dual-zippered main compartment for versatile storage.
- Dual handles can be closed together for easy carrying.
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 15 gallon
Review: This stylish Nike Brasilia duffle bag sports has clean lines and a striking appearance. It is quite large, and has a generous main compartment with a U shaped zipper so you can see and access your gear quickly.
The shoe tunnel stores your wet or dirty items away from other gear, and the mesh outside pocket can home a water or shaker bottle for easy access.
Pros
- Mesh outer pocket.
- Shoe tunnel or wet/dry compartment.
- Large internal compartment.
- High capacity duffle bag.
Cons
- No smaller pockets for little items, like keys.
Takeaway
Attractive, high capacity CrossFit duffle with shoe storage.
Puma Men's Contender Duffel
- Removable/Adjustable shoudler strap
- Padded bottom panel
- Shoe compartment
- Front zip pockets
- Side pockets
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 10 gallons
Review: This Puma Contender duffle bag is more compact than other CrossFit gym bags. It is just 10 gallons, but is a great bag for those who need a more streamlined gym bag.
It has a shoe tunnel, just like bigger bags, but the shoe tunnel takes up more of the main compartment, naturally.
The main compartment has a U shaped zipper allowing easy access and view of all your gear at once.
Pros
- Side shoe compartment or tunnel.
- U shaped main compartment zipper for ease of access.
- Compact, sleek, streamlined design.
Cons
- Won’t hold a lot of large gear, especially when shoe compartment is full.
Takeaway
Perfect for those who want an attractive, smaller sized duffel with shoe storage
Orange Mud Modular Gear Gym Bag
- Modular interior pockets for easy removal (ie, dirty clothes, shower kit, etc)
- Rugged nylon design inside and out
- YKK zippers for long life and a robust and finished look
- The perfect gym bag for your swim, bike, run, triathlon and yoga needs
- Made in Vietnam
Style: In-between a Duffle or Medicine bag style
Capacity: 14.5 gallons
Review: I love this bag. It looks great, it’s sturdy, and has a lot of modular storage. The orange makes a perfect contrast with the black, and the seatbelt style straps set this bag above the rest.
The wet/dirty bag is secured by hook and look to the inside of the bag, and it is removable and there are several other storage pockets to get everything organized.
It is durable too, the quality put into this bag means it will last years.
Pros
- Really cool seatbelt straps are strong and stylish.
- Ballistic nylon outer is both heat and water resistant.
- Two internal wet dry bags for shoes or other dirty items.
- Sturdy YKK zippers.
Cons
- Pricy.
Takeaway
Just a really cool, functional bag that will last and last. It’s worth the price, folks!
King Kong Jnr Kong Small Gym Bag
- The most advanced and compact version of the Original King Kong Bag. Built specifically for the unique needs of Crossfit fitness training and will suit any active lifestyle.
- Military Spec Nylon is the toughest material in the game. Highly abrasion resistant and virtually impossible to rip.
- Water-resistant 1000D Nylon can be used as a wet bag for towels and swimming gear.
- Heavy Duty Steel Buckles and Ultra-Tough #10 YKK Zippers are extremely durable and can handle even the most rugged conditions.
- One individually sealed, water-resistant section for one pair of shoes.
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 8.7 gallon
Review: This is the baby of the bunch in the King Kong duffle CrossFit bag lineup.
This King Kong Jnr bag “Only” has an 8.7 gallon capacity, which is actually still pretty darn big. This model sports one shoe pouch instead of two and is 30% smaller than the original.
Pros
- One shoe compartment.
- Two zippered side pockets, two front accessory pockets.
- Main compartment is big enough for a towel and change of clothes.
- Compartments are water resistant and double as wet bags.
Cons
- Neither mesh pocket is the right size for a standard water bottle.
Takeaway
Excellent for the CrossFit minimalist, the athlete on the GO, and those who don’t necessarily want to change clothes and shoes at the gym or box.
King Kong Giant Kong Large Gym Bag
- Internal Shoe Compartments - Train like a beast. Don't smell like one. Store your shoes away from your clean gear.
