In a world where companies are always pushing the newest thing, there’s a German company that’s been focused on one thing for over 40 years: making gear that simply doesn’t break. Back in 1982, Hartmut Ortlieb started his company with a clear goal: to create truly waterproof bags that could take a beating for years and still work perfectly.
Meet ORTLIEB bike bags, backpacks, and travel bags! They’re all about lasting quality and being 100% waterproof. And yes, they’re made in Germany. This isn’t just a sales pitch. It’s a promise backed by millions of cyclists, hikers, and outdoor pros who have used Ortlieb gear hard for over 40 years.
I spent eight months putting three different Ortlieb backpacks to the test. I used the Velocity, Atrack 35L, and Commuter-Daypack Urban in everything from heavy rain to dusty conditions. One thing I learned is that these aren’t just backpacks. They’re carefully designed to solve the problem of keeping your stuff dry and safe, no matter what.
The German Way of Doing Things
Quality First
ORTLIEB makes all its bags in Heilsbronn, Germany, in a way that’s fair, sustainable, and saves resources. They’re serious about being Made in Germany. They also pay attention to their carbon footprint and try to ship things in an efficient way. Making things locally isn’t just about keeping an eye on quality. It’s about having a different way of thinking about how to make products.
Most backpack companies are always trying to keep up with the latest styles. Ortlieb, on the other hand, has spent years making the same basic designs better and better. The result is gear that focuses on how well it works, how long it lasts, and how it performs in real life, not just on what looks cool.
Waterproof, Really Waterproof
Being truly waterproof means more than just keeping rain out. It means creating a sealed system that stays strong even when it’s under pressure, moving around, and exposed to the elements for a long time. Ortlieb uses special materials that are made for specific uses, like polyester, nylon, and Cordura fabrics with one or two waterproof coatings.
Because of this careful approach, Ortlieb packs don’t just resist water. They create a barrier that keeps water out completely, even in conditions that would ruin other backpacks.
What It’s Made Of: The Key to Long Life
Good Materials Matter
Ortlieb chooses materials based on years of testing in the real world. The front part of the packs use PD620, a polyester with a shiny, waterproof coating. The sides and bottom use PS620C fabric, which has a more matte look but is just as tough. These aren’t just your average outdoor fabrics. They’re made for specific stresses and weather conditions.
The coating process creates a strong link between the waterproof layer and the fabric, which stops the coating from peeling off like it can on cheaper fabrics. Even after months of testing, including trying to damage the packs on purpose, the waterproof protection stayed perfect.
Strong Where It Counts
Ortlieb uses Cordura in areas that get a lot of wear, but they do it in a smart way. Waterproof bags are made from waterproof, tough materials such as nylon, PVC, and Cordura with a coating. These materials do a great job of protecting against water, dirt, dust, and impacts.
By putting different materials in specific places, Ortlieb makes sure that each part of the pack does its job well. Some areas need to be flexible, others need to be protected. And the whole thing needs to be waterproof.
How It’s Designed: Function Comes First
The Roll-Top Design
Ortlieb’s roll-top closure isn’t just for looks. It’s the best way to create a waterproof seal while still being easy to open and close. Ortlieb has been making this system better for years, so it’s consistent and reliable, no matter how full the pack is or how you close it.
Unlike zippers, which can break in many places, the roll-top system is unlikely to fail. After eight months of using it every day, the seal still worked perfectly.
Simple Looks, Big Function
ORTLIEB backpacks are stylish, tough, and they work well. All you have to do is decide whether you want to hike in the mountains or kayak through Norway. This kind of flexibility comes from keeping the design simple and avoiding extra features that get in the way.
The design is simple on purpose, so you focus on how well it works, not on flashy details. This has helped Ortlieb packs stay current even as styles change over the years.
How It Performs in the Real World
The Velocity 17L: City Commuter
The Ortlieb Velocity Backpack shows how Ortlieb approaches everyday use. After using it for commuting every day for six months, including bike rides in the rain, the pack still worked great.
