What's the difference between submersible and waterproof backpacks?

What are the differences between diving backpacks and waterproof backpacks? We can analyze them from aspects such as usage, waterproof performance, structural design, materials, and price.

Usage

Diving backpack:

It is mainly designed for diving activities and is used to carry diving-related equipment, such as masks, snorkels, fins, diving suits, lead weights, etc. It needs to meet the needs of use in underwater environments and during the process of traveling to and from the diving site, such as conveniently storing and taking equipment on the shore or on the boat, etc. There are usually special compartments or pockets to classify and place different diving equipment.

Some diving backpacks come equipped with sturdy straps and slots specifically designed to secure dive cylinders. This secure attachment allows divers to easily transport cylinders from shore to boat or from vehicle to dive site, preventing them from rolling, bumping, or falling during transport, ensuring the safety of the cylinders during handling and movement.

Applicable scenarios: beach diving, lake diving, professional dive training, ocean diving, coastal diving, underwater work, and underwater photography.

Waterproof backpack:

It has a wider range of uses and can be used in various scenarios where water may be exposed, such as daily commuting in rainy days, outdoor water sports (such as rafting, kayaking, etc.), playing at the seaside and not wanting items to be soaked in water, etc. The main purpose is to protect the items in the bag from being wet by water, such as storing clothes, electronic equipment, documents and other daily or travel items.

Applicable scenarios: daily commuting, hiking, mountaineering adventure, travel and vacation, etc.

Waterproof performance

Diving backpacks:

Usually have higher waterproof requirements, because they need to be immersed in water for a long time or frequently contact with water, so they generally use professional waterproof materials, such as high-strength rubber, special waterproof nylon, etc., and are equipped with zippers with excellent sealing performance (such as airtight zippers), rolled edge sealing and other designs to ensure that water will not penetrate into the backpack at a certain depth underwater, and can effectively protect diving equipment.

Generally, the waterproof level of diving backpacks is at least IPX7 or IPX8. IPX7 requires that the backpack cannot be immersed in water within 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter underwater, while IPX8 is a higher diving waterproof requirement, which means that the backpack can still maintain good waterproof performance at a deeper depth and for a longer time. For example, Podragon's airtight waist bag can maintain a sealing level for 1-2 hours at a depth of 5-10 meters underwater.

Waterproof backpacks:

Many waterproof backpacks use fabrics that have been treated with waterproof coatings, most commonly coating base fabrics such as nylon and polyester. Some high-quality waterproof backpacks use composite fabrics, such as polyester and waterproof membranes (such as ePTFE waterproof breathable membranes), which can maintain good waterproof effects even when used for a long time in harsh outdoor environments.

Some waterproof backpacks also use special fabrics with natural waterproof properties, such as batik canvas. After the canvas is treated with wax, the gaps between its fibers are filled, and water cannot easily penetrate. In addition, batik canvas also has a unique retro texture and is quite distinctive in appearance. However, the disadvantage of this fabric is that if the temperature is too high, the wax may melt, affecting the waterproof performance and appearance, so the use scenario is relatively limited.

There are many levels of waterproofness. Some are only splash-proof and can cope with short light rain or a small amount of splashing water. The material may have only been simply treated with a waterproof coating. Some high-quality waterproof backpacks can remain dry inside after being immersed in water for a certain period of time. However, compared with the overall waterproof technology of diving backpacks, they may not be as professional when dealing with long-term and deep underwater environments.

Structural design

Diving backpacks:

They often have multiple functional partitions to facilitate the orderly placement of diving equipment of different types and sizes, such as long strip pockets for fins and straps for fixing gas cylinders. There will also be relatively sturdy handles and shoulder straps. The handles are convenient for carrying on boats and other places. The shoulder straps must be able to bear the weight of heavier equipment and ensure comfort when carrying. Some even have adjustable chest and waist straps to make the backpack fit the body better and more stable during the carrying process.

Diving backpacks usually need to be equipped with a buoyancy adjustment system so that divers can adjust their buoyancy underwater, which can be achieved by adding or reducing buoyancy materials in the backpack. At the same time, they must also have certain safety features, such as emergency rescue equipment and reflective materials to ensure the safety of divers underwater.

Waterproof backpack:

The structure is relatively more like a regular backpack, but the waterproof design will be strengthened at key locations such as the opening. For example, a flap with snaps and magnetic suction will be used to prevent water from entering through the gaps. The interior may be a simple large space or have a small number of regular compartments to facilitate the placement of daily travel items. The shoulder straps are more designed to be lightweight and comfortable for daily use.

Material

Diving backpack:

In addition to good waterproofness, it also needs to have good wear resistance and corrosion resistance. After all, it is used in the reef environment at the seaside and in places with sand and stones underwater. It is prone to friction and seawater erosion, so the strength and durability of the material are relatively high. And for easy identification and safety underwater, the colors are usually bright and eye-catching.

Waterproof backpack:

The material selection focuses more on meeting the waterproof requirements while ensuring a certain degree of softness and lightness for daily carrying. For example, some backpacks made of light and thin waterproof fabrics are lighter in weight and easier to use in daily scenes where you don’t need to carry too heavy items. The color selection is more diverse and can be determined according to different preferences and usage scenarios.

