How do you properly close a bicycle pannier…?

…to fully utilize its waterproof properties?

The answer to this question seems trivial, but is it really?

You might think that simply rolling up a bicycle pannier and closing it with a buckle would be enough. Yes, that’s true, but will our gear transported in the pannier be sufficiently protected from rain, moisture, and dust? We all love to pull clean, dry clothes and a sleeping bag out of the pannier after a long day of cycling for a pleasant night’s sleep. The problem is that if we experience particularly persistent rain, even if you have Crosso panniers, if they aren’t closed properly, a little moisture can get into the pannier.

What should you pay attention to when closing a pannier?

1. The bicycle pannier shouldn’t be filled to the brim.
2. The pannier should be rolled up at least three times. It’s even better if you can do this four times.
3. There should be some air inside the bag, and the bag itself should resemble a “loaf of bread.”
4. Bags that are almost empty or loosely rolled can let water and moisture in from the top, at the folds and at the top seams of the bag’s buckle.
5. If you’re light on gear and the bag isn’t fitting properly, you can inflate it with some air, as seen in the video below. The pressure filling the bag will then make it completely waterproof.

The following video excerpt demonstrates how to properly close bicycle bags. This video was recorded by a pair of cyclists while thoroughly, if not OVERLY, testing our equipment.