Patagonia Stormfront 45L Roll-Top Backpack

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Patagonia Stormfront 45L Roll-Top Backpack and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 95 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.7 stars 
Expert Rating: 5 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 46

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • The large compartment stays waterproof in all conditions thanks to the effective roll top and side fasteners.
  • Hip belt helps evenly distribute weight when the pack is full.
  • Designed to limit potential for leakage by having minimal seams, but this also means there is only one exterior pocket in addition to the main compartment.
  • The pack is surprisingly lightweight given its durability.
  • Easy to clean- since the whole pack is waterproof it can be rinsed out with a hose after a muddy trip.
  • Connects to the Patagonia Convertible Fly Fishing Vest, which could be a useful feature for anglers using the backpack to store rods and gear.
  • This backpack can take a beating. The material is very durable and won’t easily puncture or tear.
  • Straps extend to fit comfortably over a life jacket.
  • 45L provides enough space for everything you might need on a single or even multi-day trip, but when packed full still fits beneath the seat on an airplane.
  • Bungee strap is great for wet or dirty gear like waders or crampons, and keeps things firmly attached.
  • Sleek design adds to its versatility- it works just as well for a rainy city day as it does for a week long canoe camping or fishing trip.

Expert Reviews

  • Pricey, but you get what you pay for: exceptionally waterproof.
  • Added padding on the back of the main compartment helps with comfort and breathability when pack is pressed up against your back.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Shoulder straps aren’t very generously padded and may be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time.
  • Rod tube straps are only included on one side of the pack.

Expert Reviews

  • One price to pay for the pack’s light weight is that it lacks structure beyond the thinly padded shoulder straps, and is obviously not meant for wearing on long distance hikes or treks.
  • Make sure you double check that the roll top is secure, because sometimes 2 quick twists isn’t enough to make the seal tight.
  • Lack of compression straps on the side of the pack means that gear can slide around if the main compartment isn’t totally full.
  • Chest strap adjustment system isn’t totally seamless and as a result it may take a couple of tries to get the pack adjusted to your body before use.

Summary:

The Patagonia Stormfront 45L Roll-Top Backpack is perfect for those looking for a durable, 100% waterproof, no-nonsense backpack to accompany them on their wet outdoor adventures. The simple, streamlined construction ensures your valuables stay dry as a bone through heavy rain, splashing from boat spray, or while rolling around in the bottom of a canoe. A variety of attachments on the exterior of the pack allow wet gear to be separated from dry, and the durable fabric won’t easily be torn or punctured. Although it might not have all the bells and whistles, for the price, this is one of the most effective waterproof backpacks you can buy.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web. Some expert reviews include these: 1, 2, 3, 4.