Workout sandbags are versatile, affordable, and space-friendly training tools. They’re useful for all types of training, including CrossFit, strongman, and powerlifting.
They’re great at building strength, improving conditioning, and challenging stability.
We’ve tested dozens of workout sandbags from some of the top brands to find the best ones. We’ve used them for carries, rows, presses, cleans, slams, throws, and more. Here are some of the main factors we considered (more below):
- Durability: Is the bag made of heavy-duty nylon or other durable materials? Is the stitching consistent and reinforced?
- Versatility: How many different ways can you use the bag? Are there multiple handles for great variety?
- Weight Capacity: How heavy can you load the bags? How many different weight options do they offer?
In this article, I’ll share our picks for the best workout sandbags based on real experience. Whether you’re an advanced athlete or just someone looking for more training variety, we’ve got you covered.
What’s the Best Workout Sandbag?
We found the REP Sandbags to have the best blend of weight capacity, construction, and value. Their reinforced stitching, metal grommets, and Cordura shells are durable for all types of workouts. And with four options from 5-200 lbs and multiple handles, they’re versatile for every fitness level.
In This Article: Our Picks | Comparison Chart | Benefits of Sandbag Training | How to Pick | Honorable Mentions | Frequently Asked Questions
Our Picks
Best Overall: REP Sandbags
Highest Quality: GORUCK Sandbag 2.0
Move Versatile: 5.11 PT-R Weight Kit
Best for CrossFit: Rogue Sandbag 2.0
Best for Strongman: Rogue Strongman Sandbag
Best Pre-Filled: Hyperwear SandBell
Best Sand Kettlebell: GORUCK Sand Kettlebell
Best Budget: Garage Fit Sandbag
Best Workout Sandbag Overall: REP Sandbags
The REP Sandbags are durable and versatile bags at an excellent price. They range from 25 to 200 lbs and have great user feedback.
Key Specs
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): S – 5-25 / M – 25-75 / L – 50-125 / XL – 125-200
- Handles: 7
- Color: Multiple
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Made in USA: No
Summary
The REP sandbags are my pick as the best for most people. With their price, durability, and reputation, it’s hard to find a better value. I’ve owned these sandbags since they were released several years ago. They’ve led to some great workouts and have held up very well.
One of the most important features of a workout sandbag is the material. The REP sandbags use 1000D Cordura nylon, which is the gold standard for high-quality bags. It has a rugged, textured surface with thick fibers, and it generally feels durable.
The outer shell includes several areas of reinforcement, including triple-stitched seams, Box X stitching, and metal grommets on the handles. The added grommets are a nice feature and not something you commonly find on other sandbags. These grommets are placed at the base of the handles to provide additional support.
Each REP bag has seven handle options, which opens up a lot of movement variety. You can pick from wide handles, narrow handles, and a single handle for presses, rows, carries, and more. The handles consist of the same Cordura material and are comfortable overall.
REP offers four different sandbag sizes: 5-25 lbs, 25-75 lbs, 50-125 lbs, and 125-200 lbs. The bags come with filler bags that include double velcro closures to keep the sand from seeping out. The liners are further zipped into the outer shell using a high-quality YKK zipper. I’ve yet to experience sand escaping these bags.
Another feature I love about these bags is that they’re available in various colors. In every size, you can pick from seven color choices: black, army green, tan, camo, blue, red, and pink. Many sandbags are only available in black, so if you want your bags to have some personality, these will likely appeal to you.
Compared to some more expensive options, the one downside to these bags is that they carry a 1-year warranty. While I haven’t experienced anything that would warrant a claim, it’s something to consider.
Lastly, the price of the REP sandbags is excellent. Starting at $44.99 for the small, these are accessible for nearly every budget. Even the biggest size is under $100, with free shipping. With all of their features, and as one of the most heavily reviewed workout sandbags on the market, these are great for most people.
Pros
- Excellent value
- Heavy-duty Cordura material
- Four weight options ranging from 25-200 lbs
- 7 handles for a variety of movements
- Several modes of reinforcement
- Multiple colors
Highest Quality Sandbag: GORUCK Sandbags 2.0
The GORUCK Sandbags are ultra-durable bags with high-quality materials. They're among the most well-reviewed bags, and they go up to 200 lbs.
