by Darren Dencklau

Feature

SealLine Urban Backpack - Keeping the Elements Out

Bicycle commuters need something that effectively carries their gear and can withstand the rigors of inclement weather. SealLine, known for their bombproof dry bags, created a backpack for just that. During the past six months I have been using the Urban™ Backpack for my daily commute and more. Here’s what I think.

Photo by Bicycle Paper

It’s tough. This can be attributed to both the materials used and its simplicity of design. The 600D polyurethane-coated polyester body is thick and the nylon-coated underside reinforces the bag for heavy loads. The radio frequency (RF) welded seams are weatherproof, heavy-duty and hardly noticeable, easily taking the abuse of every day use.

It’s watertight. The roll-down closure of the Urban Backpack is modeled after SealLine’s dry bags, keeping the elements outside and its contents dry inside. The opening is secured via a reflective and stretchable QuickClip™ that hooks under a 3-tiered rubber ladder.

It’s simple. The pack is essentially a dry bag with shoulder straps. The exterior has one weatherproof pocket, suitable for small items like a phone, wallet or checkbook. There are cutouts next to the pocket to mount SealLine accessories and clip-on lights.

Photo by Bicycle PaperThe padded and perforated sections of the body and straps add comfort to the commute.

It’s comfortable. The backpack’s straps are perforated for ventilation and feature an adjustable waist strap and chest strap for added stability. Atop the straps is a convenient and comfy carrying handle. Sheathed in between the users back and the bag is a perforated foam pad that makes it incredibly comfortable even with odd-shaped contents inside.

There are optional accessories as well and SealLine equipped me with their Organizer and Zip Pocket. The Organizer slides into four slots located on the inside of the pack and is a must — otherwise you’ll be searching for smaller items on the floor of the bag. The Zip Pocket is designed for carrying electronics like a small camera or an MP3 player.

I’ve used the Urban Backpack in every type of weather imaginable and it has performed exemplary. Though it may not be the “prettiest” backpack out there, if you’re looking for something that will keep your gear dry and is really comfortable, even on the longest of commutes, this one does so in spades.

Size tested - Small (MSRP $110). Also available in Large. Visit www.cascadedesigns.com/sealline for more information.