The bags I’ve selected also serve as excellent carry-ons, weekender bags, practical bags for work, or small carriers for quickie errands—perfectly transitioning from gym use to post-workout activities, wherever the day takes you.

Not all gym bags are created equal, so I urge you to think about what you’ll be using your gym tote for most often. Here’s what you should keep in mind when shopping for your next gym bag.

What To Consider

Material

When shopping for gym bags, Sarah Pelc Graca, a NASM-CPT, recommends looking for options made from durable and waterproof materials like nylon, polyester, or coated canvas. “Gym bags are exposed to regular wear and tear, so a strong material ensures longevity,” Graca says. A water-resistant bag will also protect your belongings from unexpected spills, rain, or sweat-soaked clothes, she adds. As a plus, these materials are generally easy to clean or wipe down to keep your bag fresh and odor-free. The eco-conscious can also opt for bags made from recycled materials, Graca says. Fun fact: Every bag on this list is actually made from recycled polyester, with the exception of one.

Storage Capacity

A small bag works best if you plan on just carrying the essentials, like a phone or wallet. You can consider a medium bag if you plan on carrying gym clothes, toiletries, workout shoes, or other extras, and, lastly, a large bag if you plan on using it for travel, or need to store additional items like a laptop or meal prep containers.

Compartments

“Having a bag with multiple pockets for organization helps to keep items separate, preventing mess or odor transfer,” Graca says. Some gym bags are designed with separate pockets for shoes, wet clothes, valuables like your phone or jewelry, or a space for your water bottle. Look for something that complements your gym routine, like a bag with a padded laptop sleeve if you plan on using it for work and the gym.

How We Chose

As the Women’s Health executive health and fitness director, I’ve researched and tested dozens of gym bags while producing the annual WH Fitness Awards for the past five years—in addition to the ones I use regularly for my personal gym routine. I’m an avid exerciser (as well as a certified trainer) who participates in a wide range of modalities—from running to Pilates to weight-lifting to cross-training classes to dance cardio—so I have a deep knowledge and passion for finding gear and apparel that functions for *all* different types of exercisers. I also tapped a certified personal trainer for their recommendations on what to look for in the best gym bags for women.

There are a ton of options out there, but I’ve narrowed it down to this list. Keep reading for the seven best gym bags for women you can shop today.

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