Waterproof backpack or water-resistant backpack, are they the same? You may have the same question like most of us. Well, there are a few differences between the waterproof backpack and water-resistant backpack in material, production technology. Let's talk about them separately.
Waterproof backpack means the backpack can be submerged. So if a backpack is labeled waterproof, which means you can take it anywhere or even diving since this backpack can completely submerge in the water with keeping inside dry. A waterproof backpack is usually made of heavy duty PVC or TPU coated fabrics. Those fabrics have good waterproof features that can stop water getting in at most harsh conditions. You can take the waterproof backpack to kayak, raft or cross a river. In production technology a waterproof backpack is fully welded seams by high frequency not sewing and taped, which means the seams can bear too much water pressure without pop up. And even the zipper—a zipper used on waterproof backpack must be a waterproof one. The zipper is usually welded to the backpack in order to keep the water out. Some backpacks are welded with air-tight zipper in order to gain better waterproof performance. Airtight zipper is much better than the water-tight zipper.
Water-Resistant Backpacks
The water-Resistant Backpacks are only splash-proof. They can only protect your gear from rain or splash. The water-resistant backpacks are usually made of nylon or polyester, which are simply tightly-woven with coating applied to the back. As time goes on the coating rubs away. In technology, water-resistant backpacks are sewed and taped seams. The tapes may pop up as times goes on.
So you may have an idea how to choose a backpack. If you want to kayak, raft or cross rive you should choose a waterproof backpack. If you just want to wonder in the city or hike during weekend for leisure a water-resistant backpack is enough.