- Dual Bottle Holders - With expandable bottle holders there's no excuse not to stay hydrated.
- Non-slip Hypalon Shoulder Strap - No more slipping shoulder straps. Max grip designed for max functionality.
- Water Resistant Zones - Don't sweat it. We've got you covered with a space to store your not so fresh gear.
- 6 Accessory Compartments - Organization made easy. Enjoy the confidence of knowing your gear is accessible and secure.
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 16.6 gal
Review: This enormous bag has separate pockets for two pairs of shoes, a mesh side pocket for a shaker cup or water bottle, the main compartment big enough to hold workout clothes, a towel, plus a change of clothes, made with indestructible 1000D nylon and high quality KYY Zippers.
Pros
- 2 Shoe pockets that keep shoes separate from other gear.
- Shoe pockets also fit the King Kong meal bag insert (sold separately).
- Shoe pockets fit large shoes, so if you have big feet, this one’s for you.
- 6 Gallon capacity, one of the largest we reviewed.
- Several smaller zippered pockets to stay organized, including small accessory pockets on the front side.
- Internal zippered pocket in the main compartment.
- Padded hand strap and shoulder strap.
Cons
- Having the shoe compartments stacked one on top of the other can make the bag unbalanced, or lighter on one side than the other.
Takeaway
Enough room to satisfy even Godzilla himself. With this King size duffle bag; you have no excuse for leaving any equipment behind.
The biggest, baddest and best CrossFit duffel bag we reviewed.
King Kong Original Gym Bag
- Dual Internal Shoe Zones
- Dual Bottle Holders
- Non-Slip Hypalon Shoulder Strap
- Water Resistant Zones
- 6 Accessory Pockets
Style: Duffel
Capacity: 11.9 gallons
Review: This is the original King Kong duffle bag and is about 4 and a half gallons smaller capacity wise.
It is still quite large with 11.9 gallon total capacity, and like its big brother, the original also has two shoe compartments and a large main compartment.
Plenty of zippered pockets on the front, both a hand and shoulder strap, padded for comfort.
Pros
- Mesh pocket for shaker cup or water bottle.
- Two shoe compartments to keep shoes separate from other gear and clothes.
- Several smaller pockets up front for phone, wallet, sunglasses and other small items.
- High quality, smooth gliding YKK zippers you can open with one hand.
- Side pockets are water resistant and double as wet bags.
Cons
- The main compartment could use some organization pouches or zippered compartments.
Takeaway
This bag is big enough to carry most everything needed for a CrossFit workout, provided you don’t bring your own plyometric box.
While it’s not as grandiose as it’s “Giant” brother, it’s 11.9 gallon capacity should be able to handle all your gear, clothes, etc without weighing you down.
King Kong Backpack II
- Combines super-tough materials with innovative design. Built specifically for the unique needs of elite fitness training and will suit any active lifestyle.
- Military Spec Nylon is the toughest material in the game. Highly abrasion resistant and virtually impossible to rip.
- Water-resistant 1000D Nylon with expandable pockets that are perfect for bottles and shakers to keep you hydrated all day long.
- Heavy Duty Steel Buckles and Ultra-Tough #10 YKK Zippers are extremely durable and can handle even the most rugged conditions.
- Dedicated External Shoe Compartment that preserves valuable internal space. Great for a pair of shoes or Meal Bag Insert (sold separately).
Style: Backpack
Capacity: 7.4 gallons
Review: This CrossFit backpack is very different from your average pack.
It has a shoe compartment, which is not surprising since it seems to be a standard feature on King Kong bags, and we love that it keeps our shoes away from our clean clothes, towel and other equipment.
This backpack is surprisingly big thanks to its suitcase style zippered opening on the back.
Pros
- Large capacity backpack.
- Shoe compartment, unique among backpacks.
- Laptop/workout journal sleeve.
- Huge suitcase style opening for main compartment.
- Plenty of internal organization for cell, accessories, credit cards, wallet etc.
- Zippered pouch on top perfect for holding phone or mp3 player, with ear bud port.
- Water Bottle/shaker cup holder is expandable- fits most water bottles
Cons
- Could use one more pocket or inside compartment for wet or dirty items.
