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by Sana Bun

Not Your Average Gym Bag: Sports Equipment That Costs More Than Your Membership

31 May 2025

Summer has properly landed in MENA, and stepping outside now feels like walking into a giant sauna. For those determined to stay active despite the heat, hats off to you. But let’s not pretend it is all just about fitness. Whether you are genuinely committed to your routine or just in it for the aesthetic, stylish gear never hurts. Whether you are training hard or just collecting good-looking objects, here is a round-up of designer sports equipment you don’t exactly need, but will definitely want.
Weight pulling brings way less suffering when your dumbbells are wrapped in oak wood, saffiano leather or monogrammed canvas. Could you get the regular ones for a tenth of the price? Sure. But then what would you display on your sideboard?
Then there is the yoga mat situation. Sure, you could unroll a plain foam one and get the job done — but if you are going to sweat through sun salutations, might as well do it on a tactile Celine cork or cute pastel pink courtesy of Miu Miu.
Apparently, skipping ropes have officially had their fashion moment. When brands from Louis Vuitton to Bottega Veneta all decide to get in on the warm-up game, you know it is serious. Will they make you jump higher? Probably not. But they will definitely make your workout look like a designer campaign shoot.
Hydration is important, so why not have your water bottle double as a fashion statement? You may be overheating, but, at least, overheating aesthetically.
If your idea of sport includes pleated skirts and polite clapping, then designer tennis rackets are here for you. Whether you can actually play or just want to show up courtside looking like a pro, rest assured: the fashion gang has you covered.
And let’s not forget the balls, but choose them wisely: even those fuzzy little spheres can make you stand out.
Feeling brave enough to hit the waves? Or at least pose next to them? Some surfboards look so chic, you might as well consider just hanging them on your wall.
Last but not least, for those who prefer sports that involve standing still and lightly tapping a ball, may I present: designer beach bats. You might not win Wimbledon with them, but you will definitely win some likes on Instagram.