Author: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (Olympian with 21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
Reviewed by: Ihor Shymechko (26 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience)
Few things are as frustrating as when you finish training and take a shower and you don’t have anywhere to store your shoes. Most gym bags would allow you to store numerous training items, but if it doesn’t have a shoe compartment, it might be frustrating.
Having had to carry shoes out by hand a couple of times, we have decided that it is time to find the best gym bag with shoe compartment. Here are 8 of the best.
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Gymreapers Gravestone Duffle.
Gymreapers is committed to quality and functionality and this bag is a clear proof of that. It’s made specifically with athletes’ needs in mind, it’s more than just something to stuff your things into.
Our team of certified experts and professional athletes has tested 15 bags with shoe compartments and only 7 of them were considered good enough to be included in this list. The bags were evaluated on 5 of the most important criteria and our team spent over 250 hours testing them.
Along with the detailed testing process, they also analyzed hundreds of online user reviews to bring you the most accurate information. We update our list all the time, so feel free to leave comments, and share your experiences with us!
Top 8 Best Gym Bags With Shoe Compartment Reviewed
1. Gymreapers Gravestone Duffle – Top Pick
Gymreapers is committed to quality and functionality, and this bag is a clear proof of that. It’s made specifically with athletes’ needs in mind, it’s more than just something to stuff your things into.
- Pockets: Internal shoe pocket, external water bottle storage, external soft pocket for essentials
- Size: height 24.75” x width 12.75” x depth 12.75”
- Material: Polyester
- Color Palette: Gunmetal, onyx, desert sand
- Handle: Shoulder strap, two handles
Size
The polyester it’s made of is first-class and it is highly durable, and the stitches are extremely neat and even. There’s no worry that this bag will fall apart easily, regardless of how much you use it.
Variation Of Pockets
The Gravestone Duffle bag has a water-resistant PU coating so your things will be safe even if you get caught in a downpour without an umbrella – nothing gets through this coating.
The YKK zippers add to the bag’s durability and if you’ve ever had a zipper fall apart, you know how important this is. If a zipper malfunctions, the bag is pretty much ruined. Even if you decide to get it replaced, it’s never really the same, plus then you have the added expense of the repair.
Photo by @bre.fitt
Durability
You can carry it as a standard duffle or cross-body and there’s plenty of space to fit all of your gym equipment. There’s also a shoe pocket, an external soft pocket, and water bottle storage.
Multifunctionality
It does come at a pretty high price point, so that’s something to keep in mind. You can’t argue with its quality, but there are not too many people who will pay a lot of money for a gym bag. A fashion bag – yes, but gym bags are not that highly sought after.
Price/Quality
Even with the price considered, this bag is exceptional and if you decide to invest in it, you can be sure you won’t need another gym bag for a very long time.
Positives:
Made of 900D durable polyester
- Water-resistant coating
Plenty of pockets
Neat stitches
Could be better:
Expensive
Only three colors available
2. Adidas Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag – Runner-Up
If you are looking for serious quality, the Adidas brand has a proven reputation for ensuring that its customers are happy. One of our favorite products is the Adidas Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag, which features numerous storage compartments and ensures that you have everything you need in such a compact setting.
- Pockets Galore: 4-pockets
- Size: 11.75 x 11 x 20.5-inches (32-liters)
- Material: Plastic
- Color Palette: Various colors
Size
The Adidas Defender 4 duffle bag is by no means the biggest duffle bag on the market today, but it is functional enough for most people to use. It features an internal capacity of around 32 liters for the small version. However, you can find this bag in a variety of different sizes to meet your needs.
Variation Of Pockets
There are 4 pockets that you can use and these are divided into the internal storage pockets, which are the main compartment, and two outer pockets on either edge. Another pocket located near the bottom would work for your shoes. We should also mention the small pocket for the smaller things on the outside.
Durability
One of the only areas that might be a bit of a downside is the materials. Instead of using nylon or some hardened form of materials for the bottom, the duffle bag is made from plastic, which might not hold up. However, we have seen it hold up significantly well and far better than expected.
Multifunctionality
Due to the slightly smaller size of the duffel bag, you can use it almost anywhere. It is easy to get to grips with and you should be able to use it for storing your clothing or even as a solid travel bag.
Price/Quality
For a brand like Adidas, we are surprised by the affordable price tag of the bag. However, the larger versions are a bit more expensive for the average person to buy. In terms of overall quality, the bag comes with a limited lifetime warranty and the claim is that it is also water-resistant.
Positives:
Small and compact
- Includes numerous great pockets
Inexpensive
Limited lifetime warranty
Could be better:
Might be too small for those with larger shoes than size 10
Moving from one great brand to the other, we have one of the top Nike bags on the market today. The Nike Brasilia Winterized Training Duffel Bag is a functional duffel bag with numerous storage compartments and an easy carry strap.
- Pockets Galore: 6-pockets
- Size: 11 x 11 x 23-inches (44-liters)
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Color Palette: Black
Size
At around 44 liters, this bag would ensure that you have plenty of storage space, which should ensure that it would allow you to store numerous gear items. It will easily accommodate some of your shoes while allowing you to comfortably store your clothing.
