Waterproof backpack options (for commuting)

Given all the recent rain, I’m thinking of getting a waterproof backpack to save me pulling a wet shirt out of my bag after commuting! I’ve seen a couple of options:
– This Polaris Aquanought, and
– This Overboard[/url] Pro Sports Backpack

Anyone got an experiences of either, or any other recommendations?

Cheers
Nick

I got an Alpkit Gourdon for commuting and its excellent. Not the most comfy thing ever but with some sensible packing its fine, and, as its primarily a dry bag, not even a hint of damp inside.

Alpkit Gourdon

I have this. it’s great.

lomo dry pack

Have a look at Lomo sports. They specialise in waterproof gear. the pack i’ve got is comfy and big and think i’d quite happily use it as a buoyancy aid.(cheap also)

Or just use a dry bag inside your existing pack. The Gourdon is essentially a dry bag with straps on. Or Aquapac – website – does a few options, none of which I’ve used.

The exped cloudburst is quite nice if you do not have too much to carry.

http://www.outdoorgb.com/p/exped_cloudburst__25/?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=directory&utm_content=GBR&currency=GBP&country=GBR&SelectedBundle=153508&SelectedItem=638727&gclid=CNK_o8j61bwCFQKWtAodBH8ApQ

I have the Alpkit one. Also consider Ortileb, Messenger or Velocity, check out Ghyllside Cycles for stock.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/ile-default-bag/

I’ve just got a Alpit one having previously used a 15L Exped Cloudburst. Both are very similar in design, the Exped is lighter, and closes better. Alpkit is a bit cheaper, material probably more robust and external mesh pockets. Either are very good IMO.

Thanks all – lots of options for me to take a look at!

Cheers,
Nick

Backpack just equals a sweaty back. get a Carradice SQR Touring. Very waterproof, not had a wet pair in the year I have had it. And the customer service is great as they have just replaced the seat post clamp, without hassle.
[/url]
2013-02-22 08.07.27[/url] by Shuhockey[/url], on Flickr[/img]

lomo dry pack

Have a look at Lomo sports. They specialise in waterproof gear. the pack i’ve got is comfy and big and think i’d quite happily use it as a buoyancy aid.(cheap also)

This looks awesome, I think I might have to get one of these! Great value too.

There’s quite a bit on the lomo site, that while not cycling specific fits the bill. There’s also a decent looking grey dry bag they’ve just released. Their sports glasses are a steel at £15. British company as well. Just to add i use that bag everyday for commuting and have used on all day rides where the weather could be changable. No sweaty back problems at all. Good strapping systems as well. oh and i’m nothing to do with them! found them through a review on their glasses in MBUK.

If you’re near a Decathlon they were selling these off for 30 quid in store. looked good to me.
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/oxford-aqua-25l-yellow-bag-id_8293852.html

I have the Alpkit gourdon, great bit of kit. I orginially bought it thinking it would be good for mtbing in filthy weather. It’s ended up being my “go to” bag for daily commuting, mtbing, bike packing, commutiing etc. Totally waterproof, durable, light and comfy.

Only issue would be if 25l is enough for your commute. If I’m carrying shoes it’s a bit tight to arrive without a crumpled shirt and trousers.

Genuine question:

Why don’t you leave the work shoes at work?

I use one of these, works well.
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/respro-hump-backpack-waterproof-cover/rp-prod23555

Another Alpkit Gourdon user.

On my third now, use it for everything – comfy, completely waterproof and not too sweaty (only a thin strip down the centre touches your back when packed).

The bottoms get a bit holey after a couple of years of being dragged over rocks and rested on pointy things, but you can patch them.

I think they’re a brilliant bit of design, make other rucsacks look over elaborate and way too expensive.

I like the look of that Lomo one, its in Glasgow too, maybe need to pop in one day.

Mini review

http://www.scotoutdoors.com/outdoor-gear-reviews-news/lomo-cycling-drybag-backpack