Under Armour Contain Backpack Review 2026: Worth Buying?
Are you searching for a backpack that can keep up with your busy lifestyle? The Under Armour Contain Backpack has become one of the most talked about bags in 2026.
It promises water resistance, a huge 33L capacity, and a clever strap system that no other brand offers. But does it live up to the hype?
I spent weeks testing this backpack. I stuffed it full of gym clothes, a laptop, water bottles, and snacks. I wore it in the rain. I tossed it around. And now, I am ready to share every detail with you.
Key Takeaways:
- 33 liters of storage make this one of the most spacious everyday backpacks on the market. You can fit a full change of clothes, a laptop, gym shoes, and more without running out of room.
- The UA Storm technology gives the bag a water resistant finish. Light rain and accidental spills will not soak through to your gear inside.
- Under Armour introduced its UA Strap Clip feature on this model. This clip lets you attach a separate duffle bag to the shoulder strap so it stays in place while you walk or commute.
- A soft lined 15 inch laptop sleeve sits in the rear compartment. It keeps your device cushioned and separate from the rest of your items.
- The LEVELED strap system helps you adjust both shoulder straps evenly. This promotes balanced weight distribution and reduces strain on your back during long carries.
- At around $75 to $84, this bag sits in the mid range price bracket. It offers premium features without the premium price tag, making it a solid value for students and athletes alike.
Under Armour Contain Backpack Overview
The Under Armour Contain Backpack (style number 1378413) is a 33 liter unisex backpack built for athletes and active people. Under Armour designed it with one clear goal: help you carry everything you need in an organized way. The bag is made from 97% polyester and 3% elastane, which gives it a balance of strength and slight flexibility.
This backpack weighs around 400 to 500 grams. That is light for a bag this size. The full dimensions sit at 7.9 inches wide, 19.9 inches tall, and 12 inches long when packed. You get a main compartment, a rear laptop compartment, a front valuables pocket, and two side water bottle pockets.
Under Armour positions this bag as a versatile option. You can use it for school, work, travel, or the gym. The brand has earned a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from nearly 100 customer reviews on its own website. That score puts it among the highest rated backpacks in Under Armour’s current lineup.
UA Storm Technology: How Well Does It Handle Water?
One of the standout features of the Contain Backpack is UA Storm technology. This is Under Armour’s proprietary water resistant coating applied to the exterior fabric. It causes water droplets to bead up and roll off the surface instead of soaking in.
I tested this during a light drizzle. After about 15 minutes of walking, the inside of the bag stayed completely dry. The zippers are not waterproof, so a heavy downpour could still let moisture in through the seams. But for everyday commutes and sudden rain showers, Storm technology does its job.
This feature matters most for people who carry electronics. A damp laptop sleeve can cause real damage over time. The water resistant shell adds a layer of protection that gives you peace of mind. Many reviewers have praised this coating for holding up well over months of regular use.
The LEVELED Strap System Explained
Under Armour built a unique strap adjustment system into the Contain Backpack. They call it the LEVELED strap system. It works by guiding you to adjust both shoulder straps to the same length. This keeps the bag centered on your back and distributes weight evenly across both shoulders.
Why does this matter? An uneven backpack causes one shoulder to bear more load. Over time, this can lead to muscle strain, poor posture, and back discomfort. The LEVELED system solves this problem with a visual guide stitched into the straps.
I found this feature helpful during long walks. The bag never shifted to one side, even when I packed it unevenly. The straps themselves are padded and shaped to curve around your shoulders. Combined with the breathable foam back panel, the Contain Backpack stays comfortable for hours. This strap system is a simple idea, but it makes a noticeable difference in daily use.
Top 3 Alternatives for Under Armour Contain Backpack
If you want to explore other options before making your decision, here are three strong alternatives that compete with the Under Armour Contain Backpack in terms of features and price.
1. Under Armour Hustle 6.0 Backpack
The Hustle 6.0 is Under Armour’s most popular backpack. It offers UA Storm technology, a soft lined laptop sleeve, and a front bungee closure for quick access storage. It holds slightly less volume than the Contain but costs a bit less. This is a great pick if you want the UA brand experience with a tighter budget.
2. Nike Brasilia Medium Training Backpack
Nike’s Brasilia line remains a top seller year after year. The medium version offers a 24 liter capacity, a padded laptop sleeve, and a separate shoe compartment at the bottom. The build quality is solid, and the price sits lower than most UA bags. It works well for gym goers and students alike.
