Patagonia has launched a new version of its most water-resistant backpack, designed to keep equipment dry even when the entire bag ends up underwater.
The Guidewater Backpack 25L is part of Patagonia’s submersible fly-fishing collection, alongside the existing Guidewater Sling and Hip Pack.
However, the backpack is the significant new arrival, replacing the outgoing 29-litre Guidewater model with a smaller but more substantial design.
It carries an IPX7 rating, meaning the bag can be submerged in water up to one metre deep for 30 minutes without allowing water to reach its contents.
Built like a wearable dry bag
The Guidewater Backpack’s main compartment is made from 18oz, 800-denier recycled nylon with a TPU coating applied to both sides of the fabric.
Patagonia says this construction is intended to withstand years of use in rivers, around saltwater and on dry land.
It is noticeably more robust than the previous 29-litre Guidewater, which used lighter 14.4oz fabric with a PU coating on the outside and a TPU layer on the reverse.
The trade-off is weight. Despite dropping from 29 to 25 litres, the new backpack weighs 1.3kg, compared with 960g for its predecessor.
The backpack now has a padded back panel, shaped shoulder straps and a removable padded hip belt intended to distribute heavier loads more comfortably.
It is offered in small, medium and large sizes, with the height increasing from 48cm to 58cm depending on the selected fit (the width and depth remain 33cm and 15cm across all three versions).
Made for fishing (but not limited to it)
Fishing-specific details include a net scabbard that can be accessed from either side, shoulder-strap tool docks and lash points for rod holders, an external bottle carrier and Patagonia’s smaller Stealth Switch Packs.
An internal zipped pocket with a key clip keeps smaller items separated from the otherwise open main compartment.
Although clearly designed for anglers, the understated exterior and serious waterproofing could also appeal to kayakers, paddleboarders, photographers and commuters who regularly carry expensive equipment in bad weather.
The Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 25L is listed at £320 in the UK, $349 in the US and €350 in Europe (~AU$573).
It comes in Forge Grey and River Rock Green, with availability currently varying by colour and size.
