Pickleball Gear

Best pickleball bags in 2025 - top 6 compared

picture of Brandon Mackie
Brandon Mackie

Updated on: Feb 6, 2025

Six Zero Pro Tour 2025 pickleball bag

Need a new pickleball bag for game day? If you're like me, you care where you put your paddles and gear when you head to and from the courts. A good bag is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your pickleball collection.

There are lots of great paddle bags out there, so choosing can be hard. I'm here to help! Whether you need a budget pickleball bag, great storage, a compact bag, a day pack, or simply want the best bag on the market, I've got you covered with my list of the top 6 best pickleball bags in 2025.

Best pickleball bags at a glance

Best overall

A front view of the CRBN Pro Team Backpack

Our Rating:

1. CRBN Pro Team Backpack

The CRBN Pro Team bag takes the top spot as it's been carefully designed to hold everything you need for pickleball trips or tournament days. Plus, it looks great.
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Read my deep dive

Best budget

Photo of the Mangrove Pickleball Bag

Our Rating:

2. Mangrove Pickleball Bag

A previous winner of the best overall pickleball bag, the Mangrove continues to impress as a versatile and compact pickleball sling with a budget price tag.

Best storage

Six Zero Pro Tour Bag 2025

Our Rating:

3. Six Zero Pro Tour Bag 2025

If you want the most storage space, the Six Zero Pro Tour duffle backpack is made for you. Built for serious players, it can fit six paddles and tons of extras.
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Best compact

Photo of the Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag with three pickleball balls

Our Rating:

4. Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag

The Franklin Sports Pickleball Sling Bag has long been one of the most popular pickleball bags. If you want a compact bag for game days, this is ideal.

Best duffle

Photo of the JOOLA Tour Elite Pro Pickleball Bag

Our Rating:

5. JOOLA Tour Elite Pro Pickleball Bag

The JOOLA Tour Elite is like a more compact version of the Six Zero Pro Tour Bag. It's built for advanced players and doubles as a duffle and a backpack.

Best day pack

Photo of the Selkirk Core Line Day Backpack in red

Our Rating:

6. Selkirk Core Line Day Bag

Selkirk's simple but functional daypack fits all you need for a fun day of pickleball. It looks good and is great value for money too.
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The best pickleball bags in 2025

Why you can trust Pickleheads: I spend hours testing every product or service I review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Learn more about how I test.

Without further ado, here are the best bags for pickleball players right now.

Best overall

1. CRBN Pro Team Backpack

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A comfortable, hard-wearing pickleball backpack with a ton of space for all your gear.
9/10

Durability

9/10

Comfort

9/10

Storage

7/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You're heading straight to the courts after work:

    this backpack has enough space for spare clothes, shoes, a towel, and even your laptop.

  • You travel for days away at tournaments or clinics:

    this bag can carry everything you need for a short trip.

  • You live and play in warm conditions:

    the Pro Team's thermal-lined paddle compartment and side pockets protect your gear from the heat.

Pass if:

  • You're looking for a lightweight backpack:

    this is a heavy-duty backpack, so try the smaller and super-light Selkirk Core Line daypack.

  • You want a compact pickleball bag:

    check out the Franklin Sports Sling Bag for an easy-to-carry compact option.

  • You're on a budget:

    the Mangrove Sling Bag is an excellent affordable pickleball bag.

CRBN

CRBN

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Weight

3.5 lbs

Pockets

7

Straps

Backpack straps

Dimensions

21.5" x 12.5" x 8"

Color Options

Black/gray

Paddle Space

3

Fence Hooks

2

The CRBN Pro Team Backpack is the best overall pickleball bag because it's the perfect travel companion for any serious pickleball player. It can store all your gear, protect your paddles from the elements, and is sturdily built while still looking great.

Who it suits

This bag is ideal if you play pickleball regularly or travel to tournament days and clinics. It also works for players who travel straight to the courts from work and who need to carry a change of clothes and a laptop.

