SealLine Urban Backpack

2019-07-25T20:00:00

I love how sturdy, simple, utalitarian and waterproof this bag is. Had mine for around 9 years on east and west coasts, travelled to 3 continents with it and carried electronics. I even tested it dropping it into the ocean.

Maya

Originally posted at

2018-12-27T19:00:00

Love it, first one lasted ~6 years until it was stolen! Lightweight, waterproof, absolutely no organization or zippers or padding inside. Replaced it with the same pack, new color!

Steve

Originally posted at

2018-07-03T20:00:00

I've had the Large sized pack for over a decade of year round commuting in the Pacific Northwest. This pack has been an absolute workhorse, and it's cavernous. When you get four seasons in one day, this pack will hold all the clothing you need, and still have space to hold a growler. The atrocious weather this pack has seen - from black ice wipe outs to marble sized hail and torrential rain, I was never worried about my cargo arriving wet. Except that one time my container of soup leaked, but not a drop of soup ever got out. Over the years, the separator inside the pack holding the spine board separated, the shoulder load adjustment straps tore away from the straps but the pack kept on going. It kept going until about a month ago when I noticed that there was a small hole in the bottom seam of the pack (see photo) so now the pack has been relegated to summer only duty. I figured I've had over 2,250 days of use out of this pack and it has never failed me, I wish all my cycling gear was this dependable. I'll buy this pack again in a heartbeat.

Ride w.

Originally posted at

2018-06-16T20:00:00

I've used the 37 L backpack for 9 years now as my primary bicycle commuting bag. Water resistance, ease of use, simplicity, "external suspension", relatively strong and durable materials are all good things. The negatives are the lack of internal organization pockets (you have to buy them separately at extra cost), the strap welds tore-off with time (I had them stitched to the body of the bag), sternum strap is a joke (it's made of a partially elastic fabrics and it stretches over time and loses its function), the straps soften and loosoen with time and come out of buckles and need frequent adjustments during use, the straps and padding in the back absorb sweat and start to smell really bad.

stric

Originally posted at

2017-12-26T19:00:00

This is a great backpack, Small Urban Backpack. I have used this backpack nearly every day for a year. Commuting to and from work using mass transit in Denver requires a backpack that is waterproof for a snow or rain storm sometimes both in the same day. This pack has always remained waterproof and is the prefect size to carry everything needed for a day and if needed a few items from the grocery store on the way home. The bag was perfect for a sailing trip around Nantucket as well as a summer rain storm on the island, I had no worries about the pack's ability to remain waterproof. I have taken a few minor hikes in the summer and was perfect for that as well. This pack was a bit of an adjustment to a single compartment with the one outer pocket from a multiple compartment pack, but I will probably not return to a multi compartment bag/pack again. On a superficial note I receive a positive comment or compliment on the pack most days. A great looking but very functional pack. I can confirm that the company stands behind their warranty on this product. I did send the pack into the service center after being given an RA. The warranty process was very easy an quick. The only delay was my delay in shipping the pack in after being issues an RA. I would recommend this backpack to family and friends without hesitation.

Gabriel

Originally posted at

2017-08-25T20:00:00

10 years in and I use this bag everyday. PROS: Roll top works easily and well. It stays rolled, unlike Borealis bags. Still water tight after 10 years. Simple platform for customizing, allows for adding what you need without a million pockets and dividers you might not. Stiff back plate protects you from pointy stuff. CONS: Roll top can interfere with a bike helmet, or shoulder checking. Lowering the back to its lowest position helps, but straps are prone to slipping out of nylon buckles, no sewn ends let's the strap slip right out, which led to the bag dropping to the ground and smashing in the corner and screen of my laptop. Flat pocket is difficult to use. Back plate won't stay in tabs after I took it out once to clean, now it just sits inside loose. I just went shopping for a new bag and everything had its short comings, I would probably get a new Sealline if MEC still carried them.

Marko P.

Originally posted at

2017-08-10T20:00:00

I don't use this bag very hard. Mostly for school. After only a year of clipping my waterbottle onto the webbing loops on the straps they started ripping off. I've had a lot of other SealLine products that have gotten me around the world no problem but this doesn't hold up the same. The way it ripped out I thing the webbing could have been sewn in better. The straps also loosen weekly when holding only two text books. Next time, I'll spend the money on a kayaking bag.

Poliphilo

Originally posted at

2017-06-21T20:00:00

Hey internet, I've been a bicycle messenger for a long time. I rely HEAVILY on a quality, large, functional, waterproof bag to make all my clients happy by transporting their packages in the same condition I picked them up in (even on rainy, snowy days). I've gone through PAC, REload, and Chrome bags for work. These are great companies, with great products, but for this price point, this bag is second to none. The large is HUGE, carrying over 40L, and very user friendly. No obtuse pockets, or gadgets to get in the way. Just a practical water tight bag that supports user comfort with padded straps and comfortable, secure back padding. This is hands down the most comfortable bag I've used for commuting to date. I've used mine, hard, for about a year before the gluing started to come off of the front pocket. This made the front pocket defunct, and affected the overall functionality of the bag. This is where I was became really impressed. I called the company about the manufacturing defect, and got a PROMPT response. They have some of the BEST customer service folks in the biz, and were able to replace my bag! How awesome is that?! This company is definitely worthy of your support.

randy

Originally posted at

2017-05-23T20:00:00

Really love this bag. Keeps all of my gear dry. My only wish is that it came in a reflective material since I do almost all urban riding to and from work early in the morning. Also could be designed a bit more stylish so that it isn't entirely function over form.

