Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack

The Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack is expensive but it's a very useful piece of kit for hardy winter commuters. It's not especially attractive, but what it lacks in form it certainly makes up for in function.

When I first started using the backpack I wasn't too sure I would be able to give it a full review, given that we were in the middle of a heatwave. However, Great Britain managed to deliver and I have used it in torrential rain and even ridden it through a thunderstorm – twice, all in the name of a thorough review.

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Given this effort, it is worth starting at the biggest selling point of the backpack: waterproofing. It manages this impeccably, with nothing inside the bag getting wet despite my best efforts. At one point I even chucked it in the shower to see if I could get anything to go through it, but still nothing. The reason for this is Showers Pass using a fully welded construction, with a single-side TPU coating on an "840-denier 100% Ballistic Nylon". It honestly lets nothing through at all, even when I was trying to test it to failure.

It is worth noting that although most of it is waterproof (essentially the bits that are meant to be), there are three compartments on the outside of the bag that let water in, but have drainage at the bottom – so water just flows straight out. These are two bottle holders and a quick access pocket on the front of the bag. Elsewhere there seem to be pockets and sleeves for everything – hydration bladder, laptops, tablets, valuables, glasses and tools. All in, I counted 11 not including the two included on the removable waist strap. It means that although it has a claimed 26.8 litre capacity, it feels like you can fit in considerably more. There are also several loops on the front for attaching things and a strap for the same reason, further increasing capacity. I tested it by taking a week's worth of equipment and clothing, all of which fitted in easily.

There are some nice touches across the bag too, such as the fleece lining on the glasses, valuables, laptop and tablet pockets. Each of the zips is also fully welded and taped while also having a secure and quality pull, giving the entire bag a sense of sturdiness and suggesting that Showers Pass has really put effort into the finishing quality of the bag.

It has comfortable, easily adjustable straps reinforcing the straps on the shoulders to help take the weight of heavy loads. The buckles are all made of high-quality aluminium, so you're unlikely to break them by mistake (something I have done several times in the past with other bags). 

Another nice touch is that the waistband can be removed if necessary, and even worn as a separate utility belt – if you have a small amount of things to take with you, or you like pretending to be batman... This is something that has bugged me with even my favourite backpacks, I generally don't like using waistbands on the bike, so they just get in the way. There are also some aluminium loops on the straps for hanging things, and a chest strap to help keep the shoulder straps in place.

Showers Pass has used 3-D Mesh spacer back panels to help wick moisture, speed up drying and allow for air to circulate. It works pretty well, although not as effectively as the tight netting construction that some backpacks have employed recently. However, it seems to do everything that Showers Pass wants it to, allowing a certain amount of air flow, and it also dries quickly. This construction also helps keeps the weight to 1630g, which is pretty good when you consider that it's a fully waterproof backpack with loads of pockets.

Also included are some decent safety features, not least the beacon lights that fit into the grommets on the bag, two on the front and one on either side. It makes you more visible than just high-vis elements, though there are some of these too, on the straps and the logo on the front.

The backpack is honestly one of the most practical pieces of kit I am currently using; it's incredibly well made and Showers Pass seems to have thought of everything. The only drawback for me is that it isn't the best looking. I would say that practicality outweighs looks, but given its size as well it makes me look a little like a kid at school. The large pocket on the front looks a little bulbous too.

> Read our guide to 10 of the best rucksacks, for all budgets

The price tag of £160 is steep for a backpack, but given the quality I think it's acceptable. You can get others that are waterproof, but few with the same kind of quality and number of features offered here.

Overall, I was really impressed with this backpack. It's obvious that a considerable amount of thought has been put into the design, and the finishing is top quality. The looks aren't going to be for everyone, but for those looking for a waterproof, practical and high quality backpack it's definitely one to consider.

Verdict

An excellent bag – if you can get past the looks and the price