Ask the Edit: Gym Bags for Days
Jun 25, 2018
I’m on the road this week, but I didn’t want you to be without blog content. So I asked myself: What’s the simplest thing I can do? Reach into the reader mail bag and start answering some Ask the Edit questions. Let’s get started.
Abra,
I know you’ve done a number of reviews on gym bags, but I recently saw someone with this gorgeous bag yesterday. After much sleuthing, I discovered that it’s the Caraa Studio Bag, but at $400, it’s a bit more than I want to spend. Have you tried the Caraa bag or found something similar that is a gorgeous/stylish and multi-functional for its size?
– Nita
I can assure you that I have not now, nor will I ever drop four-bills on a gym bag. If you go to the gym a lot, then you do you, but I go three times a month (tops), so I’m not the target demo for “luxury sport bags.” But as for something similar…
Caraa has done a lower-priced collaboration with Athleta. They made this chic, functional convertible backpack ($138) and this Vinyasa tote bag with a laptop pocket (pictured, $83). I also thought their neoprene Perfect Tote ($98) might be the greatest “Mom bag” I’ve ever seen for under-$100. These bags look very modern, unique, and cool. They also seem quite versatile.
As for other options…
In my view, the key to a good gym bag is that it either a) doesn’t look like a gym bag, or looks like the coolest gym bag you’ve ever seen. Especially if you’re going to bring it in to work. One of my former co-workers used to bring a PINK plastic gym bag with glitter accents that she got free from Victoria’s Secret to the office each day. While I appreciate a frugal decision, free doesn’t always mean functional.
201 Boston advertises their Balsa gym bag as a “gym bag for grownups” with a grownup price of $212. But it has a similar look to the Caraa, and some similar features. The Mark & Graham bags with yoga mat storage ($149) are also popular around town.
Need something under-$75? The Nike Radiate Training Club Bag ($60) is very popular at my pilates class. I also really like this minimalist, but cool Adidas sport bag ($38).
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I have a lululemon backpack I love and use for the gym/commuting. However, this lululemon bag is really close to what you linked to but much cheaper!
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/bags/Day-Out-Backpack-16L/_/prod8980399?color=0001
Hi Abra,
Can you please share the link for the Adidas bag? Thanks!
There doesn’t appear to be a link to the last bag…
This was perfect timing as was the how to dress when you have gained weight post!!
I bought this recently, and it’s an awesome purchase. I do spin, not yoga (anymore) but it has an optional section to attach a mat, easily holds spin shoes, a light jacket/clothes to change in and a clutch and phone. And a Kindle. Really, whatever you want to shove in there. For the price, can’t beat it.
https://www.jcpenney.com/p/gaiam-metro-gym-bag