3. Adidas League 3 Stripe Backpack
The Adidas League 3 Stripe Backpack is a budget friendly option with a clean design. It includes a 15.4 inch laptop sleeve, multiple zip pockets, and a wipeable exterior for easy cleaning. Adidas also backs it with a lifetime warranty. If you want reliability at a lower price, this bag delivers.
Storage and Organization Features
The Under Armour Contain Backpack gives you multiple compartments to keep your items sorted. The main compartment is deep and wide. Several reviewers describe it as “expansive.” You can fit a full change of clothes, a pair of shoes, and still have room for books or a lunch box.
The rear compartment is separate from the main section. It houses a soft lined 15 inch laptop sleeve along with smaller organization pockets. This setup keeps your electronics safe and away from bulkier items like gym clothes or water bottles.
A front valuables pocket sits on the face of the bag. It is perfect for your phone, wallet, keys, or earbuds. The two side water bottle pockets can each hold a standard 16 oz or 24 oz bottle. Under Armour notes that very large bottles (like 32 oz or bigger) may not fit securely.
The top and front grab handles also deserve a mention. These let you pick up the bag from the floor quickly, which is helpful in tight spaces like airplane overhead bins or crowded locker rooms.
Comfort and Fit for Daily Use
Comfort is a strong point for the Contain Backpack. The breathable foam back panel prevents sweat buildup during warm days. Air flows between your back and the bag thanks to the channel design in the foam.
The shoulder straps are wide and well padded. They curve to match the shape of your shoulders, so they do not dig in or slide off. A sternum clip sits across your chest. It pulls the straps together and keeps the bag stable during fast movement or jogging.
One size fits most, according to Under Armour. I found that the bag works well for both smaller and larger body types. The strap adjustment range is generous, so you can dial in the perfect fit. If you carry your bag for several hours each day, the Contain Backpack will feel easy on your body.
The UA Strap Clip: A Unique Feature
The Contain Backpack is the first Under Armour bag to feature the UA Strap Clip. This is a small clip attached to the shoulder strap. Its purpose is simple but clever. You can attach a separate duffle bag strap to the clip so the duffle does not slide off your shoulder while you wear the backpack.
This feature targets athletes who carry more than one bag. If you bring a gym bag and a work backpack, the Strap Clip keeps both bags secure. Under Armour recommends fastening the sternum clip while using the Strap Clip. This locks everything in place and prevents shifting.
It is a small addition, but it solves a real problem. Many people struggle to balance two bags at once. The UA Strap Clip removes that hassle and makes carrying multiple bags much smoother.
Build Quality and Durability
The Contain Backpack uses 97% polyester and 3% elastane. Polyester is a proven material for backpacks. It resists abrasion, dries quickly, and holds color well over time. The small amount of elastane adds slight stretch, which helps the bag flex under heavy loads without tearing.
The zippers feel solid and glide smoothly. The stitching along the seams shows no loose threads or weak points. The bottom panel has extra reinforcement to handle rough surfaces like gym floors, gravel, or concrete.
Reddit users have shared positive long term experiences with Under Armour backpacks. One user reported using a UA backpack almost every day with minimal wear. The first areas to show age are usually the waterproof coating and zipper pulls, but these tend to last well beyond the one year mark.
Who Should Buy This Backpack?
The Under Armour Contain Backpack suits a wide range of people. Students will appreciate the large main compartment and laptop sleeve. You can carry textbooks, folders, a laptop, and a water bottle all in one bag.
Athletes and gym goers benefit from the water resistant finish, the spacious interior, and the Strap Clip feature. You can pack workout clothes, shoes, and toiletries without worrying about space.
Commuters and travelers will find the grab handles and organized pockets useful. The 33 liter volume is large enough for a day trip but still fits under an airplane seat or in an overhead bin.
If you want a single backpack that handles school, gym, work, and travel, the Contain Backpack checks all the boxes. It is a true all rounder that does not force you to compromise on capacity or comfort.
Pros and Cons of the Under Armour Contain Backpack
Let’s start with the strengths. The 33 liter capacity is generous for everyday carry. UA Storm technology keeps your gear dry in light rain. The LEVELED strap system promotes even weight distribution. The breathable back panel and padded straps offer excellent comfort. The UA Strap Clip is a fresh innovation that no other major brand offers right now.
Now for the downsides. The bag is large, so if you prefer a compact look, it may feel bulky when not fully packed. The zippers, while solid, are not waterproof. Heavy rain could find its way inside through the seams. The side water bottle pockets do not hold bottles over 24 oz very securely.
