Workout Essentials: What to Pack for the Gym

When you want to train hard, quality gear will back you up to help you get the most out of your workout. So what makes an awesome workout essential? We’ve done the heavy lifting with our handy guide below on what to pack for the gym…

Bags

A quality gym bag should be able to go beyond your workout environment. Backpacks and duffels should work well for the office too, whilst being large enough to swallow all your gym and work gear. That way, you just need to carry one bag, which means less hassle and makes it easier to fit in a workout before or after work or during your lunch break.

The bag should have sufficient space to store shoes (ideally separately to protect the rest of your gear). And if it offers additional storage for separating smelly gear, even better. Good access and organization is also important to avoid rummaging, especially if you’re carrying both work and gym supplies. Check out a couple of solid options below.

Aer Gym Duffel 2 (US$ 170)

Smart enough for the office and versatile enough for life beyond the daily grind, Aer’s Gym Duffel 2 includes a host of useful features such as a ventilated main compartment, ventilated shoe compartment, and dedicated padded storage for your tech. And with a choice of interior and exterior pockets for smaller items, you can avoid time-consuming rummaging and keep EDC, work and gym essentials tidy and easily accessible.

RYU Quick Pack 18L (US$ 170)

RYU’s Quick Pack 18L delivers great access with its drop-front main compartment that makes it quick and simple to pack or reach gear throughout the bag. The interior fits a 15″ laptop which can be accessed from the exterior of the pack, and a mix of pockets stash smaller items within easy reach. Additionally, the stylish silhouette slides easily between work and workout environments.

And for more options check out this buyer’s guide to the best gym bags around.

Apparel

Having functional exercise apparel can make a big difference to your workout. Look for sweat wicking properties, good ventilation, and suitable stretch to keep you comfortable and flexible during your session. Additionally, try to opt for pieces that work outside of the gym too. That way, you get more out of your gear and ultimately better value for money. Pieces just like those below.

NikeGrip Lightweight Low Training Socks (US$ 19.97)

With their anti-slip construction, top padding to cushion against pressure from laces, and top mesh fabric for ventilation these socks are great for shorter and longer workouts alike.

RYU Vapor Crew Neck Tee (US$ 57)

Available in both men’s and women’s options, the Vapor Crew Neck Tee features an almost seamless construction for reduced garment weight, partnered with sweat-wicking nylon yarn and mesh zones for increased user comfort and airflow. As an added bonus, integrated Polygiene® helps curb the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause odors.

Myles Apparel Everyday Short (US$ 58)

The Everyday Short combines minimalist aesthetics with everyday functionality, offering four-way stretch for unrestricted movement and a water-repellent finish. Two side pockets hold small essentials, and the tailored fit looks good whether you’re working hard or taking it easy on your day off.

lululemon athletica Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve (US$ 68)

The Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve brings a number of features together in a lightweight and sweat-wicking t-shirt that looks good during and beyond your workout. Four-way stretch and seamless construction help keep you comfortable and flexible, with mesh construction for improved breathability and Silverescent® fabric technology to combat odors.

GORUCK Gym Shorts (US$ 69)

Made in the USA with ToughDry™ fabric, the GORUCK Gym Shorts are designed to be quick-drying and abrasion resistant. Built with two-way stretch, the shorts feature a zippered back pocket, two front pockets and a stretch waistband with a drawstring.

Athletic Propulsion Labs TechLoom Pro (US$ 140)

The one-piece upper of the lightweight TechLoom Pro shoes is seamless for improved user comfort and fit. The midsole and outsole feature a proprietary Propelium® compound for improved shock absorption, cushioning and durability. In addition, flex grooves in the outsole and an 8mm drop work with your natural motion and foot positioning for improved efficiency.

RYU Ethos Pullover Hoodie (US$ 147)

Designed with comfort and unrestricted movement in mind, the Ethos Pullover Hoodie features breathable and four-way stretch construction. And with fewer seams and reduced bulk, it performs well without weighing you down and brings clean style to your workout wardrobe. For a women-specific alternative, check out the Ethos Pullover.

Accessories

Accessories should help make your workout easier, whether they’re supplying hydration or sweet tunes for motivation. The prime pieces below are great gym buddies.

Klean Kanteen Classic Stainless Steel Bottle with Sport Cap (from US$ 13.98)

The Klean Kanteen Classic features a durable and lightweight single wall stainless steel construction. The Sport Cap 3.0 offers a high flow rate and quiet user experience. And with a variety of colors and sizes to choose from you can pick one to suit your personal tastes.

Hydro Flask Insulated Sports Water Bottle (from US$ 29.95)

With its double-wall vacuum insulated construction this Hydro Flask bottle can keep liquids cool for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 6 hours. Available in a range of colors and sizes, the bottle is made with durable stainless steel and includes a lifetime warranty.

lululemon athletica Towel (US$ 38)

Offering a soft and lightweight construction, this microfiber towel is designed to be both slip resistant and absorbent. The towel also comes in a choice of colors to suit personal preferences.

Jaybird X3 Sport Bluetooth Headphones (from US$ 119.99)

Keen to listen to your favorite tunes during your workout? These wireless headphones offer a compact design with a secure fit and a hydrophobic nano-coating to protect against sweat, rain and snow. An 8-hour battery life keeps the music flowing and you can customize the sound with an associated app.