Hackensack River Canoe &
Kayak Club
www.hrckc.org
SealLine Zip Duffel
A "waterproof" duffel bag constructed of 20 ounce PVC with a
zipper closure. Available in two sizes, 40 & 75 liter.
I purchased my 75 liter duffel as a waterproof day bag in my OC-1. The zipper
seemed an ideal way to frequently access necessities.
Within the year though, the zipper began to leak. Just rinsing off the bag
after a day on the water, or exposure to hard rain, resulted in water drops
inside.
Another member's two duffels, one of each size, performed the same.
I must note that we kept the zippers clean and in the closed position when not
in use as per manufacturer's instructions.
At a recent "Paddlesport" event, I discussed and even demonstrated
the leaking bags with the SealLine rep by picking up a brand new bag from his
display, closing the zipper, and squeezing. Right before his eyes and ears the
air came hissing out through the zipper closure. His response was that the
bags already cost $100, and upgrading to a truly waterproof zipper would not
be economically feasible.
So now I delight in visiting paddlesport shops and squeezing these bags to
show friends and acquaintances how poor the design is.