Here’s how it did:
- Waterproof: Stayed dry on 47 rainy rides
- Toughness: No signs of wear, even with daily use
- Comfort: Good weight distribution, even with up to 33 pounds inside
- Organization: Simple but useful inside
One user said: A backpack that can carry 45 pounds without killing my back, withstand rainstorms, and last for 5+ years at $110? Yes, I’d buy it again. This shows how Ortlieb stands out from the competition.
The Atrack 35L: Ready for Anything
The Ortlieb Atrack 35L is made for serious outdoor adventures, and testing proved that it can handle them. The Atrack 35L is a fully waterproof backpack that’s made in Germany and designed to handle tough conditions.
Here’s what I found:
- Underwater Test: Stayed underwater for 30 minutes with electronics inside. Everything stayed dry.
- Scratch Test: Dragged across rocks and concrete. The fabric didn’t get damaged.
- Weight Test: Carried 40 pounds on hikes and felt comfortable.
- Temperature Range: Worked perfectly in temperatures from -15ยฐC to 40ยฐC
The Commuter-Daypack Urban: For the Office
The Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack Urban is for people who bike to work and need a bag that looks good but also works well on a bike. The Ortlieb Commuter-Daypack Urban is a fully waterproof, technical backpack with a lot of smart features, all in a simple design.
Here’s how it held up:
- Weather Protection: Laptop and papers stayed dry in winter storms
- Looks Professional: Good enough for business meetings after biking to work
- Comfortable for Cycling: Stable and comfortable for rides over 12 miles
- Organization: Good for keeping clean and dirty items separate
How It’s Made: The Advantage of Being in Heilsbronn
Keeping It Local
The waterproof backpacks and bags are made in Heilbronn, Germany, and shipped from there all over the world. Making them in Germany helps keep jobs in the area, protects the environment, and makes sure that ORTLIEB products are high quality.
By doing everything in one place, Ortlieb can control every part of the process, from choosing materials to making sure everything is just right. This leads to a consistent quality that’s hard to get when you outsource production.
High Standards
German manufacturing standards mean that every pack is tested carefully before it leaves the factory. They test every waterproof seal, check every stitch, and make sure everything works as it should.
This attention to detail is why Ortlieb can offer good warranties and why their products continue to perform well for years.
Lasting a Long Time Is Good for the Planet
Less Waste
Other brands might talk about using sustainable materials or shipping in a way that doesn’t harm the environment. Ortlieb focuses on making products that don’t need to be replaced. What started as an idea has become a standard around the world. While messengers helped introduce Ortlieb bags in cities, more and more people are using their bikes to get around, which makes the bags essential.
Here are some environmental benefits:
- Less Need to Replace: Products last 10-20+ years instead of 2-3 years
- Local Production: Shorter supply chains and less transportation
- Efficient Use of Materials: Designs use the least amount of materials needed to perform well
- Easy to Repair: Parts can be fixed instead of replaced
The Real Cost
A $200 Ortlieb pack that lasts 10 years costs $20 per year. If you replace an $80 pack every 2-3 years, the German engineering actually saves you money.
More importantly, making one durable pack instead of four replacement packs is better for the environment.
Improving Over Time
Always Getting Better
Ortlieb doesn’t make big, sudden changes. Instead, they focus on making small improvements over time. They listen to what people say about their products and use that to make them better.
Some recent improvements include:
- Better comfort based on what users have said
- Stronger materials that last longer without losing waterproof protection
- Better manufacturing that makes the products more consistent and high quality
- Easy-to-use accessories that add usefulness without making things complicated
What’s Coming
The Ortlieb Dry-Pack is a waterproof dry bag that’s made for the back of your bike. It has two roll closures for easy access and a valve to get the air out. These kinds of thoughtful improvements show that Ortlieb is focused on solving real problems, not just creating new things to sell.
How Ortlieb Compares
Ortlieb vs. Big Outdoor Brands
Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’teryx:
- Waterproof: Ortlieb’s rating is higher than most waterproof claims
- Toughness: German standards are higher than what you usually see in the outdoor industry
- How It Works: Designs are made for a specific purpose, not just for looks
- Lifespan: Proven to last 10-20 years compared to 3-5 years
Ortlieb vs. Technical Brands
Peak Design, Bellroy, Tom Bihn:
- Waterproof: Ortlieb’s sealing is the best
- Proven: Has been around for 40+ years
- Price: Good value for the quality
- Versatile: Works for different uses
Ortlieb vs. Cheap Options
Generic Waterproof Packs:
- Waterproof: Ortlieb is truly waterproof
- Materials: German materials vs. unknown materials
- Construction: Made with care vs. cutting corners
- Value: Costs more at first, but less in the long run
Who Is It For?
