A common question we are asked is "are One Planet Waterloc Canvas packs waterproof?"

Technically speaking the answer is no. However they are weatherproof. More so than any other nylon or canvas pack on the market. By weatherproof, we mean in normal use, Waterloc Grid Canvas packs will keep the contents dry. However, if the pack is fully immersed or placed in a non upright position, moisture can enter under the zip and lid flaps.

What makes One Planet packs so much more waterproof than other packs?

One Planet packs have three totally integrated devices; Polyester cotton fabrics, binding tape and thread.

Fabric

Waterloc® is a specially spun yarn with a core of Polyester covered with a cotton wrap, tightly woven and impregnated with anti rot and waterproofing agents. To put it simply, the polyester core is for strength, and the cotton (also enhanced with waterproofing agents) expands when moist to fill any micro holes and provide superior waterproofing.

Binding

We now have a waterproof fabric! The next area for water to enter is through the seams.

Most Canvas pack manufacturers use a light nylon binding tape. Most nylon binding tapes are dyed using wetting agents allowing the dyes to penetrate deep into the binding. Residue wetting agents can create a capillary action, wicking water throughout the pack.

In 1992 One Planet (then Aiking) developed a process that incorporated the same waterproofing properties found in Waterloc Canvas to pack construction. With specially built sewing machines (in Australia) we bind all the main internal seams with a 4 fold 270gsm canvas binding.

Thread and needles

All seams are twin-stitched with a large polyester core spun cotton wrapped thread. This process uses a small needle. This means the needle leaves a smaller hole; that equates to even better waterproofing.