The Overboard Pro-Vis is a 100% waterproof backpack with versatile application. From adventure sports through to the daily commute, the Pro-Vis promises to be the pack to see you through. What’s The Best managed to get hold of the 20-litre variation - courtesy of DryBags.co.uk - complete with Overboard Backpack Tidy, so William Lobley put it to the test.
Review
The Pro-Vis is rated to IP66, meaning that it's waterproof and dustproof. The waterproofing isn’t just some nice reassurance against rain, however. As a commuting cyclist using both bridleway and cycleway, the IP66 protection kept pervasive road spray and saturated mud rolling off the pack. Early December snow was of no challenge either, even after sitting on top of the pack for some time.
Because the bag opening isn’t airtight, the pack can't be submersed - though it will take a quick dunk and float if dropped overboard. As an inner-city cyclist and trail walker, submersible protection is down towards the bottom of my list. Those who hold it as a higher priority should check out the Watershed Big Creek.
The roll closure of the Pro-Vis is the typical roll-top fare, though Overboard has included two securing methods. The first is a traditional top enclosure, while the second secures the flap via side straps (which are removable if preferred). Though it involves a few extra straps, I’m grown fond of the side closure - the pack shape is much more balanced, as the top doesn't bending in against itself. There’s also a Velcro top strap to help hold everything in place.
When worn, the Pro-Vis is comfortable and well-positioned. The pack has a narrow footprint on the back, thanks to the semi-tubular pack shape. In addition to the shoulder straps, a sternum strap and removable waist strap provide adjustability and load stability. The shoulder and back-panel padding are well-considered, offering both comfort and airflow. While the padding is thick and springy - ideal for those heavier loads - it has frequently venting cut-throughs, providing a result that’s the best of both worlds.
The materials that Overboard has utilised for the Pro-Vis are excellent, as is the welding quality used to fuse them for a stitch-less finish. I do not doubt that the materials robust nature will see the Pro-Vis holding up for years of regular use.
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There are several other inclusion made by Overboard that I welcome - the first being the external mesh pockets. Though by no means glamorous, these pockets are perfectly located and sized for stuffing neck gaiters, gloves or a hat on colder days, and water bottles for longer journeys. Similarly, the quick-release bungee is a great addition, offering a tight and secure location for stuffing a waterproof jacket. The reflective strips found on the pack and shoulder straps are a nice safety addition, as is the LED lamp clip that provides a secure spot for affixing rear-facing safety lights.
Inside the pack, there’s a waterproof welded pocket - great for keys, but even better for those who partake in water-based activities, providing a safe and secure barrier between wet and dry storage. It won't accommodate large or bulky items, but documents, wallets and smartphones fit without issue. There’s a Velcro strip too, which allows for some small modular additions to be made with items like the Overboard Backpack Tidy (you can read more about this down below).
By the end of my test period, which saw me dragging the Overboard Pro-Vis through winter rains and snow, I have to say this is a remarkable pack. While it isn't likely to win any awards for looks, it's a highly functional, reliable and comfortable pack for the week-day commutes and weekend adventuring. Add to this the fact that the Pro-Vis will leave you with plenty of change from £100, it's nigh on impossible not to recommend.
www.drybags.co.uk
Overboard Backpack Tidy
The insert is the ideal companion product to the Pro-Vis Backpack, especially for commuters and students. Effectively a hard-backed 14-inch laptop sleeve with pocket, lanyard and pen clip and mesh stow pockets. I highly recommend it.
It connects to the inside of the Pro-Vis via a strip of Velcro. It’s not an excessive amount - just enough to keep the inset in place during transit. Once you got to college or the office, you can leave the backpack in your locker and grab the insert with all your essential tech. It’s a nice little bit of added protection - neat, simple and effective.
Available at DryBags.co.uk.
• Medium for 14-inch laptops - £15.45 - View Offer
• Large for 15-inch laptops - £19.99 - View Offer