Takeaway
This backpack was designed with Crossfitters in mind, and has many of the features of the popular King Kong duffle bags, in a compact design you can easily carry on your commute or on the way to the gym.
Venum Trainer Lite Sport Bag
- Large main pocket able to fit shinguards and Boxing gloves
- Separate side pocket for easy storage
- Mesh panels deliver enhanced breathability
- Adjustable, padded shoulder strap
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 16.6 gallon
Review: This large bag has mesh windows built in that allow plenty of air to circulate and dry your equipment between uses.
It has a large side pocket that could be used for shoes, or as a wet/laundry bag.
This is one of the largest CrossFit bags we reviewed.
Pros
- Several mesh panels/windows to air out gear.
- Large side pocket can fit dirty wet items or shoes.
- Several small zippered pockets for cell phone, wallet, sunglasses etc.
- Padded shoulder strap included.
Cons
- Zippers can be problematic.
Takeaway
This budget priced duffel is large enough to hold all your gear for the WOD without emptying your wallet.
Zoot Sports Ultra Tri Bag
- Molded helmet protective compartment
- Removable sealed wet/dirty laundry/wetsuit compartment
Style: Backpack
Capacity: 13.74 gallons
Review: While not technically a CrossFit backpack, this huge 13.74 gallon capacity monster has everything the serious CrossFit athlete needs.
It has a large removable wet/dirty bag to separate items. It has a helmet pouch on the front, which could be used for shoes, or a helmet if you ride.
While large, it was designed for the comfort of triathletes, so if you travel or commute to your box on bike, foot or train, this pack can carry all you need.
Pros
- Removable sealed wet dry bag.
- Pouch on outside for shoes or helmet.
- Large Inner zippered mesh pouch.
- Super comfortable padded back and shoulders.
- Large enough for workout clothes, shoes, towel and change of clothes, plus gear.
- Two stretch mesh pockets for water/shake.
- Fleece lined accessory pockets so you don’t scratch your glasses or phone.
Cons
- Some may find the backpack too big.
Takeaway
This is ideal for the commuting CrossFitter who needs to be ready for whatever the day throws at them without having to return home for something.
It securely stows dirty clothes in a sealed removable compartment. Easily the best CrossFit workout bag for travelers or commuters, plus it is carry on friendly!
Adidas Squad III Duffel Bag
- Lifetime warranty - built to last
- Roomy main compartment with zippered pockets for organization, as well as a zippered exterior small slip pocket for the small stuff
- Adjustable shoulder strap - so you can wear it at the length that works for you
- Exterior zipped compartment is ventilated to keep your shoes and dirty gear separate
- Mesh expandable pocket on one end to store your water bottle
Style: Duffle
Capacity: 9.5 gallons
Review: This attractive CrossFit bag is one of the best gym bags for CrossFit for women. It has a freshPAK shoe compartment that allows air to circulate and keeps shoes separate from your other gear.
It is big, but not too big, and can fit everything you need. It has a mesh side pocket so you can stuff a water bottle or shake in their as you head out the door.
Plus, it’s really attractive in sky blue and heather grey and the unicorn shimmer Adidas logo is a nice touch.
Pros
- Ventilated shoe compartment.
- Attractive style for women, many cute colors available.
- Pockets and internal organization is plentiful.
Cons
- Shoe compartment size is limited, not for men or women who wear larger than size 10 shoes.
Takeaway
Stylish and functional, a female CrossFit athletes best choice for a gym bag.
Topo Designs Ballistic Rover Pack
Style: Backpack
Capacity: 16.2 gallons
Review: This TOPO Designs backpack is rugged and strong, but has clean lines and a minimalist style that make this a very attractive men’s CrossFit backpack.
It is pretty big, especially for a backpack. It holds a water bottle or shaker on either outside pocket, has several small zippered pockets to store your gear and personal items, and padded, reinforced shoulder straps and carry handle.
Pros
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps and reinforced carry handle.
- Really large backpack.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- No separate compartment for wet clothes or shoes.
Takeaway
Best CrossFit backpack for the gym or box!
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