Speedo Swim Bags vs. Arena: Which One Fits Your Gear Best?

When you're heading to practice, a meet, or a travel competition, having the right swim bag can make all the difference. Your bag needs to carry all your essentials—goggles, tech suits, towels, water bottles, snacks, and maybe even some dry clothes and keep them organized and protected. 

Two of the most popular brands for competitive swim bags are Speedo and Arena. Both are trusted names in the world of swimming, but they offer different features and designs that might better suit certain swimmers. In this Elsmore Swim Shop guide, we’ll compare Speedo swim bags vs. Arena swim bags, helping you decide which one works best for your needs. 

Speedo Swim Bags: Built for Daily Grind and Travel 

Speedo is one of the most recognized names in competitive swimming, and their gear bags are a go-to choice for many athletes. Here’s why: 

Spacious Design with Smart Compartments 

The Speedo Teamster 2.0 Backpack is one of the most popular bags on the market. It comes in multiple sizes (including 35L and 40L options) and offers a large main compartment with room for towels, warmups, and more. 

A standout feature is the removable dirtbag™—a separate compartment for wet gear or dirty clothes, which helps keep everything else dry. Multiple side pockets also make it easy to organize smaller items like goggles, caps, and snacks. 

Durability that Holds Up Through the Season 

Speedo bags are made with water-resistant materials and a reinforced bottom to handle the wear and tear of daily practices and weekend meets. The heavy-duty zippers and padded shoulder straps are designed with athletes in mind. 

Designs for Every Style 

From bold colors to team-friendly options, Speedo offers a wide range of designs to match your personality or uniform. You can also find Speedo mesh bags, perfect for hauling gear to and from the pool deck. 

Arena Swim Bags: Focused on Form and Function 

Arena has carved out a loyal following among competitive swimmers and triathletes thanks to its high-performance gear and attention to detail. Their swim bags are no exception. 

Compact Yet Roomy Layout 

The Arena Fastpack 3.0 is a popular pick, known for its vertical shape and smart use of space. The main compartment opens wide, making it easy to find what you need quickly, and there’s even a separate bottom section for shoes or wet items. 

For swimmers who prefer a tighter fit and a more streamlined feel, the Fastpack 3.0 delivers without sacrificing storage capacity. 

Thoughtful Features for Swimmers on the Move 

Arena’s bags often include mesh ventilation panels to help your gear dry out, a padded laptop compartment for student-athletes, and water bottle holders that stay secure even in transit. 

Some designs also include hidden pockets or quick-access top compartments—helpful when you’re at a meet and don’t want to dig around for your goggles or ID. 

Sleek Styling with Team Options Available 

Arena bags tend to feature clean lines and minimalist logos, which appeal to swimmers who prefer a subtle look. Many of their backpacks are also available in team colors and customizable options through Elsmore Swim Shop. 

Head-to-Head Comparison: Speedo vs. Arena Swim Bags