Here at GearLab, we pride ourselves on pushing our gear to the limits. From standard use cases to fringe one-offs, we try it all with enthusiasm and thoroughness. The following is a walk-through of how we tested each of our key metrics for dry bags.
Waterproofness
The ability to keep water out and your gear dry is the most important job of a dry bag, so this metric was weighted the most heavily. To test each product's capacity in this metric, we first exposed them to regular recreational use. We used them for paddleboarding, beach days, backpacking, and river trips, and took careful notes about the level of water exposure they received and how the internal contents fared.
We then subjected them to more rigorous testing. We sprayed them with a hose, focusing water pressure on zippers, seals, seams, and valves. Next, we filled each product with clothes and placed absorbent kitchen towels along any seam lines and near the opening. We closed the bags according to the instructions and left them in water for 24 hours. We then evaluated the inside of the bag for water, with the kitchen towels helping us locate even slight dampness.
Ease of Use
We set out to determine how each product packs, carries, and secures to different crafts and how simple it is to retrieve its contents during an activity. We timed ourselves packing a standardized test load into each bag and securing it closed.
We evaluated closure methods, carry contraptions, and lash points for their usability and convenience. We accessed contents while sitting in kayaks, dug the bags out of larger backpacks, and rummaged through them on beaches. When all was said and done, we'd used each model for a wide variety of adventures and packed everything from clothes to cameras to sleeping gear inside.
Quality of Construction
To best assess construction, we spent months subjecting these products to regular use and abuse. We judged each on the material of the main body and the features, such as clips and straps. We scrutinized seams and special features. We evaluated closure systems and how well they stayed sealed during use.
We crowdsourced info from user complaints and tried to root out potential weak spots in each model. To be thorough, we also interviewed an expert panel of water-based adventurers to find out what materials, closure types, and tie-down points have worked (or failed) in their extensive aquatic adventure experiences.
Features
Certain models are best suited for specific objectives. To identify the specialists, we thoroughly investigated and used each product's individual features.
We paid particular attention to the closure system and the attachment points and noted any unique characteristics like backpacking straps, pockets, windows, and valves.
