Germany’s Ortlieb has been making backpacks, duffels, panniers, and cargo bags for over 40 years now, and they’ve always performed many steps of their production. Seam welding, closures and hardware, and even production machines are all under Ortlieb’s control, but now they’ve gone a big step further. A new TIDURA™ fabric has been developed entirely in-house by GDS, Ortlieb’s sister company, and it’s debuting on several Ortlieb bags.

The proprietary fabric is waterproof, PVC-free, and there are two variants: TIDURA Strong and TIDURA Core. Ortlieb says it’s an industry first for them to create their own proprietary fabric and use it for their bags. TIDURA was developed from the ground up and is manufactured on the Ortlieb Campus in Heilsbronn, Germany.

TIDURA Fabrics – Common Features:

Let’s start by checking out some construction features that are shared between both types of TIDURA. First up, durability was a priority as Ortlieb aims to make all their bags long-lasting. TIDURA is a TPU-coated woven fabric, specifically designed to work well with Ortlieb’s HF-welded seams (which eliminate thread holes and potential water ingress points). Both types have been tested to 100,000 Martindale Cycles to ensure excellent durability. The TIDURA fabrics are also covered by a five-year warranty.

Waterproofing was also of major importance. Both TIDURA types are waterproof rated to 100,000mm water column (as are Ortlieb’s welded seams). TIDURA isn’t coated or taped with waterproof material; every layer of it is constructed to seal water out. Ortlieb also employs roll-top closures and GDS’ waterproof TIZIP™ zippers to ensure your cargo stays safe and dry. Fun fact – Ortlieb’s campus is located on a road that translates in English to “Rain Street”.

TIDURA Strong vs. Core:

TIDURA Strong is built to offer maximum abrasion and tear resistance. It is intended for travel bags, heavy loads, and long-term daily use. This fabric has been tested to 2400 Newtons tensile strength and elongation at break.  

TIDURA Core is a lighter fabric which aims to balance durability and robustness with less weight, so it’s ideal for everyday use. It is rated at 1500 Newtons in tensile strength/elongation.

TIDURA Products:

TIDURA fabrics are being introduced on the following four Ortlieb products:

Back-Roller 20L Zip-Pocket:

The Back Roller is a well-established rear pannier bag, having been in production since 1987. This pannier now uses TIDURA Strong fabric, but its overall design hasn’t changed much because there’s no need to mess with a good thing. The pannier features HF-welded seams throughout, and the main compartment and exterior zip pocket are rated to IP64 waterproofing (dust- and splash-proof from all sides with roll closure closed).

The Back Roller 20L Zip-Pocket is equipped with the Quick-Lock 2.2 mounting system, which mounts to racks with tube diameters of 8-16mm with no tools required. It also includes a removable shoulder strap and 3M Scotchlite reflectors on both sides. Color options are Black or Lavender, and MSRP is $145.  

Duffle Zip 40L and 60L

Intended for adventurous travel conditions like rain, mud, boat decks, or roof racks, the 40L or 60L Duffle Zip bags utilize the more durable TIDURA Strong fabric. The Duffel Zips are waterproof, and they feature full-length TIZIP lockable zippers. The main compartment is rated to IP67 (dustproof and waterproof against submersion up to 1 meter for 1-3 minutes). The outer pocket is rated to IP64 water resistance.

These duffles also feature detachable backpack-style straps which can be reconfigured as a single over-the-shoulder strap or a side-carry strap. Inside are divided internal pockets (including a laptop pocket), and on the outside you’ll find daisy chain loops for clip-on additions.

The Duffle Zip bags are available in Black or Lavender colors. They retail for $270 (40L) or $280 (60L).

Velocity 23L Backpack

The Velocity 23L backpack is designed for commuter use. It is now constructed with TIDURA Strong fabric, and achieves an IP64 waterproof rating. This backpack features a wide roll-top opening with a hook-and-loop closure, a removable padded notebook compartment, and corner protectors on the rear panel to resist abrasions from racks or pavement.

To ensure comfort, the pack offers a ventilated TPU back panel and ergonomically padded shoulder straps with reflective thread. The Velocity 23L backpack sells for $175. Color choices are Black or Lavender.

Daypack 23L

The Daypack 23L is an all-new product from Ortlieb, and the one in this list that employs the lighter TIDURA Core fabric. This pack is intended for commuting, work, or everyday use.

An IP64 waterproof rating and roll closure keeps your gear safe from rain, and you’ve got a few storage options: There’s a large main pocket with a removeable padded laptop compartment inside, a hidden front pocket for small items, and a mesh front flap with two mesh pockets that can carry bottles up to 1L.

For all-day comfort, the pack includes ergonomic shoulder straps and a ventilated TPU back panel. The Daypack 23L is available in Black or Dark Sand colors, and its MSRP is $185.  

Images c. Ortlieb

Ortlieb also designs their products to be repairable through their service network, and they keep spare parts in stock for at least 10 years after a product’s release. Visit their website to check out their new TIDURA products.

ortlieb.com