Features

A lot of thought went into the CRBN Pro Team Backpack. To start, there's a thermal-lined paddle compartment that protects your paddles from overheating and warping. It fits three paddles comfortably. There's even a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 14" Macbook, perfect if you're balancing work and leisure.
The main compartment has plenty of room for clothing and a towel. It has three transparent zip pockets, so you can store your phone or accessories like lead tape. There are also inner pockets lining each side for added organization.
At the bottom of the bag, a handy shoe compartment keeps your sweaty footwear separated. It has ventilation holes but these are small so not as effective as the mesh shoe compartment on the Six Zero bag.
Another clever feature is the bonus front zip opening. It means you can lay the bag flat on its back and open it like a suitcase, giving you access to items buried at the bottom of the main compartment.
Finally, on the bag's exterior are thermal-lined pockets on each side. These are perfect for storing your pickleball balls.

Design and feel

I like CRBN a lot. Everything they make looks strong and top quality, and the Pro Team Backpack is no different. I dig the look, with its rough-and-ready yet stylish design.
It's built for heavy use with strong YKK zips, a durable upper (500D polyester), and a waterproof lower. It feels like you could take it on a round-the-world pickleball backpacking trip.

Performance

I love bringing this bag to the courts. The thermal-lined paddle compartment has nice padding to look after my paddles. They really do stay cool—a big bonus for me in the Arizona heat!
While it is quite heavy when fully loaded up, it's still a comfortable bag. The straps and back are well cushioned, with thick breathable padding.
I've used the thermal-lined side pockets to store balls on hot days and they keep them cool so they don't get too squishy. The only downside to these pockets is that they're too small to hold a large water bottle, and there's no stretchy water bottle pocket. If that's a must for you, check out the Selkirk bag on this list.

Value for money

While $110 isn't cheap, this pickleball backpack offers great value for money. It's made from the best-quality materials and has a large capacity and clever design with features like a laptop sleeve. Plus, it protects your cherished gear in thermal pockets.
You can save 10% with our exclusive CRBN discount, making it even better value at $98.99.
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My verdict
CRBN is a favorite brand of mine and they've nailed it again with the Pro Team Backpack. It looks great on, and it carries all the gear you could possibly need for a tournament day or an after-work session on the courts.

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Best cheap

2. Mangrove Pickleball Bag

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Get low-cost versatility from this compact sling bag.
7/10

Durability

8/10

Comfort

7/10

Storage

8/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You're on a budget:

    this is a functional, well-built, water-resistant bag at a really low price.

  • You want a compact yet versatile pickleball backpack:

    this bag has space for everything you need for a session on the courts.

  • You cycle or take a scooter to the courts:

    this works perfectly as a secure crossbody sling.

Pass if:

  • You travel to tournaments or away days:

    this is a compact bag, so check out the CRBN Pro Team or Six Zero Pro Tour Bag if you need lots of storage.

  • You prefer two shoulder straps:

    try the Selkirk Core Line for a compact and affordable backpack.

  • You want a duffle bag:

    the JOOLA Tour Elite Bag is a great duffle bag that doubles as a backpack.

Weight

1.1 lbs

Pockets

5

Strap

Adjustable/reversible sling

Dimensions

19.3" x 15" x 7.7"

Color Options

Black/white, black/green, gray/pink

Paddle Space

2-3

Fence Hooks

1

If you're after a budget-friendly bag that still packs in tons of handy pickleball features, check out the Mangrove Pickleball Bag. It's great on the go—light yet sturdy. It offers everything the average pickleball player needs for rec play at a very affordable price.

Who it suits

This is a great option for players who want a lightweight, compact, and highly functional pickleball sling bag. It's ideal if you cycle to the courts and don't need too many extras like shoes or a full change of clothes.

Features

For a compact, affordable bag, the Mangrove has plenty of useful storage space. The five pockets all provide optimal usability for pickleball players.
The main compartment easily holds two paddles and a few pickleball balls, with even enough room for a 15" laptop if you're coming from work. It's padded for protection, so no need to worry about it getting damaged.
Plus, the extra-large secondary pocket offers space for a light change of clothing or a towel. The elasticated mesh side pocket is deep enough to hold a 40 oz water bottle. That's something even the CRBN Pro Team Backpack doesn't have.
At the front, the felt-lined pocket is ideal for keeping your valuables safe. The mesh divider even stops your phone screen from getting scratched by your keys. Lastly, the security pocket at the back of the bag is the perfect place to store your wallet.

