AQUAPAC

Waterproof Backpack 25L

RRP £75 Target price: £60

Surely one of the great banes of a walker’s life is faffing around with a rucksack cover in the rain: taking it on and off every time you want a snack, or having it flapping in your ear all day long. This completely waterproof pack from Aquapac does away with all that. Not only is it fully sealed against rain on the outside, there is also a fully waterproof pocket inside. Hallelujah, I hear you cry! Well, yes – but also, not quite. It was undeniably a joy to walk in the rain, worry-free, but sadly it seems that in order to seal the pack against the elements, Aquapac have let go of most other features we are used to seeing in a walking rucksack: namely padding, support and structure. With none of these, the pack hangs shapelessly from the shoulder straps, and feels lumpy against the back. There is a detachable strap that functions as a hip belt and helps somewhat, but I still found it a very unstable pack. For quick, hassle-free splashes into wet weather, this pack is ideal, but for longer walks it will start to become uncomfortable. RB

INFO: Weight: 690g Capacity: 25L Extra pockets: 3 (incl. 2x bottle) Back system: None Contact: 020 7738 4466, aquapac.net

Fully waterproof and hassle-free

Little structure or support

BEST FOR: Mad dashes out into the elements