FF c.

Originally posted at

2017-04-20T20:00:00

My bicycle is my mode of transportation, so I ride everyday. I've used Seal Line backpacks for 10+ years. The Urban Backpack is by far the best I've ever had. The only thing I would do different with the design is, I would make the way the pack closes like the small Black Canyon Boundary Pack. The two ends of the rolled down top come together to connect. The way the Urban Backpack is now, the rolled down top is wider than most peoples shoulders and the pack hits doorways and walls, etc. Aerodynamics aren't as good either. Other than that, I absolutely love the pack. The accessory organizer is a game changer.

Dayly R.

Originally posted at

2017-04-11T20:00:00

I have tons of packs, and I use this one more than any other. It holds my laptop for bike/motorcycle commuting, my clothes for a weekend trip, or my cleats and clothes for a soccer game. The waterproofness is great peace of mind here in the PNW - if it starts raining mid soccer game, I don't have to worry about my stuff getting wet on the sideline. The aesthetics are great too - it looks good in the city or at the surf break.

Kyle S.

Originally posted at

2017-03-28T20:00:00

I've had this bag for 3 years and I love it so much! It has gotten me through many rainy tree planting seasons. This bag gives me such a sense of security because I know nothing will get wet

Lev

Originally posted at

2016-07-17T20:00:00

Particularly when I added the internal organiser and clipped in a nitize spotlit carabiner light. The problem is with the shoulder straps. For me there are too many adjustments without the straps being anchored to the body of the bag. Result? The harness comes away from the bag. The shortcomings with straps are best illustrated in the picture included.

Ball F.

Originally posted at

2016-06-25T20:00:00

I adore this bag. My college roommate bought one for me our sophomore year, in 2009. I used this bag every single day as a student in the Pacific Northwest, and the bag went with me on several trips to tropical rainforests in Central and South America. It was just last year, 2015, that the bag broke in a manner which could not be fixed (I was very sad). One of the great things about the bag is that it can be turned inside out to clean by washing down with a hose!

Boud1

Originally posted at

2015-05-27T20:00:00

I have owned the Large version of this pack for 5 years now. Pros: It can carry anything you want: case of beer, loaves of bread, milk, potatoes, whatever. I've also put 2 3-year old toddlers in it (don't worry, didn't ride my bike w/ them in it). I usually carry a 6x6x10 inch lunch box, change of clothes for work, wallet, phone, and bike tools..and that only fills it about halfway. It's totally waterproof, and very light compared to other similar bags. I like that it's made in the USA by a Seattle company. It's also the lowest cost USA-made roll-top biking bag that I can find--most others are $200+. Cons: After about 5 years, a small hole developed in the top portion of the bag. I patched it up w/ some Sealline brand patch kit materials that cost $5-10, and it works like new and will probably last a few more years at least (I patched both sides for added strength). This was much better than buying a new cycling bag. Also, the waist belt could be improved by being 2" wide instead of 1". Ortlieb and other cycling bag companies do this, and it gives the bag a little more support when carrying heavy loads. I also dislike the shoulder strap design when carrying heavy loads. They are a 'U', where the left side is connected to the right side at the top of the bag. Sometimes that 'U' portion rests on my shoulders/neck with heavy loads, which is uncomfortable. In Sealline's defense, I could probably adjust the straps differently to alleviate this. The bag also could have more reflective elements. I purchased some cheap reflective material from a fabric store and wrapped it around the bag, and that solves the problem. Overall: The Pros far outweigh the cons for bike commuting. This is a great bag that I wouldn't hesitate to buy again. It's the best USA-made cycling bag, no doubt about it.

buttaben

Originally posted at

2015-05-11T20:00:00

I've had my Seal Line large Urban backpack for close to 6 years. I've used it as an urban backpack to keep my electronics and change of clothing dry when commuting. As an adventure guide, I've used it as a daypack, winter and summer, for 5 years. It still keeps my stuff dry and none of the buckles are broken. However, some of the gear loops are torn. The only drawback is the lack of a padded hip belt. This makes the bag a wee bit uncomfortable when loaded with a guides gear for the day.

clemstrekking

Originally posted at

2014-11-14T19:00:00

I replaced my old Ortleib backpack with the Seal Line (large) back in September. The first difference I noticed was the shoulder harness on the Seal Line. It distributes the weight across the shoulders VERY nicely. Much more comfortable once it is properly adjusted (not too high up on the shoulders). I was skeptical about the narrow waist belt but, in truth, very little weight ends up there when the pack is properly adjusted and I am over the handle bars. I can carry more volume and weight on my daily commute (14 miles each way) with less overall back strain than I ever did with the Ortleib...including trips to Costco! Miles of smiles!

