Trailhead Duffel Large 85L Waterproof Red - Heavy-Duty Gear Hauler

In this review the Element Equipment Trailhead Duffel in large 85L size is judged as a purpose-built gear hauler for multi-day trips and abuse-prone travel. The bottom line: if you need a single rugged bag that can carry a full kit for skiing, climbing, or a 72 hour kit and survive rain and rough handling, this is the one to consider. The review finds the duffel stands out for its waterproof material and bomber construction while offering practical carrying options that make it easy to move heavy loads without a dedicated pack.

Key Features

• Waterproof laminate: The tough laminate body keeps gear protected from wet conditions and sheds mud without absorbing water.
• Detachable alpine-cut shoulder straps: Padded straps convert the duffel into a backpack-style carry for hands-free transport over longer distances.
• D-zip opening with flap: The D-zip mouth and weather-resistant zipper flap give wide access to the main compartment while reducing water ingress.
• Multiple carry points: End grab handles and side handles double as haul points, making loading and transferring the bag simple in tight spaces.
• Internal organization: An internal lid zipper pocket and two side pockets keep small items separated from bulk gear for faster access.
• Daisy chain lash points: External lashing lets you secure the bag to racks or tie additional items to the outside when needed.

Who It's For

The Trailhead Duffel large is best for outdoorspeople and travelers who pack heavy or bulky gear for multi-day outings: skiers, snowboarders, climbers, divers, and anyone assembling a 72 hour kit will appreciate the 85L capacity and rugged build. Its alpine-cut straps and padded carry options make it useful for moving between vehicles or short carry-in locations without a second pack.

Those who want a lightweight daypack or a fashion-focused carry bag should look elsewhere; this duffel prioritizes durability and volume over minimal weight or city styling. If you need internal compartments for delicate electronics, a purpose-built travel backpack might serve better.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust construction and waterproof laminate deliver strong protection for gear in wet or muddy conditions.
• Versatile carry: padded shoulder straps and multiple handles make hauling and loading easier in rough situations.
• Large 85L capacity fits several days of kit, boards, or bulky equipment, useful for base camp use.
• Internal pockets and D-zip access keep organization simple while the daisy chain adds external lash points.

Cons

• Zipper waterproofing gets mixed feedback from customers, so expect careful packing of sensitive items if you anticipate prolonged submersion.

Specifications

Brand	Element Equipment
Model	Trailhead Duffel
Capacity	Large 85 liters (27in x 16in)
Material	TOUGH laminate waterproof material
Carry options	Detachable alpine-cut shoulder straps, end grab handles, side haul handles
Internal pockets	Internal lid zipper pocket and two internal side pockets
Closure	D-zip opening with weather-resistant zipper flap

Our Verdict

The Trailhead Duffel large is a durable, practical choice for anyone who needs a high-capacity waterproof bag that can take abuse and still be carried comfortably. It delivers strong build quality, useful organizational pockets, and multiple carry modes, making it a good value for travelers and outdoor users who value toughness over lightweight styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bag fully waterproof?
The laminate body is waterproof and holds up well in rain, but zipper waterproofing has mixed user feedback so sensitive items should be packed in dry bags for full protection.

Can the shoulder straps be removed?
Yes, the padded alpine-cut shoulder straps are detachable so the bag can be used as a traditional duffel or backpack style as needed.

What sizes are available?
Three sizes are offered: Small 30 liters, Medium 51 liters, and Large 85 liters; this review covers the Large 85L version.