Ortlieb Velocity Design — the courier backpack as a seasonal canvas

The Velocity has been Ortlieb's most beloved city backpack for years — robust, genuinely waterproof, and designed for the daily grind of urban cycling. The Velocity Design takes that same proven platform and hands it over to artists and graphic designers each season, producing limited graphic editions that carry as well as they look.

Six distinct artworks are available in this collection: Forest (deep petrol botanical), Line Art, Morning Routine, Peeling Paint, Portland Heights (all White/Black), and Rider Resilience (White/Black, cycling-inspired illustration). Every edition shares the identical technical specification — the design sits on top, the engineering is underneath, unchanged.

Waterproofing you can rely on

The Velocity Design is rated IP64 — dustproof and protected against water jets from all directions. The roll closure seals the main compartment in seconds, keeping contents dry even in heavy rain. The shell is PU-coated polyester (PD620) combined with PVC-coated Cordura (PS620C) for reinforced durability at contact points. No seams, no stitching at the critical joins — Ortlieb welds every junction, making each bond at least as strong as the material itself.

Carrying system

The back panel is a thick, ventilated foam pad that keeps air circulating between the bag and your back on longer rides. Ergonomic padded shoulder straps with a removable chest strap and removable hip belt allow you to dial in the fit for a loaded commute or a light afternoon run. A reinforced base with lateral protectors and support feet means the bag stands upright and holds its shape when set down.

Organisation

• Main compartment with zip access and internal organisation — spacious enough for a full day's kit
• Padded laptop/tablet compartment: 36 cm × 24.5 cm × 2.5 cm — fits up to a 15" laptop
• Front zip pocket for quick-access items
• Internal key clip
• Rear light loop and helmet carrier option for cyclists
• U-lock holder integrated into the shoulder strap system
• Carrying handle at the top
• Reflective yarn woven into the shell for low-light visibility

Specifications

• Volume: 23 L
• Height: 50 cm
• Width: 30 cm
• Depth: 16 cm
• Weight: 880 g
• Max load: 10 kg
• Waterproofing: IP64
• Material: PU-coated polyester PD620 + PVC-coated Cordura PS620C
• Closure: Roll closure with quick-access flap
• Warranty: 5 years — repairable, Made in Germany (Heilsbronn)

Frequently asked questions

What laptop size fits the Velocity Design?
The padded compartment measures 36 × 24.5 × 2.5 cm, which accommodates most 15" laptops comfortably.

Is the Velocity Design available in multiple sizes?
The Design editions are offered at 23 L. The standard Velocity (without artwork) is available in 17 L, 23 L and 29 L — all stocked at L'Hirondelle Bike Shop in Meppel.

How waterproof is it exactly?
IP64 means complete dust protection and protection against water jets from any direction. In practice: a heavy downpour on the bike will not reach your laptop or gear. The roll closure is the primary seal; close it properly and contents stay dry.

Can it be repaired?
Yes — Ortlieb designs every product for repairability. Straps, buckles, closures and shell panels can all be replaced. Spare parts remain available for a minimum of ten years after a model is discontinued. Repairs can be carried out by Ortlieb's service centre in Heilsbronn or by authorised dealers.

Where is the Velocity Design made?
In Heilsbronn, Germany. Every stage of production — from material cutting to final quality control — takes place in Ortlieb's own facility.

Is this the same bag as the standard Velocity?
Identical in construction, materials and dimensions. The Design editions differ only in the external graphic — the waterproofing, carrying system and internal layout are unchanged.