Professional Style: The 5 Best Gym Bags to Take to Work

Sometimes work and play can’t be separated. Busy schedules require an efficient use of time. And that often means packing both your work tools and workout supplies for the day ahead. But when professional style is imperative, a casual gym bag just won’t do. However, there are savvy options out there. Bags that blend professional aesthetics with excellent functionality and practical storage to ensure your gym and work supplies remain separate but accessible when you need them. Discover the 5 best gym bags to take to work…

Aer Gym Duffel 2 (US$170)

From their inception Aer has stepped up as a go-to choice for conquering the urban work/play divide. And they’re always keen to make their gear even better. The Gym Duffel 2 offers a considered revamp on the original, with more space, improved ventilation and enhanced organization. Useful gym features include dedicated ventilated shoe storage and a ventilated main compartment. There’s also both an exterior and interior water bottle pocket, as well as separate storage for clean clothing. For your work needs you’ll find a padded 15″ laptop pocket and side pockets for EDC and additional work tools. Portability options include top carry handles and a removable shoulder strap so you can adapt on the go. Crafted with durable, water-resistant 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon, it will handle the commute and the gym with ease. While it’s not cheap, the versatile design and durable construction make this duffel great value for money.

RYU Locker Pack LUX 24L (US$215)

If you’re going to carry a gym-ready backpack with a suit, this is it. Its modern silhouette earns definite style points, but there’s function here too. The molded internal shell maintains the bag’s structure even when empty and helps protect the contents. The access is on point too. A drop-front design makes it easy to pack and retrieve items throughout the day. And if you’re worried about the bag coming into contact with the floor, the top locker loop has you covered, allowing you to easily hang it. Internal pockets keep smaller items in check, while the interior laptop pocket keeps tech at the ready with external access. A water-repellent exterior and leather detailing round out the design, making for a work-friendly aesthetic that doesn’t mind a challenge from the elements.

Lexdray Portland Sneaker Duffel (US$279)

If flexible packing space is a priority, the weather-resistant Lexdray Portland Sneaker Duffel is definitely one to consider. The bag’s fleece-lined, roll-top central compartment fits two to three pairs of any size shoes. It’s expandable for shoes size 14 and larger. Alternatively roll it down for more compact carry. Additionally, the bag has two further compartments for clothing, a laptop and work tools. Top handles and a removable shoulder strap let you carry it as desired, while smaller items can be stored close at hand with four exterior zipped pockets. Suitable for carry-on use, it moves smoothly from work to weekend getaways and is a smart choice for a work, gym and travel all-rounder.

Stuart & Lau Regimen Gym Bag (US$395)

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When it comes to that perfect blend of formal professional style and a feature set focused on gym life, this is it, without a doubt. The Regimen Gym Bag exudes handsome, minimalist style with discreet gym features that don’t detract from its suave looks. Made with waterproof DuraLite™ fabric, full-grain leather detailing, and gunmetal hardware, it’s built to go the distance – whether that’s the commute, to the gym or travels further afield. A central compartment provides ample storage for gym gear, with a handy wipe-clean lining. Also on hand is a ventilated shoe pocket, an inbuilt locker hook, and a choice of internal and external water bottle holders. And for added functionality, the bag features a rubberized base if wet floors are unavoidable. Side compartments house work and EDC items, keeping them separate from your gym supplies. In the side compartments is a padded 15″ laptop sleeve and pockets for smaller EDC and tools. The travel-friendly bag also includes a luggage tag with a detachable pen, a leather key ring with a magnetic tab, and a collapsible design for convenient storage when not in use.

Brooks England Mott Holdall L (US$410)

You won’t find any sneaker pockets here. Or other gym-specific features. What you will find is a very fine-looking duffel that will hold your gear without fuss. Not to mention looking incredibly dapper in your hand as you stroll through the office in your crisply pressed suit. The duffel is expertly crafted in Italy with water-resistant organic cotton canvas and vulcanised rubber top carry handles. An adjustable and removable shoulder strap also lets you adapt to changing carry needs. The duffel features a quilted yellow lining to increase the visibility of the contents, with an exterior zipped pocket to keep smaller items safe yet accessible on the go. And when those travel carry needs come calling, you’ll want this classy companion accompanying you on the journey.