CRBN Pro Team Backpack Review

I’ve been using the CRBN Pro Team Pickleball Backpack for over a year, non-stop.

This is my honest review based on real-world use, from rec games to tournament travel.

I’ll break down what I loved, what annoyed me, and who this bag is actually for 👍

You can grab the backpack here on Amazon.

First Impressions & Why I Got This Bag

I wanted a premium-feeling backpack that could hold everything without needing a bulky tour bag. CRBN’s gear has always impressed me, and this bag immediately looked sleek, spacious, and well-built. After a year of near-daily use, I can say it delivers—mostly.

Full Tour: Pockets & Features

Main Compartments

There are 2 main storage areas

1. Paddle + laptop

2. "Big-open-space for everything else, with 4 inside pockets. This is also accessible when the bag is lying on it's back

The main storage area is *massive*. I fit towels, recording gear, extra shirts, a can of balls, and more—easily. It expands surprisingly well and still keeps its shape upright when set down (a feature I really value).

Shoe Compartment

The bottom shoe compartment is ventilated with air holes and fits my size 12 men’s shoes, no problem—even with other gear packed in. Big win for travel and hygiene.

Side Pockets & Extras

The bag includes two side water bottle holders with what looks like thermal insulation. However, they’re *too small* for larger bottles—my 18oz Yeti barely fits.

Anything bigger? Forget it. I had to buy a smaller bottle just to make it work.😤

There’s also a small exterior front pocket and several interior ones, including two clear zippered pouches for grips and small accessories. There’s a fence hook too (which I never use, but it's there).

Real-World Testing

• Times Used: 1 year of near-daily play

• Comfort Rating: Very high — thick padded straps and breathable back panel make it comfy for longer walks

• Weather Resistance: Materials and zippers feel premium; unclear if fully waterproof, but it holds up well

• Build Durability: Excellent — no major signs of wear after a year

What Fits Inside?

I regularly carry:

• 3–4 paddles (with foam/neoprene covers!)

• Shoes (size 12)

• Can of balls

• Recording gear (nerd alert) & sweat towels

• Wallet, keys, phone, overgrips, sweatbands, extra shirts (rare)

And I still have space left. This bag is deceptively roomy.

Except the dang water bottle areas.

Love this review? You should check out my review of the Juciao WUKONG PRO paddle!

Pros & Cons

👍 What I Loved

• Massive interior with smart layout

• Extremely high-quality materials and zippers (seriously, REALLY great)

• Comfortable to carry even when loaded

• Keeps shape upright when placed on the ground (I don't know why but I love this)

👎 What I Didn’t

• Water bottle holders are too tight for anything over ~20oz

• Interior pocket layout is confusing—one pocket ALWAYS opens updside-down depending on how you access them. (upright or on it's back)

Price vs. Value

At around $100, it’s a great value for serious players who want something durable, stylish, and functional.

You could spend $20–$30 more for the CRBN Tour Bag, but unless you're hauling an entire pro shop, this one is plenty.

Should You Buy the CRBN Pro Bag?

✅ You should get this if you want a sleek, high-end backpack that carries everything you need without looking like luggage.

🚫 You might want to pass if you rely on big water bottles or get frustrated with funky pocket orientation.

Personally, I’ll keep using this until it falls apart. And even then, I might just buy another one.

Alternatives to Consider

• CRBN SLING - it's a bit smaller, but also cheaper. EVEN TINIER water bottle spaces, but it's possible to keep them in the "main" compartment.

• Selkirk Tour Bag: Bigger, more storage—but bulkier and pricier

• Franklin Pro Series: Solid option with wider bottle holders, slightly lower build quality

• Budget Gym Bag: If you're just carrying 1 paddle and some balls, a standard gym bag could suffice

FAQs

Can this bag fit more than 2 paddles?

Yes, easily. I’ve packed up to four paddles with padded covers.

Is the shoe compartment ventilated?

Yes, it has air holes and fits even large shoes comfortably.

Where can I buy it?

You can find it directly on CRBN's official site or through Amazon and major retailers.

Final Thoughts

This is my go-to pickleball bag.

It’s not perfect—but it’s close. If you want comfort, premium quality, and loads of space without going full tour-bag, the CRBN Pro Team Backpack is a no-brainer.