Key Specs
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): 40 / 60 / 80 / 100 / 120-150 / 200
- Handles: 12
- Color: Black, Tiger Stripe, Multi-Camo
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Made in USA: No
Summary
While the REP Sandbags are my pick as the best for most people, the GORUCK Sandbags 2.0 take the honor of being the best overall. These ultra-durable bags come with a lifetime warranty, are available up to 200 lbs, and have great handle options.
GORUCK is a leading provider of outdoor and rucking equipment. They have a great reputation, and their sandbags are one of their best offerings. With nearly 1,000 verified reviews, these are among the most reviewed bags out there.
Like other high-quality workout sandbags, the GORUCK bags are constructed with 1000D Cordura. They include double-stiched seams, Box X stitching, and heavy-duty YKK zippers. For additional peace of mind, they also have a lifetime warranty that GORUCK calls the Scars Lifetime Guarantee. If you manage to wear your bag out, assuming you used them properly, they’ll replace it for free – no receipt necessary.
The filler bag includes two-way velcro closures to keep sand in, and it’s made from the same Cordura material. The bag has an embroidered GORUCK logo as well as an embroidered weight. They offer six different bag sizes: 40 lbs, 60 lbs, 80 lbs, 100 lbs, 120-150 lbs, and 200 lbs.
Each weight variant has the same diameter, which has pros and cons. On the plus side, it creates a consistent experience from bag to bag. On the downside, it can create some additional length. This is mainly limited to the 200 lb option, but it’s something to consider since it’s nearly twice as long as competing bags. However, if you’re team-training, this could be a benefit.
One of the best features of the GORUCK Sandbags is that they include 12 handles, which is the most of all the bags I researched and tested. This includes two wide handles, two vertical handles, and three horizontal handles. The vertical/horizontal handles are replicated on each side, making it easier to use than others.
These sandbags come in black, tiger stripe, and an awesome black multi-camo. They also include a patch section with a GORUCK patch, but you can always use your own.
Starting at $120, these bags are more expensive than some, but you get great features and a stellar warranty.
Pros
- Highly durable
- 6 weight options ranging from 40-200 lbs
- 12 handle options lead the industry
- Lifetime warranty
- Beautiful embroidery with a patch slot
Read Our Full GORUCK Sandbag Review
Most Versatile Workout Sandbag: 5.11 PT-R Weight Kit
The 5.11 Tactical PT-R Weight Kit is a versatile sandbag with numerous handles and a flatter design. The filler backs can individually be used for farmer's carries and as kettlebells.
Key Specs
- Material: 1050D Nylon
- Weight Options (lbs): 50 / 100
- Handles: 8
- Color: Black & Kangaroo
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Made in USA: No
Summary
Like GORUCK, 5.11 Tactical is a leader in the outdoor, rucking, and tactical industry. They’re well known for their weighted vests, but their workout sandbags have become a popular choice. The PT-R Weight Kit is one of the most versatile choices because of its unique design.
Most workout sandbags are cylindrical, but the 5.11 PT-R bags have a flat, rectangular shape. This shape creates a slightly different feel when using the bag, especially with the short edge handles. The load hangs further down in this position, creating a longer moment arm and a challenging experience.
Each bag offers eight handles: two on the ends, four horizontal handles on the short edge, and two neutral handles on the long edge. I wish the opposite long edge also had handles, bringing the total to ten, but I’m a fan of these positions overall. They also include non-slip covers, which feel great in the hand.
What makes this sandbag so versatile is the filler bag design. Unlike most liners, which are simply bags, the 5.11 liners include handles. This allows you to use them as training tools by themselves. This design essentially gives you two sand kettlebells that you can use for carries, swings, and more. They also include velcro and fold-over closures to keep sand safely contained.
The 5.11 PT-R Weight Kits use 1050D Nylon that feels very durable. They use double-stitched seams and Box X stitching for reinforcement. They also use a short-edge zipped opening, which reduces the chances of sand escaping the bag. Additionally, 5.11 carries a lifetime warranty on the bags.
