Rains Rolltop Rucksack 13L - Review 2025

Details & Design Features

Like all Rains backpacks, this Rolltop bag is a durable, waterproof backpack for those rainy days. Waterproof in the rain, that is, rather than submersible.

It protects well from precipitation, making it ideal for commuting or biking. It is comfortable to wear and has plenty of space in its main compartment.

As the name suggests, the enclosure to the main compartment is rolltop with a spring-loaded clip that clasps a D-ring securely. It’s both easy to hook on and easy to open.

At 13 liters, this isn’t going carry more than essentials during a commute, but it’s big enough for a hoody or rainjacket plus books and wires, for example.

When shopping, the advantage of a rolltop is that it can be left open as a form of expansion when putting groceries in. Items shouldn’t fall out during short walks afterward.

Its front pocket has a seamed zipper for better waterproofing, adjustable padded back and chest straps and a side-loading laptop pocket in the back that holds a 16” device.

An advantage of the side-loading laptop pocket is for quick access without having to open the rolltop. And, practically, the zipper is seamed for protection against water–just remember to zip it up all the way.

The back panel is air-mesh padded, which makes it comfortable even when it’s full. There’s some wicking going on here, but it’s not a technical bag, so it’s without much airflow.

Water-Resistant & Stylish Materials

This is a smart-looking bag with a clean aesthetic. What we liked about it is its durability in rain and its practicality. Easy for everyday use, with plenty of space, easy access to the laptop pocket and a practical front pocket with water-resistant zippers that hold the water out well!

It can easily be wiped dry and we didn’t need to worry about water when biking. The padded bag is soft and comfortable even when your load is heavy. The shoulder straps could use extra padding and we would have liked a few more pockets on the inside for those smaller objects.

The design and the matte finish are very stylish, making it a stylish choice for the office commute or a weekend outing if you like Rains’ look. We also appreciated the brand’s awareness of environmental impact and committing to producing items designed to last. Every bit helps.

Price and Value

The Rains Rolltop Rucksack is one of the more pricey options among everyday backpacks but it makes up for longevity and environmentally conscious production. Its minimalist design, durability, seamed zippers, matte finish, and quality material are reflected in the price.

Alternative Backpacks 

There are several options to choose from when shopping for an everyday backpack. It comes down to personal taste, use and types of activities or commute. We compared the Rains Rolltop Rucksack to its baby sister, the Rains one-size mini backpack, which is equally durable, water-resistant and convenient, has a 9L capacity, a slightly smaller laptop pocket, and thinner, less padded shoulder straps, while it remains on a similar price range. We also compared it to the Nomatic Everyday Backpack, which is water-resistant, has an expandable capacity from 20L to 24L, a large variety of pockets for organizing everything, a magnetic water bottle pocket, a removable sunglass hard shell and many other unique and practical features. This one comes at a higher price, but totally worth it taking in mind what comes along with it.

You can take a deeper dive into everyday backpack options with our in-depth guide

25 Best Backpacks For Everyday Use In 2023.

Worth Getting?

It worked hydrophobically well in rainy weather, on the bike, and on the commute to the office. It holds a medium amount of stuff and is still comfortable even when topping it off with some groceries.

There’s not the same kind of organization you’ll find in bags like Peak Design. Don’t get this if that’s what you’re looking for.

But it is a really stylish and well-made choice for everyday use.