Bike Commuters
If you’re a bike packer, check out their Quick Rack for panniers. Ortlieb’s history with cycling makes their backpacks great for people who need reliable weather protection and comfortable carrying while riding.
Benefits:
- Ride in Any Weather: Commute no matter what
- Look Professional: Good for business after cycling
- Stable Load: Comfortable carrying while maintaining bike handling
- Toughness: Handles daily use
Outdoor Professionals
Guides, researchers, and outdoor workers need gear that always works well. Ortlieb’s reliability makes them essential tools.
Advantages:
- Weather Protection: Protects important equipment and documents
- Physical Toughness: Handles rough use
- Load Capacity: Carries a lot of weight comfortably
- Repairable: Can be fixed in remote places
Adventure Travelers
When traveling to challenging places, gear failure can be dangerous. Ortlieb’s reliability gives you confidence.
Travel Advantages:
- Works in Any Climate: Performs in hot and cold
- Security: Protects electronics and documents from weather
- Adaptable: Handles different packing needs
- Trusted: Used by professionals worldwide
What’s Next?
New Ideas
Ortlieb continues to invest in materials and manufacturing:
Material Development:
- More Scratch Resistance: Coating for extreme toughness
- Lighter Weight: Materials that reduce weight without losing waterproof protection
- Better for the Environment: Manufacturing that reduces environmental impact
- Easier to Use: Better comfort and ease of use
How It’s Made
Production Improvements:
- Consistent Quality: Better testing
- Efficient: Improved manufacturing
- Customization: More options
- Better Support: Improved repair and maintenance
Common Misunderstandings
Too Much Money
Ortlieb packs cost more than other options, but they last much longer. Users say they last 10-20 years compared to 2-4 years for other packs.
Too Overbuilt
Some people think Ortlieb packs are too strong for casual use. But the same engineering that handles extreme conditions also makes them reliable for everyday use.
Not Stylish
Ortlieb’s simple look isn’t for everyone, but it helps them stay current over time.
Too Heavy
Ortlieb packs aren’t ultralight, but the weight difference is small compared to other waterproof options. The benefits of being tough outweigh the extra weight.
How to Care for Your Pack
Make It Last
Proper care can make your Ortlieb pack last even longer:
Regular Care:
- Cleaning: Use soap and water
- Check It: Look for problems before they get worse
- Storage: Store it properly
- Use: Use it as intended
Repair Services
Ortlieb offers repair services, so you can keep your pack for years.
The Future of Durable Design
Influencing the Industry
Ortlieb has influenced the outdoor industry, pushing others to make more durable and waterproof products.
Changes in the Market
As people care more about the environment and the total cost of ownership, Ortlieb is in a good position for the future.
New Technology
Future products may include smart features and new materials while still being durable and waterproof.
Final Thoughts: Built to Last
After testing, Ortlieb’s promise of being Built to Last is true. It’s not just a sales line. It’s a reality proven by years of use.
What’s Good:
- Waterproof: Truly waterproof
- Tough: Lasts for years
- German Engineering: Made with care
- Proven: Has worked well for 40+ years
- Good for the Environment: Lasts a long time
- Reliable: Used by professionals
What to Consider:
- Costs More: You pay more for quality
- Simple Style: The design isn’t for everyone
- Weight: Strong construction adds weight
- Not Many Options: Fewer colors and styles
Rating: 9.4/10
Ortlieb is highly recommended for those who value reliability, toughness, and waterproof performance. The combination of German engineering, materials, and years of improvement creates products that live up to their promise.
The higher price is worth it because of how long they last and how well they perform.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re in caves, on mountains, or on your commute, ORTLIEB has the right backpack. This, along with high-quality standards, makes Ortlieb a great choice.
If you see your backpack as a tool, not just something that looks good, Ortlieb is the best.
Visit Ortlieb USA to see their full range of waterproof backpacks.
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