Starting a healthier lifestyle meant I needed the right tools to keep me organised and motivated. My old bag was not designed to suit my new gym lifestyle.
It lacked space for essentials I did not even realise I needed until I started. I wanted something built to accommodate these items while blending style with practicality.
That is when I found the Aeropostale Unisex Polyester 21L Gymbag Duffle. I have used this spacious and bright bag for three weeks now, and can delve into the nuances of what worked for me and what didn’t, to help you decide whether to hit the ‘add to cart’ button or not.
The bright red instantly caught my attention, and honestly, it still makes me smile every gym day. It is that kind of colour that brings energy before I have even started my workout. The shape adds to the charm. It may be a gym bag, but it passes off as an oversized shoulder bag, which means I get style points while still ticking all the functional boxes.
On my first workout day with it, I played a little packing game. Towels? In. Water bottle? In. Swimming bag, bathing washbag with my loofah and body wash, a change of clothes, and yes, even my baby 1 kg dumbbells. Everything slid in comfortably, and the zips closed without a fight.
Then came the weekend test. Out went the gym gear, in came casual wear, toiletries, and a pair of sandals. The 21L size proved perfect for a light getaway, easy to carry, and never weighed me down.
My experience with the bag
Over time, the Aeropostale gym duffle bag has proved it is more than just a pretty accessory. The polyester material feels tough, shrugs off scuffs, and wipes clean without fuss. The zips glide smoothly, and the straps have kept their shape despite regular use.
The separate shoe compartment has become one of my most-used features. On swimming days, it houses my swimming pouch and bathing washbag, keeping damp gear far from the rest of my things. The internal pockets work well for my needs, though anyone craving meticulous organisation might want a more structured setup.
One day, I decided to see just how water-resistant it really was. I turned on the tap and gave it a quick splash in the wash basin. The waterproofing held up beautifully. While the outer fabric took a little time to dry, the inner lining kept the inside perfectly dry.
I do wish there was a way to attach my yoga mat, but for most activities, this bag strikes a balance between style and practicality that keeps it in my regular rotation.
5 things I loved about the bag
Compact and versatile size
The 21L capacity is ideal for my beginner-level gym routine and light travel. It’s compact yet has enough space for all essentials without feeling bulky.
Durable polyester build
The polyester material is strong, handles daily use well, and is simple to clean, keeping it fresh even after trips to the gym and pool.
Smart storage and a separate shoe compartment
The roomy main section and the dedicated shoe compartment make it easy to separate items. Perfect for wet swimming gear or keeping shoes away from clothes.
Vibrant and stylish design
The bright Mayfield red colour adds a bold touch to my workout gear. The bag’s shape makes it look like a chic oversized shoulder bag.
Good value for money
For the quality, comfort, and versatility, this Aeropostale gym bag offers great value, especially for those starting their fitness routine.
Things to know before you buy
- No dedicated bottle compartment, which might be missed by those carrying protein shakes or multiple drinks.
- A yoga mat loop would make it more versatile for studio workouts.
- The structure is soft, so those with heavy or bulky equipment might prefer something with firmer sides.
- Internal pockets are functional but may feel minimal for people who like a high level of organisation.
The Aeropostale Unisex Polyester 21L Gymbag Duffle in Red (Mayfield) has been a stylish, spacious, and functional addition to my routine. For beginners, swimmers, and casual gym goers, it works well as a lightweight companion for workouts or short trips. For me, it has been a practical and good-looking way to begin my active lifestyle.
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