You can purchase these sandbags in 50 lb or 100 lb options. The 50 lb option includes two 25 lb filler bags, while the 100 lb option includes two 50 lb filler bags. While these are two good weight options, I’d like to see more options, especially over 100 lbs.
You can buy these bags in black or Kangaroo (tan), and they include a patch section for individualization. Overall, I love these bags’ versatility, especially the unique filler bags.
Pros
- Heavy-duty nylon construction
- Unique shape with 8 handle options
- Non-slip handle covers feel comfortable in the hand
- You can use the filler bags as individual training tools
- Lifetime warranty
Best Sandbag for CrossFit: Rogue Sandbags 2.0
The Rogue Sandbags 2.0 are well-featured bags with a unique integrated filler system and several handle options
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): S – 40 / M – 80 / L – 150
- Handles: 7
- Color: Black
- Warranty: 3 Years
- Made in USA: Yes
Summary
The Rogue Sandbags 2.0 are high-quality and aesthetic sandbags with some unique features. Rogue has become a household name in the home gym and CrossFit industries. The company has the most impressive lineup of workout sandbags among all fitness companies, and these bags are their staple.
The most unique quality of the Rogue Sandbags 2.0 is the integrated filler bags. Where other sandbags have separate filler bags, Rogue has a permanent filler bag. This has pros and cons. An advantage of this design is that you can load your filler more quickly and easily than modular bags. A disadvantage is that changing weight between movements is a bit more cumbersome. A nice thing about modular bags is that you can buy extras and dedicate weight increments to them, making quick changes easy.
I love the way the Rogue Sandbag contains its filler. A big benefit is that it has a funnel flap built in, which helps reduce spillage when loading sand. This flap is secured with velcro, with a zipper closing the entire opening. Another oversized velcro flap goes over the zipper, creating the best container design I’ve tested.
The bag is constructed with 1000D Cordura, and like others, it includes double-stitched seams and Box X reinforcements. Similar to the REP Sandbags, this one from Rogue includes seven handles. While it doesn’t have as much utility as the GORUCK or 5.11 bags, it’s still a versatile option.
The bag comes in three sizes: 40 lbs, 80 lbs, and 150 lbs. Maxing out at 35″ long, these offer one of the most compact designs, making them great for home gyms and CrossFit boxes.
I love that the Rogue Sandbags are made in the USA, and the 3-year warranty is very respectable. However, these are some of the most expensive sandbags on the market.
Pros
- Thick Cordura construction
- Unique integrated filler bag with built-in funnel
- 7 handle options for a variety of movements
- 3 sizes ranging from 40-150 lbs
- Made in the USA with a strong warranty
Cons
- Among the most expensive sandbags
- Only available in black
Best Sandbag for Strongman Training: Rogue Strongman Sandbags
The Rogue Strongman Sandbags are cylindrical-shaped bags ideal for strongman training. These highly-durable bags are available up to 400 lbs.
Key Specs
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): 25 / 50 / 100 / 150 / 200 / 250 / 300 / 400
- Handles: None
- Color: Multiple
- Warranty: 3 Years
- Made in USA: Yes
Summary
Sticking with Rogue, their Strongman lineup is outstanding. They carry Husafell Bags, Cyclone Bags, Cube Bags, Tombstone Bags, Throw Bags, and more. Their traditional strongman bags, however, are the most popular.
Strongman sandbags have a different shape and purpose than traditional workout sandbags. Strongman bags have a cylindrical shape but with a much wider diameter and no handles. These are meant to be bear-hugged, squatted, carried, and otherwise lifted. Think of them like sandbag versions of hybrid Atlas stones/slam bags.
The Rogue strongman bags have the same internal filler bags as the traditional sandbags lifted above. This includes the same funnel, zipper, and foldover flap. The great thing about Strongman bags is that you can load them HEAVY. Where traditional workout sandbags top out around 200 lbs, Strongman bags can reach up to 400 lbs. However, they start as low as 25 lbs if you’re a beginner. With eight weight options, Rogue has something for everyone.
Rogue sells these Strongman sandbags in black, but you can purchase colored versions for a premium.
These are also built with 1000D Cordura and include double-stitched seams. They’re made in the USA and have the same 3-year warranty. They’re also more affordable than the Rogue Sandbags 2.0.