Capacity

Diving backpack:

Usually has a larger capacity, because there are more diving equipment and some items are large in size, such as cylinders, wet suits, etc., which take up more space, so the diving backpack needs to be able to accommodate a whole set or most of the commonly used diving equipment. The capacity is generally more than 30 liters, and some large professional diving backpacks can even reach 80 liters or more.

Waterproof backpack:

The capacity span is relatively large. There are small and portable daily waterproof backpacks with a capacity of several liters suitable for placing small items such as mobile phones and wallets, and there are also large-capacity waterproof backpacks that can be used as travel bags and can hold more items such as clothes. The appropriate capacity is mainly selected according to the specific usage scenario and needs.

Price

Diving Backpack Price Range

Low Price ($30 - $70)

Materials: Usually made of basic, less durable materials like nylon or polyester, without advanced waterproofing or protective features.

Features:

• These backpacks are usually made of basic waterproof materials like lightweight nylon or PVC coated fabrics.
• They may have a simple design with fewer compartments and pockets. While they can provide basic waterproof protection for your diving gear, they may not be as durable or have advanced features compared to more expensive models.

For example, the zippers may not be as smooth and the seams may not seal well, but they are suitable for beginners or people on a tight budget who don't need to carry a lot of high-end diving equipment regularly.

Suitability: Suitable for occasional divers or beginners who don't need to carry a lot of gear or are looking for an affordable option for short dives.

Mid-Price Range ($70 - $150)

Materials: Better quality materials that are usually waterproof or water-resistant to some degree. Fabrics may include reinforced areas for increased durability.

Features:

• They are usually made of better quality materials that offer better durability and water resistance.
• They can meet the needs of most recreational divers who need a reliable backpack to carry their essential dive equipment on a regular basis.

These packs may have more thoughtful features, such as multiple compartments to better organize dive gear, padded shoulder straps for added comfort while carrying, and sturdier zippers and seams to ensure items stay dry.

Suitability: Great for regular divers who need a reliable and slightly more durable bag to transport their dive equipment. These packs strike a good balance between price and features.

High-Price Range ($150 - $300+)

Materials: High-end materials such as heavy-duty nylon, Cordura, or other specialized fabrics with advanced waterproofing technology. These materials are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Features:

• These backpacks are usually made of high-quality, durable and advanced waterproof materials, such as heavy-duty TPU or laminated fabrics, which provide excellent water resistance and abrasion resistance.
• They usually have innovative designs and additional features, such as dedicated compartments for different types of diving equipment, built-in dry bags, adjustable and ergonomic carrying systems for maximum comfort, and some may even have integrated buoyancy control or other advanced features.

These backpacks are more suitable for professional divers or enthusiasts who demand the highest quality and functionality during frequent and demanding diving activities.

Suitability: Best suited for professional divers, diving instructors, or enthusiasts who frequently dive in various conditions. These backpacks are durable, protect expensive gear, and provide maximum comfort and convenience during travel or transportation.

Waterproof Backpack Price Range

Low Price ($20 - $50)

Material: Usually made of PVC, TPU, or coated nylon, with basic waterproofing. These materials may not offer the highest levels of durability or waterproofing.

Features:

• These backpacks are usually made of basic waterproof materials, such as lightweight nylon or PVC coated fabrics. They are usually simple in design with fewer compartments and pockets.
• While they can provide basic waterproof protection for your belongings, they may not be as durable or have advanced features compared to more expensive models.

For example, the zippers may not be as smooth and the seams may not be as well sealed, but they are suitable for people on a tight budget or occasional use in less demanding environments, such as short hikes or beach trips, where you don't need to carry a lot of expensive equipment.

Suitability: Suitable for occasional use, such as short hikes, day trips, or as a backup bag for urban commuting in light rain. They are suitable for those who are looking for an affordable option to meet basic waterproofing needs.

Mid-range ($50 - $150)

Material: Better quality waterproof materials such as ripstop nylon, high-grade polyester with a waterproof coating, or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). These materials offer better durability and water resistance.

Features:

• They are usually made of better quality materials that offer better durability and water resistance.
• These backpacks may have more thoughtful designs, such as multiple compartments to better organize your belongings, padded shoulder straps for increased comfort when carrying, and stronger zippers and seams to ensure that items stay dry.

They can meet the needs of most outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable backpack to carry their essentials regularly, whether for hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities that require a certain degree of waterproofing.

Suitability: Ideal for regular use during various outdoor activities, commuting, or traveling. These backpacks strike a good balance between price, features, and water resistance, and are suitable for those who need reliable protection without spending too much money.

High-range ($150 - $350+)

Material: High-end materials such as high-quality TPU, PU-coated fabrics, or even custom materials designed for extreme water resistance. These materials are usually more durable, resistant to abrasion, and offer submersible features.

Features:

• These backpacks are usually made of high-quality, durable, and advanced waterproof materials, such as heavy-duty TPU or laminated fabrics, which provide excellent water resistance and abrasion resistance.
• They often have innovative designs and added features, such as dedicated compartments for different types of gear, built-in dry bags, adjustable and ergonomic carrying systems for maximum comfort, and may even have features such as integrated hydration systems or advanced ventilation.

These backpacks are more suitable for professional outdoor adventurers or enthusiasts who demand the highest quality and functionality for frequent and challenging outdoor activities such as long-distance hiking, mountaineering, or water sports, where reliable waterproof protection and durability are essential.