No need for a rain cover even when it rains. Waterproof backpack catalog that also excels during the rainy season

Waterproof backpacks are on the rise

In the category of hiking backpacks, models with enhanced waterproofing have been increasing recently. Not only during the rainy season but also during summer, sudden thunderstorms have become more common, and many people are wondering how to protect their belongings from the rain. Until now, the standard was to waterproof items inside the backpack with waterproof bags and then cover the entire pack with a rain cover. However, the idea of making the pack itself waterproof has led various companies to develop different products. Here, we have gathered eight unique types of backpacks and asked representatives from each brand for their recommended points.

No compromise on ease of carrying

Deuter Duracent 30

[Pay attention here!]
It boasts high waterproof performance with a combination of fabric treated with seam tape on all seams and a roll-top opening. Its simplicity is characterized by attachment points that allow various equipment to be attached externally as needed. Unlike the simple type of waist belt seen in UL packs, it features full-size hip fins, which is typical of Deuter's philosophy of supporting the load firmly at the waist when packed. The urethane pad built into the back can also be removed for further weight reduction (minimum weight 680g).

[Brand manager's impressions]
I remember being astonished when I first got my hands on a sample a year ago, thinking, 'What? This is Deuter?' along with a clichéd reaction of bewilderment. This backpack is not necessarily recommended for everyone, but it is worth a look if you have the experience and skills to choose what you need and what you can do without, as it focuses on lightness and simplicity by eliminating unnecessary functions.

［SPEC］
Price: 40,700 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 30L
Weight: 730g
Color: Cinnamon x Ink
Product link: https://www.iwatani-primus.co.jp/products/deuter/items/D3364123/index.html

Waterproof inner lining is standard equipment

Montbell Alpine Pack 40

[Pay attention here!]
Montbell offers a wide range of backpacks equipped with a roll-up system that excels in operability and waterproofing. The Alpine Pack 40 introduced here is a new model for the spring and summer of 2023. It features an Aqua Barrier Sack treated with seam tape, allowing for quick opening and closing of the compartment while maintaining high waterproof performance. Despite its slim silhouette, which is less likely to get in the way on narrow hiking trails, the height of the shoulder harness can be adjusted in three stages, allowing for optimal fitting according to body size, achieving high stability. The included top lid can be removed and used as a shoulder pouch, making it useful for summit attacks and other activities.

[Brand manager's impressions]
In addition to the high waterproof performance of the roll-up system, the adjustable shoulder harness also provides a comfortable carrying experience, which is a recommended point. The main body has an aluminum stay that achieves ultra-lightweight and is built to fit the curve of the back, providing stability as the stay follows the movement of the upper body while walking. In addition to the 40L introduced here, a wide range of sizes from 100L to 30L is available, so we hope many people will try them out in stores.

［SPEC］
Price: 26,400 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 40L
Weight: 1490g (including Aqua Barrier Sack)
Color: 3 colors including blue (pictured)
Product link: https://webshop.montbell.jp/goods/disp.php?product_id=1133364

Storage capacity that makes you want to use it every day

Mountain Hardwear
Simco 28 Backpack

[Pay attention here!]
A completely waterproof backpack that can be used both in the field and in the town. Fully waterproof with TPU coating, full-seam tape, and watertight zippers, it mixes everyday design with the functionality of mountain hardware. It can be fully opened to the bottom of the pack, making it easy to access the main compartment and organize your luggage. The 15-inch PC sleeve can be attached and detached with hook-and-loop fasteners and can be used alone. It has a lined pocket on the top for storing sunglasses and small items, as well as a side pocket for a water bottle.

[Brand manager's impressions]
Since it is fully waterproof, it is useful for day hikes and in situations where you cannot use an umbrella, such as sudden rain in the upcoming season or while riding a road bike. It also has a PC sleeve and plenty of pockets for storing gadgets, making it a very practical backpack despite its minimal design.

