Test: We tried the relatively new Ortlieb Atrack 35, which the Heilsbronn-based company categorizes as an Active Travel Bag. Of course, like all Ortlieb products, the Atrack is waterproof and "Made in Germany". Solid, highly functional and reliable are attributes that are associated with products from the traditional manufacturer. With the Attrack line, you have to add “innovative” as well, because the idea of the completely different zipper placement makes us wonder, “why didn’t anyone think of that before?”
Ortlieb Attrack - the facts
The Ortlieb Attrack is available with 25, 35 and 45 liters, each in the colors black, signal red and mustard - all color variants have the turquoise lashing straps made of tear-resistant and abrasion-resistant nylon material in common. The Atrack is probably the first 100% waterproof backpack that can be opened like a travel bag. One of the great features of this backpack is that the zipper faces the back. This system offers a lot of convenience, since you always have access to the complete contents of the pack, which greatly simplifies the packing logistics. In addition, the carrying system always stays clean and dry, since the Atrack can be placed on the front.
There are gear storage options throughout the pack, such as the daisy chains that allow you to easily attach a helmet, poles, a board or other essentials. An attachment kit for the helmet (EUR 14,99) and equipment (EUR 19,99) can also be purchased as an option; nice to have these options! On the right side there is an opening through which the tube of a hydration bladder can be fed. Unfortunately, one is not included in the scope of delivery and costs another 39,99 euros afterwards. On both sides there is a mesh outer pocket in which you can store water bottles or the like. Unfortunately, these two mesh pockets could only be used to a limited extent when the backpack was fully loaded. Last but not least, there are zippered mesh pockets on either side of the waistbelt, perfect for essentials that you need to keep close at hand. The interior of the Ortlieb Atrack offers pockets with zippers on both sides for small items, mobile phone, power bank or similar and a key holder.
On the back – how does the Ortlieb Atrack perform?
The rather unconventional locking system can cause confusion at first, but this is quickly forgotten after a short period of getting used to it. Despite the unit size, the wearing comfort was convincing in the test thanks to its infinitely adjustable back length and, despite its size, offered a surprising amount of freedom of movement. Even after wearing it for a long time, the backpack always sat very comfortably and was well ventilated on the back. The shoulder straps, the hip and chest straps all sat where they belong, very comfortable and everything seemed very consistent. The elastic insert in the chest strap also improves comfort and at the same time ensures a secure fit. The only annoying thing is that none of these straps offer a way to stow the ends of the lashing straps properly, so they are very annoying, especially when worn for a long time.
The nylon material was able to impress with its quality and workmanship, it defied wind and weather and could be easily cleaned of even the most dirt with water. The high-quality TIZIP zip worked perfectly and had to prove its water resistance several times in the test. Anyone who prefers extremely smooth-running zippers should definitely also purchase the TIZP sliding paste for just under five euros.
In general, the Atrack can be described as the ideal piece of luggage for day or short trips, as it offers a relatively large amount of space for the stated 35 liters. For trips that last more than 2-3 days, you will have to use a travel bag or the 45 liter version. The areas of use in the test were mainly day trips on foot. We will also continue to test the backpack on the bike, the season is just beginning.
