11 Best Soccer Backpacks: Reviewed, Rated & Compared

Why a Soccer Backpack is Better Than an Everyday Backpack

Soccer is the most popular sport in the US, and it’s loved by both children and adults. If you play soccer, futbol, or football regularly, a soccer backpack will be much more practical than an everyday backpack. This is because everyday backpacks aren’t designed to carry sports equipment, and they’re normally too small to fit a ball inside.

On the other hand, most soccer backpacks come with a ball holder pocket on the outside of the bag. This means that you don’t have to carry the ball in your hands – and as the pocket is normally on the outside of the bag, there’s still lots of internal storage space. High-quality soccer bags also have enough room to carry cleats and a water bottle, so you don’t need to bring a second bag to carry everything. Soccer moms just love a bag like this!

It’s also possible to buy soccer backpacks that are specifically designed for kids. After all, lots of children love soccer. In fact, there are currently over 3 million children registered with US Youth Soccer. This style of bag also works well as a school backpack. For boys and girls who play soccer at school in their lunchtime or even go to practise immediately after they finish in the classroom then this bag represents a smart choice.

What To Look For In a Good Soccer Backpack

Here are seven things you should look for if you’re buying a soccer backpack.

Ball Holder

A good soccer backpack will have a large pocket that fits all ball sizes (such as soccer balls, tennis balls and basketballs). The pocket could be an internal pocket, or it could be an external mesh pocket that’s made from a stretchy material. Both options are good, but it’s worth noting that external pockets free up more room inside the bag. So if you want your soccer backpack to double up as your college or school backpack, you should look for a soccer backpack with an external ball holder pocket.

Cleat Compartment

A great soccer backpack will also have a shoe section where you can store your cleats. This pocket will need to be fairly large if the backpack is being used by an adult with large feet, but if you’re buying the backpack for a child a smaller pocket will work just as well. This pocket could be internal or external, but if it’s internal it should be made from an airtight fabric so that the smell doesn’t seep into the rest of the bag.

Drink Holder

A drink holder is an essential feature for a soccer backpack. After all, if you’ll be exercising a lot you should also stay hydrated! Some soccer backpacks only have one water bottle holder, but it’s possible to buy backpacks with two water bottle holders. This means you can carry two drinks with you – for instance, you could keep water in one pocket and a protein drink in the other pocket, which is very useful.

Size

Size is also an important factor that you should consider. If you’re buying a soccer backpack for an adult who will also be using the backpack to carry everyday items, you’ll probably want to invest in a fairly large backpack with lots of compartments. But if you’re buying a soccer backpack for a child who will only use the backpack when they play soccer, you could buy a smaller backpack with less compartments.

Breathable Materials

Most people want a soccer backpack that is made from breathable materials (such as mesh or cotton). Some soccer backpacks come with a mesh back panel to allow air flow, so you won’t feel warm and sticky when you are wearing the backpack, which is very handy. It can also be useful to look for a soccer backpack with breathable pockets where you can store your clothes after you’ve finished exercising.

Waterproof/Water-Resistant

Lots of people leave their soccer backpack next to the field where they’re playing, so you may want to invest in a backpack that’s made from a waterproof or water-resistant material.

This means that you don’t have to worry about anything inside getting wet, even if it starts raining while you’re playing. This is particularly useful if you live in a rainy city, but even if you live in a generally sunny area it can be worth getting a water-resistant bag.

Price Vs Quality

Price is also an important factor to consider. Generally, backpacks tend to be more expensive if they’re made from durable, high-quality materials, but if you shop around it’s totally possible to find high-quality soccer backpacks that are affordable. However you may have to compromise on some features if you’re on a budget; for instance, most cheap soccer backpacks only have one water bottle pocket.

1. Soccer Backpack With Ball Holder Compartment

This soccer backpack is lightweight and easy to open, so it’s perfect for young children who love sports. It also has an adjustable strap, so you don’t need to worry about ordering the backpack and it being too big or too small!

The backpack is made from 600D dual layer heat stitched polyester, which is extremely durable, so the bag won’t get damaged easily. There are also padded shoulder straps, so it’s very comfortable to wear, even when it’s full to the brim.