［SPEC］
Price: 27,500 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 28L
Weight: 900g
Color: Combat Green (pictured) and 2 other colors
Product link: https://www.mountainhardwear.jp/shop/g/gOU3325004--OZS000

Backpacks are synonymous with waterproof bags

Ortlieb A-Track

[Pay attention here!]
Ortlieb, a German waterproof and dustproof bag manufacturer with roots in travel, excels in functionality and durability. The Atrack, which combines the functions of a travel bag and a backpack, features an innovative design with a large opening on the back of the bag, allowing for quick packing and unpacking. Made from PVC-free nylon material and TIZIP zippers, it boasts excellent waterproof and durability properties, and is crafted using advanced welding technology, achieving an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. The shoulder straps, which are breathable and adjustable in length, and the waist belt with storage pockets provide a high level of fit and comfortable carrying experience, making it ideal for various activities such as trekking, cycling, ski touring, and canoeing.

[Brand manager's impressions]
The distinctive opening not only allows for quick access to your belongings, but also helps prevent theft as the zipper is on the back side. With extremely high waterproof performance, you can store items like cameras that you absolutely do not want to get wet, and enjoy activities with peace of mind even in bad weather. There is adequate space between the bag and your back, ensuring good breathability. The shoulder harness and hip belt, which can be adjusted to fit your body shape, feature adequately thick padding, providing a comfortable fit that follows your body's movements. This backpack is recommended for those who enjoy activities year-round, such as hiking in the summer and winter sports in the winter. In addition to the 35L size, a 45L size is also available.

［SPEC］
Price: 41,800 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 35L
Weight: 1470g
Color: Petrol (product photo), rooibos (specification image)
Product link: http://g-style.ne.jp/item.php?brand_id=21&item_category_id=76

Super lightweight and packable

Matador Freefly 16

[Pay attention here!]
Among the Matadors, it is a model of the "Advanced Series", a high-performance series that is extremely light, packable, and waterproof. It weighs 190g and is as small as the palm of your hand when placed in the included compression bag. Ultra-lightweight UHMWPE-reinforced Robic nylon for superior durability, UTS coating, sealed seams, and sealed zippers for weatherproof designLightweight, compact, and packed with easy-to-use features such as gear loops, shock cord capture for tools, buckled compression straps, and side pockets.

[Brand manager's impressions]
In addition to walking in the mountains for about 2~3 hours, I carry it as an attack sack or when I travel. I like the fact that it is light and small, and the shoulder belt is made of mesh, so it is easy to sweat out. There is no padding on the belt, but it is also wide, so there is no strain on the shoulders.

［SPEC］
Price: 11,000 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 16L
Weight: 190g
Color: Black
Product link: https://aandfstore.com/products/20370044001000

Waterproof + Tough

Crux RK20

[Pay attention here!]
Crux's waterproof backpacks are broadly divided into two types: the AK model with a top lid (rain cover) and the RK model without a top lid. The pocket on the top lid is not completely waterproof, but the main compartment of the body is completely waterproof in both models. The one we recommend this time is the simpler RK model without a top lid, with the smallest capacity, the "RK20." A feature of Crux's waterproof backpacks is the use of waterproof fabric that combines Kevlar and nylon. Kevlar is a very high-strength aramid fiber that boasts ten times the tensile strength of steel on a weight basis. The fabric is joined not by sewing but by welding, creating the backpack. You can use it with peace of mind for a long time because there is no worry about the seams or tears in the fabric. The RK20 is a model requested from Japan, and unlike other larger capacity models, the shoulder straps are made of mesh material that drains water well. It is the perfect size for day hikes and stream climbing, so it will be useful in the coming season.

[Brand manager's impressions]
The Cracks backpack is really tough to build and can be used with confidence. You don't have to worry about tearing even if you rub it against a rock, so you can concentrate on mountain climbing without worrying about stream climbing, yabu padding, or climbing. And the simple, lean and rugged design is also an important point that I like.

