Review and giveaway: Apera Bags

I was really excited to find out about a great company producing an extremely high quality product, Apera.

Up until now, I haven’t had a truly decent gym bag or duffel. I’ve always used things like the free tote that comes with a luggage set, or a hand-me-down, or something like that. And of course, those never held up well.

Now that I’ve had the opportunity to use a Performance Duffel from Apera, I have to say I’m floored. This is one of the finest bags I have ever owned.

The first thing I noticed about it is its size. Finally, I will be able to fit clothes, towel, shoes, water bottles — anything and everything I could want to fit in there I can. I’m so used to my bags being stuffed and not being able to zip them up after my things are in there. With this bag, that will never be an issue.

The second thing I noticed is the quality, which blew me away. Especially the attention to detail, such as no cheap plastic — the hardware is a sturdy metal. Padding along the sides. A cushioned shoulder strap for carrying comfort. Water bottle holders on the outside. Multiple storage areas, inside and out. Sides that are cleverly vented. Light-colored lining so that you can find your things easily.

This duffel comes in black, blue, pearl or fuscia. I chose the black, because I want to use this bag for so many purposes, including business, and it looks so professional and sharp.

My bag also came with a water resistant zippered insert pouch, which features antimicrobial protection and is included with every Apera bag to help keep your wet or sweaty items separate from your dry gear.

While the bag is great for fitness and athletics, I’m most excited about using this bag for travel. It’s the perfect size for a carry-on, and will also make an excellent weekender bag. I’ve got a few conferences coming up, and my Performance Duffel will be coming with me.

About Apera Bags

Each Apera bag features antimicrobial product protection – inside and out – to fight bacterial odor. Apera bags don’t stink. Literally. The innovative vented compartments allow your bag to breathe, while clever wipeable linings make for easy cleaning.

And Apera’s intelligent storage make the bags extremely functional. Your shoes, electronics, and wet or dry gear are kept separate and organized. And the amount of stuff you can carry is unbelievable.

Apera offers several styles of bags, in different colors, including the Tech Pack, Patented Yoga Tote, best-selling Performance Duffel,  Sling Tote,  Active Pack and Sprint Pack.

I also appreciate the fact that Apera is an avid supporter of Special Olympics, and donates one bag to a Special Olympics athlete for every three bags they sell.

Currently, Apera is offering 40% off their entire Blue line of bags. Any style of bag, including the one like mine, are 40% off. All of the Duffels, any color, are 40% off, too. Also, if you sign up for their newsletter at the bottom of their website, you are entered in a monthly drawing for a free bag. They give away a different style each month.

Facebook fan giveaway: Win an Apera Sprint Pack Bag!

This sporty red and gray bag, which measures 19″ high and 12″ wide, is perfect for packing a few items for a trip to the gym, to the park, or wherever you’re going. Inside, there’s a panel that divides the main compartment and keeps things organized in two separate areas. There’s also a large zippered pocket on the front of the bag that gives you even more storage.

A large opening allows you to pack your stuff quickly, then cinched closed easily via the two shoulder straps. Two vented areas on each side of the lightweight bag allows interior contents to breathe. There’s even a loop at the top of the bag so it can hang in your locker or wherever you need it to be.

Along with your Sprint Pack, the company will also include a 25% off certificate for any Apera bag.

I am very excited that Apera has generously offered to give one of my readers their own bag. Follow the instructions below to enter. You can enter daily by coming back to this page and logging into the form. Good luck!

How to enter:

1. Fill out the entry form.
2. “Like” the Healthy Beauty Blog on Facebook and receive 10 additional entries! (If you already do, you’re covered – thanks!)
   
3. For extra points, leave a comment below to help inspire us all! Tell us: What is your fitness goal for 2014?

Open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only. One winner will be chosen at random.

Please be sure to include a valid email address. Winner will be contacted by email and has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Disclaimer: I was provided a Performance Duffel for editorial review. All reviews are my honest opinion. Apera will be responsible for product shipment/delivery of prize.