Shoes go through a lot whether it’s gym workouts, muddy walks, or commutes through the city. And I’ve learned the hard way that tossing them straight into my bag or suitcase is a mistake.
Whether it is mixing a bag of loose food with a pair of trainers that have trawled through the grimy London tube (shudder) or ruining fresh work clothes with grubby dirt marks, it’s a smart move to keep your shoes separate from the rest of your belongings.
Because a good shoe bag isn’t just about keeping things neat; it stops dirt from spreading, protects shoes from getting squashed, and even helps with odours. But with so many different types, it’s worth finding the right one for your needs whether it is a lighter bag for summer sandals when packing or sturdy carrying case for hikng shoes.
Why use a shoe bag?
I used to just throw my shoes into my gym bag or suitcase, but that quickly led to scuffed trainers, dusty heels, and a general mess. A proper shoe bag makes life easier in so many ways. It keeps shoes in a good condition, preventing scratches and keeping them from getting crushed in a suitcase. It also stops dirt from spreading, which is especially useful after a gym session or a long walk in bad weather. Some even help air out moisture, so trainers don’t stink up the rest of your bag.
A simple fabric shoe bag is perfect for everyday use; it’s lightweight and easy to throw into a gym bag, keeping everything else clean. This is useful for trainers or shoes that just need a little protection, but it doesn’t offer much structure for travel.
A breathable mesh shoe bag is ideal for sports shoes. After a workout, damp trainers can become a breeding ground for odour and mesh allows airflow to prevent that. It’s not the best for travelling since dirt can still escape, but it’s perfect for keeping your belongings fresh.
Waterproof and dirt-resistant bags are my go-to when I’ve been out on a muddy run or hike. These keep dirt and moisture locked in, so I don’t have to worry about making a mess in my suitcase or car I’m travelling in.
Choosing the best shoe bag
When I’m travelling with dress shoes or expensive trainers, I always use a structured travel shoe case. It helps keep shoes in shape and prevents them from rubbing against other items in my bag. Some even have built-in ventilation, which is handy for keeping things fresh.
For longer trips, I love a multi-compartment shoe organiser; it keeps multiple pairs of shoes separate and organised. I can keep my gym trainers away from my formal shoes, and it’s easy to find exactly what I need.
It really depends on the situation. For everyday use, a simple fabric or mesh bag works. For the gym, breathability is key. If I’m heading outdoors, waterproofing is a must. And for travel, structured or multi-compartment bags keep everything in order.
I used to think shoe bags were an extra unnecessary thing to carry but now I can’t go without them. Whether it’s for keeping my shoes in good shape or just keeping my bag clean, having the right one makes all the difference.
Read more.
Built for Athletes Shoe Bag
Built for Athletes is my go-to for keeping my life organised, especially with the brand’s main multi-compartment backpack range. While some of the backpacks include a slim shoe bag and handy internal compartments already, there is also this lightweight shoe bag in the collection.
It clips easily onto the webbing or straps of your backpack, or you can use it separately inside. Designed to fit footwear up to size 14, it's made from high-density nylon with a PU coating, keeping your shoes protected.
Buy now £14.99, Built for Athletes
La Pochette Sweat Bag
Ever forgotten about your damp gym kit when you open your bag? While sweat itself doesn’t actually smell, it contains proteins and salts that create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria in warm, damp conditions. As the bacteria break down the sweat, they release compounds like ammonia, which cause that unpleasant stench.
To avoid this, I use La Pochette for my shoes and clothes as it is anti-microbial with deodorising properties. I love that it’s machine washable, which makes it easy to keep fresh, even after storing my post-workout gear. It’s a simple but useful solution for staying organised and odour-free.
Buy now £35.00, La Pochette
Gomatic Compression Organisers
If you’re all about smart destination packing, Gomatic is one of my favourites not just for storage but for maximising space. From shoe holders to packing cubes and travel cases, every piece is designed to keep your essentials neat and compact.
The brand’s clever range of organisers uses a zippered compression system to condense luggage by up to 50 per cent, making space for all those extra outfits.
Buy now £34.00, Amazon
Pack All Water Resistant Shoe Bag
If you're looking for a water-resistant, lightweight solution for keeping your shoes separate while travelling or storing them at home, these shoe bags are a great pick. Made from durable polyester with a waterproof coating, they help protect your footwear while keeping everything else clean.
The translucent mesh panel makes it easy to see what’s inside without unzipping, and the smooth, sturdy zipper ensures hassle-free access. Available in multiple colours, they're a practical choice for both men’s and women’s shoes, whether you’re packing for a trip or heading to the gym.
Buy now £14.49, Amazon
Puma Goal 23
This Puma shoe bag is a slimline option designed to keep your footwear organised and protected. It's lightweight yet durable, with a zip-top closure for easy access. The dark colour helps conceal stains, making it a practical choice for regular use.
Available in different sizes, it's a versatile storage solution whether you're packing for travel, hitting the gym, or keeping your gear tidy at home.
Buy now £9.95, Amazon
Acehome Portable Drawstring Shoes Storage Bags
Perfect for travel or keeping your wardrobe tidy, the Acehome 10-pack of shoe bags is an easy way to stay organised. Each bag is made from lightweight, dustproof non-woven fabric and features a transparent window, so you can easily see what’s inside.
The drawstring closure makes them simple to use, while their generous size (32cm x 44cm) means they can hold more than just shoes - think gym gear, toiletries or laundry too.
Buy now £8.99, Amazon
Under Armour Unisex Shoe Bag
Designed with durability and practicality in mind, this water-repellent shoe bag is built to protect your footwear from the elements. It resists water and stains while still offering breathability through its ventilated design.
Spacious enough to fit shoes up to size 14, it features a zip-around opening for easy access. A front zip pocket keeps essentials like your phone secure, while the top grab handle and D-ring attachment offer added convenience. This 14-litre bag is a long-lasting solution for keeping your shoes dry and organised.
Buy now £27.99, Amazon
Adidas Essentials Training Shoe Bag
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If you’re guilty of spillages from drinks flasks or the occasional makeup leak, then black is a safe shade. The Adidas Essentials Training Shoe Bag is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.
With a 7.25-litre capacity, it’s compact yet spacious enough to keep your shoes separate from the rest of your belongings. The zip main compartment gives secure storage, while the mesh side panel offers ventilation to keep things fresh.
Buy now £9.49, Amazon