Pros
- Durable Cordura construction
- Available from 25-400 lbs in 8 weight increments
- Optional colors
- Highly effective at building full-body strength
- Made in the USA with a strong warranty
Cons
- Not as versatile as traditional workout sandbags
Best Pre-Filled Workout Sandbags: Hyperwear SandBells
The Hyperwear Sandbells are pre-filled sandbags ranging from 2 to 50 lbs. They're great for small spaces and beginners.
Key Specs
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight Options (lbs): 2 / 4 / 6 / 8 / 10 / 12 / 15 / 20 / 25 / 30 / 40 / 50
- Handles: None
- Color: Multiple
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Made in USA: No
Summary
One of the most interesting workout sandbags is the Hyperwear SandBell. Unlike every other bag on this list, the SandBell comes pre-filled in set increments. It also uses a unique shape with no handles.
When you look at the SandBell, it’s a different type of product than others. This pancake-shaped sandbag creates a different stimulus because it doesn’t have handles, and it distributes load differently. This is a more compact option, meaning you don’t get quite the same unstable loading as you do on traditional bags.
That doesn’t mean it’s not challenging, because it certainly can be, but if you’re looking for heavy training, this isn’t what I recommend. Swings, goblet squats, single-leg deadlifts, overhead lunges/carries, etc., are great with the SandBell. Rotational core movements are also effective.
These sandbags use a neoprene material instead of Cordura/nylon. On the plus side, it creates a comfortable texture and lets the load sink further down for a unique challenge. On the downside, it’s not as durable as other sandbags. They can still take abuse, but I caution against more aggressive movements that other bags can handle. That said, you can upgrade to the Pro model, which has a more robust construction.
The Hyperwear SandBells are available from 2 to 50 lbs with 12 different options. Although heavier options would be nice, these are better suited in lower weights, in my opinion. Not to mention shipping costs for pre-filled sandbags are a lot more expensive than bags that you fill.
With pricing starting as low as ~$15, these are relatively affordable, but they can start to add up in heavier weights because of the increased shipping. Buying sets or multiples can get expensive quickly.
Pros
- Pre-filled with sand so you don’t have to
- 12 weight options
- Unique shape creates a different stimulus than
- other sandbags
- Great for lighter weight movements, rotational core exercises, and more
Cons
- Not as durable as traditional sandbags
- Not available over 50 lbs
- Expensive shipping
Best Sandbag Kettlebell: GORUCK Sand Kettlebell
Key Specs
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): 13 / 18 / 26 / 35 / 44 / 53
- Handles: 1
- Color: Black
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Made in USA: No
Summary
Another unique application of a workout sandbag is using it as an adjustable kettlebell. I’m a big fan of kettlebells in general, and I love this concept.
While the 5.11 filler bags above are great as sand kettlebells on their own, I recommend GORUCK here because there are more weight options (including heavier).
These are built with the same materials as the GORUCK Sandbags 2.0, including 1000D Cordura, double-stitched seams, and Box X reinforcements. They’re available in six weight increments ranging from 13 to 53 lbs.
You can perform just about any traditional kettlebell movement with these sand kettlebells. Swings, rows, snatches, lunges, carries, and presses are prime candidates. I especially like swinging them.
Because these aren’t made of steel, the handle is more offset from the weight compared to a traditional kettlebell. While this creates a minor difference in feel, it’s not something that stood out to me during testing.
In addition to creating a wide range of weights, the biggest benefit of these is their portability. If you’re heading on a beach vacation, these are the perfect travel companion. I won’t be traveling with full-size kettlebells on our annual beach trip anymore, that’s for sure.
The GORUCK Sand Kettlebells range from $50-$70, making them economically priced and sized. I highly recommend them if you’re a kettlebell lover looking for a solution like this.
Pros
- Excellent steel kettlebell replacement
- Available in 6 weights ranging from 13-53 lbs
- Heavy-duty Cordura construction
- Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty
- Affordable and ultra space/travel friendly
Best Budget Workout Sandbag: Garage Fit Sandbags
The Garage Fit Sandbags are budget-friendly bags with options up to 200 lbs in various colors.