Design and feel

The outer part of the Mangrove is made from premium 600D polyester that's scratch-resistant yet smooth to the touch. This fabric is also water-resistant, so your gear is protected from unexpected downpours. The zips are strong and have lasted well in my testing so far.
The bag comes in three color options, each of which uses bold, thick zip openings as a neat design feature. The design is minimalistic and understated, with a hexagon textured finish and a simple logo.
The wide strap is filled with air mesh padding to avoid sweaty shoulders, while the back is padded for extra comfort.

Performance

The Mangrove is small but its space is optimized, so I can easily organize everything I need for a day session. I like the sturdy, water-resistant outer. The hide-away fence hook means you can store the bag off the ground while you're playing too.
This is a comfortable sling. The strap system features a left and right clip that allows you to change which shoulder you sling the bag over.
I like the quick-release buckle. You can wear it as a crossbody bag and then unclip it without having to pull it over your head. This is especially useful if you cycle to the courts and don't want to remove your helmet every time you want to access your bag.

Value for money

For $29.99, you won't find a pickleball backpack that's better value for money. While there are cheaper options out there, the price-to-quality ratio of the Mangrove is incredible. It's durable and thoughtfully designed.
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My verdict
It's easy to see why the Mangrove is so popular with pickleball players. It offers everything you need for a session at the courts, with plenty of pickleball-specific features and a durable build for an unbeatable price.

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Best storage

3. Six Zero Pro Tour Bag 2025

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A duffle bag/backpack combo with enough space for six paddles.
9/10

Durability

9.5/10

Comfort

10/10

Storage

8/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You carry a lot of paddles:

    the Six Zero Pro Tour bag has the most space, with room for six pickleball paddles.

  • You're a tournament player or coach:

    this wasn't built for beginners—it's designed for pros, high-level players, and coaches who need a lot of equipment.

  • You're a couple or doubles team:

    if you want one bag per doubles team, you can easily fit everything for two players in here.

Pass if:

  • You want a more compact backpack:

    the CRBN Pro Team bag is smaller but spacious enough if you only need to carry the essentials.

  • You just need a day pack:

    for a more compact option, check out the Selkirk Core Line Day Backpack.

  • You're on a budget:

    this is the most expensive bag on this list at $135 (with our 10% discount), so try the budget-friendly Mangrove instead.

Six Zero

Six Zero

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Weight

2.8 lbs

Pockets

6

Straps

Backpack straps/duffle bag handles

Dimensions

25" x 12" x 16"

Color Options

Black/grey, black/cherry, ruby red

Paddle Space

6

Fence Hooks

2

If you're a coach or simply need to carry a bunch of equipment to the courts, you'll love how much storage the Six Zero Pro Tour Bag offers. This is a huge bag built for pros, with so much space and lots of organizer pockets.
It's also super durable and made by one of the top brands in pickleball—makers of the best pickleball paddle in 2025, the Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control.

Who it suits

You have to take pickleball seriously to invest in this bag. It's not for beginners or casual rec players. If you're a pro player who carries multiple paddles to the courts, a tournament player, or a pickleball coach, the Pro Tour Bag is made for you.

Features

The Pro Tour basically has two paddle bags attached to the sides. These large compartments can fit three paddles each and are thermal-lined to keep your paddles from overheating and warping (yes, it happens).
The main inner compartment is huge, with lots of space for towels and clothes and a mesh organizer pocket. On the outside, there's another mesh pocket and a great, large organizer pocket for your cell phone, keys, and extras.
On the bottom of the bag, the shoe compartment is fully ventilated, unlike the CRBN bag, so it works better to keep the bag odor-free. On top, there's a huge thermal-lined compartment for balls, snacks, or drinks. Finally, there are two strong fence hooks to hang your bag at the courts.

Design and feel

This is a durable bag made from vegan leather. Despite its size, it feels really comfy on your back thanks to the padded straps. Even when full, it feels light and is actually 0.7 lbs lighter than the smaller CRBN Pro Team Backpack.
Our reviewer, Stephen Mijangos, wears this almost always as a backpack. He says that it feels heavier and less comfortable when you carry it as a duffle. Also, with how it's designed, the pockets are all easier to access as a backpack.

