Commuter Backpack

[Elfrango]

Does anyone have any suggestions for a quality and rain proof backpack for your commute?

Thanks

[NadiaMac]

My bf loves his chrome backpack. It's more comfortable that his messenger bag. He drags around all sorts of stuff in it on his bike commute, including laptop, groceries, etc.

[alimey]

I suggest Deuter. They make a cycling backpack which is women specific (shorter back & different hip/waist strap). It has a great waterproof cover, will take a hydration bladder, has 2 side pockets & a fantastic back design. It's extremely comfortable & has an expansion zip for carrying more than usual - it wears very well - I have had mine for 3 years & it looks pretty much new.

It will also carry a helmet - and the waist band has 2 small pockets. I am the proud owner of very many backpacks (have developed a bit of a fetish) & it's about my best one!

Corinne

[hermitclub]

I'm not sure how much you need to carry, but I love my North Face Ray 20. I'm fortunate to have a locker at work for my clothes, so all I haul is lunch, a couple of files, wallet, cellphone, and my laptop. It comes with a rain cover in a little pocket that works quite well at keeping everything dry.

Here's a link:
http://www.ebags.com/the_north_face/...modelid=100191

[Duck on Wheels]

One option is to find the most comfortable backpack you can, regardless of materials, then wear a raincover over it. My DH does that. The cover is like a shower cap for backpacks. Very simple and cheap.

[ironic_chef]

Just to follow up on what Duck on Wheels said, before I got my panniers I used a backpack. Easily the most comfortable backpack I have ever owned (and I love my backpacks like some women love shoes) is an Obus Forme. The company makes back supports for chairs, etc, but ventured into packs a few years ago.

The website is just the company name dot com, and the models I use are older and not listed (it's the one the demo guy is wearing), but they are so adjustable and keep the weight high and close to your back. They have a special padded sleeve for a laptop, all sorts of stash pockets, are expandable...

I was at a safety conference a while ago, and they were doing demonstrations with other school-type packs - the same books in each bag, and you tried each bag on for "feel". I couldn't believe how much lighter the Obus Forme felt with the exact same load. I bought one on the spot, and then saw a larger one on sale years later and bought it, too.

[Elfrango]

Thanks for the replies.
Has anyone ever used the Banjo Brothers backpack?

[freelivez2]

I love my Timbuk2. They come in many styles and sizes. Newer ones are made with a reflector fabric that helps driver to see you better when their lights are in your direction. Very nice to be visible. also waterproof. I love my bags.