The Earth Pak Waterproof is made out of 500D PVC and has a 20-liter volume. Its cylindrical shape and flat bottom make it simple to pack with the essentials. Its hardy enough for your kids to drag across the beach and offers moderate protection from water.
Performance Comparison
The Earth Pak waterproof is an inexpensive model best suited for casual use.
Waterproofness
This model received its lowest score in this metric which ultimately cost it any formal awards. While it served to keep our stuff sufficiently dry when subjected to splashes on the front of a paddle board, our towel was moderately wet after it was submerged and lots of air bubbles escaped. Dragging it behind the board resulted in an internal compartment full of water and a very wet towel. The
Waterproof is almost identical in every way to the
Skog A Kust DrySak 20L and the
MARCHWAY Floating 20L which all received an average score in this metric.
While the majority of our towel remained dry after testing, large spots were soaked through.
Ease of Use
The Waterproof received just above average marks for its ease of use. While the general shape is that of a standard cylindrical bag, the flat bottom allows it to stand upright on its own which greatly facilitates packing and finding contents inside it during activity. The removable over the shoulder carrying strap is useful for transporting it from the car to the water, but unfortunately, ours broke on the first day of testing.
The flat bottom allows this model to stand unsuported.
The Watershed Colorado Duffel was a top scorer in this metric and is the ideal model for a more avid water person. If you need to transport your product over long distances, the SealLine Black Canyon Boundary Pack features a padded backpacking harness that is much more ergonomic.
Features
While we loved the idea of a simple, removable crossbody carry strap to help move the Waterproof from point a to point b, we were disappointed that the plastic attachment broke during the first day of use. On a much brighter note, the included separate waterproof phone case worked great and we enjoyed using it even independently of the primary bag. The phone case is big enough for an iPhone 8 and both the touch screen and the camera work through the case.
Like both the Såk Gear DrySak and the MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof, the Waterproof feature a standard roll top. It has three plastic D-rings held on by webbing with two at the roll top, one on the bottom side of the back.
This model features a crossbody strap that unfortunately broke on the first day of testing.
Durability
The main compartment of this model is made of very sturdy material. Its thick and resistant to scratches and abrasions. The plastic D-rings and clips, on the other hand, are made of a thin plastic. The plastic attachment of the crossbody strap broke clean off during the first day of testing with no exceptional force.
The main compartment is durable enough to withstand being dragged over rocks.
If you're looking for superior durability and a minor level up in waterproofness, the Sea to Summit Big River is another inexpensive model worth considering. If cost is less of a factor and extreme durability and complete waterproofness are a necessity try YETI Panga 50.
Best Applications
The Waterproof is meant for casual use at the beach or in places where water would be inconvenient, but not a gear breaker. This inexpensive and simple product is great for kids and days at the beach.
Other Sizes and Colors
Earth Pak makes the same model in both 10-liter and 20-liter sizes. Both sizes are available in dark blue, light blue, orange, yellow, forest green, red, white, and black.
Value
$23 is hard to beat, especially with the bonus smartphone case. While this may be the perfect level of investment to keep your towel and clothes dry, don't gamble more expensive hydrophobic equipment with this model.
This inexpensive product is great for the casual paddle board session where you don't plan to get in the water.
Conclusion
This inexpensive model includes a handy phone case and is best suited for recreational users, kids, and casual days with minimal water exposure.