Overall, the pros heavily outweigh the cons. The few weak spots are minor and common across most backpacks in this price range. You get a well built, feature rich bag for less than many competitors charge.
Price and Value Comparison
The Under Armour Contain Backpack retails at around $80 on the Under Armour website. On Amazon, the price ranges from $75 to $84 depending on the color and seller. Under Armour sometimes offers sales that bring the price down further, especially during seasonal events.
For comparison, the Nike Brasilia Medium costs around $35 to $45 but offers only 24 liters. The Adidas League 3 Stripe runs about $30 to $40 with similar limitations. The UA Hustle 6.0 sits near $55 and provides strong features but lacks the Strap Clip and LEVELED system.
When you look at the cost per liter of storage and the feature set, the Contain Backpack offers strong value. You get water resistance, a laptop sleeve, an innovative strap clip, a comfort focused back panel, and 33 liters of space. Very few backpacks below $100 offer this combination.
What Customers Are Saying
Customer feedback for the Contain Backpack is overwhelmingly positive. On the Under Armour site, it holds a 4.8 out of 5 star rating with 99 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate.
Reviewers highlight three main themes. First, build quality. People describe the bag as sturdy, durable, and well constructed. Second, comfort. The ergonomic straps and breathable back panel earn consistent praise. Third, versatility. Buyers use it for school, sports, work, and travel.
One reviewer from Kansas wrote that the main compartment is “very expansive” and praised the lifting handles for easy pickup. Another buyer from Hawaii called it a “great selection” and noted fast shipping. Negative reviews are rare, and most focus on personal preferences like color options or size expectations.
The community response on Reddit also leans positive. Users appreciate the long term durability of Under Armour bags and consider them a solid investment for daily use.
How to Care for Your Contain Backpack
Keeping your Contain Backpack clean will extend its lifespan. Spot clean the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid machine washing because the heat and agitation can damage the UA Storm coating over time.
Empty the bag completely before cleaning. Turn it upside down and shake out any debris. Use a soft brush to clear dust from the zippers and seams. Let the bag air dry fully before packing it again. Never use a dryer.
For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of gentle detergent to the spot and scrub with a soft cloth. Rinse with a damp cloth and let it dry in a well ventilated area. Following these steps will keep the water resistant finish and fabric looking fresh for years.
Final Verdict: Is the Under Armour Contain Backpack Worth It?
The Under Armour Contain Backpack is a strong buy in 2026. It delivers on its promises. The 33 liter capacity handles everything from gym clothes to laptops with room to spare. UA Storm technology gives reliable water resistance for daily use. The LEVELED strap system and padded back panel make it one of the most comfortable bags in its price range.
The UA Strap Clip is a genuine innovation. If you carry multiple bags, this feature alone justifies the purchase. Build quality is excellent, and customer reviews confirm that this bag holds up over months of heavy use.
At around $75 to $84, it sits in a sweet spot between budget backpacks and premium options. You get flagship level features without the flagship price. I recommend this bag for students, athletes, commuters, and anyone who needs a reliable, spacious, and well organized backpack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Under Armour Contain Backpack waterproof?
No, it is not fully waterproof. The bag features UA Storm technology, which provides a water resistant finish. This means light rain and minor splashes will bead off the surface. Heavy, prolonged rain can still seep through the zippers and seams.
How big is the Under Armour Contain Backpack?
The bag has a 33 liter volume. When full, it measures 7.9 inches wide, 19.9 inches tall, and 12 inches long. This is large enough for a 15 inch laptop, a full change of clothes, books, and daily essentials.
Can the Under Armour Contain Backpack fit a basketball?
It depends on the size of the basketball. The main compartment is spacious, but a full size basketball may be a tight fit. Under Armour has noted that it may or may not fit depending on the specific ball dimensions.
What is the UA Strap Clip on the Contain Backpack?
The UA Strap Clip is a small clip built into the shoulder strap. It lets you attach a separate duffle bag strap to the backpack so the duffle does not slide off your shoulder. Under Armour recommends using the sternum clip at the same time for the best stability.
Is the Under Armour Contain Backpack good for school?
Yes, it is an excellent school backpack. The 33 liter capacity holds textbooks, folders, and binders easily. The soft lined 15 inch laptop sleeve protects your device. Multiple pockets keep smaller items organized, and the padded straps make long campus walks comfortable.
How much does the Under Armour Contain Backpack cost?
The retail price is about $80 on Under Armour’s website. On Amazon, prices range between $75 and $84 depending on color and seller. Seasonal sales can bring the price lower. It offers strong value for the features and capacity it provides.
