Here’s the secret: There is no perfect gym bag.Many bags sold as “gym bags” are indistinguishable from any duffel bag or tote. And almost any kind of bag will work as a gym bag in a pinch.A good gym bag, however, brings fresh clothes to a workout and takes wet gear home again without making everything a fragrant swamp.After researching hundreds of gym bags—traditional gym bags and others—and testing more than 40, we’ve found five bags for a range of gym goers and situations.We found one pick that should last a lifetime. We also chose a backpack for commuters, a casual water-resistant duffel, a simple tote organized for a gym, and a cheap pick for team gear, plus a roll-top dry bag for separating out sweaty gear within your gym bag.If these choices aren’t what you’re looking for, check out our picks for duffel bags, laptop backpacks, and totes.