Performance

If you're playing in a tournament or you're a coach running lessons, I can see you rocking up with this and feeling like a pro. If you're a casual player, it is a little cumbersome getting it in and out of your car, unless you have a large vehicle.

Value for money

This is one of the priciest pickleball bags at $149.99. We've worked with the great Six Zero team to get our readers a 10% discount on all Six Zero paddles and gear, so you can grab the Pro Tour Bag for $135.
It won't be worth it for most beginners and casual players, but coaches and advanced players are more willing to invest that kind of money.
star icon
My verdict
If you're a pro, coach, or tournament player, the Six Zero Pro Tour is the bag you want if you carry a lot of paddles and extras. It can be worn as a backpack or carried as a large duffle bag. Built to last, it's a great investment in your game.

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Best compact

4. Franklin Sports Pickleball Bag

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A longtime favorite of pickleball players, with plenty of space and pockets for all your essentials.
7/10

Durability

8/10

Comfort

7/10

Storage

8/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You need a compact, reliable pickleball bag:

    this has enough space for your essentials, as well as 2-3 pickleball paddles.

  • You travel by bike or scooter:

    this is a comfy bag with pressure-reducing back pads.

  • You're on a budget:

    with a $34.99 price tag, this is a great affordable pickleball bag.

Pass if:

  • You want a water-resistant bag:

    the Franklin doesn't offer as much water resistance as the Mangrove Pickleball Sling Bag.

  • You'd prefer a duffle bag:

    the JOOLA Tour Elite is a great backpack/duffle that's quite compact.

  • You want a compact backpack:

    the Selkirk Core Line is a small, durable, lightweight backpack with two straps for players.

Weight

0.5 lbs

Pockets

4

Straps

Adjustable/reversible sling

Dimensions

18.5" x 13" x 8"

Color Options

Black/green, Charcoal gray, gray/blue, gray, gray/pink, white/gold

Paddle Space

3

Fence Hooks

1

The Franklin Sports bag is the compact bag option because it's lightweight, comfortable, easy to travel with, and fits a surprising amount in for its size. Plus, Franklin Sports claims it's the official pickleball bag of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships.

Who it suits

This is for any pickleball player who travels to the courts by bike or scooter and doesn't need to pack a ton of stuff.
It's ideal if you want a cheaper alternative to the heavy-duty pickleball bags from CRBN, Six Zero, Selkirk, and JOOLA. If you don't need the fuss and frills, it's a simple bag that will last you a long time. It looks great too!

Features

This bag has a simple three-pocket configuration. Firstly, there's one large paddle pocket with a full-length zip for easy access. This main compartment fits two to three paddles and about six balls comfortably.
Note: while the Amazon listing claims it can fit six paddles, this must be a typo as elsewhere Franklin says it fits three paddles.
The middle pocket has enough room for either a pair of sneakers, a towel, or several pickleballs. At the front of the bag is a small, zippered pocket for your phone, keys, or wallet, while the mesh pouch on the right-hand side is perfect for a water bottle.

Design and feel

The adjustable shoulder strap has a quick-release buckle so you don't have to pull the strap over your head if you're wearing it as a crossbody bag. The back of the bag has built-in pressure-reducing mesh pads with good airflow between them, making this a comfy bag for commuting.
There are six color combinations to choose from, which go well with the neat, three-zipper design and make this a great-looking bag.

Performance

I can fit two paddles comfortably alongside two cans of pickleball balls. If you have fewer extras, you can fit three paddles.
This is a comfy, compact sling bag with a reversible strap so you can wear it over either shoulder. If you cycle, scooter, or take public transport to the courts, this is a great commuter bag for you.
There's a hidden built-in fence hook, so you can hang your bag up while you're playing a game. It's very strong and sturdy for the price point.
I do wish there were a hidden security pocket on the inside to keep my valuables safer. Also a water-resistant outer would be nice for anyone who plays in the rain. Overall, though, this is a spacious and good-looking bag with a compact size.

