If you’re not a full time coach, chances are you’ve got to lug your equipment between the gym and workplace. And if you’re making that trip more days than not, you need to chose the right bag. Some of us pack like we want to prepare for an overnight stay, whilst others just want something compact to whisk along on a commute.
Today I’m going to review 4 different types of bags: the draw bag, the backpack, the gym bag, and the duffel bag. Each bag has their pros and cons and I suggest you try them all to get the best fit.
The Draw Bag:
Pros:
– Cheap: Will set you back no more than $20
– Compact: Lightweight, makes it easy to carry around on one shoulder or two. Fits as comfortably on a desk as it does under it.
Cons:
– Small capacity: You’re never going to be able to fit a basketball in one of these. Shoes and a spare change is pushing it.
– Flimsy: A bag is only as strong as it’s weakest link, in this case, a drawbag lives and dies by the strength of it’s strings.
Best for:
City dwellers, or anyone making a crowded commute in public transport. Travel light and fast.
The Backpack:
Pros:
– Portable: Carry heavy loads on your back, in a throwback to your school days.
– Wide variety: Backpacks come in all shapes and sizes, from the fashion friendly to the rugged variety.
– Multi-use: Backpacks tend to have the most compartments, making it easy to store work tools, like laptops, in the same bag as your kit.
Cons:
– Expensive: Tend to be more expensive due to the added features; be prepared to spend anything from $100 or more.
Best for:
Anyone, really. As long as you don’t mind looking like a student.
The Gym Bag:
Pros:
Purpose built: It’s designed for the gym after all. You’ll get a compartment for your shoes, padded shoulder strap, a bottle holder etc etc
Stylish: nothing says I’m going to the gym” more than a gym back does.
Cons:
– Difficult to find: With sports hand carry bags going XXL, finding a solid gym bag is surprisingly difficult. The synthetic material types tend to only have one pouch and be very flimsy. Designer brands like Dunhill and Herschel seem to be the only ones making good quality ones and that can get very pricey. But they will look good.
Best for:
For the fashionable coach. Or anyone who really likes to sort their kit.
The Duffel Bag:
Pros:
Spacious: Perfect for the coach that needs to take EVERYTHING. Think TWO basketballs, a coaching manual, extra jerseys etc etc
Economical: For around $50 you can fit everything you’ll ever need for practice.
Cons:
Storing: Where can you hide it at work?
Carrying: You’ll get an extra workout if you pack it to capacity each day. Even with shoulder straps, they’re not exactly portable.
Best for:
Those with short trips to the gym, like teachers. Or anyone who travels with a car.
One last tip: price tends to matter! If you’re using the bag often then broken straps, sore shoulders and jammed zippers can happen if the bag isn’t up to the task. It can pay to invest into a quality piece. Chose the right bag.
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Until then, see you on the courts!
Keith
Coach Keith
Founder and CEO of Coachbase. He coaches the U16 boys basketball team at Chinese International School.
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