Don’t Forget These: Underrated Gym Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
Everyone talks about dumbbells and resistance bands, but what about the other stuff? You know—the low-cost, high-impact gear that makes your workouts smoother, cleaner, and actually more effective?
The name’s Salty, and today we’re highlighting the underrated heroes of your gym bag. These aren’t the flashy, overhyped tools clogging your feed. These are the Amazon-available essentials that keep things functional, fresh, and injury-free.
If you work out at home, at the gym, or somewhere in between—these picks deserve a permanent place in your routine.
🏋️♀️ 8 Underrated Gym Essentials on Amazon (You’ll Wonder How You Lived Without Them)
1. Gymreapers Lifting Straps – Deadlift Wrist Support
Price: $16.99
Why You Need It:
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Improves grip strength for deadlifts, rows, and pull-ups
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Reduces wrist fatigue
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Comfortable cotton + neoprene padding
Salty’s Take:
Stop blaming your grip. These straps let you focus on the actual lift, not your sweaty hands slipping.
2. Mava Sports Ventilated Workout Gloves
Price: $19.95
Why You Need It:
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Protects palms from calluses
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Supports wrists with built-in wraps
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Breathable mesh keeps hands cool
Salty’s Take:
Because bloody knuckles and shredded palms aren’t badges of honor—they’re distractions. Get gloves.
3. Cooling Towel by Chill Pal
Price: $14.97
Why You Need It:
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Instantly cools when wet
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Great for cardio, HIIT, or outdoor runs
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Compact and reusable
Salty’s Take:
It’s like air conditioning for your neck. You’ll wonder why you ever worked out without one.
4. BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel – Quick Dry & Compact
Price: $16.99
Why You Need It:
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Ultra-absorbent and dries up to 10x faster than cotton towels
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Lightweight and compact, perfect for gym bags or travel
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Comes with a breathable mesh carry bag for easy storage.
Salty’s Take:
This towel is a game-changer for gym-goers and travelers alike. Its quick-drying feature ensures you’re not lugging around a damp towel, and its compact size means it won’t take up unnecessary space in your bag
5. Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
Price: $37.47 (80 servings)
Why You Need It:
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Replaces essential electrolytes without sugar
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Perfect for post-workout hydration
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Comes in tasty flavors
Salty’s Take:
Water is good. But if you’re drenched in sweat, your muscles need more. These tabs bring balance back.
6. Sneaker Balls Odor-Fighting Shoe Fresheners (6-Pack)
Price: $15.25
Why You Need It:
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Compact design fits easily into shoes, gym bags, lockers, and more
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Twist-to-activate mechanism releases a fresh, clean scent
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Long-lasting odor control to keep your gear smelling fresh
Salty’s Take:
These little balls pack a punch! They’re perfect for tackling stubborn odors in tight spaces. Just twist to activate and let them work their magic.
7. TriggerPoint MB1 Massage Ball
Price: $26.99
Why You Need It:
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Targets knots and muscle tightness
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Great for pre- and post-workout recovery
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Small enough to carry in your gym bag
Salty’s Take:
Think foam roller but more precise. Stash it, roll it, recover faster.
8. Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle (32 oz)
Price: $26.99
Why You Need It:
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Keeps drinks cold for 24 hours
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Includes multiple lids
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Durable and leak-proof
Salty’s Take:
Hydration is performance. Ditch your cheap plastic bottle—this one actually does the job.
🐾 Salty’s Final Word
The gear that helps you recover better, stay organized, and feel good during (and after) your workout isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential. These picks are:
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Budget-friendly
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Amazon-available
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Salty Cat-approved for performance and practicality
Add a few of these to your bag and upgrade your workouts without upgrading your frustration.