Maelstrom Swim Backpack 35L - Waterproof Swim & Gym Bag

In this review of the Maelstrom Swim Backpack 35L, the bottom line is simple: swimmers and water-sports athletes who need a rugged, organized bag will find a lot to like here. The single biggest reason to buy is its waterproof construction combined with a large, well-organized 35L capacity that keeps wet gear separated from electronics and dry clothes. The reviewer found the pack to be both comfortable to carry and thoughtfully detailed for pool days, beach trips, and multisport use.

Key Features

• Waterproof construction: Upgraded waterproof polyester protects clothing and gear from rain and splashes while standing up to regular pool and beach use.
• 35L capacity with wide-mouth opening: The large main compartment and wide zipper make loading towels, training gear, and packing cubes straightforward and fast.
• Dedicated wet/dry shoe compartment: A thickened, leak-proof lined shoe compartment keeps damp items separate and doubles as a small cooler for drinks or ice.
• Multiple interior pockets: Three interior zippered pockets plus a computer compartment and a separate wet pocket help keep goggles, caps, and valuables organized and accessible.
• Comfort and carry features: Lightweight materials, ergonomic shoulder straps, and breathable back padding make the pack comfortable on long walks or to and from training.
• Personalization and hanging loops: Velcro on the front pocket accepts patches or flags, and side hanging loops secure goggles or accessories.

Who It's For

The Maelstrom Swim Backpack 35L is aimed at competitive swimmers, triathletes, swim team members, and active gym-goers who need waterproof protection and a clear system for separating wet and dry items. Its roomy interior suits those who pack multiple training pieces such as fins, paddles, towels, and extra clothing.

Those who need an ultra-light daypack for city use, or who require a highly rigid luggage structure for long travel, should look elsewhere; this design favors water resistance, organization, and comfort over rigid suitcase-style protection.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable waterproof polyester and interior lining offer real protection against water and wear.
• Thoughtful organization with multiple zippered pockets, a computer compartment, and a separate wet/dry pocket makes packing efficient.
• Comfortable to carry thanks to breathable padding and ergonomic shoulder straps even when fully loaded.
• Shoe compartment with leak-proof lining doubles as a cooler for drinks on beach days.

Cons

• The backpack is large at 35L and may be bulkier than needed for casual swimmers or minimalists.
• Style choices are limited to the offered colorways, so personal color preference may be a factor.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Maelstrom Swim Backpack 35L is a practical, well-built choice for swimmers and water-sport enthusiasts who need a reliable waterproof pack with excellent organization. It delivers strong durability and comfort for its price and is especially good for team swimmers or anyone who transports wet gear regularly, making it a sensible value for active users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bag fully waterproof?
The backpack is made from upgraded waterproof polyester and protects contents from splashes and rain, with sealed lining in wet compartments for additional protection.

Can the shoe compartment hold drinks or ice?
Yes, the shoe compartment has a thickened, leak-proof lining and can be used to hold ice packs or cold drinks for short periods.

Will it carry a laptop?
There is a dedicated computer compartment inside the pack suitable for carrying a laptop or tablet alongside swim gear.