Value for money

For under $40, you're getting a simple, functional sling bag from one of the world's most trusted sports brands. This bag is a staple on the pickleball courts so you know it's worth the money.
star icon
My verdict
This is right up there with the Mangrove as the best compact pickleball bag I've used. If you just need a couple of paddles, balls, and your essentials, this lightweight, comfortable bag was made for you.

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Best duffle

5. JOOLA Tour Elite Pro Pickleball Bag

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A premium duffle backpack for devoted pickleball players.
8/10

Durability

7/10

Comfort

9/10

Storage

9/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You want to protect your paddles:

    like the CRBN and Six Zero bags, this has thermal-lined pockets to keep your paddles at a stable temperature to prevent warping.

  • You need a duffle for days away like tournaments or camps:

    this duffle/backpack has space for everything you'll need.

  • You've got a budget over $100:

    this was made for more advanced players who are ready to invest in their game.

Pass if:

  • You're a beginner or casual player:

    you probably won't need all the space and high tech, so try the Mangrove, Franklin, or Selkirk bags.

  • You're on a budget:

    try the budget-friendly Mangrove option (under $30).

  • You want a premium backpack:

    if you don't need a duffle bag, try the CRBN Pro Team for a high-performance paddle backpack.

Weight

3 lbs

Pockets

8

Straps

Hide-away backpack straps and duffel-style carry straps

Dimensions

15" x 22" x 10"

Color Options

Black/light blue, black/yellow, blue/yellow, navy/yellow, hot pink/blue, orange/gray, turquoise/teal

Paddle Space

4+

Fence Hooks

One

If you want a premium duffle/backpack option with plenty of storage, the JOOLA Tour Elite is a great option. It rivals the Six Zero Pro Tour Bag for quality. I chose the Six Zero as the "best storage" option, so the JOOLA bag is my recommendation if you need a smaller duffle bag for pickleball days.
JOOLA has a great reputation. They make top paddles like the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus and the JOOLA Collin Johns Scorpeus, and they've brought their expertise to this bag.

Who it suits

If you want a large backpack or a handy duffle bag, this is for you. It gives you lots of room for paddles and extras. If you feel like the Six Zero Pro Tour is too large for you, the JOOLA is a more streamlined alternative.
Like the Six Zero, this is built for more advanced players, coaches, and pros. If you're a beginner or casual player, you won't need such a big bag with a hefty price tag.

Features

The spacious main compartment holds your change of clothes and towel. It also contains four pockets to keep your personal items secure, including one with a car key tether. The section opens with two zips on either side, attached to a neat central handle.
On either side of the main compartment, two thermal-lined paddle compartments can each store two paddles, including wide and elongated models. For any extra items, like sunglasses or spare balls, there are four more outer pockets with zippers.
Finally, there's a dedicated shoe compartment for storing your sweaty footwear. It has just one ventilation hole so it's similar to the CRBN Pro Team Backpack. If you'd prefer more ventilation, you'll prefer the Six Zero Pro Tour Bag.

Design and feel

This is made from premium polyester like the CRBN Pro Team, and it feels really solid and well-built. The zips are strong, the material used is tough and durable, and the straps are reinforced. Any edges that can get damaged over time are also strengthened with pipe seams.
The bag looks very professional, with its pickleball paddle shape and JOOLA branding. I like that it comes in so many color options too.

Performance

Like the Six Zero Pro Tour, the paddle compartments are on the sides, so they function as in-built paddle bags. Each one holds two paddles, compared to the three paddles each of the Six Zero. They're thermal-lined to prevent warping and perfectly sized to keep your paddles from getting knocked about.
There's a ton of pockets, which is great if you need them. I can see pros and coaches loving this feature. I find them helpful on my paddle testing days, but they're a bit overkill for rec play. If you don't need all that space, you might prefer the Franklin Sports Sling Bag for a more compact option.
I do like that the backpack straps are separate from the duffle bag handles. Carrying this on your shoulders or tuck the straps into their dedicated sleeves and you've got an easy-carry duffle bag.
The fence hook is nice and strong too. Even with a heavy, loaded bag, it holds up well while I play.
Like some of the other bags above, this one has no water bottle pouch. This feature is really lacking in premium bag offerings.

