Mid race drop bag product review
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a mid race drop bag:
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Weight vs durability: Assuming that the drop bag will be given to the race organisers to transport to the Check point it will be available at then durability does matter as it needs to be robust for potential rough handling.
- Waterproofing level: For ultras, you need protection from rain, if the drop bags are stored outside, but you may not need full submersion rating.
- Ease of access / visibility: A translucent section or a window really helps when you’re fatigued and you want to find your spare socks or jacket quickly.
- Shape and stability: An oval base or a base that allows the bag to stand or sit nicely in the check point is helpful – you don’t want the bag rolling around and your gear getting messy.
- Handling of gear types: Remember that soft items (clothes, socks, jackets) are ideal for these bags. Rigid or sharp items (batteries, chargers, poles, crampons) may stress the fabric/seams. Good practice is to protect such items further (e.g., in a small packing bag inside the dry bag)
Detailed Reviews
1. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag CLICK HERE
Why ultra runners love it
A true classic. This bag is all about going “fast and light.” Made from 30D siliconized Cordura nylon, it keeps the weight extremely low.
What’s great
- Very reliable waterproofing for rain and general trail moisture.
- Oval base helps it sit neatly in the drop-bag pile without rolling away.
- Hypalon roll-top with field-repair buckle – if the buckle snaps, you can swap it out quickly.
- It comes in various sizes 3L, 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L & 35L. We recommend either the 20L or the 35L
- Slightly translucent fabric so you can see what’s inside without fully unpacking.
Trade-offs
- Ultra-lightweight fabric means it’s not the most abrasion-resistant.
- Not designed for full submersion – it’s rainproof, not kayak-proof.
Ultra-runner tip
Use it for clothing layers, socks and fuel – the soft, packable items you want dry and easy to identify mid-race.
2. Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack 20 L CLICK HERE to see
Why runners like it
Simple, dependable, and no fuss – exactly the vibe you want from a drop bag.
Osprey’s 20 L dry sack gives a great weight-to-strength balance with durable 40D-ish ripstop nylon.
What’s great
- Lightweight enough for long-distance racing.
- Tough ripstop fabric stands up to normal wear.
- Classic roll-top closure – intuitive even when you’re tired.
- It comes in various sizes 3L, 6L, 12L, 20L & 35L. We recommend either the 20L or the 35L
- Hanging loop makes it easy to grab from a crate or hook.
Trade-offs
- Not very structured – items can shift around inside.
- Not meant for truly sharp or rigid gear.
- More “wet weather safe” than “fully waterproof under pressure.”
Ultra-runner tip
Perfect for dry layers, gloves, jackets or snack packs you want quick access to at a checkpoint.
3. Unigear Waterproof Dry Bag 20 L CLICK HERE to see
Why it could work for ultras
Built tougher, with stiff 500D PVC and fully welded seams. Very waterproof, very reliable.
What’s great
- Fully waterproof design – the high-density PVC + welded seams protect against water, sand, dust
- Comes with a single adjustable shoulder strap for this size.
- It comes in various sizes 2L, 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L & 55L We recommend either the 20L or the 35L
- Can float for short drops; not made for long submersion but good for splashes or brief water exposure.
Trade-offs
- A little heavier than ultra-specialist bags.
- Bulky PVC – not as compressible or soft as fabric bag
- Lacks translucent panel.
Ultra-runner tip
Best for slightly bulkier setups or races where your drop bag may be handled roughly – but keep sharp items padded.
4. Lomo Ultra Lightweight Dry Bag (20 L) with Window CLICK HERE to see
Why runners like it
A genuinely lightweight dry bag with a built-in window – brilliant when you need to see what’s inside without digging around in a fatigue-fogged state.
What’s great
- Very lightweight – great for fast packing.
- Clear window for quick item-spotting at aid stations.
- Simple roll-top, no-nonsense construction.
Trade-offs
- Ultra-thin fabric means less abrasion resistance.
- Better for clothing and soft items, not rigid gear.
- Waterproof for rain/splashes, but not meant for long submersion.
Ultra-runner tip
Excellent for “quick-grab” items like food packets, gloves, buffs, and jackets when you need efficiency.
5. Northcore Dry Bag Backpack (20 L) CLICK HERE to see
Why it works for long ultras
Northcore’s 20L dry bag is a proper rugged, waterproof option — made from heavy-duty PVC with a roll-top seal. It’s designed for wet, rough conditions, so it’s a strong pick when your drop bag might be handled aggressively, left on wet ground, or stored outside.
What’s great
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Very durable PVC build — ideal for repeated races and rough handling.
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Roll-top closure + sealed construction for strong rain/wet protection.
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Backpack straps + grab handles make it easy to carry from drop area to a table/bench when you’re tired.
Trade-offs
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Heavier and bulkier than your ultralight fabric sacks.
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Not translucent / no window — you’ll want internal organisation (small stuff sacks).
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More “bombproof kit hauler” than “race-optimised featherweight.”
Ultra-runner tip
If conditions are nasty, or the checkpoint setup is chaotic, this is a great “I don’t want to worry about my bag” option — use it for warm layers, dry socks, and anything you must keep protected.
📊 Comparison Table
| Dry Bag | Material / Build | Waterproofing | Durability | Visibility / Access | Trade-offs | Best Ultra Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 20 L CLICK HERE | 30D siliconized Cordura | Very good in rain | Moderate abrasion resistance | Slightly translucent | Not very rugged, not for submersion | Soft items: socks, layers, food |
| Osprey Ultralight 20 L CLICK HERE |
~40D ripstop nylon | Good rain protection | Solid for soft gear | No window, simple roll-top | Less structure, not super waterproof under pressure | Clothes, jacket, snacks |
| Unigear Waterproof 20 L CLICK HERE |
500D PVC with welded seams | Very strong (splash, brief immersion) | High puncture & wear resistance | Not translucent | Heavier, less compressible | Rugged or heavily handled drop bag |
| Lomo Ultra Lightweight 20 L CLICK HERE |
Very light nylon (ultra-light) | Good for rain/splashes | Lower abrasion resistance | Transparent window | Fragile with sharp items, limited waterproof depth | Fast-grab items mid-race |
| Northcore Dry Bag Backpack 20 L CLICK HERE |
Heavy-duty PVC, roll-top, sealed seams | Strong wet protection | High | No window, backpack straps | Heavier/bulkier than fabric sacks | Rough conditions / maximum protection |