Let’s Dive into Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover is a lightweight, yet essential piece of kit designed to protect your backpack and its contents from the elements. Manufactured by Exped, a company renowned for its high-quality outdoor gear, this rain cover is crafted from PU-coated nylon with taped seams, ensuring complete waterproofness. Its simple design, featuring a perimeter shock cord and integrated stuffsack, makes it easy to use and pack away.
I’ve spent years battling unexpected downpours on hiking trails and hunting expeditions, often resulting in soggy gear and a miserable experience. Seeking a reliable and lightweight solution to keep my pack dry, the Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover seemed like the ideal choice.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the cover’s light weight and compact size when stowed in its integrated stuffsack. The material felt durable and the taped seams inspired confidence in its waterproof capabilities. The color, a vibrant green, also appealed to me for its visibility in dense foliage.
Compared to cheaper, generic rain covers I’ve used in the past, the Exped felt significantly more robust and thoughtfully designed. I also considered the Sea to Summit Pack Cover, but opted for the Exped due to its lighter weight and perceived superior quality. Initial excitement was high, hoping this cover would finally put an end to my wet-gear woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover was during a week-long backpacking trip in the Olympic National Forest. The area is known for its unpredictable weather, and I wasn’t disappointed – rain started on the second day. The cover was easy to deploy; I simply slipped it over my 35-liter pack and tightened the perimeter shock cord.
The cover performed admirably in the moderate rainfall, keeping my pack completely dry. I didn’t need to readjust it throughout the day, which speaks to its secure fit. No issues were encountered in this initial outing, solidifying my initial positive impression.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple backpacking trips and a few rainy day hikes, the Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover continues to perform well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite some encounters with thorny bushes. The cover has proven to be quite durable.
Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each trip and let it air dry. Compared to previous, less durable pack covers I’ve owned, the Exped has significantly outperformed them in both water resistance and overall longevity. This is an item I expect to last for years.
Breaking Down the Features of Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover
Specifications
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover is made from 70 D Taffeta Nylon, PU coated, with a 10000 mm water column rating, ensuring a high level of waterproofness. It weighs a mere 2.8 oz, making it a negligible addition to your pack’s overall weight. Available in three sizes (S, M, L), it fits packs from 25 to 45 liters, with size S fitting up to 25 liters, M fitting 25-35 liters, and L fitting 35-45 liters.
The 10000 mm water column is vital because it signifies the fabric’s ability to withstand significant water pressure, keeping your gear dry even in heavy downpours. The low weight ensures it won’t add unnecessary bulk.
Performance & Functionality
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover excels at its primary function: keeping your backpack dry. Its waterproof construction and snug fit provided by the perimeter shock cord effectively shield your gear from rain and snow. I have yet to experience any leaks or water penetration, even in prolonged, heavy rain.
The only minor weakness I’ve identified is that in very windy conditions, the cover can sometimes billow slightly, but this doesn’t compromise its waterproofness. Overall, the Exped cover far exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover features a minimalist yet functional design. The lightweight nylon and streamlined shape make it easy to pack and deploy. The perimeter shock cord ensures a snug fit around your pack, preventing the cover from flapping in the wind.
The integrated stuffsack is a thoughtful touch, allowing for compact storage when the cover is not in use. There is absolutely no learning curve; using it is self-explanatory.
Durability & Maintenance
The 70 D Taffeta Nylon construction of the Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover provides excellent durability for its weight. After months of use, there are no signs of rips, tears, or seam failures. Proper care, such as avoiding excessive abrasion and storing it dry, should ensure years of reliable use.
Maintenance is simple: wipe it clean with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry. No special treatments or repairs have been necessary so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories, other than the integrated stuffsack. Size S and M feature a bike light holder for added visibility. There are no customization options available, nor are they really needed, as the cover is designed for a specific purpose and performs it admirably.
The lack of accessories isn’t a drawback in this case. The cover is simple, effective, and requires no additional frills.
Pros and Cons of Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and packable.
- Highly waterproof due to PU-coated nylon and taped seams.
- Snug fit thanks to the perimeter shock cord.
- Durable construction for long-lasting use.
- Integrated stuffsack for convenient storage.
Cons
- May billow slightly in very windy conditions.
- Limited color options.
Who Should Buy Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover?
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover is perfect for hikers, backpackers, travelers, and anyone who needs to protect their backpack from rain or snow. It’s especially beneficial for those who prioritize lightweight gear and reliable performance. Day hikers and multi-day trekkers alike will find this an invaluable addition to their kit.
Those who only venture out in fair weather or who own a fully waterproof backpack might not need this product. However, even with a water-resistant pack, the Exped cover provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
Conclusion on Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover
The Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover is a simple yet exceptionally effective piece of gear. Its lightweight design, robust construction, and excellent waterproof performance make it an indispensable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s kit. At $35.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the peace of mind it provides knowing your gear will stay dry.
I would absolutely recommend the Exped Waterproof Pack Rain Cover to anyone looking for a reliable and lightweight way to protect their backpack from the elements. Don’t let unexpected rain ruin your next adventure – invest in an Exped cover and keep your gear dry!