SLINGSHOT AW - how "weatherproof" is it?

[doubledragon]

I'm thinking about buying the lowepro slingshot 200 AW.
I understand that it comes with an "all weather" cover that protects it from rain and moisture.

How good is this AW cover? I'm planning to use the bag for my 3-month trip to costa rica - I will be there during the rainy season and it can be pretty wet during that time of year, and I forsee myself getting cought in a few rain storms and having to walk up to a mile in the rain. I have looked into the lowepro dryzone series, but the price and size turn me off - and those waterproof zippers look like they would be a hassle when I'm trying to get at my gear.

My question is aimed at those who own this bag -

Would you trust the Slingshot AW in a heavy rainstorm, if you had to walk a mile in the rain or if you might get cought in the pouring rain for up to a half hour?

[foto202]

I have brought my Slingshot 200AW packed with a 20D, 24-70L, 10-22, a 50 1.4 and a 580EX onto a few different water rides at a theme park with no worries.

[Mike K]

Similar to other Lowepro AW bags, there is a gray, coated nylon cover stowed in the base of the bag. The elastic in this waterproof cover keeps the cover firmly over 5/6 sides of the bag. The side next to your back is not covered. I have worn this in a heavy rainfall last winter, and it worked fine. However, this is not a 100% waterproof solution, the bag may get a bit damp. If the bag gets damp on one side, it does not mean that your camera will be soaked. If that is your concern I would consider a Lowepro Dryzone, the only backpack camera bag that is completely waterproof. The extra flap, not the zippers make access more problematic than the average bag. Or use a boating storage bag that is completely waterproof inside of a regular backpack.
Mike K

[doubledragon]

Mike K-
thanks for the info - this is very helpful to me because I didn't know that the side that faces your back is not covered.

now I must reconsider the Dryzone Rover, and also looking into the Toploader 75 AW.

[Mike V]

I'd say splashproof and light rain proof.

In heavy or extended rain it would probably not cope.

The cover is great for dust or sand protection though.

[Wilt]

Another thing to do, which I have done on many bags, is to buy 3M Scotchgard and spray the exterior of the (empty) bag thoroughly. This is great for when you're not standing in a deluge and the bag merely has to repel some raindrops, and would complement the AW cover nicely in those areas that are not covered by it.

[doubledragon]

wow what a great idea!