Is the NYC Backpack by DoubleTake worth the $264 price tag? After six months of heavy use on the courts, I’m ready to give my verdict.
As a pickleball player, I’ve gone through my fair share of bags that sag or fray. Six months ago, I invested in the NYC Pickleball Backpack by DoubleTake. It is pricey, but I can confidently say it is worth every penny.
Durability: The Real Test
The quality is incredible. After half a year of tossing it on courts and traveling, my blue NYC bag is still pristine. The fabric is fade and water-resistant, looking as good as the day I unboxed it. The only wear is normal scratching on the metal fence hook.
My friend bought the black (“Carbon”) version a year ago, and hers is also still pristine despite the extra year of heavy use. That consistency convinced me.
Top Features
- No-Tip Design: The bag stands upright on its own. No more tipping over in the dirt.
- Massive Capacity: Easily holds multiple paddles without feeling bulky.
- Protective Pockets: Plush, fleece-lined pockets keep my phone and sunglasses scratch-free.
- The “Hook”: The signature carabiner isn’t just for hanging the bag; it doubles as a bottle opener.
Colors
I have the Blue (Navy), which looks sleek. My friend has the Black, which is super stealthy. They also recently dropped a new White (Luxe) color that looks incredibly crisp if you want a statement piece.
What’s In My Bag?
The organization is fantastic, so I can carry a full tournament loadout easily. Here is what I currently pack (pictured below):
- Paddles: JOOLA Perseus 16, Ronbus Quanta R4.16, and Ronbus Quanta R2.16.
- Recovery & Health: Massage roller stick and a blue FlexBar (essential for keeping tennis elbow away).
- Tech: JBL portable speaker (teal).
- Essentials: 2 bottles of Smartwater, Blue Lizard & Coppertone sunscreens.
- Maintenance: Tungsten weighted tape, scissors, and a fresh roll of Yonex grip tape.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Durability: Looks new after 6+ months. | Size: It can feel slightly too big for quick casual games, but nothing major. |
| Structure: Never tips over. | Price: It is an investment at ~$264. |
| Organization: Dedicated spots for shoes, phone, and wet gear. |
The Verdict
If you are tired of replacing cheap bags, the NYC by DoubleTake is the upgrade you need. It is durable, stylish, and incredibly functional. It might hurt the wallet initially, but for a bag that stays pristine month after month, it’s a solid investment.
