Duffels.com

Is there really a difference between a gym bag that is made for a women and one that is made for a man? You bet there is!

Women’s gym bags need to fulfill a host of functions that a man’s bag could never stand up to. We need pouches for our hand towels and perfume, zipped containers for our makeup and space enough to fit our change of clothes–which can include another pair of shoes and a light jacket–just in case it gets chilly. A truly great gym bag is attractive, durable and constructed for the myriad of functions a woman needs them to address. Luckily these days you don’t have to sacrifice style for convenience as there are a multitude of choices available.

The other factor to consider is that truly well made women’s gym bags are specifically engineered in size and weight for a woman’s body. This can make the bag far more comfortable to carry around than a lower quality, unisex substitute. Spending a few dollars more to get the better bag can make good sense in the long run. While it might feel indulgent, think about the fact that you will be better organized and more likely to run to the gym if you have a bag that is all packed and ready to go. It’s well worth the investment!

Choosing a gym bag doesn’t have to be a big ordeal, but taking a few minutes to think through what you need it to do for you can make all the difference in the world. Save yourself the trouble of wishing you had a particular feature by knowing what you’d like ahead of time. Here are some factors to consider prior to making the purchase:

• How much gear do you need to transport? Do you find yourself bringing just a towel and your lock to the health club? If so, a small bag will do. Do you go to the gym before work and shower there? You’ll need a larger bag with a separate pouch for your sweaty clothes. Look at your current habits to see what size is best for you.
• Are you a pocket freak? Some of us like to have a place for everything, and if this sounds like you–get a lot of pockets in your bag. You’ll be feeling satisfied and organized.
• Know the details. If you lose your keys often, make sure the bag has a key clip. If you are a swimmer, make sure the bag has an area to stash your wet suit. If you don’t leave home without your water bottle, invest in a bag that can hold one for you. Personalize your bag in features so that you have less to deal with. Save that mental energy for something useful.
• What’s your locker size? If you have a locker, think about whether your stuffed bag will fit inside before you buy. This happens more often than one might think.

Gym bags can be a great thing to have, but you’ll want to be sure that the one you select fits your lifestyle and meets your needs.