Ortlieb Velocity Pack

Ortlieb has a well-established reputation as one of the premier makers of waterproof bicycle touring gear. In recent years, the company has taken that expertise and put it into general use packs. The Velocity is a new waterproof messenger-style daypack with roll closure and handle. The 1,220 cubic inch volume pack is the smaller version of the Ortlieb messenger bag but similar in design.

The padded foam back and the anatomically designed shoulder straps with waist and sternum strap allow comfortable transport of books or folders. Pens, cell phone, keys, etc. can be stored in the removable inner organizer pocket.

A high school teacher who commutes on his bike served as our official product tester. Here are his comments:

“The coolest thing with this pack is its simplicity of design. It’s basically a small river drybag with roll down Velcro-sealed closure. That allows you the ability to cram all sorts of gear into the bag for cycling around town, a day on campus, or even hiking. The basic drybag appearance belies some very trick features. Features like a snap-in/snap-out security pocket with zippered compartment with a small exterior organizer. This pocket has a belt loop so it can be worn like a pouch. Other trick features include molded rubber back panels that cushion the load on your back as well as create air space between your back and the pack. The pack’s padded shoulder straps are very comfy. Downsides? There’s one, and it’s that the Velcro closure tab on the back of the pack needs to be a bit longer. I had the pack open inadvertently when it was stuffed with gear.”

SNEWS Rating: 4 hands clapping (1 to 5 hands clapping possible, with 5 clapping hands representing functional and design perfection.)

Suggested Retail: $96

For more information: www.ortlieb.de/mainframe_e.htm