Variation Of Pockets
The bag features a wide variety of pockets, which are spread between the internal pocket for most of your gear and small additional compartments on the outside. Keep in mind that the shoe compartment forms part of the main compartment, but it does have some separation to keep your shoes from stinking up your clothes.
Durability
The bag is made from polyester materials, which offer effective protection from all external factors. However, one of the main benefits of the bag is the water-resistant design, which should keep plenty of moisture from getting in. It would unfortunately also trap some of the sweat from used clothing.
Multifunctionality
While the bag is made to be used for training, the great thing about the straps is that they can be adjusted. You can carry the bag over the shoulder or by hand, which means it would also make a great travel bag. If need be, you can use the carry handles and put them on your back for hiking.
Price/Quality
The bag is slightly more expensive than the small Adidas defender, but you should keep in mind that it is also much larger. It certainly offers you the durability and functionality you would need when you need a high-end duffel bag.
Positives:
Durable construction
Large shoe compartment
Large main compartment
Water-resistant
Could be better:
Might be a bit bulky for some
4. Ultimate Gym Bag – Budget Pick
When you require a gym bag that will offer you multiple pockets and increased functionality, the Ultimate Gym Bag might be one you should consider buying. It is not only cheap but makes great use of the available space it offers to ensure you have numerous areas to store all your gear.
- Pockets Galore: 10-pockets
- Size: 10.5 x 11 x 20-inches (37.85-liters)
- Material: Synthetic Materials
- Color Palette: Various
Size
The Ultimate Gym Bag (pun intended) is one of the best gym bags when you need plenty of storage dividers. The gym bag has a large internal compartment, but there are around 10 separate pockets for use. It is a solid gym bag that gives you around 38 liters of storage space for the large version.
Variation Of Pockets
The pockets are by far the main draw and there are around 10 different pockets, which are divided into external pockets and internal pockets. This does include a shoe compartment, which can hold a solid size 14 shoe.
Durability
The durability is the one area of concern and due to the synthetic material design, it might weaken over time. However, the double stitching does make a huge difference to ensure that all the seams are impossible to tear.
Multifunctionality
You can use this duffle bag for all your travel and training purposes. The numerous components mean that it should be very easy to separate some of the gear when needed.
Price/Quality
Price is an important part of buying a gym bag, but fortunately, this gym bag is one of the more affordable options on the market today.
Positives:
10 storage compartments
Large shoe compartment (Size 14)
Easy to carry
Ideal for traveling and training
Could be better:
The synthetic material feels a bit soft and weak
The Canway Sports Gym Bag features a slightly different look than some of the other duffel bags, but still includes the shoe compartment you would need when it comes to storing your shoes. It is made from solid polyester to give you years of use.
- Pockets Galore: 9-pockets
- Size: 10 x 10 x 20-inches (45-liters)
- Material: Polyester/ leather
- Color Palette: Various
Size
Size should not be an issue with this gym bag and it features a large 45-liter capacity, which should comfortably store all your personal belongings.
Variation Of Pockets
With around 9 pockets for you to use, you have 1 large interior pocket and 1 shoe compartments, which is protected on the bottom by leather. Numerous smaller pockets are spread throughout the gym bag to ensure versatility.
Durability
The combination of leather and polyester would ensure that you have some functionality and it will keep the bag durable. The bag is also water-resistant, which would ensure that you can easily store your dry clothing without the fear of water.
Multifunctionality
Much like other duffel bags, this one is perfect for use for all traveling purposes and your training. The addition of storing your shoes means that cyclists and even sports competitors can use them to store their cleats if needed.
Price/Quality
One of the best features of this bag is that you can get it for a cheap price. It is one of the more affordable options on the market today and this means that virtually anyone should own one. You will get great value for your money.
Positives:
Reasonable price
Made with leather and polyester
Feature 9 storage compartments
Versatile design
Could be better:
Zippers lack some durability
- Pockets Galore: 5-pockets
- Size: 10.5 x 11.5 x 18-inches (32-liters)
- Material: 600D Polyester
- Color Palette: Various
Size
This is one of the smaller bags on the market today and features a capacity of only 32 liters, which might be small. However, the external shoe compartment means your shoes won’t take up any space in the large compartment.
Variation Of Pockets
It might not have the same number of pockets as many other duffle bags, but you have one big compartment and smaller compartments for your gear like wrist wraps and keys
Durability
The bag is waterproof and is made from durable polyester. One of the main additional features we like is the weaved seams, which add a hint of durability and would ensure overall functionality as well.
Multifunctionality
Due to the smaller size, this is one of those training bags that you can use for a variety of activities. However, it is certainly the best gym bag with a shoe compartment that you would currently be able to find when looking for something smaller
Price/Quality
Since this bag is smaller, you would expect it to be much cheaper, but it is still the same price as many larger options, which makes it expensive for the value you receive. However, the functionality makes it a great gym bag with compartment for shoes.