Key Specs
- Material: 1000D Cordura
- Weight Options (lbs): S – 5-25 / M – 25-75 / L – 50-125 / XL – 125-200
- Handles: 7
- Color: Multiple
- Warranty: N/A
- Made in USA: No
Summary
The Garage Fit Sandbags are a solid budget option. These are similar to the REP Sandbags but without the extra reinforcements.
As with most other bags on this list, this bag is constructed with 1000D Codura for a durable shell. It also includes Box X Stitching, but it doesn’t have the metal grommets as the REP bags. As such, these won’t be quite as durable.
They offer the same handle and size options as the REP, however, making these versatile sandbags. They also come in several colors, including all of the REP colors plus one unique gray camo option.
Overall, I recommend REP over Garage Fit for the extra durability. That said, this is still a solid workout sandbag if you’re on a budget or shopping on Amazon.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- 1000D construction
- 4 sizes ranging from 5-200 lbs
- 7 handle options
- Available in multiple colors
Compare our Top Picks
Compare our selection of the best workout sandbags below based on key specs. Scroll right to see more.
REP Sandbags See More | GORUCK Sandbags See More | 5.11 Sandbags See More | Rogue Sandbag 2.0 See More | Rogue Strongman See More | Hyperwear Sandbells See More | GORUCK Sand Kettlebell See More | Garage Fit Sandbags See More |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Award | Best for Most | Best Overall | Most Versatile | Best for CrossFit | Best for Strongman | Best Pre-Filled | Best Kettlebell | Best Budget |
| Material | 1000D Cordura | 1000D Cordura | 1050D Nylon | 1000D Cordura | 1000D Cordura | Neoprene | 1000D Cordura | 1000D Cordura |
| Weight | 5 lbs – 200 lbs | 40 lbs – 200 lbs | 50 lbs – 100 lbs | 40 lbs – 150 lbs | 25 lbs – 400 lbs | 2 lbs – 50 lbs | 13 lbs – 53 lbs | 5 lbs – 200 lbs |
| Handles | 7 | 12 | 8 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| Warranty | 1 Year | Lifetime | Lifetime | 3 Years | 3 Years | 1 Year | Lifetime | N/A |
| Color | 7 Options | 3 Options | Black and Tan | Black | 6 Options | Based on Weight | Black | 8 Options |
| Made in USA | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
Benefits of Sandbag Training
Sandbag Training Increases Exercise Variety
You can perform dozens of movements with sandbags, including upper and lower body exercises. Lunges, squats, deadlifts, swings, back rows, shoulder presses, carries, throws, and more are all available.
With different shapes and sizes, you can load movements differently and challenge the body in unique ways.
They’re Affordable and Space-Friendly
The beauty of sandbag training is in its simplicity. These are basic tools that build foundational strength without taking up much space or breaking the bank. Most sandbags are less than 36″ long, making them easy to store. You can find them for under $200 in many cases, many of which are under $100.
Given their versatility, workout sandbags offer incredible bang for your buck, which is one of the reasons they’re so popular in home gyms.
Asymmetrical Load Improves Core Strength and Muscle Stability
Sandbags are unique in that their load shifts as you’re using them. Your body has to adapt, absorb, and stabilize an unstable force. This helps build strength through the core while also calling on stabilizer muscles to assist the primary movers. The result is a stronger and more prepared body, with carryover to everyday activities and traditional stable-load movements.
How to Pick a Sandbag
Here are a few of the most important factors to consider when buying a workout sandbag:
Material
Sandbags take a lot of abuse. Using high-quality materials is important to withstand intense exercise over an extended time. You should look for a minimum of 1000D nylon. The ‘D,’ which stands for ‘denier,’ is a measurement of fiber thickness. Cordura is the most common sandbag fabric because of its texture and durability.
Handles
Sandbags generally offer multiple handles to perform a variety of exercises. Multi-functional sandbags often include five or more handles, including wide handles, narrow neutral handles, narrow side handles, and a single handle for unilateral movements. Other exercise-specific sandbags, like sand kettlebells, will have fewer handles.
