Best Sports Backpacks – Top Picks and Reviews

Think about your primary sport or activity and what you must carry regularly. This will help you determine the size, features, and style of a backpack that’s right for you:

• The Team Player: You need a spacious backpack to carry uniforms, equipment, and personal items for practice and games. Look for large compartments, dedicated pockets for shoes and water bottles, and durable materials. The bag must also withstand being tossed around in locker rooms and on the sidelines. Check out our top 3 backpack picks for the team player!
• The Gym Enthusiast: You require a compact and organized backpack for gym clothes, shoes, and accessories. Look for features like a ventilated shoe compartment, a water bottle pocket, and internal organization for toiletries and other essentials. A comfortable and easy-to-carry design is important for trips to and from the gym.
• The Outdoor Adventurer: You prioritize a durable and weather-resistant backpack for hiking, biking, or climbing. Look for features like water-resistant materials, comfortable suspension systems, and attachment points for trekking poles or other gear. Hydration compatibility is also a major plus.
• The Multi-Sport Athlete: You need a versatile backpack that can adapt to various sports and activities. Look for a bag with multiple compartments, adjustable straps, and durable construction. The ability to customize the organization and carry different types of gear is key.
• The Student-Athlete: You need a backpack to hold your sports gear and school essentials. Look for a bag with separate compartments for books, a laptop, and athletic equipment. Comfort, durability, and organization are crucial for managing a busy schedule.

Different sports have different gear requirements, so consider the following:

• Team Sports: Focus on backpacks with dedicated uniforms, shoes, and protective gear compartments. You’ll likely need a larger backpack to accommodate everything. Separate compartments for clean and dirty clothes are also a huge benefit.
• Individual Sports: Prioritize backpacks with specialized compartments for equipment like rackets, bats, or balls. Look for features that protect your gear and keep it organized. The size and shape of your equipment will dictate the type of backpack you need.
• Water Sports: Look for backpacks with waterproof compartments and quick-drying materials. Protecting your gear from water damage is essential, so look for features like roll-top closures or waterproof zippers. Consider materials that can withstand exposure to saltwater and chlorine.
• Outdoor Sports: Choose backpacks with weather-resistant materials, hydration compatibility, and comfortable carrying for hiking or biking. Durability is key, as your backpack will be exposed to the elements. Look for features that enhance comfort and support on long days outdoors.
• Gym Workouts: Select backpacks with ventilated compartments for sweaty clothes and shoes and organizational pockets for accessories. It is important to keep clean and dirty items separate for hygiene. Look for features like water bottle pockets and easy access to essentials.

Consider your surroundings.

• Indoor Facilities: Prioritize backpacks with compact designs and organized compartments for easy storage in lockers. You likely won’t need as much weather protection, but organization and ease of access are key. A bag that fits comfortably in a locker is a must.
• Outdoor Fields: Choose backpacks with weather-resistant materials and durable construction to withstand the elements. Protection from rain, sun, and dirt is crucial. Look for features like a rain cover or water-resistant zippers.
• Travel to Competitions: Consider backpacks with ample storage, comfortable carrying for long journeys, and dedicated compartments for valuables. You’ll need a bag to hold all your gear and personal items. Features like comfortable straps and a luggage pass-through sleeve can be very helpful.
• Urban Environments: Look for backpacks with anti-theft features and reflective elements for safety. Security and visibility are important considerations when walking or biking in a city. Lockable zippers and hidden pockets can also deter theft.
• Varying Weather Conditions: Select backpacks with adaptable features like rain covers or removable compartments. Being prepared for changing weather is key, especially for outdoor sports. A versatile backpack can handle a variety of conditions.

Duffel bags are a classic choice for sports. They offer a large, open compartment ideal for carrying bulky gear like uniforms, balls, and protective equipment. Many duffel bags also include shoulder straps for easier carrying, although they typically don’t offer the same support as a backpack. They’re great for team sports or when you must haul a lot of gear. However, they often lack internal organization.

Drawstring bags are lightweight and simple, with easy-to-open and close closures. They’re best for carrying minimal gear, such as changing clothes, shoes, or a water bottle, to and from the gym or practice. However, they offer little protection or organization and are unsuitable for carrying heavy or valuable items.

Backpack-duffel hybrids combine the features of a backpack and a duffel bag, offering versatility and ample storage. They can be carried as backpacks using shoulder straps or as duffel bags using handles, making them a good choice for athletes who need flexibility in carrying their gear. They often have multiple compartments for better organization than a traditional duffel bag.

Hydration backpacks are designed for endurance sports and feature a built-in hydration reservoir (a water bladder) and a drinking tube. They allow you to sip water hands-free while exercising without stopping and reaching for a water bottle. The backpacks come in various sizes, from small packs for running to larger packs for hiking and biking. They are essential for staying hydrated during long workouts or events.

Wet/dry bags have separate compartments for wet and dry items, making them perfect for water sports like swimming, surfing, or kayaking. The waterproof compartment contains wet clothes or gear, preventing them from soaking your dry items. They’re also useful for any activity where you might get sweaty or dirty, as they protect the rest of your items.

Ballistic nylon is an extremely durable, abrasion-resistant fabric originally developed for military use. It is a premium choice for backpacks designed for heavy-duty use and can withstand many wear and tear. This material is a good choice for athletes who need a bag that can handle rough treatment, outdoor adventures, or frequent travel.

The right size depends on the sport you play and the gear you need to carry. Team sports often require larger bags, while individual sports or gym workouts may only require a smaller bag. Consider all the items you’ll typically carry—uniform, shoes, protective gear, water bottle, snacks, personal items—and choose a capacity that comfortably fits everything.

Look for backpacks made from tough, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant materials like ballistic nylon, ripstop nylon, or heavy-duty polyester. Reinforced stitching is also crucial, especially on stress points like the straps and bottom. Sturdy zippers and buckles that won’t easily break are also important for long-term durability.

Padded shoulder straps are essential for comfortable carrying, especially if you’re carrying heavy gear. A sternum strap (across your chest) and a hip belt help distribute weight evenly and stabilize the backpack, reducing strain on your back and shoulders. Look for these features, especially if you’ll carry your bag for extended periods.

Good organization is key for keeping your gear separated, protected, and easily accessible. Consider the number and placement of pockets and compartments. Dedicated compartments for shoes, wet clothes, and specific sports equipment can be very helpful. Internal dividers and mesh pockets also help keep things organized.

Ventilation helps prevent odor and moisture buildup, especially when carrying sweaty clothes or shoes. Look for backpacks with ventilated compartments, mesh back panels, or breathable materials. This will keep your gear fresher and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Hydration compatibility is important for any activity where you need easy access to water, especially endurance sports or outdoor adventures. Choose a backpack with a dedicated hydration sleeve to hold a water reservoir (bladder) or one with side pockets that accommodate water bottles. Staying hydrated is crucial for performance and safety.

It can be anything—for example, a racket compartment for tennis players or a ball compartment for soccer players. Check if the specific backpack has it.