Value for money

This bag comes in at $109.95, matching the CRBN Pro Team Bag. Like the CRBN and Six Zero, you can save 10% with our exclusive discount code, putting the JOOLA Tour Elite at $98.96.
If you're serious about investing in your game, and you want a duffle bag that's not too large, this is a great investment at under $100.
star icon
My verdict
Ben Johns fans and any high-level pickleball player or coach who wants a duffle bag/backpack that's not too oversized will appreciate the Tour Elite. Space is maximized to make sure you fit four paddles and all the extra gear you'll need for a tournament, away day, and more.

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Best day pack

6. Selkirk Core Line Day Bag

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The perfect day-dinking companion.
9/10

Durability

8/10

Comfort

8/10

Storage

7/10

Adjustability

Buy if:

  • You want a lightweight yet sturdy backpack:

    the Selkirk Core Line Day Bag is super light on your back, but built to withstand wear and tear.

  • You don't need a lot of space:

    this is a compact, no-frills backpack that's made for light sessions on the court.

  • You're buying for a youth player:

    this is one of the best pickleball gifts for kids or teenagers at an affordable price.

Pass if:

  • You want the convenience of a fence hook:

    this bag doesn't have a fence hook, though you can hang it on a hook using the strong upper strap.

  • You like lots of organizer pockets:

    the Selkirk has a simplified design so check out the CRBN Pro Team for a backpack with lots of pockets.

  • You prefer a sling bag:

    check out the Mangrove or Franklin Sports pickleball sling bags.

Weight

1 lb

Pockets

3

Straps

Adjustable backpack straps

Dimensions

13" x 5" x 16"

Color Options

Navy, pink, red, purple, blue, black, green

Paddle Space

6

Fence Hook

None

If you just need a day bag for your paddles, balls, light accessories, and clothing, the Selkirk Core Line Day Bag is the best on the market. It's a good-looking, sturdy backpack that's so easy on the go thanks to its lightweight and compact design.

Who it suits

This is ideal if you need a backpack to take to the courts or park and you like to travel light. If you're coming from work, you'll appreciate the laptop sleeve.
If you want a cheaper alternative to the CRBN Pro Team Backpack, it's a whole $70 less. It's also a great bag for young pickleball players because it is very lightweight and comes in a range of bright colors. It can double as a school bag or for any other sports days.

Features

The Selkirk Core Line is a compact backpack with simple storage pockets, but it does have a protected inner laptop sleeve that can hold a 15" laptop, which surprised me.
The main compartment is surprisingly spacious, able to fit up to six paddles (according to Selkirk). That's a bit of a stretch, though you might be able to do it with nothing else in the bag. I can comfortably fit two or three paddles in here along with a change of clothes, a towel, and a packed lunch.
There's an internal organizer pocket for small items, a padded pocket at the front for your valuables, and a mesh water bottle pouch on the side.

Design and feel

The bag's high-visibility design makes it ideal for anyone who takes a scooter or cycles to and from the courts. The look overall is cool—bold, bright colors with a simple Selkirk logo print.
It feels comfortable to wear, with padded straps and back. It's made from a durable polyfiber material that might not be so water-resistant but feels like it will stand the test of time.

Performance

I like how well-designed this bag is. I can pack everything I need for a day on the courts, even spare shoes and a change of clothes. I appreciate the water bottle pouch too.
A few things would have made this backpack better for me. Firstly, the front zipper pocket could be bigger. There's no divider either, so I'm worried about my phone screen getting scratched up by my keys. A hidden valuables pocket on the inside would also help.
The other main drawback is the lack of a fence hook. Almost all pickleball bags now come with one, and everyone uses them, so Selkirk is missing a trick. That said, you can hang the bag on a hook as the upper strap is very strong.

Value for money

This is well-priced at $40. I don't think it should be more than that because it's a basic, functional bag. The durable material and lightweight design make it long-lasting, so you'll get a good return on your investment.
star icon
My verdict
This no-frills, sturdily-built daypack is great for commuters, rec players, and younger players. If you travel light and want a light pickleball backpack that will last, check out this offering from Selkirk.

