Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City review

The legendary German waterproof pannier manufacturer Ortlieb brings its instantly recognisable cycle touring tech to this commuter bag with great results

Cycling Weekly Verdict

This is a stylish backpack that neatly adapts Ortlieb’s unmistakable look and tech for a commuter setting. The quality is second to none; this bag is “sustainably produced” in Germany and has a five-year warranty.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Totally waterproof

  • +

    Lightweight

  • +

    Tough

  • +

    Comfortable when loaded up

  • +

    Has the distinctive Ortlieb look

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Relative lack of reflectives

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The fabric used for the Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City is a nylon cordura that looks woven rather than shiny and smooth like the company's famous touring panniers, but like them it's totally waterproof and uses the same method of 'welding' seams that Ortlieb pioneered. It is also lightweight, so if you’re carrying a minimal load you’ll hardly notice it.

And the renowned Ortlieb roll closure, which ensures total waterproofing in panniers if correctly executed, is present in a slightly more user-friendly form which allows much quicker access. There’s a keys/wallet/phone zipped side pocket that Ortlieb says is not waterproof.

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