IBike2Work

Originally posted at

2014-11-02T19:00:00

I recently moved to the rainy portion of Oregon and needed a bag that could handle bicycle commuting so... I ordered a large Urban Backpack. It has since seen sustained torrential downpours, with the thought it would leak never crossing my mind, and it did not disappoint. I was a little intimidated by the open maw of space at first. As it turned out, the versatility of not having any divisions proved to be my favorite feature. It became my go to bag, regardless of the weather. The outer pocket zipper is heavy duty and has kept my wallet perfectly dry and accessible. The rear gear attachment area is easy to reach with the bag on, handy for turning off that red glow following you down the hallway... I got the organizer with it for the pens and such. It slides over the internal back support panel easily. I would recommend getting one for the pokey/small items you don't want rattling around. The key leash on the organizer is long enough to use the key without removing it, big plus for me. Definitely recommend!

Wickett

Originally posted at

2014-10-18T20:00:00

I bought the large model of this this about two months ago as my primary bicycle commuter bag. Sealline is well known in the outdoor community for quality waterproof outdoor products and this lives up to the name. I have been putting it through its paces and it has performed admirably groceries, samples for water quality analysis, gym clothes, laptop... it holds them all (just not at the same time). The seal is so tight that when you close it up with air in it the air does not escape! There are two considerations when purchasing this bag: 1. It is a dry bag with shoulder straps. There are no internal divisions like there might be in your traditional back pack. Some people dislike this, I don't care. It just makes it more versatile in my opinion. 2. The bag deserves straps with better padding. If you put more than about 15 lbs in the bag the straps will cut into your shoulders not matter how much you adjust it. So, think about how you plan on using it before you buy it. If they improve the padding on the straps, this is a 6/5 star bag instead of a 3/5 star bag.. Despite the straps, I would buy this again.

urbanstreams

Originally posted at

2012-09-25T20:00:00

Solid pack to use for cycling commuters. Only detraction would be that there are no inside compartments to put smaller items (i.e. pens, phone, keys)

Cycling c.

2012-04-17T20:00:00

Fast delivery and great pricing at Sunny Sports. Very pleased.

Oregon

2012-03-08T19:00:00

I will use the backpak for my next trip in june. My accessories will be protected against rain, wind,....

JoJo f.

2011-04-12T20:00:00

in the begining we noticed how uncomfortable the backpack straps are, behing your neck/head area, it continuosly grabs and hangs on your skin. This is due to the "handle" built out of the backpack straps which instead of seperating, unite instead. After 2 weeks of usage in easy, light-weight day trips the backpack BROKE. A HOLE was made by the rupture of the backpack fabric right where the seam/rubber patch holds the back-straps to the fabric. This means now I have a hole where the water gushes in everytime water slips through my back in the rain.... and I bought this for its waterproof quality! bah! Then the WAIST-STRAP, continuosly slipped-OFF the backpack, it seems there its a factory-mistake (yet another). I later discovered that the Urban Backpack is made in CHINA. While the other-one I own Sealline PRO back pack is made in the USA. Conclusion: the Urban Backpack is a bad-quality, expensive backpack that is in no way value for money! I would rather buy a 10 dollar bag at a chinise-cheap store, in the end, it would last just as long!

Andrés

2010-10-12T20:00:00

Upsides It looks much cooler than all the other similar waterproof backpacks that are currently on the market. The straps are also really comfortable and I love the convenient roll-top and strap. Downsides One downside to this bag is that it is quite unexpectedly narrow. Unlike other bags, the base on this backpack is actually oblong. So you're actually getting less space than you think. The pocket in the front is also pretty useless. When the rest of the bag is full, I can really only fit either my phone or my car keys in it. Lastly, the organizer REALLY helps with the functionality of the bag, but you shouldn't have to buy it. It should come as part of the bag.

frisbee f.

2010-04-20T20:00:00

Great product. I got the large and it is a good size for me. You can get a good four days worth of gear in it easily. Great for kayaking trips. The only qualm I have is that the stitching holding the shoulder straps on seems to be loosening...

Werd

2010-03-05T19:00:00

I use this bag for cycling and it is the first bag I've ever owned for this activity. The bag is huge. I can fit my work clothes/shoes, school books, a couple spare shirts, an extra pair of shoes, and all my cycling gear The padding on the back and circulation is amazing. It is highly adjustable and waterproof (though I haven't been able to use it for that purpose yet). There is a nice little pocket in the front where I put my wallet and keys and phone for easy access. The only con, I would say, is that there is no organizational pouches or anything on the inside. I will get to school sometimes and have to dig through the bag to try and find what I"m looking for. They do sell a separate organizing pouch, however I think that it should be sold with the bag. For the price Sunny Sports is selling it for, it's totally worth it! REI and others are selling it for [$] Great bag!

wannabeswede

2009-11-11T19:00:00

This is the second seal line backpack I have owned. The best review I can think of is that the first one took the beating of off shore oil rig work in the gulf of Mexico and kept my stuff dry as a bone. Their gear rocks!

Hammer