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How to choose the best pickleball bag

Here are some things to consider when looking for the best pickleball bags:

Compartments

How many compartments do you need? Don't forget you'll want to put your phone, keys, wallet, and other small items securely away while you play so even if you're getting a compact bag, make sure it has good pockets. You'll want space for pickleball balls too.

Brandon Mackie showing off the storage space in the Sucipi Pickleball Backpack

Weight

Look for bags made from lightweight yet durable materials, such as ripstop nylon or polyester.

Durability

It's not just the material of the bag that matters, it's also the construction quality. Make sure all of the seams are double-stitched for added strength and durability. Look for bags with reinforced bottom panels, and check the zipper quality to ensure it won't break easily.

Protection

Pickleball bags should provide some level of protection for your gear. Look for padded compartments and panels to protect your paddles and balls from damage, as well as waterproofing or water-resistant materials to keep everything dry in the rain.

Comfort

A good pickleball bag should be comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded with your gear. Look for bags with adjustable shoulder straps and back panels with breathable materials, such as mesh or foam.

Reviews are a great way to get a feel for how comfortable the bag is.

Find the perfect paddle

Find the perfect paddle

I've personally tested over 80 paddles. Take the quiz to see which ones fit your game best.

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Adjustability

Do you play other racket sports or just pickleball? An adjustable bag that can accommodate different sizes of paddles and other sports gear is helpful for players who have varied interests.

Price

If you're a serious player (or maybe even ready to go pro in pickleball), it's worth splashing out on a premium backpack in the $100-140 range. Otherwise, a mid-range or budget bag will probably suit your needs.

Does the brand name matter?

While you'll find the odd gem like Mangrove, the better-known names in the pickleball bag industry are often the most reliable. Franklin, Selkirk, and JOOLA are just a few of the brands that make excellent pickleball bags.

These companies have years of experience in designing and manufacturing sports gear—and their pickleball backpacks are no different. Going with a trusted brand is usually a safe bet when it comes to quality and durability, but always check reviews before buying.

Duffle bags vs sling bags vs backpacks

When it comes to pickleball bags, there are three main types:

  • Duffle: these are great for carrying and storing all kinds of gear, including paddles, balls, and other accessories. They're usually large enough to fit everything you need in one bag. However, they can be bulky and difficult to carry around for long periods.
  • Sling: these offer easy access to your items with the added benefit of being easier to move around than a duffle bag. The downside is that they don't have as much room or as many compartments as a regular backpack.
  • Backpack: the traditional backpack has plenty of space and compartments, is easy to carry around, and provides lots of protection for your gear.

What to pack in your pickleball bag

Your pickleball bag will be your main source of storage, so it's important to make sure you have all the essentials.

Start with the basics: two paddles and at least one can of balls. You can also pack an extra pair of clothes, a water bottle, hats or visors for sun protection, and some snacks to keep your energy levels up during long games.

If you're playing in cold weather or rain, consider packing a waterproof jacket or poncho as well.

The Sucipi Pickleball Backpack holding several paddles on a pickleball court

Bottom line

That wraps up my review of the top pickleball bags of 2025. The CRBN tops the list for its awesome pickleball-specific features, durability, and versatility, but there are great options to suit any player.

To recap, here are my top picks:

  1. CRBN Pro Team Backpack – Best overall
  2. Mangrove Pickleball Sling Bag - Best budget
  3. Six Zero Pro Tour Bag 2025 - Best storage
  4. Franklin Sports Sling Bag - Best compact
  5. JOOLA Tour Elite Pickleball Bag - Best duffle
  6. Selkirk Core Line Day Bag Backpack - Best day pack

Whether it's a duffle or a sling, I hope you find a pickleball bag that's just right for you.

Recent updates

February 2025

I introduced two new bags to the list this year: the Six Zero Pro Tour Bag and the Selkirk Core Line Day Bag. The CRBN, Mangrove, Franklin, and JOOLA bags kept their places.

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About the author
Brandon Mackie
Brandon is an avid writer and co-founder of Pickleheads™. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can now be found these days honing his dinks on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.
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