It’s worth noting that this backpack is quite small compared to some of the other backpacks on this list, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t space inside. The ball compartment can expand to fit shin guards, cleats and sports accessories.

The backpack also comes with a 30-day refund period, so if you order the backpack and you don’t like it, it isn’t a problem – you can simply return it and get your money back.

2. Athletico Youth Soccer Backpack

3. Diadora Junior Squadra Backpack

The Diadora Junior Squadra backpack is very durable; it’s made from 420 denier nylon with PVC backing, so you should be able to use the backpack every day without it becoming damaged!

The backpack is also quite large, so there’s room for a few everyday items too - such as a lunchbox, a charger, or even some books (which is perfect if you head to the practice straight from school!). This model could easily be used as a college backpack.

This backpack has padded shoulder pads that are anatomically shaped, so it is very comfortable to wear. It also looks very stylish; it has a sleek black and white design that will appeal to both children and adults, and it has a cool boxy shape that’s fairly unique.

Like the backpack but not sure if it will be big enough for you? Not a problem - you can buy a larger version of this backpack here.

4. Tigerbro Soccer Backpack for Youth

The Tigerbro soccer backpack is perfect for both children and adults. This is because it has a very lightweight mesh design, so it’s very comfortable to wear, and you won't have to carry a heavy load when you're all tired after practice. The interior can expand to fit lots of items inside, which is ideal for busy adults who have lots of things to carry with them.

The back can also be folded down when there is nothing inside, so it won’t take up much room in your house. It will also easily fit into a locker, while many other soccer bags won't.

On the front of the bag is a large, stretchy mesh pocket that can be used to hold a ball, but it can also be used to hold shin pads or cleats. Inside the bag are multiple compartments, including a large compartment that could hold a laptop or some books.

5. Under Armour Striker Soccer Backpack

The Under Armour soccer backpack is an excellent soccer bag for adults. This is because the bag is very large, so it can fit lots of sports equipment inside, and it has a mature design that will suit any outfit or style.

The backpack is also designed to be comfortable; there’s a cleat tunnel that stops your cleats from moving around when you’re working, as well as a padded back panel so that there isn’t too much pressure on your back.

Finally, there are Heat Gear ergonomic shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly over your shoulders and back. So even if the backpack is completely full, it should still be comfortable to wear all day - this is an important feature because the last thing you want after training is having to carry a heavy bag.

This soccer backpack is also available in a few different colors, including black, dark blue and light blue.

6. Soccer/Basketball Backpack

This soccer bag backpack is perfect for teenagers and children. The backpack is very spacious inside, so there’s more than enough room for sports gear and school books. There are also lots of external pockets, including a water bottle pocket, a pocket for cleats, and a pocket for shin guards, so it’s very easy for your child to stay organized throughout the day.

The backpack is also very durable. It’s made from 420D nylon with PVC backing, so it’s strong enough for everyday use – even if your child is quite boisterous with their bag!

Finally, there are adjustable shoulder straps, so it’s easy to customize the backpack so that it fits properly. The one thing that you may want to keep in mind is that this is a pretty bulky bag - meaning it's not the easiest to carry around. However, it really does facilitate the organization, so the volume is totally worth it!

7. Hard Work Sports Basketball Backpack With Ball Compartment

The Hard Work soccer backpack is practical and durable – in fact, it even comes with a lifetime guarantee. So if the backpack breaks a few years down the line, you don’t have to worry about forking out for a new one!

It has a simple, no-nonsense design, so it’s perfect for adults who take sports seriously. However it is quite large, so it may not fit young children under 10.

Inside the bag is very spacious; there’s a large main compartment that can hold shin guards and cleats, and on the outside of the bag there’s a mesh pocket that can fit a large soccer ball or basketball. This last feature is perfect, because unlike most of the bags that have enough space for a ball, this one is actually a practical and easy to carry choice! Keeping the ball inside the backpack won't bother you - since it is in the outer compartment, the ball will stay away enough from your back.

8. Vizari Sport Solano Backpack

The Vizari Sport Solano backpack is a stylish soccer backpack that’s suited to both children and adults. This is because the backpack is quite large, so it can easily hold adult sized shoes, but the shoulder straps are adjustable, so they can be altered to fit a child.

