The Obtainer - 1/27/25, Monday

Valet.
The Obtainer

Monday,
January 27th Edition

Presented by

MR PORTER

Presented by

MR PORTER
Cory Ohlendorf

Today on Valet., we’re talking about making time to work out. So let’s explore what you should be packing in your gym bag (including the best bags to lug it all in).

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

 

What to Pack in Your Gym Bag

In order to make the most of your gym session, you've got to sweat the little things like exercise order, proper form and the right reps. The same goes for your workout kit. When you're packing a gym bag, you shouldn't just toss in any old pair of sneakers and some shorts. You want to put a little thought into it.

And you might be forgetting something important. We asked a few personal trainers about the essentials that every guy should pack in their gym bag. And interestingly, they almost all came back with the same list. It's not a lot. In fact, it's honed down to basics that will ensure you have everything you need and nothing you don't. Pack the same kit every time so it's more of a routine than a conscious decision.

Of course, you have your own gym clothes and those will change more regularly, but these items should

Our Gym Bag Kit

Endorsed by some of the greatest athletes in the world, intended for lifters and cross trainers alike, these sturdy shoes will help you perform.

Metcon 9 sneaker,
$150 by Nike

 

Gym towel,
$14.90 by Aurora Athletica

 

You don't need a gallon of water at the gym—just 20 to 32 ounces for an hour workout—so this durable insulated bottle gets the job done.

Vacuum-insulated water bottle,
$40 by YETI

 

This rugged, water-resistant bag is our go-to gym bag. It's virtually indestructible, comes in a range of colors and has plenty of interior organization to keep things in order.

Black Hole duffel,
$159 / $126.99 by Patagonia

 

Nobody really needs pre-workout, but if you like a little kick before a session, this combines caffeine with added hydration.

Hydration Multiplier +Energy,
$24.99 / $17.80 by Liquid I.V.

 

These sweat-proof earbuds stay securely in your ears and the noise-canceling technology helps drown out the annoying grunts and crashing weight plates.

Vista2 wireless earbuds,
$89.99 by Jaybird

5 Stylish Items to Buy This Week

First, the bad news. You can't really check into a White Lotus resort. But, now the good news. You can still secure some merch. Abercrombie & Fitch nabbed a deal to produce shirts and accessories with the fictional luxury (and doomed) hotel chain's IP printed on it. The cap already sold out, but there are a handful of shirts still on offer. Our favorite? This simple navy sweatshirt ($90 / $67.50) with an embroidered logo—is it from the hotel or is it something swiped from the production? Just another White Lotus mystery.

See all 5 products »

 

Partner

The New Essentials
at MR PORTER

Suede trucker jacket, $1,000 by Mr P.

What are the essentials of a man's wardrobe in 2025? With that question in mind, the team at MR PORTER is reexamining the building blocks of modern style. Starting with a curation of pieces from some of the biggest names in menswear, they'll pulled together a list of 15 items every man should consider investing in. From relaxed yet refined pieces—like cashmere half-zips and linen-blend polos—to cropped wide-leg trousers and a statement-making leather bag, here's some highlights.

 
 
 

Cotton-linen polo shirt,
$480 by Barena

 

Intrecciato leather camera bag, $3,000 by Bottega Veneta

 
 
 

Leather penny loafer, $710 by Officine Creative

 
 
 

Cashmere half-zip sweater,
$2,490 by TOM FORD

 

Tapered gabardine trouser, $890 by Jil Sander

 

See the new essentials at MR PORTER »

 
Smart Buys

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

 

This rugged cruiser jacket is cut from a double-faced wool, meaning the fabric has two distinct sides—the interior of this jacket is brushed for softness.

$298 / $133.99
by J.Crew

 

Le Creuset’s cast-iron enameled Dutch oven is heirloom-quality cookware. This matte finish version rarely goes on sale, so take advantage while you can.

$445 / $355
at Williams Sonoma

 

Knit from a plush yarn, Gap’s bestselling fabric feels cashmere soft, but is a whole lot more durable. This cropped, relaxed sweater is now an extra 50% off at check out.

$69.95 / $27.49
at Gap

 

Want more?
See all 30 sales »

Mood Board

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A collection of mid-weight sweats that draw inspiration from the early decades of American sportswear.

 
 

665 likes

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January 26