SLINGSHOT AW - how "weatherproof" is it?

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?

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

wow what a great idea!