［SPEC］
Price: 36,300 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 20L
Weight: 895g
Color: Petrol (product photo), rooibos (detail photo), etc.
Product link: https://store.staticbloom.co.jp/products/crux-rk20

Eco-friendly dry bag

Exped Splash 15

[Pay attention here!]
The Splash 15 is a backpack with a fully waterproof full-seam dry bag. In addition to carrying it on your back, if you move the position of the shoulder strap, it is a 2-way specification that can be hung diagonally like a messenger bag, so it is very useful not only for mountain climbing, but also for festivals and travel! It is ultra-lightweight at 100g, so it is a very excellent backpack that you want to always have in your bag like an eco-bag.

[Brand manager's impressions]
As a favorite splash, this year we are planning to release a limited edition animal print version of the Exped 40th anniversary!　Each color is printed with a different animal illustration, so I'm going to complete all of them.

［SPEC］
Price: 4,620 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 15L
Weight: 100g
Color: 6 colors including gold (pictured)
Product link: https://online-store.sohshin.net/products/detail/2609

A clean design that is easy to use everyday

Arc'teryx Granville 16 Backpack

[Pay attention here!]
With its minimalist form and unique texture, it is an urban backpack that shines with stylishness, but it is one of the luxurious items that incorporates the innovative technology that Arc'teryx has cultivated in a harsh environment. The AC² (High Performance Composite Construction) technology system finished with seam tape is highly waterproof, and the water-tight zipper prevents rain and snow from entering. The large main compartment has a padded sleeve to protect your PC, a mesh zipper pocket to store accessories, and a zipper pocket with a key clip on the top on the outside to keep your valuables safe. The laminated back panel provides excellent comfort and stability when carried on your back.

[Brand manager's impressions]
It has a simple and stylish design, so it is good to match it with formal clothes as well as casual clothes. In addition, it has more capacity than it looks, and it is very easy to use in terms of organizing and taking small items. Even if you store heavy items such as PCs and charging cords, you will not feel the weight, you will be close to your body even if you run a little, and you can spend time without worrying about changes in the weather, so it is a frequently used item that is active in various scenes both in the city and in the mountains.

［SPEC］
Price: 30,800 yen (tax included)
Capacity: 16L
Weight: 760g
Color: 2 colors available, including Foliage (pictured)
Product link: https://arcteryx.jp/products/x000005342

Choosing and Using a Waterproof Backpack

Even though it is a waterproof backpack, the usability and waterproof performance vary depending on the product. They range from those that emphasize ease of use for commuting to work and school, to those that can be used even when climbing streams due to their high waterproof performance. There are also packable versions that are easy to use as a sub-sack, and these can also be used as waterproof bags in the pack. First of all, let's imagine your own usage scene.

Another thing to keep in mind when using a waterproof backpack is that even if it is highly waterproof, it can be flooded due to a mistake by the user. No matter how waterproof the zipper is, if you don't close it tightly, water can easily get inside, and if you open and close your backpack while it's raining, rainwater or water dripping from your rainwear can get inside. It is also important for the user to take measures to prevent the user from ruining the waterproofness, such as waterproofing items that you absolutely do not want to get wet, and making sure that the backpack is securely closed before leaving.

Finally, here’s a tip for using a waterproof backpack. While you don’t need a rain cover, the pack itself can get completely soaked. It can feel awkward to bring a dripping backpack into a mountain hut, tent, public transportation, or your own car. To prepare for such situations, keep a quick-drying towel or chamois towel—one you don’t mind getting a bit dirty—in the most accessible part of your pack. If you give your pack a quick wipe-down, you’ll greatly reduce the risk of getting the hallway, inside of your tent, or your car wet. Handy gear becomes even more useful with a little creativity. Make the most of your waterproof pack and enjoy hiking even during the long rainy season.