The backpack is also made from a high-quality 600D Poly/Jacquard blend, and there are breathable side pockets that keep nasty smells out of the bag. On the front of the bag there’s a rubber mesh pocket that can hold a size 5 ball. It can also hold a volleyball or a basketball, so it isn’t just suited to soccer players!

It has plenty of space, so you can carry all the gear that you need for your practice in just one place. Another great thing is that, despite its sturdiness, its design makes it easy to take everywhere. It is available in five different colors, so you will be able to choose the style that suits you best!

9. Augusta Sportswear TRI-Color Ball Backpack

Get prepared for the soccer field with the Augusta Sportswear TRI-Color backpack. The backpack is made from 600 denier polyester, so it’s very tough and durable, and there are lots of useful features inside the bag, including a plastic keyholder and a zipped pocket to help you stay organized.

Other features include the side mesh zipped pockets, which come handy if you need to carry an energy drink or even your cleats - they are quite spacious. There are also adjustable padded shoulder straps and a padded back, so it’s very comfortable to wear and it should easily suit people from different heights and sizes. If you don't feel like putting the weight on your back, you can always take it from the handle on top.

This soccer bag also doubles up as a tennis bag, as it is large enough to hold a tennis racquet. So it doesn’t matter what your favorite sport is; either way, this backpack will probably benefit you!

10. Adidas Stadium II Backpack

The Adidas soccer backpack is in a whole new level when it comes to practicality. It really was designed for athletes, so it has lots of cool features to enhance your soccer experience. This includes a mesh pocket that can hold a regulation-sized soccer ball, but if you don't want to use this feature, you can keep it zipped and hidden (so it keeps a classy look!). Therefore, it is also a great option for students or commuters that head to practice straight from the classroom or the office.

There’s also a second zip away pocket that can be used to hold shin pads and cleats. Moreover, the bag is very durable – in fact, it even comes with a lifetime warranty! The bottom of the bag is also made from Hydroshield water-resistant material, so you can put it down outside without worrying about your things getting wet.

On the outside of the bag you can find two water bottle pockets, so you can bring a bottle of water and a protein shake with you. Perfect for athletes on the go!

11. Nike Swoosh Backpack

This is such a good-looking backpack - after all, we couldn't expect less from Nike. This soccer backpack is very durable! It’s made from polyester, and it has a rain flap to keep the bag dry (even if it’s raining very heavily). So if you live in a rainy area and you like to play soccer outside, this Nike backpack could be the perfect option for you!

The bag is also easy to customize; there are adjustable curved shoulder straps that can be altered to fit a child or an adult, and it’s also possible to remove the rain flap if you don’t need or want to use it.

This model includes top and interior zippered pockets that will help you organize small items - so you make sure that your keys, wallet, phone and charger don't get lost among your sweaty clothes. It is large enough to keep all of your gear, but compact enough to easily carry it around or put it inside a locker.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Are the big brands such as Nike and Adidas better at producing soccer backpacks?

Nike and Adidas do produce high-quality soccer backpacks, but they tend to be more expensive than other brands. They also tend to be less impressive with design and struggle to hold a ball, cleats, bottles and clothing.

What’s the price range of these bags on the list?

The bags on this list vary between $19.99 and $100.00.

Is this a good present for my children or their friends?

If your children love to play sports, a soccer backpack is a great gift idea!

What’s the youngest age that a child can use one of these bags?

Soccer backpacks are best suited to children over 7, as they can be quite large when the ball is inside. Some of the models including our #1 choice can be ok for kids as young as 4-5 years of age.

Where’s a good place to buy a cheap soccer backpack?

You can find lots of soccer backpacks on Amazon. This includes both children’s backpacks and adult backpacks.

Conclusion

If you play sports regularly it’s likely that you would benefit from buying a soccer backpack. This is because they’re specifically designed for sports, so you’ll easily be able to fit shoes, equipment and a ball inside the bag.

Soccer backpacks are also very affordable; most of the bags on this cost less than $50, which is ideal for anyone on a budget!