Sandbags may also have different handle materials. This will typically be the same nylon fabric or a heavy plastic coating. Cheaper bags will often use the plastic coverings. I find that the plastic feels bulky and takes away from the sandbag training experience. Therefore, I recommend fabric handles for most people, which is why no plastic-coated bags made this list.
Weight Capacity
Most workout sandbags provide a weight range for each size. For instance, a small sandbag may range from 5 to 25 lbs, while a large bag may range from 125 to 200 lbs. Having options in between is a benefit because you can grow the bag as your strength increases. Some sandbags, specifically those made for Strongman, can handle up to 400 lbs of weight.
Filler Bags
Filler bags are typically separate from the sandbag shell. They should be made of high-quality nylon with fold-over and/or zipper closures. The last thing you want is a liner bursting or leaking sand. Look for heavy-duty velcro or zippers to help keep in the sand inside the lining. The highest-quality sandbags typically include both.
The biggest benefit of separate filler bags is that it’s easier to set up. With fixed, integrated linings, you have to add or remove sand each time you want to change the weight. With separate filler bags, you can buy extras and fill them to your desired weight for quick adjustments.
Shape & Dimensions
Sandbags come in various shapes and sizes, which is important depending on your space and training needs. Most bags are cylindrically shaped, but other niche sandbags may come in different shapes. For example, some strongman bags are shaped like the iconic Husafell stone. Look at the dimensions when purchasing. As another example, the 200 lb REP sandbag is 37″ long, while the 200 lb GORUCK Sandbag 2.0 is nearly twice as long at 71″.
Reinforcement
In addition to materials, reinforcement is critical to ensuring your sandbag can handle your workouts. Seams should be double-stitched at a minimum to withstand drops, and handles should include Box X stitching for long-term durability. Some sandbags will have rivets for extra reinforcement.
Warranty
High-quality sandbags offer at least 1-year warranties, but some will offer them for a lifetime. For example, GORUCK offers a lifetime warranty and doesn’t even require a receipt. Since sandbags take a lot of abuse, I recommend focusing on those with at least a 1-year warranty.
Price
You can purchase basic workout sandbags for as little as $20-$30 and up to around $250 for the highest quality bags. With many available for less than $100, there aren’t a lot of tools that can match the versatility-to-price a workout sandbag offers.
Honorable Mentions
- Fringe Sport Sandbags: The Fringe Sport Sandbags are high-quality bags with Cordura construction. They’re available from 30-100 lbs. I didn’t include these bags in the list because their filler system is odd. Instead of large filler bags, they use multiple filler bags in different increments. For example, their 80 lb bag consists of (2) 10 lb filler bags, (1) 20 lb filler bag, and (1) 40 lb filler bag. However, if you need rapid adjustments, this is a good option.
- Titan Pro Sandbags: The Titan Pro Sandbags are built similarly to the Garage Fit Sandbags, but they’re more expensive. If you can catch these on a sale, they’re worth a look. I don’t recommend the Titan Weight Training Sandbags because of construction concerns and rubber handles.
- REP Stone Sandbags: These are nice strongman sandbags, but they didn’t make the list because they don’t go nearly as heavy as the Rogue Strongman bags. They also only have 3 weight options vs. 8 from Rogue.
- Yes4All Sandbags: These are a nice budget option with thousands of user reviews. They’re often less expensive than Garage Fit, but they don’t have as many color options.
- Elite Bulgarian Sandbags: Bulgarian sandbags are uniquely shaped bags used to develop core strength, muscular endurance, and more. You can load the Elite canvas bag to 39 lbs, and it comes with a BJJ app.
FAQs about Workout Sandbags
Are Sandbags a Good Workout?
Sandbags are great at building strength and improving conditioning. You can perform dozens of exercises with sandbags ranging in size and weight. Because of their unique load, they create challenging and effective workouts.
Are Workout Sandbags Worth it?
Sandbags are effective, space-efficient, and budget-friendly training tools. If you’re looking for a great workout without spending a lot or taking up too much space, they’re one of the best options.
What are the Best Workout Sandbags?
The best workout sandbags are made of high-quality and durable materials. I recommend sandbags with multiple handles for increased versatility. REP, GORUCK, 5.11 Tactical, and Rogue are just a few of the top brands making great sandbags.