Positives:
Small and compact
Large shoe compartment
Durable design
Leather protection
Could be better:
Since the bag is small you have limited capacity for gear
We all need a duffel bag with shoe compartment when it comes to training and Puma is one of the leading sports brands in the world. The Puma Evercat Contender Duffel Bag is a gym bag with shoe compartment for those with larger shoes.
- Pockets Galore: 5-pockets
- Size: 19.5 x 10.5 x 21-inches (20-liters)
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Color Palette: Various
Size
While you might not be able to store your wardrobe in this bag, the small 20-liter capacity of this gym bag makes it functional for storing smaller gear items. It should ensure that you can easily carry your gear along.
Variation Of Pockets
The bag only features 5 pockets, which might not be that much. However, these pockets are capable of holding everything. It is one of the ideal options when looking for a gym bag with sneaker compartment as well.
Durability
Since the bag is made by Puma, it already comes with a reputation that it should be durable. The functional design and high-quality materials would certainly show this as well.
Multifunctionality
Since the bag is much smaller than some of the others, we have found it to be functional when you use it for all outdoor purposes, including travel.
Price/Quality
Surprisingly, this bag is not that expensive for something coming from Puma. The materials would offer you great value for your money. However, we have seen some complaints about the zippers, which might not work. It is certainly the best small gym bag with shoe compartment you can find.
Positives:
Reliable brand
Durable construction
Small and compact
Reasonable price
Could be better:
Zippers often break
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What are the Benefits of a Gym Bag with Shoe Compartment?
✅ Overall Storage Capacity
One of the first benefits is that you can carry all your gear in one place. Instead of arriving at the gym with all your gear in your hands, the gym bag with shoe pocket would enable you to carry everything in one secure bag.
✅ Shoes Won’t Compromise Clothing
One of the main benefits of using wrist wraps is that you ought to pick up heavier weights. Without the additional flexing of the wrist, you have more stability, moving the resistance point higher up in the arm to stronger joints and muscle groups.
✅ Versatility
While your bag might be initially dedicated to training, many people travel for business or other reasons. These duffel bags can be converted into travel bags and you can carry all your personal belongings if you don’t need a large suitcase.
When Do You Need a Gym Bag with Wet Compartment?
The gym bag is one of the most functional items that you would carry with you when training.
However, a gym bag with a wet compartment is a great feature to have. Much like your shoes could leave a foul smell, wet towels and clothing can do the same. Additionally, the wet compartment separates the dry from the wet to keep your other items dry.
A gym bag is often used by fitness enthusiasts for carrying some training gear. Here is a list of a few items you might need to carry:
- Wrist wraps
- Weightlifting belt
- Shoes
- Gloves
- Chalk
- Barbell clips
What to Look for in Gym Bags with Shoe Compartment?
1. Size
Ideally, you want to look for something that would allow you to carry numerous gear items. This means that a bag in the range of 30 to 50 liters would often be the ideal size. The storage capacity is what dictates what you can and cannot carry with you.
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
2. Durability
Gym bags can be expensive, which is why you need something durable. You want to make sure that you have good construction made from nylon, polyester, or leather to ensure the bag holds up. Woven or reinforced seams would also serve the purpose of improving durability.
3. Multifunctionality
If you are a dedicated trainer and you hit the gym each day, your gym bag would work mostly for the gym. However, many people need to travel and would be able to use the gym bag for travel purposes.
If you travel often, you should look for something to cover both training and traveling. These features would make it the best gym backpack with shoe compartment and enhance versatility.
4. Price/Quality
Gym bags vary in size and brand, which means that they would also vary in terms of price. You don’t want to overpay for your gym bag, which is why we have selected these affordable options to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
FAQ
Are tote bags good for the gym?
Cross-fitters often choose wraps to assist them with their goals. They might prefer wrist wraps to ensure more rigidity in the movement of the wrist. While it can help when dealing with significant wrist pain, it is often used by athletes and especially cross-fitters to help prevent possible injuries.
How do you carry your stuff at the gym?
Any size wrist wrap could help and things like the size of your wrist and level of desired flexibility will play a large role.
However, wraps ranging from 18 to 24-inches are the most common among cross-fitters. The larger 30 and 36-inch wraps are best reserved for intense weight lifting and powerlifting.
Conclusion
If you are tired of struggling to carry all your gym gear, the gym bag with shoe compartment is the solution. There are numerous great options on the market today and these are only 8 of the best options we like.
The Gymreapers Gravestone Duffle is the bag we would recommend for the value and price it offers. However, we would love to see if you disagree with us in the comment section below.
Also Read:
References:
- How to Calculate the Right Bag Size // : NPS https://www.nps.gov/museum/coldstorage/pdf/4.4.1b.pdf
- Nylon vs. Polyester // Diffen : https://www.diffen.com/difference/Nylon_vs_Polyester
- All Photos made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
- Author
- Reviewer
Experience: 21 years
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. I am a professional athlete with 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. I have won multiple European, and World titles and have taken part in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012).
After finishing my career, I have committed myself to coach, and as of 2022, I’ve hosted 200+ weightlifting seminars all over the globe. I’m the founder of an international sportswear and accessories brand, Warm Body Cold Mind (my motto), author, and creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch - 208 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships – 105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.
