Datsusara’s Breathable Hemp MMA Bag

Remember way back when I began my quest for the ultimate MMA bag? Now, almost two years later, there’s finally someone who may have hit the mark. Datsusara is a company out of Albany, California started by Chris Odell. After seeing the market vacuum for decent Mixed Martial Arts gear, Chris decided to spearhead an effort to make his own awesome gear and thus, Datsusara was born. Datsusara’s MMA LGB-1 is designed by Chris and his gym buddies, and the design of this bag addresses real needs from guys who really train.

First of all, it’s big. Just over 5000 cubic inches, which is way more than enough for 2 BJJ gis. If you train standup and Brazilian jiu-jitsu with a gi on the same days, this bag is the perfect size. When you have a bag that’s got this kind of volume, you tend to begin losing things. The LGB-1 is laid out like an Ikea showroom for bruisers. On either side, you have mesh pockets with elastic tops to keep water bottles and wet rashies/clothes, etc. The large zippered pockets on the ends fit 16oz. gloves or extra clothes. Two velcro pockets on the front side are designed to hold 4 oz. MMA gloves. There’s a mouthguard pocket, a cell phone pocket, and a zippered pocket for your wallet and valuables. Absolutely brilliant. It’s got tough, practical styling akin to police/SWAT gear too. A black on black embroidered logo on the side is subtle and looks great.

The LGB1 is made of hemp which probably made it easier for Eddie Bravo and most of the Bay Area to endorse the product. Just kidding. Hemp is super tough, breathable, lightweight, and is antimicrobial, making it pretty much perfect for hauling sweaty gear around. If it does get funky, just throw it in the washer (no bleach) and line dry.

The only improvements I can think of hark back to my original quest from two years ago. When you sweat as much as I do, you get self conscious about your rash guard rubbing up against people in the train or on a bus. It’d be nice if I could put my wet stuff inside the bag but still keep it separate from any dry clothes. Maybe a waterproof baffle or compartment on the inside?

I haven’t checked out the bag myself yet, but everything about it looks solid otherwise. I’m just thrilled someone has put together a bag that’s designed so well for fighters.

As with any smaller operation business, it’s tough to get prototypes, R&D, and manufacturing worked out as cheap as the big guys, and the price shows. The LGB-1 will run you $120 and can be purchased on the LGB-1′s product page on Datsusara. It’s a bit steep, but what you’re paying for is great design by and for guys who train. The reviews linked on Datsusara’s site point to some Sherdog threads with additional photos and more positive feedback on the LGB-1.

Can’t confirm without seeing it myself, but so far it looks like this bag is in the lead for The Ultimate MMA gear bag.