We make bags that are either classed as Water Resistant or Waterproof. But what does that even mean? It might surprise you know that the answer isn’t super straight forward, but we’re here to dig a little deeper into riding with you bag in wet weather.
All the materials we use to make the bags are waterproof, the zip we use is a YKK water repellent Aquaguard zip and in the frame bags we use RiRi water resistant moulded tooth zip. However, because our bags are sewn, the act of stitching puts little needle holes in them that moisture can seep into overtime.
In real world use this means they will hold up in showery weather, big splashes, and even some rain, but they become less waterproof the more driving or prolonged the rain becomes.
Most people agree that this is waterproof enough for the type of riding that they do, however, we all know that even if you don’t plan on cycling for hours in the driving rain, it sometimes happens, and there is security in knowing your gear will stay dry even if you don’t. So, what can be done?
The only way to make a bag completely waterproof is to tape or weld the seams. Welded seams are not an aesthetic that we particularly like, but by taping the seams of the bag’s liner, essentially closing up the tiny holes made by sewing, we can maintain the look of a stitched bag while keeping the main compartment 100% waterproof.
Currently three of our bags are 100% waterproof: the Alakazam Basket Bag*, Badjelly Bar & Saddle Bag* and Figwit Cargo Cage Bag and. Provided you’ve got your roll top sinched tight, these bags will stand up to even the heaviest rain.
*please note the external pockets on these bags do not have taped seams are so are water resistant, not waterpoof.
If you’ve got further questions, reach out and we will do our best to help!