Red Equipment’s Lightweight Bags: Dry, Durable, and Designed for Your Next Adventure!

Red Equipment has long been known for its innovative outdoor gear, and their latest lightweight bags continue that tradition. Designed with active adventurers in mind, these backpacks and crossbody bags combine waterproof protection, durability, and comfort—all while remaining lightweight and packable. In a recent interview with Red, the team behind these new bags shared their insights into the design process, material choices, and the thoughtful features that make them perfect for commuting, water-based activities, and everyday use. Whether you’re hitting the trail, navigating city streets, or heading to the water, discover how Red Equipment’s latest creations are built to keep your gear dry and your adventures seamless.

Hello Red Equipment! Thanks for coming back to TotalSUP! We’re so interested to learn more about your latest equipment release! What inspired the design of the new Red Equipment Lightweight bags?

We invest a lot of time into researching, testing, and understanding both our gear and how our customers use it—identifying gaps in the range along the way. Our Adventure Waterproof Backpack is a solid all-rounder, but I personally wanted something more lightweight and tailored for commuting. Since I often ride, run, or walk to the office, I set out to create a bag that’s not only waterproof but also suited for active, everyday use—ideal for trips to and from the water, while keeping my laptop, notebooks, clothes, and lunch dry along the way.

That’s fantastic! Can you describe the materials used in the construction of these bags and how they contribute to both waterproof protection and lightweight performance?

For this range, we chose a lightweight 190D recycled Nylon Taslon, which offers excellent strength thanks to its weave, paired with a modern matte finish. The fabric features a reverse laminate layer, and the seams are both stitched and taped—ensuring reliable waterproofing while also allowing for repairs if needed. When it came to the pockets, we wanted something both durable and flexible. Our solution was a lighter yet stronger mesh, doubled up to enhance toughness without adding bulk. Both fabrics performed excellently in test and look great too.

Incredible! How did you approach the challenge of balancing weight with comfort and durability in these bags?

Durability should always come first—but that doesn’t mean comfort has to be compromised. We also set out to create a more accessible price point for this range, working closely with our factory to ensure the final product is durable, comfortable, and reliably waterproof. That said, it’s important to note the difference between “waterproof” and “submersible.” For true submersion, you’ll want a bag with an airtight zip. Roll-top bags, while highly water-resistant, may eventually allow some water in if fully submerged.

What features should users look for to enhance their experience when using these bags in various conditions?

These backpacks are built for everyday versatility. Weighing just 636g (22L) and 717g (35L) when empty, they’re lightweight enough to fold or roll up and stash in your luggage—ideal as a daypack while travelling. Soft and flexible, they’re easy to pack out fully and still meet most airline carry-on size limits.

The 190D Taslon waterproof fabric keeps rain out or locks moisture in—handy for storing damp or wet gear. An internal divider pocket lets you separate wet and dry kit, while external bungee cords and attachment points offer extra space for items like jackets, camping gear, or muddy boots.

Generously sized double mesh bottle pockets fit oversized or multiple bottles, and the reinforced base adds durability. The padded waist straps include soft envelope-style pockets—perfect for small items you need quick access to—and the waist strap itself is mounted in front of the shoulder straps, so it can be clipped around the front of the bag when not in use.

The Lightweight Crossbody Bag is a highly versatile companion, made from the same durable, waterproof fabric as our lightweight backpacks. Designed to be worn across the body, it also features concealed clip straps in the back pocket—allowing it to be securely attached to our backpacks, a paddle board, or even bike handlebars.

The main compartment is expandable, offering space for everyday essentials, wet/dry gear, or plenty of snacks for a long hike. Inside, you’ll find two stretch mesh pockets and a large zippered pocket for organized storage. On the outside, a zippered rear pocket provides quick access to essentials—or reveals the hidden clip straps when needed.

That is great! Thank you for all of this valuable information! Are there any specific user scenarios or activities you had in mind while designing these bags?

These bags were purpose-built with the journey to the water in mind—whatever that looks like for you. Whether you’re commuting from home, heading out for a paddle, or exploring the coastline, they’re designed to get you there and back with your gear (and you) staying dry.

How does the design of the bags accommodate different types of gear and equipment?

We always pack in multi-use versatility into our designs. So you’ll find things like attachment points for lights, bungee cargo systems, smaller stash pockets, and reflective details. That makes them perfectly suited to lots of different types of gear.

That’s fantastic! What testing process did you undertake to ensure the bags meet the highest standards of waterproof protection and durability?

These bags have been rigorously tested for just about every scenario. The fabrics have been independently tested for waterproof performance—both inside and out—and the bags themselves have been put through their paces on hikes, runs, bike commutes, snowboarding trips, paddle boarding sessions, swims, beach days, and more. We’re still trying to break one!

Can you share some feedback you’ve received from users during the design or testing phases?

We had people of all shapes and sizes test these bags to ensure a comfortable and functional fit for everyone. The sizing, capacity, and dimensions were refined based on the most consistent feedback—particularly around the length of the padded back panel, the positioning and comfort of the waist strap, the placement of attachment points, and the durability of the mesh pockets. After extensive testing, we believe we’ve landed on the best possible combination. The packability was a standout feature, and the soft, padded shoulder straps hit the sweet spot for support and comfort relative to the bag size.

What makes Red Equipment’s approach to lightweight bag design unique compared to other brands?

We believe every piece of kit we make should be truly fit for purpose. As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, we’re moving towards designing as many products as possible for repairability, disassembly, and repurposing at the end of their life—so they last longer, and leave less behind.

Last question we have for Red today! Are there any future plans for expanding the Red Equipment Lightweight bags line or introducing new features based on user feedback?

Yes, we’re actively developing new additions for upcoming seasons. While I can’t reveal too much just yet, we’re really excited about the fabric and look forward to expanding this range soon.

Thank you so much for sharing all of this great information about the Red Lightweight bags! We can’t wait to see them start to fly off the shelves!

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