Best Soccer Bags & Backpacks (2024)

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Last updated on October 8, 2024 by Beau Bridges

Soccer bags are a must-have for any player.

They not only help you carry your equipment (shin guards, cleats, etc.) to and from the field, but they also protect them from getting damaged.

Luckily, you are here. I’ve tested and compiled the best soccer bags on the market.

In this review, I took into consideration the following: 

• Durability
• Style (every player needs to look cool right?)
• Cost & Quality
• Functionality
• Color options

Surprisingly, I didn’t find many quality bags that fit the bill. So, here are the only bags I would ever buy.

Adidas Stadium III Backpack (Best Overall)

SoccerNovor’s rating: 5/5

The Adidas Stadium backpack is a popular choice for youth soccer players.

The bag is made with durable materials and has ventilated compartments to let the stink out of our cleats and shin guards. Also, the polyester makes it water-resistant so it can be left in the rain without your stuff getting soaked. 

This soccer bag is a great combo of quality, design, and functionality. 

My son purchased this bag for this season and I think he’ll at least get a few more years out of it. It’s def worth the cost.  

Himal Backpack (Budget Friendly)

SoccerNovor’s rating: 4.6/5

This is an all-around sports bag so if you play other sports besides soccer, this can be used for everything.

For under $25, it is one of the least expensive soccer bags on the market. I don’t want to say “cheapest” because they do use quality materials which makes this our budget-friendly pick. 

It has a spacious main compartment with a double-zipper closure, as well as multiple pockets and compartments for storing smaller items like shin guards, water bottles, and keys.

Adidas Originals National Waist Pack

SoccerNovor’s rating: 4.7.5

I love how ‘fanny packs’ are making a come back!

Especially for soccer players who have to travel, this allows you to carry smaller items like your phone, wallet, and keys without a bag draped over your shoulder or stuff thrown in your pocket. 

The Adidas Originals National waist pack is a stylish and functional bag designed to carry your essentials.

The bag is made of high-quality, durable material and features the iconic Adidas logo on the front. The waist strap is adjustable and can fit a range of waist sizes 

Adidas Defender 4 Duffle Bag

SoccerNovor’s rating: 4.9/5

The Adidas Defender duffle bag has a spacious main compartment with a U-shaped opening for easy access, as well as two zippered end pockets and a zippered outside pocket for storing smaller items.

The bag also features a wet/dry shoe tunnel to keep your shoes separate from the rest of your gear. 

This is a strong buy for players who prefer a duffle bag style of soccer bag. 

Nike Brasilia Drawstring Bag

SoccerNovor’s rating: 4.7/5

The Nike Brasilia drawstring bag is lightweight and durable. It has a spacious main compartment with an open top for easy access, as well as a zippered pocket on the front for storing smaller items. 

It also comes in (6) different colors. 

It’s a great bag for any player who likes to go to practice and games with minimal soccer stuff. There is enough space to fit cleats, shin guards, and a water bottle.  

What to Consider When Buying a Soccer Bag

When it comes to buying a soccer bag, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the right bag for your needs.

Here are some factors to keep in mind:

1. Size: Consider how much soccer gear you need to carry with you to games and practices. If you need to carry a lot of gear, you’ll want a larger bag with multiple compartments. If you only need to carry cleats and a few small items, a smaller bag like a drawstring may be sufficient.
2. Compartments: Look for a bag with multiple compartments and pockets for storing your gear. This will help you stay organized and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
3. Material: Look for a bag made of high-quality, durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Nylon and polyester are both good options. All the soccer bags above are made with quality materials.
4. Comfort: Look for a bag with padded shoulder straps or a padded handle to make it more comfortable to carry. If you’ll be wearing the bag often, consider a backpack-style bag to distribute the weight evenly.
5. Ventilation: Your stuff stinks. There we said it 😉 Look for a bag with ventilation or a separate compartment for your shoes to keep them separate from the rest of your gear and prevent odors.

By considering these factors when buying a soccer bag, you can ensure that you get a bag that meets your needs and will last for multiple years.

How Do I Get Rid of the Smell In My Bag?

Maybe you have a perfectly fine soccer bag at home but it stinks. Before you purchase a new one, consider trying the following to get the stench out.

• Air out your bag: After each use, take everything out of your bag and let it air out. This will help to prevent the buildup of moisture and bacteria that can cause odors.
• Wash your bag: If your soccer bag is washable, wash it regularly in cold water with a mild detergent. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying.
• Use vinegar: Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle when washing your bag. Vinegar has odor-fighting properties that can help to eliminate smells.
• Use baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda inside your bag and let it sit for a few hours before shaking it out. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help to absorb odors.
• Use odor-eliminating sprays: There are many sprays available that are designed to eliminate odors from sports gear. Look for a spray that is specifically designed for soccer bags and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.