Originally Posted By Bill Kennedy
I'm finally getting around to making my new pack, and still considering design options.

Is there any real advantage to the rolltop drybag-style closure that's popular these days? Previously I've used a drawstring with a lid pocket. The lid pocket, made with light materials, weighs only 2 ounces, and the rolltop closure uses more material than the drawstring (plus the side release buckles) so I don't see any weight advantage. The rolltop is maybe a bit more water resistant,
but not waterproof on a backpack.

I'd like to hear your thoughts on this.

So far I've only made the hipbelt (see pic)



Rolltop closure packs can be guaranteed to be 100% waterproof, not just water resistant...Like my Mountain Hardware Scrambler RT35 Outdry...You only have to roll it down a couple of turns, lock the buckles and you could go swimming with it, yet everything inside would stay perfectly dry. You simply can't get that level of waterproofness with a draw cord closure with a lid.