After 2 years and 10,000+ kms cycling with both Ortlieb and Vaude panniers, we have really had the chance to compare them side by side, in the same conditions, to see which are better and more durable.

In this video we take a very detailed look at the different features, quality, portfolios and customer support of the two brands and explain why we prefer one over the other!

UPDATE: Vaude's customer service has redeem themselves a little, responding much faster now to replace Tobi's rear panniers.

UPDATE 2 (May 2022): Tobi’s Ortlieb SportRoller Free and Louisa’s Vaude Aqua Front panniers have also started opening a tiny bit at the seams now, although the Vaude worse than the Ortlieb. Ortlieb was very quick to replace them, responding immediately!

UPDATE 3 (July 2022): All our panniers, Ortlieb & Vaude, have opened at the seams now (excluding RackPacks). We have used a combination of super glue and seam grip to fix them and they are holding for now. We are starting to think it is only related to the “PVC free” products of Ortlieb & Vaude, as we are not aware of this issue from the “standard” Ortlieb pannier series.

UPDATE 4 (Feb. 2023): In August 2022 we replaced all our panniers (excl. both Ortlieb 31L Rackpacks Free & both Ortlieb Ultimate 6 Free handlebar bags) for Ortlieb SportRoller Free & BackRoller Free. So far, in Feb. 2023, everything is holding up well except that both our Ultimate 6 (5L & 6.5L) handlebar bags are starting to show significant signs of wear. Most notably, the clear, plastic sheets on the lid of the handlebar bags have become very yellow and brittle, with Louisa's even breaking open.

UPDATE 5 (Dec. 2023): Generally all our Ortlieb Free panniers are still holding up really well. In March 2023, we got replacement lids for our Ultimate 6 Free handlebar bags sent to us by Ortlieb for free, as they were still under warranty. We replaced the lids ourselves and the bags are still holding up well now.


Overview:
00:00 Introduction & Overview
02:16 Features of the Panniers
09:10 Quality
11:40 Portfolio
12:50 Customer Support & Spare Part Availability
17:52 Verdict & Conclusion

What do you think about our experiences with both Ortlieb and Vaude? Do you agree? Have you had different experiences?

For more information on our bikes & gear, visit our website:
https://www.louisaandtobi.com/bikesgear'>https://www.louisaandtobi.com/bikesgear


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