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Aug 30, 2023

The 17 Best Gym Essentials For Men 2023

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. You may think you have it all, but you don't. At least not yet. These days, we pack a bag for every

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

You may think you have it all, but you don't. At least not yet.

These days, we pack a bag for every occasion. Whether you're getting your briefcase office-ready, stuffing your carry-on to the brim before your weekend getaway, or merely filling a backpack with your everyday needs, there's almost always something you need to pack up before you can head out the door. And going to the gym is no exception.

When it comes to getting your gym bag ready to go, you're probably forgetting something. We don't blame you; often you're hitting the gym early in the morning to get a quick session in before work or slogging there in the dark afterwards. There's a lot to think about, and there's a lot you probably aren't thinking about. So we let the pros weigh in. Group Fitness Manager at Equinox Wall Street Waz Ashayer says, "Your gym bag should be like a mini apartment and have all the essentials. Wardrobe options, toiletries, laptop for working and healthy meals/snacks for when you are on the move."

Don't waste another second trying to remember what you've forgotten. With this gym packing list, you can make sure that you're locked and loaded before heading to your next workout.

First off, you have to decide on your gym bag obviously. If you want to channel peak prep, this canvas one from Rowing Blazers is a pretty good way to start.

Or maybe you're more of a backpack guy, in which case Nike makes a solid one. With a laptop sleeve, cushioned straps, and mesh side for your 32-ounce water bottle, you're good to go.

A packing cube, like this one from Patagonia, is not to be overlooked. You can store all of your sweaty clothes post workout inside so that they don't contaminate all the rest of your belongings.

A lightweight sweatshirt is a staple that your gym bag needs. You can throw it on before or after your work out, keeping you perfectly temperate in the most breathable of ways.

Of course you also need some joggers to put on before you leave the gym. Look no further than Vuori for some of the softest on the market.

According to Ashayer, headphones are a must "especially for those longer cardio workouts. I either have a motivational podcast on or I’m listening to one my class playlists to get me pumped up and in the zone."

This isn't your traditional water bottle. Gatorade's smart bottle comes with Gx pods for the ultimate thirst quenching drink.

Make sure you have a fitness tracker, like this one from Whoop. If you're more of the watch type, we've also got the best sports watches for you to choose from.

Liquid I.V. just released its new flavor Strawberry Lemonade, which will hydrate you like never before. Sip it before and after your workout.

Yeah, you're going to smell, there's no way around it. This deodorant is going to come in handy, keeping you odor protected for 24 hours.

Slides are a must, especially after an intensive workout. These velvet ones from APL are as lush as they come.

There's nothing worse than walking out of the gym into harsh sunlight blinding your eyes. Be prepared with sunglasses, and even better, with the sportiest and chicest ones out there.

While most gyms have foam rollers, this mini massage sphere is going to help you target muscles more intentionally. It's petite and practical.

Don't forget the gym shoes. On has a pair of lightweight ones that are easy to carry around.

A lightweight jacket will be a very appreciated layer. You may not think you need it, but you will be grateful for it on those windy or rainy days.

If you are a spinner, then don't forget your cycling shoes. You don't have to go to SoulCycle to rep these (but it doesn't hurt).

An extra pair of shorts are going to come in handy one day. You can choose between liner and linerless, as well as length and fit.

Gaby Keiderling is a New York based writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. She also covers celebrity style for Esquire's 'Get Ready with Me' franchise. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and more. Sometimes you can spot her around the West Village, out on a walk with her dog Sneakers.

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